ESPN BET Review: Is it Legit or Overrated?
ESPN has recently partnered with Penn Entertainment to develop and launch a brand-new sports betting app for US bettors. Launched this past November, ESPN BET is a real money sports betting website and mobile app that has all the trappings of the best sportsbooks currently available to online punters: live betting, live streaming, same-game parlays (but with a twist), and thirteen sports markets to choose from.
Though it is the new kid on the block, we’re impressed by what we’ve seen so far. In preparation for our ESPN Bet review, our research team tested the app for about a week to see what kind of product ESPN could produce for US online bettors.
Right up front, here are a few of the critical highlights our review team discovered while researching ESPN BET:
- Two excellent welcome bonuses for new bettors (deposit match or bonus bets)
- Thirteen mainline sports markets, including NFL, NHL, NBA, golf, etc., are offered here.
- Bet on sports in real-time using the live betting section and stream the event using ESPN BET’s excellent live streaming platform.
- Get enhanced odds on same-game parlays.
- Deposit using various banking methods and get instant access to your funds.
- Download the app for iPhones or Androids and take it on the go.
- Licensed and regulated in seventeen states
Overall, we gave ESPN BET a score of 4.2/5 stars. It’s a secure betting app for all the major US sports leagues and other international sports markets. We’d recommend it to our readers and customers, even with the app being so new to the scene. Register for free using the link below!
ESPN BET Highlights
Let’s start this ESPN BET review by covering the key details about the betting app, that is, as much information as we could gather on a sports betting site that has only been in business for a few months!
Owned By | Penn Entertainment and ESPN |
Year Established | November 2023 |
Welcome Bonus | 100% deposit match up to $1,000 OR $200 in bonus bets |
Sports Markets Offered | Football, basketball, hockey, golf, baseball, soccer, motorsports, tennis, MMA, boxing, Aussie Rules, etc. |
Mobile Compatibility | iOS and Android mobile devices + desktop PC or Mac |
Banking Options | Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, Skrill, wire transfers, eChecks, checks, and online banking |
Payout Speed | 1-5 business days |
Contents of the Page
Use the links below to get around our ESPN BET review with ease. Find the information you’re looking for quickly!
Overview of ESPN BET
ESPN BET started in November 2023, so there’s no detailed business history to cover here. From what we’ve seen, this is a solid sports betting app for US bettors available in all the states you’d expect and has the typical sportsbook amenities like same-game parlays, live betting, and live streaming for select games and events.
Pros and Cons
Let’s hop into the significant pros and cons of ESPN BET that we found during our fair and honest review of the site. It may be too early to tell at this point, but there are far more upsides to using this app.
Pros
- It is owned by ESPN, one of the most trusted names in the sports world.
- There’s a mobile app at Google Play and the App Store.
- Licensed in 17 states.
- Two strong welcome bonuses are available for new customers.
- ESPN BET Thirteen primary sports markets, including NFL, NHL, MLS, etc.
- The app has strong live-streaming infrastructure, thanks to ESPN.
- Live betting lines and odds are available.
- Cash out early.
- Excellent customer service, including live chat and a callback phone number.
- ESPN BET is officially partnered with the NHL.
- There’s a wide variety of banking options, including credit cards, PayPal, Skrill, etc.
- Use Parlay+ to get enhanced odds on same-game parlays.
- Share your bet slips on social media.
Cons
- ESPN is extremely new to the online sports betting market, so not enough is known about it yet.
- The fastest payout speeds can take between 1-5 business days. There are no guaranteed instant payouts.
- ESPN is unavailable in 33 states.
- No fantasy sports or horse race betting is available.
- Bitcoin and other cryptos aren’t known as banking options.
Other than having a limited reach across the US (nearly all US sportsbooks, to be fair), ESPN BET is strong in what it offers bettors and punters in the legal jurisdictions. The only addition that would make this a knockout sports betting app would be the addition of quicker payout methods and possibly a few more sports markets.
