What are social betting apps and how do they work?
Take a look through this section of our website and you’ll see you have a ton of options when it comes to social sportsbooks, which facilitate sports bets placed using virtual currencies in place of real money. This means you can put your sporting knowledge to good use, even if you happen to live in a state that doesn’t permit online gambling – or you can protect your bankroll if you’d rather back your favorite teams just for fun. And as we’ll explain further down the page, there are some real cash prizes to be redeemed too, adding another layer of fun to the experience.
Just as most modern-day sportsbooks tend to offer downloadable apps, social gaming sites have been following suit. Some of the best-known brands offer the choice of making social sports bets on desktop computers and laptops or on your smartphone, producing native apps aimed at Android and iOS users.
Social sportsbook apps give you immediate access to the full collection of sports and markets as desktop websites, perfectly formatted for small screens. And we’ve been busy picking out the very best option to share with you, along with invaluable information to ensure you can make the most of them too.
What are the best sweepstakes betting apps?
The best
free betting apps
in the US operate under the sweepstakes model, including Fliff, Legendz, and Onyx Odds. But what makes these apps so special? Let’s take a closer look.
| Social sportsbook | App Store rating | Google Play rating | Number of sports |
| Fliff | 4.8* | 4.6* | 11+ |
| Thrillzz | 4.5* | 4.5* | 11+ |
| Onyx Odds | 4.8* | n/a | 10+ |
| Prophet X | 4.8* | 4.4* | 10+ |
| Kickr | n/a | n/a | 9+ |
| Legendz | n/a | n/a | 30+ |
Fliff – Choose from a wide range of sports
Fliff: Pros & Cons
- Play for free or compete for real cash prizes
- Fantastic social sportsbook
- Major sports covered
- Great welcome bonus
Fliff is available on both iOS and Android, with easy access through the App Store and Play Store, depending on your device. You’ll find overwhelmingly positive user reviews left by previous users in these stores, highlighting the fact that this is a serious social sportsbook. Although there’s a Fliff website, this is exclusively for finding out more about the brand, with no access to the sports picks, which are only available through the dedicated app.
As a new user, you’ll automatically receive 5,000 Fliff Coins and 1 free Fliff Cash as you register for a social sportsbook account. From there, you can access a huge variety of sports, including all the major leagues, such as the NFL, NHL, NBA and MLB. There are also markets for soccer, tennis, MMA and boxing, ensuring there’s a sporting option here to suit all preferences. The platform also boasts a loyalty program, with additional rewards available for referring friends to Fliff.
| App ratings | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Size | 80MB |
| Sports | 11+ including NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, golf, lacrosse and esports |
| Welcome bonus | 5,000 Fliff Coins and 1 Fliff Cash |
| Purchase bonus | Spend $5, get $50 in free play, and 100% match up to $100 |
Thrillzz
| App ratings | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| App size | 125.7MB |
| Sports | 11+ inc NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL |
| Welcome bonus | 3,000 Thrillzz Coins, 2 Thrillzz Sweeps |
| Purchase bonus
| 100% extra free up to $100 |
Onyx Odds – Modern app with plenty of options
Onyx Odds: Pros and Cons
- Generous promotions
- Popular sports to choose from
- Diverse payment options
- Loyalty program
Onyx Odds has been created as a mobile-first website, so there’s no need to download anything at all if you want to make sports picks using your smartphone. But the platform has recently introduced an iOS app, giving iPhone users an alternative option – although Android users will still need to stick with the desktop version, at least for the time being.
