While pre-game wagering offers fixed odds and consistent earnings, live betting offers a more significant challenge, excitement and a unique betting experience. As a result, this form of betting, also called in-play wagering, is gaining popularity across the US.

Those looking to learn more about live betting and live betting odds will find this guide handy – whether you are wagering on NBA live betting or NFL live betting. Here, we rank and review the top five in-play betting sites, talk you through the various payment methods, betting lines, and bonuses available, and show you how to sign up with a live betting sportsbook. So, let’s get started.

Best Live Betting Sportsbooks List

Several regulated sportsbooks across the US offer live betting. However, only some provide diverse markets, competitive odds, and a range of sports. So, to help you find those that do, our experts tried them all, finding the five listed below the best of the best.

1. BetMGM – The Best Live Betting Site in the US
2. DraftKings – A Top In-Play Sportsbook for Competitive Odds
3. FanDuel – This Betting Site Offers the Best Props for Live Wagering
4. BetRivers – A Live Sports Betting Site with Exceptional Promos
5. PointsBet – The In-Play Sportsbook with the Lowest Minimum Deposits

Reviews of the Best Live Betting Sites

The introduction of live betting – or in-play as it is otherwise known – has contributed to an upsurge in sports betting, with the global sports betting market having accounted for $83.65 billion in 2022.

With so many sportsbooks now out there, having in-depth reviews of the top live betting odds sites makes it simpler to identify the one that provides the features you want most in a sportsbook, including the range of attractive free bets on offer. So, we have created the following mini-reviews on each of our top five in-play sportsbooks to help you do that.

1. BetMGM – The Best Live Betting Site in the US

Sportsbook facts:

• Website: Visit BetMGM
• Established: 2018
• Active States: AZ, CO, DC, IL, IN, IA, KA, LA, MD, MI, MS, NJ, NV, NY, PA, TN, VA, WV, OH, and WY
• Headquarters: Jersey City, New Jersey, USA

Unquestionably one of the best sportsbooks in the US, BetMGM, launched in July 2018, is one of the most widely-recognized live betting sites across the country. Today, the sportsbook, owned and operated by MGM Resorts International, services over 20 states.

As a leading sportsbook, BetMGM makes its mark by offering bettors diverse betting lines and sports markets, topping these off with impressive odds that offer DraftKings fierce competition. Further, the betting site provides standout features like the option for bettors to edit their bets.

Odds and Markets at BetMGM  (4/5)

When it comes to odds, BetMGM stands out as one of the best live betting sites. While these odds change with the game, they are still among the best and offer strong competition for other betting sites like DraftKings and FanDuel.

Bettors visiting BetMGM’s live betting odds suite will find the sportsbook covers a range of sports, from the NFL, NHL, MLB, golf, rugby, cricket, and the UFC, and comes in as one of the best NBA betting sites.

Finally, BetMGM provides diverse markets and betting lines for live bettors to enjoy, making it simple to place diverse wagers, including a variety of player props and same-game parlays.

Payment Methods (4/5)

Funding your live betting account is quick and easy if you have a BetMGM account. Bettors can use methods like Visa, MasterCard, Echeck, online transfer, PayNearMe, Play+, and eWallets like PayPal and Skrill. However, while this list may seem small and doesn’t include crypto options, it still provides a more diverse selection than sites like DraftKings. Further, BetMGM makes it simple for bettors with varied budgets to place wagers by accepting a minimum deposit of $10 and offering a minimum withdrawal of $20. Finally, no transaction fees are imposed.

Customer Support (5/5)

The level of customer service offered by BtMGM is outstanding. Besides providing efficient and friendly service, the sportsbook provides live betting fans with several ways to resolve queries. Firstly, bettors can find answers to generic questions by visiting the “Help” section on the website. However, those needing more personalized assistance can contact the live chat team, which operates 24/7. Lastly, BetMGM also provides a support email address. But, these responses can take a few days to reach the bettor.

Bonuses and Free Bets (3.8/5)

Bettors looking to boost their bankrolls will discover BetMGM provides several ways to do so by offering a range of promos and bonuses. By heading to the “promotions” page on the website, bettors can access a variety of rewards, some of which need BetMGM promo codes and others that don’t. Here, bettors can find options like Parlay Profit Boosts, Risk-Free prop bets, and bet insurance options that function similarly to risk-free bets but are usually league-specific.