ESPN BET Bonuses & Promotions
ESPN BET offers its customers the choice between two welcome bonuses (the deals where you can add the most money to your bankroll) and a myriad of seasonal promotions that concentrate on different sports markets. We’d encourage you to visit the promo page, but we’ll focus for now on explaining the two welcome bonuses for new customers.
ESPN BET Welcome Bonus #1
100% Match Up to $1,000
First-time depositors can get a 100% match on however much money they deposit into their accounts, up to $1,000. Read the terms and conditions below to learn how the promo works for newcomers.
ESPN BET Welcome Bonus Terms & Conditions
- Register as a new user of the ESPN BET app.
- Log into your account.
- Choose a deposit option that works for you.
- Select the amount you’d like to add to your bankroll. You can add as much as $1,000; the sportsbook will match that amount 100%.
ESPN BET Welcome Bonus #2
$220 in Bonus Bets
The other option for newcomers to the app is to place their first cash wager and receive $200 in Bonus Bets.
How to Redeem Your ESPN BET Bonus Code Offer
- Register as a new user of the app.
- Log into your account.
- Choose a deposit option that works for you and the amount you’d like to place in your account.
- Place your first sportsbook cash wager once your account is loaded with funds.
- You’ll get $200 in Bonus Bets, split into four installments of $50.
- New bettors must use these funds within seven days of getting them from ESPN BET.
ESPN BET Sportsbook
So, how does the ESPN BET sportsbook stack up against other popular betting apps? Let’s dive into some of the sportsbook highlights, premium features for members, and the specific markets offered to bettors.
Sportsbook Highlights
- Bet on thirteen sports markets
- Live betting available
- Watch live sports events via ESPN live-streaming
- Cash-out early
- Use Parlay+ to get enhanced odds on your same-game parlays
- Share your bet slips in real-time on social media
Sports and Leagues Covered
ESPN BET has thirteen mainline sports betting markets available on its app. Under each market, you’ll find additional leagues and divisions for extra betting opportunities.
- Australian Rules (AFL)
- Baseball (MLB)
- Basketball (NBA, NCAAB, WNBA, WNCAAB, & Europe)
- Boxing
- Cricket (ODI Series, International T20, Australia, & India)
- Football (NFL & NCAAF)
- Golf (DP World Tour & Futures)
- Hockey (NFL & NCAA)
- MMA (UFC)
- Motorsports (Formula 1 & NASCAR)
- Rugby League (Australia)
- Soccer
- Tennis (WTA & Grand Slams)
Soccer leagues include England, France, Germany, Greece, International Leagues, International Clubs, Italy, Mexico, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, and Spain.
Live Betting
Like many real money sportsbooks, ESPN BET will put out lines and odds during a live sports event, so bettors have extra opportunities to place wagers. The odds and lines will adjust as events and circumstances change during the game. Bettors can quickly add these to their bet slips.
Live Streaming
What better entity for a sportsbook to be partnered with than ESPN? The cable sports channel has excellent infrastructure in place for live sports coverage. They’ve implemented this into their live betting setup, so bettors can watch games in real-time as they place their bets.
Early Cash Out
Sometimes, you reach a point in a game or event where it’s completely apparent that your bet will either win or lose. If that’s the case, ESPN BET lets its members cash out early, so they aren’t wasting time waiting for the game to wrap up.
Same Game Parlays
Form a parlay bet on a single event using the Parlay+ features, and ESPN BET will give you enhanced odds to increase the chances of your parlay coming through!
Legal States Where ESPN BET Is Available
ESPN BET is available in 17 states nationwide as of the writing of this review. It’s a fully regulated sports betting app holding licenses in these jurisdictions:
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- New Jersey
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
- Tennessee
- Virginia
- West Virginia
You must be located within the borders of these states to activate the ESPN BET app. All members must be 21 years or older, except Kentucky users, whose minimum age requirement is 18.
You can check out all of their state specific terms here.