Signing up for a new customer account at Onyx Odds results in an immediate award of 1,000 free Onyx Coins. You’ll be able to start using them immediately to make sports picks across a growing collection of options, including NBA, WNBA, NFL, MLB and much more besides. The platform is renowned for its variety of social betting markets, including game lines, player props, alternative lines and half-time / full-time picks. We were particularly impressed by the modern design, vibrant color scheme and efficient navigation that makes finding your way around at Onyx Odds so easy and intuitive.
| App ratings | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Size | 81MB |
| Sports | 10+ including NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, MMA and table tennis |
| Welcome bonus | 1,000 Onyx Coins |
| Purchase bonus | Spend $10 get 100 free Onyx Cash in picks |
Prophet X
Prophet X is a peer-to-peer sports exchange, allowing a degree of flexibility that traditional sportsbooks can’t possibly match – you can even set your own odds! You’ll have the option of playing just for fun using Prophet Points, or you can switch to using Prophet Cash for the chance to redeem eligible winnings for real prizes. There’s an initial welcome bonus of up to 200 Prophet Cash, with regular topups available throughout the day, and via postal requests as well as referral bonuses when your friends use your link to sign up to the platform.
Although a website is available for Prophet X, accessing it using your smartphone will trigger a prompt to download the native app, which is available for iOS and Android devices. This is an exceptionally light download, so you shouldn’t need to free up extra space to install it. Once you’ve created your new customer account you’ll have access to sports picks across a solid collection of sports, including NFL, MLB. MBA. NHL, soccer, tennis, golf and even boxing. College football and basketball may also be available, depending on your jurisdiction.
| App ratings | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Size | 83MB |
| Sports | 10+ including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL |
| Welcome bonus | Up to 200 Prophet Cash |
| Purchase bonus | 20% extra free up to $100 |
Legendz – A sportsbook and casino in one
Legendz: Pros and Cons
- Available in most US states
- User-friendly interface
- 24/7 live chat support
- Top sports coverage
- Can be tricky for new players
Legendz doesn’t yet offer any dedicated app downloads, but the social sportsbook deserves its place on our list of recommendations thanks to the mobile-first design ethos of its website. You can easily add the site to your home screen on your smartphone for a more app-like sports prediction experience, or continue accessing the site via your usual mobile browser, if that’s your preference.
As soon as you sign up and create your Legendz account you’ll receive a welcome package of 500 Gold Coins and 3 Sweeps Coins. You’ll be able to use them across a broad range of sports, but Legendz also offers slots and casino-style
sweepstakes games
too, so all your gaming bases are covered here. Navigation is fast and intuitive, so whether you’re making social sports bets or spinning the reels of iconic slots, the experience feels completely seamless. And if you ever need any assistance the customer support team is on hand 24/7 via live chat or email.
| App ratings | Mobile-friendly website – no apps available |
| Size | n/a |
| Sports | 30+ including NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, rugby and volleyball |
| Welcome bonus | 500 Gold Coins and 3 Sweeps Coins |
| Purchase bonus | 100% extra free up to $100 |
Are social sports betting apps legal in the United States?
Social sportsbooks aren’t bound by the same strict gambling laws as real-money sportsbooks. That’s because they don’t use real money; instead, social betting apps use virtual currencies with Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins. This key difference allows them to operate legally in most US states. That said, it’s always smart to check the terms and conditions of your chosen sportsbook. You’ll find a list of the states where the app is available. Here, you’ll also find other eligibility conditions, such as the minimum age requirement, which is typically 18 and above.
What are the differences between Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins?
Understanding the subtle differences between Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins is essential before you jump into a
new social sportsbook. Both can be obtained for free through promotions, but Gold Coins can also be purchased directly from the app. They are also both used to place social sports bets, but Sweeps Coins provide an additional unique functionality. Any Sweeps Coins winnings generated can be redeemed for real-world prizes, provided you meet the app’s eligibility requirements.
| Details |
Gold Coins (GC)
|
Sweeps Coins (SC) |
| Obtained via promotions |
✅ |
✅ |
| Purchased directly from the app |
✅ |
❌ |
| Used to place social sports bets |
✅ |
✅ |
| Used to redeem real-world prizes |
❌ |
✅ |
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How to spot a safe and legitimate social betting app
It’s really not hard to track down a safe, secure and reputable social betting app, but first you’ll need to have an idea what to look for. And since social sportsbooks don’t require a gambling license to operate, you’ll need to be aware of other signs of trustworthiness, as highlighted below.
