Real money casino apps are more popular than ever. US players have an impressive lineup of legal, high-quality options to choose from.
Whether you’re spinning reels on your iPhone or playing blackjack on Android, the best casino apps combine fast payouts, top-tier games, and generous bonuses with smooth, secure performance.
Best Casino Apps for Real Money
Here are the top picks, each bringing something special for U.S. players:
BetMGM Casino – Best Overall Casino App
BetMGM’s app leads the pack with the largest game library (2,000+ games in some states) and huge jackpot slots.
It offers an in-house progressive jackpot network that has paid out record-breaking wins, including one New Jersey player who hit $6.4 million — a U.S. online record.
Backed by MGM Resorts, the app is polished and reliable, with exclusive games and a generous welcome bonus. BetMGM is available in multiple states and is a top choice for both slots and table game fans.
The app’s interface is modern and user-friendly, making it easy to navigate between thousands of gaming options.
Sign up now and claim their 100% match up to $1,000 bonus with your first deposit from the app.
DraftKings Casino – Best for Table Games & Exclusives
The DraftKings Casino app is known for its extensive selection of virtual table games and innovative exclusives.
Players can enjoy many unique blackjack and roulette variants, plus a robust live dealer section.
DraftKings also features over 1,000 slots, including some with jackpots, and integrates seamlessly if you also use DraftKings Sportsbook or DFS.
The app’s interface is modern and easy to navigate on both Android and iPhone.
What sets DraftKings apart is its focus on creating exclusive gaming experiences you won’t find elsewhere, making it particularly appealing for players who want something different from the standard casino offerings.
Register now to claim their bonus up to $1,000 plus free spins using the app.
FanDuel Casino – Best User Experience
FanDuel offers one of the most user-friendly and legitimate casino apps in the U.S.
The app is sleek, fast, and intuitive, making it simple to find games and place bets.
While FanDuel’s game library is smaller than some rivals, it covers all the popular slots and table games with top-notch quality.
It consistently earns the highest user ratings on the App Store and Google Play, and as of 2024, FanDuel even climbed to the #1 spot in U.S. online casino market share.
Available in NJ, PA, MI, and WV (and powering Mohegan Sun Casino in CT), the FanDuel app is praised for stability and excellent ongoing promotions.
Sign up to claim $40 in bonus funds plus free spins.
Caesars Palace Online Casino – Best Rewards Program & Support
Caesars revamped its casino app in 2023, relaunching as the Caesars Palace Online Casino app.
While it may not have the largest game catalog, it provides a very beginner-friendly experience with simple navigation.
High-rollers and casual players alike benefit from Caesars’ excellent 24/7 customer support and the legendary Caesars Rewards program.
Every bet earns rewards points you can later redeem for casino credit or even hotel stays at Caesars properties.
The app is legal in several states (NJ, PA, MI, WV) and is known for frequent promotions, though its library is more streamlined than BetMGM or DraftKings.
Claim their match up to $2,500 bonus and enjoy.
Golden Nugget Online Casino – Low Stakes, Big Wins
Golden Nugget’s casino app boasts one of the largest collections of slot games, with over 1,500 slots in New Jersey and a huge variety in Michigan as well.
Seasoned slot enthusiasts love this app for its deep selection, including many exclusive and high-RTP slots.
The interface includes advanced filters (by theme, provider, features, etc.) to help you find games easily — a big plus when the selection is this vast.
Golden Nugget also offers all the classic table games and live dealer options.
The app might feel overwhelming to newcomers due to the volume of content, but for slot fans, it’s a paradise of choices. Regular promotions like free spins and slot tournaments make it even more rewarding.
Experience the app yourself! Click here to sign up at Golden Nugget.
BetRivers Casino – Fastest Payouts
BetRivers (and its sister brand, PlaySugarHouse in some states) delivers an excellent all-around casino app experience.
It has thousands of slots and plenty of table games and live dealers, nearly rivaling BetMGM in game variety.
What really sets BetRivers apart is its super-fast withdrawals — thanks to the proprietary RushPay system, many payout requests are approved instantly or within hours.