ESPN BET is licensed with the following entities:
- Arizona Department of Gaming
- Colorado Division of Gaming
- Illinois Gaming Board
- Indiana Gaming Commission
- Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission
- Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission
- Kentucky Horse Racing Commission
- Louisiana Gaming Control Board
- Maryland Lottery and Gaming
- Massachusetts Gaming Commission
- Michigan Gaming Control Board
- New Jersey Department of Gaming Enforcement
- Ohio Casino Control Commission
- Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
- Tennessee Sports Wagering Advisory Council
- Virginia Lottery
- West Virginia Lottery Commission
ESPN BET App Compatibility
ESPN BET has a mobile app available for free download from Google Play and the App Store. This allows bettors to take ESPN BET on the go, though they can always visit the website using the web browser on their smartphone. The app has a more intuitive design than the website and lets members bet on sports without needing a reliable internet connection.
How do the two mobile app versions stack up against one another? Everything is essentially the same between the two. Each allows users to see and experience the same benefits.
Feature | iOS | Android |
---|---|---|
States Covered | AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV | AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV |
Sports Markets Available | Football, basketball, soccer, | Football, basketball, soccer, |
Downloads | N/A | 100k+ |
Banking Methods | Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Skrill, eCheck, online banking, wire transfer, and check | Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Skrill, eCheck, online banking, wire transfer, and check |
Minimum Deposit | $10 | $10 |
Minimum Withdrawal | $10 | $10 |
Sign-Up Bonus | 100% match up to $1,000 or $200 in Bonus Bets | 100% match up to $1,000 or $200 in Bonus Bets |
Compatible Devices
ESPN BET can be used on a wide range of devices, including Android phones and tablets, as well as iPhones and iPads. We looked at user feedback at both app stores to see how the public feels about ESPN BET so far, and we found that it’s received high marks: 4.5 stars at Google Play and 4.9 at the App Store.
Google Play App
- 4.5/5-star rating
- Based on 5.73k reviews
- Over 100k downloads
- Free to download
Apple Store App
- 4.9/5-star rating
- Based on 95k reviews
- Available on iPhones and iPads
- Free to download
- Presented by Score Media and Gaming Inc.
Bettors can also use ESPN BET from their desktop computers with a simple website visit. Mobile users can also visit the site with their web browsers. Using the website has its advantages:
- You don’t use any storage space on your device.
- The website never needs to be updated.
- Bettors can see more of the betting odds and lines at once.
- You’re less likely to make a mistake selecting and managing your bets using a computer keyboard.
However, the mobile app has its pluses for bettors:
- You don’t rely on an internet connection.
- It’s the best way to take the website on the go.
- The mobile app has the most intuitive commands and menu configurations.
How to Sign Up at ESPN Bet
You can sign up for a new account with ESPN BET, select a deposit method, and enter the amount you’d like to add to your bankroll, all within five to ten minutes. Follow the posted instructions below as a guide if you’re interested in becoming a member of the app.
Estimated Sign-up Time: 5-10 minutes
- Download the ESPN Bet app from Google Play or the App Store. Or visit www.ESPNBet.com on your computer or your mobile device’s web browser.
- Click “Sign Up” and “Get Started” on the next page.
- Set up your login terms, including a username and password. You use these to get in and out of your account securely.
- Enter your email address and phone number.
- They will send a verification code to your email, and you must send it back.
- Next, enter the last four digits of your social.
- Agree to the app’s terms and conditions.
- Enter your ID information using your driver’s license, national ID card, or passport.
- Log into your account. Select a deposit method and enter the amount you want to include in your account. Enter any promo codes that might apply.
- Now you have funds in your account. Begin betting on your favorite sports!
Banking Options
Transfer funds into your account and collect payouts when you win, all on your terms. ESPN BET has a wide variety of banking options for bettors who value instant access to their funds and quick payouts. Use credit cards or your online banking account, but access other options like PayPal or Skrill, too!
