Best Illinois Sports Betting Apps & Mobile Sites – Top 5 Trusted IL Betting Apps in 2024

With a change in legislation, Illinois is open for mobile sports betting and there are plenty of options for bettors to tuck into.

But if you need help picking the best Illinois sports betting apps, our guide will be useful. We will touch on everything from legalities, bonuses, and banking methods, and provide a series of mini reviews.

List of the Best Illinois Sports Betting Apps & Mobile Sites

No two Illinois sports betting apps are the same. There are usually a few distinct differences when it comes to regulated sports betting apps, and we have decided the following are the finest in the Prairie State:

  1. DraftKings – Overall the best of the Illinois sports betting apps
  2. BetMGM – One of the finest sports betting apps in Illinois for live streaming
  3. PointsBet – Rated highly among Illinois sports betting apps for unique features
  4. BetRivers – One of the finest legal sports betting apps in Illinois for odds boosts
  5. FanDuel – Among one of the most recommended Illinois sports betting apps for bonuses

Reviews of the Best Illinois Sports Betting Apps & Mobile Sites

It’s now time to provide a broad overview of sports betting apps in Illinois, and more specifically, why we recommend the aforementioned ones so highly. They have been judged on a wide variety of criteria, so let’s see what makes them so special.

1. DraftKings – Overall the best of the Illinois sports betting apps

DraftKings mobile app Illinois

DraftKings Sportsbook came out on top of our list of best Illinois sports betting sites, and it is a hit with residents. Upon joining, you will notice that the odds provided are competitive, but fair, so you will pay less juice on losses and you will be paid out more on winnings.

This site excels in mobile betting, and the app is compatible with Android and iOS devices. But it is also a go-to option for wagering on the NFL and NBA, and you can find same-game parlays here. Aside from that, you can also find traditional moneylines, totals, futures bets, and much more.

Previously, DraftKings was just a Daily Fantasy Sports platform, but it has expanded with its sports offering, and it has teamed up with Chicago Cubs as their official sports betting operator, so you can access Cubs news while on the move.

One of the standout features is its cash-out option, so you can resolve wagers in their entirety before an event finishes, and it comes with low betting amounts compared to most of its rivals.

Perhaps DraftKings needs to address its support options. It is lacking when it comes to a live chat facility for customers to get in touch, however, you will find a comprehensive FAQs section.

Pros:

  • Fast and responsive app
  • Renowned DFS operator
  • Cash-out option for bettors
  • Strong across many sports including NBA and NFL

Cons:

  • Not as many deposit options as other sites

2. BetMGM – One of the finest sports betting apps in Illinois for live streaming

BetMGM Illinois apps reviews

BetMGM merits the number two spot for top legal sports betting apps in Illinois, and it is one of the most user-friendly sites out there. You will have a wealth of sports to choose from, and what’s even better, is that there is a fabulous live streaming platform, so you can watch your favorite teams while on the move.

The site usually provides odds boosts, so customers can win at longer prices on certain events. Not only that, but BetMGM has continued to strike commercial deals with teams in the NHL, NFL, and NBA, which shows its market strength.

The app interface is extremely easy to use, and it will suit novice bettors. BetMGM, however, also pushes its mobile promotions quite well, so make sure you don’t miss out when you sign up.

BetMGM also provides value when it comes to customer support and it has one of the best 24/7 live chat facilities in the industry.

Pros:

  • Odds boosts available for customers
  • Wide range of sports markets available with over 20 sports to bet on
  • Sharp odds on all major leagues
  • Live streaming platform

Cons:

  • Doesn’t cover Esports betting
  • Customer support can be slow on the app

3. PointsBet – Rated highly among Illinois sports betting apps for unique features

PointsBet Illinois apps

When it comes to legal sports betting apps in Illinois, PointsBet is certainly worth considering. Perhaps one of the standout elements is the unique features, such as Points betting where you can rack up more points depending on the size of your wager, and it makes mobile wagering eminently more exciting.

From a design perspective, the PointsBet app is very user-friendly and it provides some great ongoing bonuses for existing customers, so you should check these out on the homepage.

Although there are fewer payment methods compared to its rivals with only a handful of options available in the cashier, it delivers on the customer service front. The live chat facility is open 24/7, so the team can respond quickly to issues or queries.

Pros:

  • Recent addition to the Louisiana sports betting scene
  • Slick site and app
  • Can make use of unique features such as PointsBet through app
  • Excellent customer support options including live chat facility

Cons:

  • Doesn’t have many payment options for bettors to make deposits or withdrawals
BetRivers Illinois apps

BetRivers was one of the first Illinois sports betting apps to arrive in the state, and it has gone from strength to strength since. Above all, it stands out for odds boosts. For most sports, you will find on any given day a 20% odds boost to spice up your betting slip.