The app also features the iRush Rewards loyalty program, offering bonus store points for every wager.
BetRivers is available in PA, MI, WV, and more, making it ideal for players who value quick access to their winnings and a solid selection of games. Click here to register at BetRivers Casino.
Fanatics Casino – Best New Casino App
Fanatics Casino is a newcomer making waves in the industry.
Backed by the well-known Fanatics brand, this app (launched after Fanatics acquired PointsBet’s casino operations) offers a sleek interface and a growing library of slots and table games.
One unique feature is the integration of FanCash loyalty rewards — as you play, you earn FanCash that can be redeemed for bonus play or spent on sports merchandise in the Fanatics shop.
With a low $10 minimum deposit and player-friendly design, Fanatics Casino is quickly becoming one of the best casino apps for real money, especially for those who appreciate a crossover between gaming and sports fandom.
Currently live in select states like New Jersey with plans to expand. Click here to register at Fanatics Casino.
How to Download and Install Casino Apps on Android and iOS
Getting started with real money casinos and their apps is straightforward.
Whether you have an Android device or an iPhone, downloading and installing casino apps follows a similar process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Choose a Casino App
First, decide which casino app you want to use from the top picks listed above. Make sure the app is legal in your state. All the legitimate casino apps we’ve mentioned are available through official app stores or the casino’s website.
Download on iOS (iPhone/iPad)
Open the App Store on your iPhone or iPad. Search for the casino by name (e.g., “BetMGM Casino”). Verify that the app is the official one by looking for the company name as the publisher. Tap “Get” to download. The app will install automatically on your home screen.
Download on Android
Android users have two options:
Option A: Go to the Google Play Store, search for the casino app, and install it. Google now allows real-money casino apps in the Play Store for approved states.
Option B: If you can’t find the app in Google Play (it might be unavailable due to state restrictions), visit the casino’s official website. Most casino sites provide a direct APK download link for Android.
If downloading from the website, you may need to allow installations from unknown sources in your phone settings.
Enable Location Services
After installation, open the app. It will likely prompt you to allow location services or use a GPS plugin. Casino apps require location verification to ensure you are in a legal state before you can play for real money.
Grant the app permission to access your location — it only uses this while you’re playing to comply with regulations.
Sign Up / Log In
If you’re new, tap the sign-up or register button. You’ll need to provide personal information to create an account: name, email, address, date of birth, and the last four digits of your SSN for identity verification.
This is standard and kept secure. If you already have an account from the desktop site, just log in with your username and password.
Verification
The app may attempt to verify your identity instantly using the information you provided. In some cases, you might be asked to submit additional documents (like a photo of your ID) for KYC (Know Your Customer) purposes.
Follow any on-screen steps to complete verification. This process helps keep the casino app safe and legitimate by preventing fraud or underage gambling.
Start Playing
Once the app is installed and you’re signed in, you can navigate the game lobby, make a deposit, and start playing real money games right away.
Make sure you have a stable internet connection during download and play.
Are Casino Apps Safe and Legal?
Yes, casino apps can be safe and legal, as long as you stick to regulated operators. In the United States, real money casino apps are legal in specific states that have authorized online gambling. Seven U.S. states offer legal online casino gaming:
- New Jersey
- Pennsylvania
- Michigan
- West Virginia
- Delaware
- Connecticut
- Rhode Island
If you are physically located in one of these states and are of legal age (21+ in most cases), you can safely play on licensed casino apps.
Regulation
Legal casino apps are licensed and regulated by state gaming authorities, such as the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement or the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. This oversight means the apps must follow strict rules for fairness, security, and responsible gambling.
They use certified random number generators (RNGs) for games, ensuring outcomes are fair and not rigged. Regulatory agencies regularly audit these apps.
Security
Top real money casino apps use encryption (SSL) to protect your personal information and financial transactions.
Your data (like login details, SSN, banking info) is transmitted securely. Always download official apps from trusted sources (App Store, Google Play, or the casino’s site) to avoid impostor apps or malware.