However, bettors should take care to read the terms and conditions applied, as many of these don’t apply to live betting wagers.

2. DraftKings – A Top In-Play Sportsbook for Competitive Odds

Sportsbook facts:

• Website: Visit DraftKings
• Established: 2012
• Active States: AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KA, KY, LA, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OR, PA, TN, VA, WV, and WY.
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, USA

When three former Vistaprint employees, Jason Robins, Matthew Kalish, and Paul Liberman, launched DraftKings in Massachusetts in 2012, it began as a Daily Fantasy Sports betting site. However, following the repeal of PASPA by the United States Supreme Court, the site expanded, adding a sportsbook to its offerings. Today, the live betting odds site provides sports betting in several states across the US and is continually growing its offerings, from NBA live betting to live golf betting.

While DraftKings stands out for several exciting features, one of the best is the odds it provides, with considerably lower juice than other competitors. Further, bettors can enjoy several betting lines and sports markets.

However, although DraftKings provides exceptional odds, it doesn’t offer the diversity in payment options that sportsbooks like FanDuel and BetMGM do.

Odds and Markets at DraftKings (4/5)

While DraftKings gains its spot on our list thanks to its exceptional odds, it has stiff competition from BetMGM. However, the sportsbook ensures that the odds it offers in its live betting suite are fair and favorable. Although bettors won’t find extended wagers like parlays or futures offered in the in-play suite, they will discover flash bets, moneylines, totals, and props.

Finally, bettors will find DraftKings covers several sports markets, from the NBA, NFL, UFC, NHL, rugby, tennis, and of course live golf betting. Further, it ranks as one of the best MLB betting sites, making it ideal for baseball fans to place in-game wagers.

Payment Methods (3/5)

While sites like FanDuel and BetMGM provide bettors with diverse ways to fund their accounts, unfortunately, the same cannot be said of DraftKings. Instead, bettors have limited options, including Visa, MasterCard, Discover, PayPal, and electronic gift cards when making deposits. But live betting fans will find that their payout options are slightly better and include online banking, wire transfers, and checks. However, DraftKings takes up to five business days to process some of these transactions, which could be more favorable.

Customer Support – Rating 4/5

Bettors looking for support have two options when visiting DraftKings. Firstly, they can send an email to [email protected], but this method is not the way to go if you’re looking for a quick resolution to a problem. However, those in need of a swift response can contact the sportsbook’s live chat team, which operates 24/7.

Bonuses and Free Bets (3.5/5)

The bonuses provided by DraftKings are typically state-specific and don’t offer the variety that one can enjoy at FanDuel or PointsBet. However, the sportsbook does feature odds boosters and several match deposit rewards.

Besides the bonuses offered by the sportsbook, bettors can sign up with Dynasty, the rewards program DraftKings offers. However, keep in mind that many of these promotions may not apply to live betting wagers and it is always bet to check before claiming them.

3. FanDuel – This Betting Site Offers the Best Props for Live Wagering

Sportsbook facts:

• Website: Visit FanDuel
• Established: July, 2009
• Active States: CO, IL, IA, IN, TN, VA, MI, AZ, CT, NY, LA, WY, KS, WV, OH, NJ, and MD
• Headquarters: New York City, New York, USA

FanDuel saw its beginnings in 2009 in Scotland and began as a DFS betting site. However, the repeal of PASPA saw the site expand to offer DFS and sports wagering in the US. Bettors can access FanDuel sportsbooks in 15 states nationwide, including Pennsylvania, Iowa, and Illinois.

When it comes to a large variety of options, FanDuel is the site to visit. Here, bettors can enjoy live betting odds on several sports markets and place unique prop bets.

In comparison to sportsbooks like Draftkings and PointsBet, FanDuel has one of the most extensive selections of payment options and features competitive and exciting live odds.