Deposit Methods
Banking Option | Minimum Deposit | Deposit Time |
---|---|---|
Visa and Mastercard | $10 | Instant |
eCheck | $10 | Instant |
Online Banking | $10 | Instant |
Skrill | $10 | Instant |
Wire Transfer | $10 | 1-3 business days |
PayPal | $10 | Instant |
No banking fees are involved, and nearly all deposit methods allow customers to use their funds immediately. The most that you have to deposit to get started is $10. Wire transfers could take a few business days due to the nature of moving around more significant amounts of cash.
Payout Methods
Banking Option | Minimum Withdrawal | Withdrawal Time |
---|---|---|
Visa | $10 | 1-5 business days |
PayPal | $10 | 1-5 business days |
eCheck | $10 | 1-5 business days |
Online Banking | $10 | 1-5 business days |
Skrill | $10 | 1-5 business days |
Wire Transfer | $10 | 1-5 business days |
Check | $10 | 1-5 business days |
On average, it should take around 48 hours to get your payout from ESPN BET, but some have been known to take upwards of five business days. Remember that you must take out at least $10 each time when you withdraw your funds.
Deposit Funds
Get your bankroll prepared to bet on your favorite sports. Follow these steps to choose a deposit method and transfer money into your ESPN BET account.
- Log into your account and select “My Account.” This option appears in the top right-hand corner of the screen.
- Click “Deposit.” If you’re using the ESPN BET app, find “Deposit” under the “Wallet” section.
- Under your Wallet balance, enter the amount you want to download into your account. Remember that a minimum of $10 is required for any deposit.
- Click “Deposit Method” to choose the deposit method you’d prefer to use. Then click “Continue.”
- Follow the rest of the required steps provided to complete the transaction.
- Look under “Playable Balance” to view your latest deposit and how it changed your current balance. Check out each deposit under “Account History” in the “Transactions” menu.
While funds are available immediately (except for wire transfers that could take one to three business days), they can take up to three business days to appear on your bank statements.
Collecting Your Payouts
Follow the steps below to withdraw funds from ESPN BET. Your payout could take one to five business days to come through. You must withdraw at least $10 each time.
- Log into your account and select “My Account” to reach your Wallet. This option appears in the top right-hand corner of the screen.
- Click “Withdrawal” to begin the payout process.
- View your total balance on the “Withdrawal” page. Enter the amount you’d like to withdraw from your account (a minimum withdrawal of $10 is required).
- Select your payout method of choice and then click “Continue.”
- Follow the rest of the required steps provided to complete the transaction.
- View the status of your payout request under “Pending Transactions.” It can take anywhere from one to five business days.
For any questions about your payout, you can email the customer service team at [email protected].
Customer Service
To reach the customer service center at ESPN BET, click “Help” in the drop-down menu under the icon with your profile photo. The following are the contact options available to members of the website and mobile app:
- Live Chat: Yes
- Email: [email protected]
- Callback Phone: +1 (844) 953-2121
- X (Twitter): @ESPNBetSupport
- FAQ Pages: Yes
- Support Languages: English
The live chat support function is a 24/7 service, but during peak hours of operation, it can become bogged down with many people, so that you might be on hold. You can use the callback number to leave a message, and the service team will get back to you as soon as possible. The email isn’t instant either, but you can expect a response within 24 hours.
The FAQ pages are a good option for someone who needs assistance but doesn’t necessarily want to deal with someone over the phone or face-to-face. The main page has a search bar where you can type out your question, or you can choose from the following question categories:
- Account Security
- Promotions/Rewards
- Glossary of Betting Terms
- Betting Rules
- How to Add Funds
- How to Withdraw Funds
- Quick Start Guide
- Where is Betting Legal?
So, Is ESPN BET Worth It?
ESPN BET has a broad appeal for US bettors because they’re available in a wide variety of places across the nation and because ESPN is a name that’s synonymous with everything having to do with sports coverage in the United States. Though it’s a new sports betting app, ESPN Bet will appeal to many online sports bettors and punters. We just have a feeling.
Let’s review who this app is best for and who might be better off using a different online sportsbook.
Worth It
- Enjoy a generous welcome bonus where ESPN Bet will match your first deposit up to $1,000 or give you $200 in Bonus Bets after your first cash wager!