In general, the odds are above average, especially across standard juice lines, and the app is brimming with promotions, so check them out for yourself.

While spreads and totals are easy to come by, perhaps one shortcoming is the lack of a same-game parlay builder tool that would help elevate things further.

In terms of app design, it has a solid interface and we experienced few buffering issues while using it. There is plenty of depth in terms of market coverage and pages load quickly facilitating an enjoyable betting experience.

Pros:

  • Odds boosts widely advertised
  • Covers a wide range of sports markets
  • Can compile alternative spreads and totals
  • Well designed site app with no buffering issues

Cons:

  • Waiting on a game parlay builder to be installed
FanDuel mobile app Illinois

Arguably one of the finest DFS operators in the business, FanDuel rounds off our list of the best Illinois sports betting apps. The interface is conducive for live betting and it is smooth and speedy, ensuring customers can tackle the fast-paced markets with ease.

Bonuses can be picked up with just a couple of taps and the registration process is straightforward, so you could be up and running in a matter of minutes.

The customer support team is also excellent, as there is a 24/7 live chat facility that can be used on mobile apps. There is also a comprehensive FAQs section that will help users untangle various elements of the site.

One thing missing is the lack of loyalty program, but FanDuel is making waves and if you are an NBA or NHL fan, then you will be pleased to know the operator is the official sportsbook partner of the Chicago Bulls and the Chicago Blackhawks, so you can locate great odds for these competitions.

Pros:

  • Renowned for its coverage of DFS
  • Excellent customer support service
  • Competitive mobile bonuses
  • App is clean and bright

Cons:

  • Could have more sports available
  • Limited range of prop bets

Frequently Asked Questions about Betting Apps in Illinois

Is mobile sports betting legal in Illinois?

Can you bet on sports apps in Illinois?

What are the best sports betting apps in Illinois?

What sports betting apps are legal in Illinois?

Comparing the Best Illinois Betting Apps & Mobile Sites

When choosing Illinois sports betting apps to play at, there will be certain features that stand out. Signup offers, mobile bonuses, and live streaming can lure some bettors. Our handy table will plug any gaps:

SportsbookBetting AppMobile SiteMobile BonusLive Mobile BettingLive Mobile Streaming
DraftKings20% Bonus up to $1,000
BetMGMRisk-Free Bet up to $1,000
✅  

✅  
PointsBetRisk-Free bet up to $500
BetRiversFree bet up to $500
FanDuelRisk-Free Bet up to $1,000

How we Rank the Best Illinois Betting Apps & Mobile Sites

The top Illinois sports betting apps will be fantastic all-rounders and they will cater to the exacting demands of bettors. Therefore, we have pinpointed the following factors you should be aware of before signing up.

Mobile Betting Experience

This is crucial. The mobile betting site you choose should make it simple for you to perform simple functions, such as placing a wager, cashing out or making deposits. Whatever it is, it should be seamless.

Betting Apps

You should check to see how responsive or intuitive it is. The top Illinois sports betting apps will be free of glitches and have no unnecessary time lags. Also, check if the app performs in a similar manner to the desktop site.

Mobile Betting Bonuses

The finest Illinois sports betting apps will endeavor to keep your bankroll ticking over with some amazing welcome offers. Your eyes will be drawn to the welcome bonus, and this will be a snapshot of what you can expect upon signing up.

Live Mobile Betting & Streaming

Most operators will facilitate live betting and streaming to mobile users. You will be able to wager on sports in real-time, and if you can stream the game, then that will be even better. Make sure the sportsbook you wish to sign up to has updated odds.

Banking Options

The finest legal sports betting apps in Illinois will allow you to fund your player account and you will be able to withdraw on the app when suits you. Most sites will offer crypto and traditional methods, and you should always bear in mind processing times and fees.

Customer Service

Whatever site you wish to sign up, make sure they have a good range of contact options. So, if you hit a speed bump, you can easily reach out to the service team. This should include options, such as a 24/7 live chat facility and emails.

Licensing & Security

Finally, we suggest that you only sign up to licensed and regulated sites like the ones on this page. They will install the latest SSL (Secure Socket Layer) measures and they will be encrypted, so the personal data of players will be protected. If you can’t see any licensing information, then this should act as a red flag, and you should avoid using these sites.

In short, yes. A bill to approve mobile sports betting in Illinois was delivered in March 2022. Previously, residents had to visit a bookmaker to sign up online.

But when the bill passed, residents were free to download Illinois sports betting apps via their phones. Usually, residents will have to be 18 or over to play at licensed sports betting apps.