Odds and Markets at FanDuel (4.3/5)

When it comes to odds, FanDuel has relatively competitive odds. However, its margins usually aren’t as low as those offered by DraftKings. In contrast, FanDuel ranks as one of the best live betting sites on our list, thanks to its wide variety of betting lines. In addition to totals, spreads, and moneylines, bettors will find FanDuel features some of the most extensive prop betting options, offering several markets for live betting.

FanDuel’s sports markets are as impressive, covering over 20 options, including NCAA sports, the NFL, MLB, and NBA, and even ranks as a top UFC betting site.

Payment Methods (4.7/5)

Unquestionably, FanDuel provides the most varied selection of payment methods, providing bettors with options like Green Dot MoneyPak, credit cards, PayPal, FanDuel gift cards, PayNearMe, eChecks, and bank wire transfers.

Additionally, like DraftKings, FanDuel doesn’t impose a maximum deposit limit but caps withdrawals at a low $10,000. However, FanDuel surpasses all competition when it comes to payouts, processing withdrawals in as little as 24 hours.

Customer Support (4.6/5)

FanDuel provides excellent support to live betting fans visiting the site. While there is no email contact, the sportsbook features an extensive FAQ section that covers the most pertinent questions, including those relating to in-play betting.

But if you find you’re in need of more personalized assistance, you can chat with an operator over the site’s live chat option, which unlike that of BetRivers, operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Bonuses and Free Bets (4/5)

Bettors visiting the “Promotions” tab on the FanDuel website can unlock various bonuses like same game parlays on the soccer world cup or NCAAF games. Alternatively, bettors can earn cash back by referring friends using FanDuel’s referral bonus. However, many of these don’t apply to live betting options on the sportsbook, making it wise to check the T&C’s of the rewards first before signing up for them.

4. BetRivers – A Live Sports Betting Site with Exceptional Promos

Sportsbook facts:

• Website: Visit BetRivers
• Established: 2019
• Active States: AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, PA, VA, and WV
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, USA

Parent company, Rush Street Interactive was founded in 2015 in Chicago. Following the repeal of PASPA, the gambling company launched its own sportsbook, BetRivers in New Jersey. Today, BetRivers is licensed to operate and offer its services in 12 US states, making legal, regulated live sports betting to sports fans across the US.

This standout sportsbook ranks as one of our top live betting sites thanks to its fast odds and exciting rewards, including odds boosters and daily line specials. Further, bettors can enjoy low wagering requirements of only 1x on many of these promos, placing it ahead of DraftKings, which imposes “low” wagering requirements of 15x.

Odds and Markets at BetRivers (4/5)

Generally, BetRivers provides relatively standard odds that don’t offer the excitement or reduced juice that one will find at DraftKings. But the lines are fast, making it more favorable for those participating in live betting. However, the markets offered by the site are extensive and cover some of the more exciting prop betting options.

Lastly, the sportsbook doesn’t feature a wide variety of sports markets, but all the favorites are there, and the site comes in as one of the best NHL betting sites in the US.

Payment Methods (4.5/5)

Bettors placing high-stake wagers when live betting favor BetRivers for its high withdrawal limits. For instance, bettors withdrawing from their accounts using ACH/eCheck or Play+ have a daily cap of $25,000 (much higher than FanDuel’s $10,000). However, those using online banking, cash, or PayPal don’t have a withdrawal limit. Further, most payouts are instant, except for eChecks which can take up to five business days to clear in a bettor’s account.

Finally, when visiting BetRivers, bettors can use options like Discover, PayNearMe, PayPal, eCheck, Visa, MasterCard, online banking, and Play+ to fund their betting accounts.

Customer Support (4/5)

Bettors in need of assistance when visiting BetRivers will discover the site features an in-depth FAQ section that answers a range of questions, including several regarding live sports betting. But players who need advanced assistance can contact the live chat team. However, keep in mind that this service is not functional 24/7 and only operates during business hours.

Bonuses and Free Bets (4.6/5)

When it comes to promotions, BetRivers offers bettors a wide selection of choices. Besides sports-specific free bets and profit boosts, the site also features daily odds boosts. Further, bettors can join the sportsbook’s loyalty program which offers rewards in exchange for points accumulated.

