Best 6 Michigan Sports Betting Apps

6 Best Michigan Sports Betting Apps For May 2023

We’ve done a quick rundown below of Michigan sports betting information you need to know. This table is best to look through if you want to get right into the action, but we highly recommend you check out the more detailed information further down in the article to find the specific sports betting Michigan details you’re looking for.

Michigan Online Sports Betting Information

Real-money online sports betting is now fully legal in Michigan. This means that bettors age 21+ and located within the state boundaries can place sports wagers legally at sports betting sites offered by DraftKings, BetMGM, FanDuel, and many other industry-leading apps. This includes sports betting, online casinos, and online poker.

The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) sets the rules and regulations for online gambling, as well as verifies all sports betting apps before the first bets can be placed. With over a dozen betting apps now live in the state, the Michigan sports betting industry ended the year with a total of $3.7 billion in handle and $110.6 million in adjusted receipts, paying out $11.4 million in taxes to Michigan government bodies.

Michigan Sports Team Updates

What’s up in the Michigan sports world these days? Here’s the latest:

Professional Teams In Michigan

• The Detroit Tigers finished with a 66–96 record last season. They start their 2023 home season Thursday, April 6 vs. Boston Red Sox (Detroit Tigers Opening Day).
• Detroit’s Red Wings got off to a solid start to the 2022-23 season, but have since fallen off. They made moves at the trade deadline that signaled they were building for the future and not toward a playoff run this season.
• It’s been a rough run for the Detroit Pistons, who are again one of the NBA’s worst teams. The bad news is, former No. 1 pick Cade Cunningham is hurt and has missed the majority of his second season. The good news is maybe they can draft Victor Wembanyama?
• Things are looking up for the Detroit Lions, who finished this past season 9-8. While they didn’t make the playoffs, they have a ton of positive momentum heading into the offseason, and two first-round draft picks, including No. 6 overall.

College Teams In Michigan

• The University of Michigan Wolverines men’s basketball team had a disappointing season, leaving it on the wrong side of the NCAA Tournament bubble.
• The Michigan State Spartans men’s basketball team has been up and down throughout the season, but its tournament streak will continue, and Tom Izzo in March is always dangerous.
• Michigan’s football team made its second straight College Football Playoff appearance in 2022 after winning a second straight Big Ten title. That’s where the season ended, however, as the Wolverines fell to TCU in the Fiesta Bowl.
• Michigan State had a forgettable 2022 football season, going 5-7.

Full List Of Michigan Sports Betting Apps And Casino Locations

The Michigan Gaming Control Board approved the following online sportsbooks to operate in the state:

• Stage 131 Sportsbook & Lounge at Gun Lake Casino
• BetAmerica at Island Casino

Why We Like…

DraftKings Sportsbook Michigan

Another well-known name in online casinos and sportsbooks is DraftKings. DraftKings Sportsbook Michigan operates in partnership with Bay Mills Resort & Casino. The tribal casino, owned by the Bay Mills Indian Community, announced the partnership with DraftKings in June 2020. DraftKings also announced a sports betting partnership with the Detroit Pistons. 

DraftKings Casino MI also launched in Michigan.

Caesars Sportsbook Michigan

Originally starting as William Hill, the partnership started in Michigan with retail sportsbooks in two different casinos. The first is Turtle Creek Casino & Hotel in Williamsburg, and the second is Leelanau Sands Casino in Suttons Bay.

William Hill used these local licenses to launch both an online sportsbook as well as an online casino when apps launched on day one. It eventually rebranded as Caesars Sportsbook Michigan, a result of its recent acquisition by Caesars Entertainment. The app focuses on the Caesars loyalty points program, looking to reward loyal bettors through ongoing promotions and bonus offers.

New bettors place a wager, and if you lose, get 100% of your stake back as bet credit up to $1,250. Plus, win or lose you get 1,000 Reward Credits® and 1,000 Tier Credits for your Caesars Rewards account.

BetMGM Michigan Sportsbook App

BetMGM is the mobile app for MGM Grand Detroit. Bettors have the option to deposit and withdraw via the mobile app or at MGM Grand Detroit. It’s available for both iOS and Android in their respective app stores, but we’d recommend checking out our review and taking advantage of the current welcome bonus.