Age and Identity Verification
To ensure safety and compliance, legal casino apps verify that players are of legal gambling age and are who they claim to be.
This is why you provide personal details and sometimes documents. This process helps prevent identity theft and underage gambling.
Geo-Location
These apps use your device’s GPS or Wi-Fi location to confirm you are within a state where online casino play is allowed.
If you’re not in a permitted state, the real money games will be inaccessible. This is a legal requirement, and the apps’ geo-location checks are generally accurate and seamless.
What if I’m Not in a Legal State?
If you live in a state where online casino apps are not yet legal, you still have safe options to play casino-style games. Many U.S. players use social casino apps, which give a chance to win real prizes without traditional wagering.
These include apps like Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Slots, Pulsz, and WOW Vegas that use a sweepstakes model where you play with virtual coins and can redeem winnings for cash prizes. Sweepstakes casino apps are legal in most U.S. states because they’re structured as promotions, not direct gambling.
Top Features to Look for in Real Casino Apps
Not all casino apps are created equal. Here are the top features and qualities you should look for when choosing a real money casino app:
The app must be licensed for your state and have solid security measures. Look for SSL encryption and proper licensing credentials. Being licensed means the app is audited and accountable.
A great casino app should offer a wide variety of games.
The best apps have hundreds of slots (classic reels, video slots, jackpots) and plenty of table games (blackjack, roulette, baccarat, craps) as well as video poker and live dealer games.
If you have favorite games, check that they’re available.
Real money casino apps often entice players with sign-up bonuses, like deposit matches or free spins. They also have ongoing promotions: reload bonuses, free spin days, leaderboard contests, loyalty rewards, and more. A top app should offer valuable bonuses with reasonable terms.
Keep an eye out for no deposit bonuses for new players — these let you try the app and win real money with no risk. A strong VIP or loyalty program is a plus for frequent players.
The convenience of playing on a mobile app depends on smooth deposit and withdrawal options. The best casino apps support multiple payment methods: credit/debit cards, ACH/eCheck bank transfers, PayPal or other e-wallets, prepaid play+ cards, and even cash at casino cages.
Depositing should be instant. Withdrawals should be processed quickly — ideally within 24-48 hours for common methods, if not instantly in some cases. Fast payout is a key feature that sets top apps apart.
A user-friendly design is crucial. Look for an app with intuitive navigation — games categorized clearly, search functions, and easy access to your account and cashier.
The app should run smoothly without crashes, even when loading graphic-intensive slot games.
Top casino apps provide responsive customer support to help you whenever needed. Ideally, they offer 24/7 support via multiple channels: live chat, email, and phone.
Try using the support chat in the app to see how quickly they respond and how helpful they are.
Only consider casino apps that are licensed in your state. Check the operator’s credentials — look for a license number or official seal from the state gaming commission listed in the app.
Casino Apps vs. Mobile Browser Games
You might wonder why you should download a casino app when you can play on the casino’s mobile website in your browser. Here are the key differences:
- Performance and speed
- Convenience
- Full feature set
Using a dedicated casino app generally offers the best experience — better speed, tailored design for mobile, and quick access. However, if you prefer not to download anything, most mobile casino sites will still let you play the same games.
If you prefer a native app experience, then make sure your device’s operating system is supported. You can go for either iOS or Android mobile casinos.
How to Play Real Money Games on a Casino App
Once you have your casino app downloaded and your account set up, you’re ready to play! Here’s a guide on how to start playing real money casino games on the app:
Log In and Deposit Funds
Open your chosen casino app and log in. Navigate to the cashier or wallet section. Select a deposit method (credit card, PayPal, etc.), enter an amount, and confirm.
Deposits are usually instantaneous. Many apps offer a welcome bonus on first deposit — make sure you opt in if required.
Browse the Game Library
Choose a game from the lobby. Casino apps typically divide games into categories: Slots, Table Games, Live Dealer, Video Poker, Jackpot Games, New Games, Popular, and more.