5. Pointsbet – The In-Play Sportsbook with the Lowest Minimum Deposits

Sportsbook facts:

• Website: Visit PointsBet
• Established: 2015
• Active States: CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, PA, VA, and WV
• Headquarters: Melbourne, Australia

PointsBet first launched in Australia in 2015 and then established PointsBet USA in 2019. Although relatively new to the states, bettors can find this live betting site in 12 different states, including Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia.

The sportsbook is the only US live betting site to offer PointsBetting, which provides an extensive selection of unique markets that appeal to those looking to place in-play wagers.

Odds and Markets at PointsBet (4/5)

PointsBet provides live betting fans with standard odds but makes up for this by offering several unique betting lines, including points betting and various props, like Time of First Basket or Time of First TouchDown.

While PointsBet doesn’t have the most varied assortment of sports markets, it ranks as one of the best NFL betting sites and covers all the US favorites like basketball, baseball, and hockey, including NBA live betting.

Payment Methods (3.5/5)

The payment options offered by PointsBet are limited compared to competitors like FanDuel. As a result, bettors can expect options like PayNearMe, eCheck, online banking with Trustly, and a debit or credit card from Visa or MasterCard. However, PointsBet offers unlimited withdrawals, a feature not many other sportsbooks provide.

Customer Support (4/5)

PointsBet provides three ways for bettors to resolve any queries they may have. Firstly, bettors can look up their questions on the site’s FAQ section. However, if they don’t find their answer there and the issue isn’t too pressing, they can send an email to the support team, but this method means waiting a few days for a response. Lastly, bettors can contact a live chat operator for issues that need immediate attention.

Bonuses and Free Bets (3.8/5)

The bonuses and rewards offered by PointBet are more diverse than some of the options provided by other sites on our list. In addition to joining the Diamond Club, a VIP invite-only rewards program, bettors can claim daily odds boosts, referral rewards, and several free bets.

FAQs

How does live betting work?

Live betting works very similarly to pre-game wagering. Bettors sign up at an online sportsbook and fund their accounts. Then, they head to the live betting suite of the sportsbook (this is usually a separate tab) and select the sport and sports match they want to wager on. Next, bettors can choose their betting line, input their bet value and place their bet.

What is live betting?

Live betting is often referred to as in-play betting. In this case, the sportsbook allows bettors to place wagers on games already in play. However, the odds here are not fixed and fluctuate according to how the game plays out.

Can you live bet legally in the USA?

Yes. Many sportsbooks in the US offer live betting. For instance, all five of the sportsbooks on our list provide extensive live betting options that cover various markets and offer exceptional odds.

Can you make money live betting?

Yes, you can make money live betting online. However, like with any form of wagering, there is the chance you’ll lose money too. So, we recommend setting up a budget beforehand and sticking to it.

Top Live Betting Sports Sites Comparison

There are many ways to pinpoint the best live betting site for you. However, one of the quickest options is to compare the features of each side by side. So, to make it easy to do this, we created the comparison table below:

What is Live Betting?

Live betting or in-play wagering refers to a type of betting offered by online sportsbooks. Here, the betting site allows bettors to place wagers on sports events or matches already in play. The odds fluctuate continuously to reflect the state of the game, encouraging bettors to place their wagers at just the right time. As a result, this betting experience will keep bettors on the edge of their seats.

Generally, basketball is the sport most commonly wagered on using live betting. However, most sportsbooks, like those on our list, offer live sports betting on football, hockey, baseball, rugby, tennis, soccer, and golf, with one of the most popular being NFL live betting.

Additionally, bettors can place live wagers on these sports using several betting markets, including moneylines, props, totals and spread bets.

So, for the best live betting on sports, visit any one of our listed sportsbooks for excellent odds and diverse betting markets. It’s also worth looking at the best sports betting apps to make live betting easier when on-the-go.

Live Betting Odds

Betting on sports live doesn’t limit bettors to one type of betting line. Instead, the top online sportsbooks offer several ways for bettors to wager. Below, we look at the most common types of bets placed when live betting and how they work, whether it’s live golf betting or NBA live betting.