While MGM is best known as a casino and resort company, its created a sports betting platform on par with everything else it offers, including great odds that often beat out the likes of DraftKings, FanDuel, and Caesars. It also announced a brand ambassador deal with Lions legend Barry Sanders last year.

The welcome bonus for the BetMGM Sportsbook in Michigan is up to $1,000 back in bonus bets, should your first bet lose.

BetRivers Sportsbook Michigan

The BetRivers MI Sportsbook offers strong odds and some of the best ongoing promotions and bet boosts in the industry. It also has one of the strongest welcome bonus offers, perfect for casual bettors and experienced bettors alike. Associated with the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians, BetRivers Sportsbook was one of the first Michigan sports betting sites to launch.

Although the BetRivers app doesn’t fare as well with Apple iOS users, the deposit bonus more than makes up for it, particularly with new sports bettors. Although the BetRivers app is easy to navigate, it has a reputation for being unstable and quitting unexpectedly. If BetRivers can overcome this perception, it could be one of Michigan’s top sportsbook competitors.

FanDuel Michigan Sportsbook

FanDuel has long anticipated launching in the Michigan market, and the sportsbook went live on day one alongside nine other operators. The company prepared for the launch by forming partnerships, including a deal with the Pistons. Last year, it also announced a sports betting partnership with the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Tigers.

FanDuel’s long history of offering an exciting online platform for daily fantasy sports rolls over into the best sportsbook app in the industry. Compatible on iOS and Android devices, the FanDuel Michigan app provides wagering action on sports from around the world. Backed by its sports gaming reputation, FanDuel is now one of the sports betting giants in Michigan.

PointsBet Sportsbook Michigan

PointsBet, perhaps one of the most unique sports betting apps available for Michigan bettors, is best known for its signature Pointsbetting style for placing bets. This style of betting is appealing to thrill-seekers looking for a potentially higher payoff, as bets can pay up to 20x the win (or loss) compared to the standard wager.

An Australia-based sportsbook, PointsBet showed an early commitment to the Michigan market by announcing partnerships with both the Pistons and the Tigers. Later, the operator added the Red Wings to that list. The Tigers partnership, announced last year, was the first MLB partnership of its kind.

PointsBet Michigan offers an excellent, industry-leading bonus that includes five second-chance bets worth up to $250 total (one bet up to $50 daily for the first five days).

PointsBet Sportsbook is a partner of the WNBA, the first agreement of its type with a professional women’s team.

We Also Like…

Golden Nugget Sportsbook

Visit: Golden Nugget Sportsbook and claim bet credit up to $250

Bettors might associate Golden Nugget with the famous Golden Nugget online casino, but its sportsbook is starting to gain attention. The Golden Nugget Sportsbook MI often offers better odds than its competitors, including exclusive “Golden Lines” odds boosters. Plus, sports bettors can earn loyalty points through its Golden Nugget Club Rewards Program.

In Michigan, the Golden Nugget Sportsbook App builds off its top-notch casino app. Currently, the two verticals stand together in one app. The casino app will always pull up first, meaning you must click on the sportsbook tab. Other than this minor inconvenience, the Golden Nugget app is an excellent choice for sports betting in Michigan.

What Makes For A Good Mobile Sports Betting App?

When players are searching for the best Michigan sports betting app, they often only look to which offers the best odds. The truth of the matter is, when analyzing the apps, quality-of-life considerations should not be left by the wayside. After all, what’s the point of having good odds if the app is too slow and clunky to even access them without frustration? Below, we’re running down some less-considered areas you should also be looking into when starting your sports betting Michigan journey.

Speed

When looking to place a bet, you want to be able to do it quickly. This is especially true with sports betting, as anything can change at any moment. You should be able to quickly locate information and place your wager. By having clean and competent software, online sportsbook apps by companies like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetRivers shine above other competitors.

Navigation

Clear navigation remains one of the most crucial features of an online sportsbook app. Bettors need to know where they can go for information on a team, see the latest lines, and trust that the flow to make a wager won’t bog down the app. With so many leagues, events, and wager options, this can be a tough ask for many Michigan sports betting apps, and sports betting apps in general. The best online sportsbook apps offer the customer a well-defined path to placing a bet.