How to Download and Sign up to a Illinois Betting App & Mobile Site

The majority of Illinois sports betting apps will make sure the process of signing up is hassle-free. Let’s show you how you can register to the top-rated app in this guide – DraftKings.

Step 1: Download DraftKings App

Firstly, head over to the App Store and Google Play Store and download the app before storing it on your device.

DraftKings app Android

Step 2: Set up a DraftKings Account

Then, head over to the main page and click the “Sign Up” button which is easily accessible.

DraftKings sign up new part two

Step 3: Fill in the Registration Form

You will now be asked to fill in a series of details on the mobile site’s official home page and this will include name, address, cell number. You will also need to create a memorable password.

DraftKings reg form Illinois apps step three

Step 4: Deposit Funds

After verifying your account, you will be able to make your first deposit. To do this, just log in and head over to the banking section and pick your preferred deposit option. Make sure you can deposit and withdraw using the same method.

Step 5: Start Betting!

Once you have completed all the above steps, you will be able to wager freely at DraftKings, so pick your preferred markets.

DraftKings NFL betting odds Illinois apps

Types of Illinois Mobile Betting Bonuses

Illinois sports betting apps aren’t short on welcome offers and operators will work tirelessly to drive more users to the site. Here are the most common promotions you can expect to come across.

Welcome Bonuses

Welcome bonuses usually come in the form of matched deposits. Here, Illinois sports betting apps reward players for funding their accounts by matching their deposits up to a specific amount. For example, a betting app may choose to offer a 20% welcome matched deposit of up to $1,000. This will mirror the desktop version.

DraftKings welcome bonus Illinois apps

Existing Customer Promotions

Illinois sports betting apps try will always try to sway existing players and keep them on side. This may be in the form of a Refer a Friends style bonus or odds boosts for selected events. Ultimately, it depends on the betting app.

No Deposit Bonuses

The no deposit bonus has to be the most loved because it gives players a chance to wager for free. Unlike other bonuses, where you must deposit funds first to unlock, this offer doesn’t require you to part with any cash.

The type of bonus will vary depending on the app. In most cases, it comes in the form of free bets. The beauty of this bonus is that if any wager you place with the bonus wins, you walk away with real cash. It’s a win-win for any bettor allowed to wager and explore the betting app for free. It’s no surprise this type of lucrative deal doesn’t come by often.

Free Bets

Free bets are common with most Illinois sports betting apps. In most cases, you will need to deposit funds to claim the free bets. Usually, these free bets are linked to specific sports, and you must place them using specified odds. The associated terms and conditions are typically stated by the bookie in the fine print.

A common type of free bet offered by betting apps is the “risk-free” offer. With this promo, the bookie will refund your losing wager up to a specified amount.

Illinois Betting Apps & Mobile Sites for iPhone & Android

Illinois sports betting apps will support different operating systems and the operators mentioned in this guide will have a native app that will be compatible with either one or both devices.

Android mobile apps

Betting on Android devices is rather seamless, provided you’re using the correct version. Android software is also quite flexible and allows betting apps to offer as many functions as possible.

Users will find it easy to navigate the mobile platform and switch between different sections. Android betting apps can cope with any added graphics or live stream functions the operator throws at them.

iPhone mobile apps

Residents can play at Illinois sports betting apps using iOS devices like iPads and iPhones will be able to download apps from the Apple AppStore. Nevertheless, the download process is the same as that for Android users.

Generally, the Android and iOS apps are identical and offer the same features as one another and as the desktop website. However, these apps usually provide a few mobile-only promos, and the way iOS users navigate the app is somewhat different due to its different OS.

Mobile Site vs App for Betting in Illinois

Nowadays, Illinois punters are free to bet as they please. They can either wager on mobile or they can use a native app. The advantages and drawbacks of both have been listed:

Mobile Site

Pros:

  • Automatic system updates
  • Easy to access
  • Allows instant play
  • No pop up ads to slow you down

Cons:

  • May not be easy to use
  • Provides a less personalized betting experience

Mobile App

Pros:

  • Betting history and preferences saved
  • Generous bonuses available
  • Allows instant play
  • Creates a more personalized betting experience

Cons:

  • Takes up device storage space
  • Needs continuous updates

The Best Illinois Sports Betting App & Mobile Site

Mobile betting in the Prairie State has taken off and it is only continuing to grow. Therefore, there are plenty of Illinois sports betting apps to choose from and they all offer brilliant features.

However, few are like DraftKings. This app is incredibly intuitive and is compatible with iOS and Android devices. The odds are very competitive and you will find a bundle load of Daily Fantasy Sports markets. Oh, and with a solid welcome bonus to boot, there’s little to complain about. Make sure you get involved and sign up today!

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