Check user reviews and feedback
Our reviews here at TheGruelingTruth unpack all the essential facts about each social sports betting app, along with bespoke tips for making the most of your gaming time. But you can also check out what current users have to say on platforms including TrustPilot, Google Play and the App Store.
No two players will ever have exactly the same experience, and some negative comments tend to come from users who don’t fully understand the social gaming mechanic, but you should still pick up a general overview of people’s thoughts on your preferred social sportsbook app.
[
Look for SSL encryption and data security
With no oversight from gambling regulators, social sportsbook apps need to go the extra mile to convey their trustworthiness. Watch out for a robust privacy policy to ensure your personal data remains secure, and that ID checks are taken seriously – all reputable social gaming platforms make sure to highlight their security features, including offering 2FA as an extra measure to keep customer accounts protected.
[
Transparent terms of service
You’ll need to confirm that you agree to a platform’s terms of service as part of the registration process, so always take a few moments to read through them, so you understand exactly what’s involved. Expect to find clear information about age and geographic restrictions and how to collect free virtual currencies and redeem Sweeps Coin winnings.
[
There’s no option for making sports picks using real money at a social sportsbook, but reputable apps make sure to provide responsible gaming tools all the same. Look for self-imposed limits on Gold Coin purchases and gaming session times, along with options to take some time out from a platform, or even self-exclude, if that’s your preference.
[
No purchases should be necessary at any reputable social sportsbook, although there are always opportunities to buy additional Gold Coins. Check out the payment options, along with processing times and any fees, as well as the prize redemption terms. The best social betting apps make sure to highlight redemptions, so you’ll know exactly what to expect when requesting your prize.
/toggle-wrapper]
Fast-track the process with our reviews
Want to jump into the action without the stress? At The Gruelling Truth, we’ve put countless social betting apps to the test, and we only recommend the ones that truly deliver on safety and security. But we don’t stop there. Our reviews cover everything you need to know, from bonuses and sports markets to customer support, payment options, and beyond.
How can I download and install social sports betting apps?
You’ll find it’s an incredibly quick and easy process to download and install one of our recommended
free sports betting
apps, regardless of your operating system. Just check out these guides explaining exactly how to get started on iOS and Android devices, and you could be making your first sports picks within just a few moments from now.
How to download social sports betting apps on iOS devices
Whether you decide to register at your preferred social sportsbook on your phone or iPad, the same process applies:
- Check your device requirements before initiating the download
- Navigate to the App Store, or follow the link from your preferred social sportsbook
- Select your chosen app and tap on ‘Get’ or the download icon
- Once the download and installation is complete, tap on ‘Open’ to access your new app
- Create your account by inputting your name and / or username, along with a password and contact information
- Verify your contact details by clicking a link sent to your email or by inputting a code sent to your phone
- Sign in, claim your introductory bonus and start making sports picks!
How to download social sports betting apps on Android devices
Downloading a social sportsbook app to an Android phone or tablet is an easy process, as you’ll quickly discover:
- Head to the Google Play store and search for your preferred social sports betting platform
- Check your device compatibility and make sure you have sufficient storage available
- Tap the ‘Install’ button and wait for the download to complete
- Tap on the ‘Open’ button, or navigate to your new app on your device screen and tap to open it
- Create your account by inputting your name / username, age and other requested information
- Verify your details by inputting the code sent to your phone, or by tapping a link sent to your email
- Grant any necessary permissions regarding geolocation and to allow notifications
- Sign in and start using your introductory virtual currencies by making social sports bets.
Why push notifications are a game-changer for regular bettors
Push notifications are one of the standout features of sweepstakes betting apps, and they can be a real game-changer for your experience. Once enabled in your device settings, you’ll start receiving timely updates that keep you connected to the action. Here’s what you can expect:
- Live bet tracking
– Follow your bets in real time with instant updates as the game unfolds.