Seamless Deposits

Online sportsbook apps must handle the financial side of the bet with clarity and openness. No one will trust an app that does not clearly outline how deposits are made.

The same holds true when it comes time to transfer money back into your bank institution. The best online sportsbook apps provide plenty of information and transparency to help guide you through this necessary process.

Stability

There is nothing worse for bettors than a sportsbook app that shuts down during use or remains buggy over time. A reliable and stable app provides the bettor with peace of mind when they make their wagers. The top online sportsbook companies spend millions in software development to assure customers that their experience meets their expectations.

You can find out more about how Michigan Sharp ranks online sportsbooks by following the link.

How To Install Online Sports Betting Apps On An Apple iOS Device 

Installing online sports betting apps on your Apple iOS phone or tablet is quick and painless. Before you start, it is wise to have your Apple ID username and password ready. You’ll need the password to allow apps to load on your phone.

1. Find The App In Apple’s App Store

If you own an iPhone or iPad, you need to locate the sportsbook app on Apple’s App Store. Use the search function in the store to type in the sportsbook’s name. Whether you prefer companies like DraftKings or FanDuel, double-check the app and make sure you have found the right one for the right state. Also be sure you aren’t downloading the Daily Fantasy Sports app, as it’s usually a separate listing in the App Store.

2. Download The App To Your Apple iOS Device

After you find the app in the store for your Apple iOS device, you’ll need to select GET on the screen. Next, the app will begin to download, and you can track the process on your screen. After the app completes the download, you will press the app’s button on the screen. 

3. Register Your Account

The final step after downloading the online sportsbook app is to create an account. Follow the app’s instructions to verify your deposit method and personal identification information. After you complete this process, you are ready to place your first bet.

How To Install Online Sportsbook Apps On An Android Device 

If you own an Android device, installing online sportsbook apps is a simple process, but less straightforward than with the iOS store. Google Play Store just recently revised its policy banning real money gambling apps. Now, sportsbooks apps can be listed but must apply individually for approval. As such, only a limited number of sportsbook apps are currently available on the platform (with more on the way). In the meantime, if you don’t see your sportsbook of choice listed on Google Play, simply follow the below procedure:

1. Find The App On The Sportsbook Website

If you own an Android phone or tablet, go to the website for the Michigan sportsbook you want to bet with. They will have a link to download the Android app directly. 

2. Download The App To Your Android Device

Once you locate the app on the website, download it to your phone or tablet. When you choose INSTALL, the sportsbook app will download to your device.

3. Register Your Account

Once your app is downloaded to your Android phone or tablet, you’ll need to follow the app’s instructions to set up an account. Prepare to input your financial information to make a deposit and also personal data to verify age and address. After completing these steps in a few minutes, you’ll be able to place your first bet through the online sportsbook app.

Online Bonuses In Michigan Sports Betting

The best way to get started with Michigan sports betting is to take advantage of not only our exclusive sign-up offers but also to consistently keep an eye out for available bonuses. These bonuses can help give you a boost, and even help guide your betting decisions. Keep in mind, bettors must often fulfill certain terms and conditions to earn these bonuses. Still, these bonuses can make a big difference over many bets, so they’re worth understanding and taking advantage of when the opportunity arises.

Deposit And No-Deposit Bonuses

Deposit bonuses contribute money to bettors’ accounts. For every dollar that bettors deposit, the online sportsbook will contribute a percentage, too. For example, the DraftKings sign-up bonus matches 20% of bettors’ deposits up to $1,000. That means for every $5 a bettor deposits into their account, DraftKings will add $1 to it, ending contributions at $1,000.

No-deposit bets are exactly what they sound like. Bettors don’t have to deposit anything to receive money. This is usually a smaller amount in comparison to bonuses that require a deposit, but they should absolutely not be overlooked as all you need to do to claim them is register. As an example, the DraftKings no-deposit bonus is $50. It’s a great way to get even the most risk-averse bettor to give betting a try.

Second Chance Bets

Some online sportsbooks will offer a second chance on your very first bet. To qualify for these offers, bettors do have to risk their own money first. PointsBet’s $250 second-chance free bets are great for players who want to try the sportsbook’s high-risk/high-reward PointsBetting style of wagering. It’s a great way to try it out because if you lose, you get another chance at a win.

