Online betting is an activity where a bettor places wagers via an internet-connected computer, tablet or smartphone. A bettor will place a bet on any number of events and outcomes, such as the winner of a particular game or the total score of an entire match. Online sportsbooks are a popular way to make wagers, but bettors should be aware of the risks involved and consider spreading their bankroll across several highly-regarded sites.
Legal sports betting is growing nationwide, and some states now offer regulated online sportsbooks. In 2022, New Jersey and Pennsylvania launched retail and mobile sports betting, with DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, and more operating online. Other states have launched a handful of sportsbooks. Colorado, for example, started accepting wagers on pro and college sports in 2020, although betting on in-state collegiate teams is restricted.
In addition to offering a full selection of major American sports, some online sportsbooks have specialized markets for niche interests such as snooker and cricket. This can be helpful if you have a favorite team that isn’t as widely covered. Other specialty markets may include wagers on events like horse racing and state lotteries.
Most reputable online sportsbooks accept credit cards, including Visa and MasterCard. Many also accept the e-wallet services PayPal and Skrill. Many even offer their own branded Play+ card, which can be used to fund an account at the sportsbook’s physical or online locations. In addition, some e-wallets allow players to transfer funds from one account to another, giving bettors the ability to fund their accounts from multiple sources.