- Promotional alerts
– Never miss out on new offers or limited-time bonuses from your sportsbook.
- App announcements
– Stay connected with important updates, events, and feature rollouts.
With push notifications switched on, your sportsbook stays just a tap away, ensuring you’re always updated and ready to make your next move.
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Are sweepstakes betting apps actually better than playing in your browser?
If you’re looking to enjoy social sports betting on your phone, downloading an app isn’t the only way to play. Most top sportsbooks provide both a dedicated mobile app and a fully optimized mobile website, offering flexibility to choose what works best for you.
In general, apps deliver stronger performance, easier access, more customization, and added security. That said, mobile browsers bring their own advantages, like no downloads and instant compatibility across devices.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which option fits your style best:
| Feature |
Mobile app |
Mobile browser |
| Access |
One-tap launch from home screen |
Works on any device, no download |
| Speed |
Faster, smoother navigation |
Depends on browser performance |
| Notifications |
Push alerts for bets & promos |
No real-time alerts |
| Updates |
Frequent feature updates |
Always current, but less tailored |
| Storage |
Uses device space |
No storage needed |
| Design |
Optimized for mobile experience |
Scales to screen, but less refined |
| Battery/Data |
May use more in the background |
Lighter on resources |
Can you still win real money at a sweepstakes betting app?
Earlier in this guide, we noted that one key reason sweepstakes betting apps are legal in the US is that they don’t use real money. This means you can’t win cash directly through the app. However, we also mentioned that Sweeps Coins winnings can be redeemed for real-world prizes, including cash. This offers a legitimate way to turn your gameplay into tangible rewards. But only if you meet the eligibility requirements, which typically include:
- Account verification:
You will need to submit proof of your identity and residential address before you can redeem Sweeps Coins.
- Playthrough requirement:
Most apps will require you to play your Sweeps Coins at least once (or more) before they can be redeemed.
- Minimum SC redemption:
You will need to accumulate a minimum amount of Sweeps Coins before redeeming a prize, usually between 10 and 100 SC.
Requirements can vary between sportsbooks, so it’s important to review the rules before signing up. You should also check out the types of prizes offered, the available payment methods, and the typical processing times. Doing this sends a clearer picture of what to expect and helps you choose the sportsbook that best fits your preferences.
How to redeem cash prizes at a social sportsbook
Now you have an idea of what’s possible when redeeming Sweeps Coin winnings for real cash prizes, let’s take a closer look at how it actually works. The following step-by-step guide highlights exactly how to claim your prize:
-
Collect the required number of eligible SC:
Every social sportsbook makes sure to publicize the minimum number of Sweeps Coins that you’ll need to collect in winnings to qualify for a prize redemption. The actual number can vary anywhere between 10 – 100 SC, so make sure you have a sufficient number to trigger your prize.
-
Check that you’ve completed all necessary playthrough requirements:
Sweeps Coins have no real-world value, but once you’ve played them through in accordance with the platform’s specific rules, they become redeemable. Make sure you’ve abided by all the platform’s rules – the customer support team will be happy to address any concerns or answer any questions you have, if you need further clarification.
-
Navigate to your account and request your redemption:
Your redemption request needs to be approved by the social sportsbook before your prize can be released. Look for the appropriate tab within your account settings, and fill in the form detailing how many SC you’d like to redeem, along with your preferred payment method.
-
Upload any additional documents requested by your social sportsbook:
If you haven’t yet completed KYC checks, or you’re requesting a large cash prize, you’ll be requested to submit documentation proving your eligibility to play and win real-money prizes at your chosen platform. Submitting the necessary information well in advance of requesting a prize can help to speed up this process.
-
Wait for your financial provider to process your prize payment:
Once your prize request has been approved by the customer support team, the payment will be made via your preferred payment method. The actual time it takes for your funds to reach you will depend on your payment method and financial provider. For example, crypto transactions are usually almost instant, but in the case of debit cards and bank transfers you may need to allow up to 5 business days.