How Can Players Deposit Money In Online Sports Betting Apps In Michigan?

Credit/Debit Card

Every sportsbook app in Michigan accepts deposits through credit or debit cards, so it’s safe to consider this one of the most popular methods. It is essential to check with your card company to verify they allow deposits to sports betting companies. Many have relaxed their anti-betting stance due to legalization in over 20 states in the US, including Michigan. That being said, these deposits are still often rejected by the card provider, and for that reason, we recommend trying other deposit methods first.

Bank Transfer

Another safe and secure way to deposit money into your online sportsbook account is through a bank transfer. This method is amongst the most successful deposit options for Michigan sports betting, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a sportsbook app in Michigan that doesn’t accept bank transfers. Bank transfers are generally extremely fast and secure, and you’ll usually receive your money in your sports betting account instantly. 

PayPal

PayPal’s reputation as a safe financial institution has only grown since its inception. Although PayPal is becoming more widely accepted, not all sportsbook apps in Michigan accept it as a deposit method, so be sure to check first. The site works as a virtual wallet, providing access to credit cards and your bank account. PayPal remains one of the easiest methods of depositing money into your online sportsbook account.

Esports Betting In Michigan

Esports betting isn’t currently available in the state of Michigan, and there aren’t yet many details on a path forward for it. The Lawful Sports Betting Act defines a sport as:

“A sports activity that involves the athletic skill of 1 or more players or participants.”

The allowance of esports will most likely hinge on the definition of ‘athletic skill.’ It’s possible that betting lines on Call of Duty matches will be considered fair game, but the final decision rests on the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB). Anyone who’s watched a live stream of professional gamers can attest to the reflexes, dexterity, and communication required to succeed. All that said, esports fans will have to wait to bet on professional esports in Michigan, although the tides seem to be turning nationwide.

What Are The Benefits Of Using Legal Online Sportsbook Apps In Michigan? 

The first, and most important, benefit to consider when looking at using legal online sportsbook apps for Michigan sports betting is safety, security, and fairness. Michigan sports betting is heavily regulated by the Michigan Gaming Control Board to protect bettors. Every operator that offers an online sportsbook app is held to strict standards to ensure the quality of service and fairness. This puts legal online sportsbook apps miles ahead of illegal and off-shore options, who can make no guarantees of any of the above. When you play legally, you know your personal and financial information is safe.

Aside from reassuring safety and fairness standards, online sportsbook apps provide a high level of convenience for betting fans. By having the app on your phone, you can place a wager or check the latest odds in seconds, without having to travel to a retail sportsbook. Although nothing beats using a desktop to quickly find essential data, online sportsbook apps have come a long way in providing up-to-the-minute information. 

Trustworthy, handy, and easy to use; Michigan’s online sportsbooks provide a host of great benefits.

Legality Of Professional And Collegiate Sports Betting

The main teams that Michiganders inevitably wager on are Detroit’s professional teams. The Detroit Lions are the local NFL team, and they’ve proven to be one of the most popular choices in the state. Basketball fans can bolster their excitement with wagers on the Detroit Pistons, while baseball fans can delve into the plethora of bets available for the Tigers during the MLB season. Finally, hockey fans will get to see the Detroit Red Wings play locally, too. Everyone except soccer fans has a local professional team to bet on from their living room.

College fans will be able to enjoy online sports betting, too. While some states limit college bets, Michigan doesn’t. Michiganders can place any bet they want on their favorite college teams. In fact, one of the goals of beginning sports betting in mid-March 2020 was to allow sportsbooks to offer lines on the men’s college NCAA tournament.

See our comprehensive guide to What Can You Bet On In Michigan.

Michigan’s Online Betting Revenue

Michigan online sports betting did very well in its first year of online sports betting, grossing $3.7 billion in handle for 2021. Of that, operators took in $110.6 million in adjusted revenue and paid out $7.3 million in taxes to the State of Michigan along with $4.1 to the City of Detroit. Currently, the top 3 sites by handle are: BetMGM, FanDuel Sportsbook, and DraftKings.

Legal Online Sportsbook Apps In Michigan: Common Questions