Moneyline Betting

Live betting using moneylines is one of the most straightforward ways to wager. In this case, bettors back the team they predict will win the match overall or part of the match – for instance, with NFL live betting. Generally, the favorite (the team the sportsbook predicts will win) is indicated by a minus (-) sign with three digits next to it that shows how much a bettor must put down to win back $100 should that team win. Conversely, the underdog is highlighted with a plus sign (+) and a three-digit number which shows how much a bettor will make off a $100 wager if that team wins.

However, bettors will discover that as the game progresses, the odds will adjust to reflect the chances of a team winning.

Spread Betting

Another popular type of live sports betting, especially on NBA games, is spread or point spread bets. This makes sense as the NBA is one of the most viewed live events on television – an average of 1.59 million viewers tuned in to watch NBA regular season games across ABC, ESPN and TNT in the 2022/23 season. In such a case with the NBA, the sportsbook sets a line for how many points they expect the favorite to win by, called the spread.

Similarly to moneylines, spreads highlight the favorite using a minus (-), and a plus (+) designates the underdog. If you back the favorite, you’ll win if the team wins and they score more points than predicted by the points spread.

Below, if we look at the example of live wagering on a tennis match, if player L Draxl scores three points or more, those backing the favorite will win their bet. However, if the underdog, R Cid Subervi, wins the match or if the favorite scores less than 2.5 points, bettors backing the underdog will win their bet.

Total Points Over/Under

Another popular live betting line is Totals, which bettors may refer to as over/under bets. In this case, a bettor must predict the total number of points scored by both teams combined at halftime, one of the quarters, or by the end of the game. Further, the bettor must back whether they believe this total will be more than the score predicted by the sportsbook (over) or less than the sportsbook’s predicted score (under).

Prop Bets

Finally, one of the most extensive live betting options is prop bets. Since these don’t focus on the outcome of the game, they provide far more ways for bettors to win. Generally, prop bets come as game props, which focus on happenings within the game, like which team scores ten points first or which site scores the first try. Additionally, bettors can place player props that focus on individual athletes, like which player will score the first touchdown or how many points Zach LaVine will score in the second half of an NBA game.

How to Sign Up & Play at a Live Sports Betting Site

Signing up and betting on sports live is relatively straightforward. However, new bettors may find a step-by-step guide helpful to speed up the registration process. So, look below for a few quick steps to enjoy a fast and simple sign-up process.

Step One – Register with BetMGM

Begin by launching the BetMGM website. Then, select the state you are located in. Next, click the gold “Register” button on the top right of the home page. Lastly, complete the registration form that opens before hitting the “Continue” button.

Step Two – Verify Your Account

Following registration, you’ll need to verify your BetMGM account. So, open your email inbox and the mail sent to you by the sportsbook. Then, click the link inside to verify your new account before signing back into BetMGM with your new username and password.

Step Three – Fund Your Account

The next step is to deposit funds into your BetMGM account. So, click the green “Deposit” button on the top right of the home page (this will only come up when you are signed in). Then select your preferred payment method from the options provided and type in the amount you wish to deposit. Don’t forget to input your bonus promo code before clicking “deposit.” Finally, follow the prompts to complete your payment.

Step Four – Start Wagering

Once your funds reflect in your BetMGM account, it’s time to start the fun part – wagering. So head to the sportsbook tab and locate the Live Betting section. Then, find the sports match you want to wager on and the betting line you want to use. Then, type in your bet amount onto the bet slip on the right of the screen. Lastly, hit “Place Bet.”

Bonuses at Live Betting Sportsbooks

When using a live betting site, bettors will find several rewards and promotions up for grabs. However, it is essential for bettors to review the terms and conditions attached to each bonus, as many don’t apply to live betting wagers.

But, with that being said, many sportsbooks, including those on our list, offer a range of exciting rewards. For instance, fans of NFL live betting may want to head to FanDuel to scoop up the FanDuel Family NFL Odds Boost. Alternatively, bettors can pick up a matched deposit at DraftKings when they first fund their accounts, or they can head to BetMGM to claim a parlay plus that allows bettors to enjoy a 40% boost.

Another form of promotion bettors can take advantage of comes in the form of the rewards program. For example, PointsBet features The Diamond Club, an invite-only VIP club for high rollers.