You can scroll through titles or use a search bar to find specific games.
Place Your Bets
When ready to play for real, enter the game. For slots, choose your bet amount via +/- buttons or a menu, then hit “Spin.”
For table games like blackjack or roulette, select your chip size and tap on the virtual table to place bets.
Cashing Out
If you want to withdraw winnings, go to the cashier/banking section and choose Withdraw. Select your withdrawal method, enter the amount, and confirm.
Withdrawal times vary by method.
Best Games You Can Play on Casino Apps
One of the biggest advantages of using a top casino app is the huge variety of games available. Here are the best and most popular types:
Online Slots
Slots are the stars of any casino app. You’ll find everything from classic 3-reel slot machines to modern video slots with 5+ reels, intricate themes, and bonus rounds. Many slots have high-definition graphics and fun animations. Progressive jackpot slots are a huge draw — these games have jackpots that grow as people play.
Popular online slots include Starburst, Divine Fortune, 88 Fortunes, Gonzo’s Quest, Wheel of Fortune, Cleopatra, and Megaways slots.
Table Games
Classic casino table games are well-represented. You can play blackjack with many variants — standard 21, multi-hand blackjack, Blackjack Surrender, and themed versions.
Roulette options include American, European, and sometimes French Roulette. There’s also baccarat, craps, and casino poker games like Three Card Poker, Let It Ride, and Casino Hold’em.
Live Dealer Games
Live dealer games stream a real human dealer to your screen from a studio. You place bets through the app interface, but watch real cards being dealt or a real roulette wheel spin in real-time.
Available games include live blackjack, live roulette, live baccarat, and sometimes game show-style games like Dream Catcher or Monopoly Live.
Video Poker
For poker enthusiasts who like to play against the machine, video poker games are plentiful.
Classics like Jacks or Better, Deuces Wild, Joker Poker, Bonus Poker, and Double Double Bonus are usually available. Some apps include multi-hand video poker.
Specialty Games
Beyond standard categories, casino apps often include specialty games like keno, online scratch-off cards, bingo-style games, or arcade-like games. Slingo (a combination of slots and bingo) is popular on many apps.
FAQs About Mobile Casino Apps
Let’s go over some of the most frequently asked questions by those looking to play casino games on legit apps.
Yes! If you’re playing on a licensed real money casino app, you can win real money. These apps work just like any casino — you wager real dollars, and if you hit a winning bet, you get real money back that can be withdrawn to your bank, PayPal, etc.
All major US casino apps are available on iPhone and offer the same features as their Android versions. iPhone users can download top apps like BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings, and Caesars directly from the Apple App Store. The experience on iPhone is generally excellent due to Apple’s strict quality requirements.
Yes, several casino apps have promotions for new players that don’t require a deposit. These give you a small amount of free play just for registering. Examples include BetMGM’s $25 free signup bonus in some states, or Golden Nugget’s 200 free spins offer. These bonuses let you test apps and potentially win real money risk-free.
It is safe to deposit money as long as you’re using a trusted, legal casino app. These apps use secure encryption and partner with reputable payment processors. Your money is held in segregated accounts by law.
Withdrawal times vary by app and method, but top casino apps generally process payouts within 24 hours. E-wallets like PayPal are fastest (often same day), online bank transfers take 1-3 business days, and checks take over a week. Apps like BetRivers offer instant payouts with their RushPay system.
Yes, in a couple of ways. Many casino apps have a demo or practice mode for slots and table games where you play with fake credits. Some apps also give no-deposit bonuses, which are essentially free play with a chance to win real money.
No, you can use cellular data (4G/LTE/5G) to play on casino apps. The app works as long as you have an internet connection. Just be mindful of data usage, especially with graphics-heavy slots or live dealer video streams.
If you travel from one legal state to another legal state, you often can use the same app, but it might require selecting the new state when logging in. Your account is usually valid in multiple states if that brand operates there, though your wallet might be separate by state.
When you go to a non-legal state, the app won’t let you wager real money until you return to a legal jurisdiction.
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