What if I encounter issues when downloading or using the app?
Top social sportsbook apps come with a range of support options, so you’ll always have a way to resolve any issues. A good place to start is the FAQs section, which can be opened through the app or official website. If that doesn’t help, the best apps offer multiple contact methods, including live chat, email, social media, and sometimes even telephone support.
When you use a trusted app like Fliff, Legendz, or Onyx Odds, you can expect friendly, helpful support agents who quickly identify the problem and provide a solution. This ensures minimal downtime, and even allows you get back to the fun without frustration.
What if a social sportsbook doesn’t have an app?
In our experience, some of the
best betting sites
don’t provide the option to download and install a native app, but that’s really no reason to dismiss them out of hand. These platforms will still offer extremely generous welcome bonuses, and they can often tick all the boxes on our checklist of what makes a great social betting experience, so they’re definitely worth considering, even if you favor smartphone use when making sports predictions.
We’ll still rate and review social sports betting platforms, even if they don’t include apps. But first we make sure that they offer a mobile-friendly website, before we go on to establish that they offer all the services we’d expect to find, including quality social betting odds. Some of them even offer
top social casino games
too, while allowing you to run your account exclusively from your phone or tablet, if that’s your preference.
If your preferred social sportsbook doesn’t offer a separate, downloadable app, it’s often possible to create a similar effect by adding the site to your home screen via a PWA (Progressive Web App). This gives you the feeling and functionality of an app, with options available for iOS and Android devices, as highlighted below.
How to add a social betting site to your mobile home screen
Most social betting sites that don’t already have an app allow you to add a PWA shortcut to your phone, giving you access to an app-like experience. Just follow these steps to get started:
-
Open the social betting site in your phone’s browser.
-
Tap the ‘Share’ button on iOS, or the three dots in the upper right-hand corner of your Android browser screen.
-
Select ‘Add to Home Screen’, or ‘Install’.
-
Confirm your selection to activate the installation.
-
You can now edit the name and start using your social sportsbook.
Pros and cons of social betting apps
There’s a lot to love about social betting apps, including their convenience when you’d like to make sports picks on the go. Their performance usually surpasses mobile sites, and there are generous bonuses available too. The downside is the need to use phone storage and arrange the download and installation process.
Pros and cons
- Generous promos to claim
- Make sports picks on the go
- Faster performance than mobile browsers
- Push notifications
The verdict: Pick your app and get started today
So there you have it, if you’re looking for a fun and free way to bet on your favorite sports fixtures, a social betting app is an excellent option. These apps are easy to download for both iOS and Android users with fast download times. They also provide a significant boost to your overall experience over browser-based sports betting, with additional features like push notifications, biometric logins, and faster performance.
Some of the best examples of these apps currently include Fliff, Legendz, and Onyx Odds. You can check them out by clicking any of the promotional banners on this page.
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Social betting app FAQs
❓ What is a social betting app?
It is a sportsbook that uses virtual currencies like Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins, instead of real money. These virtual currencies can be used to make predictions on your favorite sports games for free.
📱 What are the best mobile apps for free social sports betting?
The best social sports betting app is unique for everyone, but three of the most popular include Fliff, Legendz, and Onyx Odds. These apps are known for their generous bonuses, wide range of sports betting markets, excellent usability, and much more.
🤔 How do I download a sweepstakes betting app for Android?
To download a sweepstakes betting app on Android, you should visit the Google Play Store and search for the brand name. You can also usually find a link to the Google Play Store on the sportsbook’s official website.
🔒 Are sweepstakes sports betting apps safe to use?
Yes, these apps use advanced encryption technologies to keep your personal and financial data secure. You can also expect to see account security features like biometric logins, two-factor authentication, and strong passwords.
🎁 What bonuses can I claim at social sports betting apps?
The promotions you can claim vary from sportsbook to sportsbook, but typically include sign-up bonuses, referral rewards, daily login offers, mail-in requests, social media giveaways, tournament prize pools, VIP programs, and more.