To make it easier to see which promotions our top five live betting sites offer, we have created the table below:

Payment Methods at Live Betting Sites

Sites offering live betting encourage bettors to place in-play wagers by making it simple to fund their accounts. One of the ways they do this is by accepting several payment methods. Further, many of these sites offer quick payouts and low minimum deposits. So, let’s look at the most common payment options and the sportsbooks that offer them.

Debit Card

Generally, live betting sites allow bettors to fund their accounts using debit cards like Visa or MasterCard. Here, the bettor makes a payment from the existing funds in their bank account into their sportsbook account. However, most betting sites do not allow withdrawals into debit accounts. So, if this is the method for you, visit any of the sportsbooks on our list.

Credit Card

Another payment option widely accepted by live betting sportsbooks is credit cards. Here, the bettor funds their wagering account using funds loaned to them by the bank on credit. So, if you want to deposit funds using credit cards like Discover, Visa, or MasterCard, you can visit any of the in-play betting sites on our list.

eCheck

An eCheck is the digital version of a traditional check. These use an Automated Clearing House (ACH) to direct debit from a bettor’s checking account into a live betting site’s bank account which will then allow funds to reflect in the bettor’s wagering account. Although widely accepted as a payment method by nearly all the sites on our list, FanDuel does not accept ACH payments. However, DraftKings allows bettors to withdraw using eCheck, but this could take up to five days to process.

PayPal

One of the most popular eWallet options available to live betting fans is PayPal, which acts as an intermediary between a bettor’s bank account and their sportsbook account. Since this method provides greater protection against fraud, it has become a popular choice among bettors. So, to fund your account using PayPal, visit any of  the sportsbooks on our list.

GreenDot MoneyPak

Green Dot MoneyPak cards are prepaid cards that bettors can purchase from retailers using cash. Bettors can then use the MoneyPak cards to reload other prepaid cards like a FanDuel Play+ card, add money to a PayPal account without using a bank account, or make same-day payments to online sportsbooks. However, while handy, currently only FanDuel accepts this method as a deposit option. Further, you cannot withdraw to a Green Dot MoneyPak card.

PayNearMe

PayNearMe is a payment system implemented by many of the best live betting sites that allow bettors to deposit funds into their account by visiting participating establishments near them. Firstly, the sportsbook will send a bettor a reusable barcode, which they then take to their closest PayNearMe location. The cashier at the site then scans the barcode, and the bettor pays a sum using cash, after which they get a print and digital receipt, much like making a bank deposit. All the betting sites on our list, with the exception of DraftKings, accept PayNearMe payments.

Sportsbook PrePaid Card

A Prepaid Play+ Card is a card that bettors can use to fund their live betting accounts. Here, bettors can transfer funds from their credit or debit cards, by using online banking or their PayPal account into their Play+ card. They can use this prepaid card to fund their sportsbook account instantly.

Money Order

This payment method, much like checks, are paper documents that allow the bettor or sportsbook to specify the payee and the amount. However, because these are prepaid they like cash and won’t bounce. Unfortunately, money orders are rarely accepted by live betting sites for deposits or withdrawals.

Check

Another traditional payment method, a check is a paper document ordering the bank to pay a sum from a bettor’s bank account to the person or sportsbook whose name is on the check. These days, few live betting sites accept checks, but some, like DraftKings, payout using checks. However, this can take between seven to 21 business days to payout.

Wire Transfer

Bank wire transfer is another payment method favored by live betting fans and sees them electronically transfer funds from their bank account to their sportsbook account. However, it is important to note that when used as a withdrawal method, the payout usually takes five to seven working days. So, to fund your account using a wire transfer, visit FanDuel or DraftKings.

Best Live Betting Site

Live betting offers bettors a unique way to wager on their favorite sports and teams, providing a nail-biting experience. Since in-play wagering has continually shifting live betting odds, this offers more of a challenge for sports bettors, making the option all the more exciting. As a result, live betting has gained popularity, and more and more regulated sports betting sites have started offering this feature.

While all five of the sportsbooks on our list provide excellent live betting options, our top recommendation goes to BetMGM. Besides offering diverse sports and betting markets, BetMGM provides competitive odds, exciting and often generous bonuses, and quick payouts. So, don’t miss wagering on your favorite team. Instead, sign up with BetMGM and claim a welcome reward.