- Choose from thirteen sports markets as well as several secondary markets.
- Enjoy live betting lines and odds for all major sports markets.
- Watch games, matches, or events via live streaming from your mobile device or computer.
- Download the mobile app from Google Play or the App Store and take ESPN Bet on the go.
- Parlay bets within the same game and have your odds enhanced.
- You live in any of the seventeen states that take ESPN Bet customers.
- You live adjacent to a legal state and spend time there.
Not Worth It
- You’re looking for horse betting or fantasy sports.
- You live outside one of the seventeen legal states.
- You expect to be paid out instantly when your bet wins. The typical payout time can range from one to five business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
With ESPN BET being such a new addition to the online sports betting world, our readers have had a lot of questions about this one and whether it’s worth the time. This commonly asked questions section is an excellent way to get the highlights on the ESPN BET app.
Is ESPN BET Legit?
Absolutely. ESPN presents this real money sportsbook and is legal for use in several jurisdictions (seventeen states) across the United States. The website and app have partnered with reputable banking institutions to handle deposits and payouts. These include Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Skrill, and others.
Where Is ESPN BET Legal to Use?
ESPN BET is legal in seventeen states: Arizona, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
How Long Has ESPN BET Been Around?
ESPN BET is an entirely new online sports betting app launched in November 2023. While ESPN is no stranger to sports, it is a fresh face in online sports betting.
Do They Offer a Welcome Bonus?
ESPN BET offers its new members the chance to get their first deposit matched 100% up to $1,000. If you’re a newcomer whose first deposit is $1,000, ESPN will give you $1,000 to match it!
How Long Do Payouts Take?
Any payout method you choose has a processing time of anywhere from one to five business days. On average, most member report getting their payout in about 48 hours.
How Can I Use the App?
ESPN BET is a website, but they have a mobile app, too, available at Google Play and the App Store. You can use this online sportsbook on your desktop computer or visit the website using the web browser on your mobile device. Downloading the ESPN BEET app will take up space on your phone or tablet, but it’ll allow you to use the sportsbook without an internet connection.
What Kind of Banking Methods Are Available?
eChecks, online banking, Skrill, Mastercard, Visa, wire transfers, and PayPal can be used to deposit funds into your account. In contrast, PayPal, eCheck, online banking, Visa, Skrill, wire transfers, and checks are payout methods.
What Sports Does ESPN BET Let You Bet On?
There are thirteen sports betting markets here:
• Australian Rules (AFL)
• Baseball (MLB)
• Basketball (NBA, NCAAB, WNBA, WNCAAB, & Europe)
• Boxing
• Cricket (ODI Series, International T20, Australia, & India)
• Football (NFL & NCAAF)
• Golf (DP World Tour & Futures)
• Hockey (NFL & NCAA)
• MMA (UFC)
• Motorsports (Formula 1 & NASCAR)
• Rugby League (Australia)
• Soccer
• Tennis (WTA & Grand Slams)
Multiple soccer leagues are available to bet on, including England, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Mexico, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, and Spain, as well as International Leagues and International Clubs.
How Old Must I Be to Join ESPN BET?
Anyone joining ESPN BET must be 21 years or older. During sign-up, the website will verify your identity by asking for your date of birth and the last four digits of your social security number. It’s to ensure you’re old enough to use the service legally.
Is Live Betting Available?
Live betting is a big part of the ESPN BET app and covers all the major sports markets available. Bettors can place wagers as they watch the event or game in real-time, all thanks to the live streaming that ESPN is so famous for. The lines and odds can shift quickly, so it’s key to snag opportunities quickly when they come by.
How Long Does It Take to Sign Up?
It should take about five minutes to answer the initial sign-up questions, create secure login information, and make your first deposit. Add another minute or so to view and add any welcome bonuses that apply to your situation.
How Can I Contact Customer Service?
ESPN BET has a live chat feature, available 24/7, where bettors can speak face-to-face with a customer service rep. Call them at +1 (844) 953-2121 or email [email protected].