Sports apps are one of the most exciting additions to online gaming in many years. Now, we're not tied to a desktop or even a laptop for researching stats and placing bets. But choosing the right app is critical to enjoying the betting process and playing it safe. This spring, enjoy tons of great apps from trustworthy and reliable sources to keep track of scores and stats, learn the news you need to stay on top and place your bets anywhere, anytime. Here are the top five mobile apps for sports betting this season.

1.Bet365.com

Image via Flickr by Shine 2010 - 2010 World Cup good news

This mobile sports betting app is consistently ranked highly among non-U.S. apps. In addition to sports bets, this app allows you to play lots of online games, including poker, bingo and other casino games. As the name implies, Bet365.com is always welcoming bets, no matter what the sporting season may be. Look for football, tennis, basketball, cricket, handball, horse racing, volleyball and all your betting favorites. Specials for signing up to play often come with in house credits. No U.S. customers allowed.

2. BetOnline.com

Image via Flickr by David Farrell

BetOnline.com welcomes U.S. betters as well as gamblers from other countries. In addition to all the European sporting events, BetOnline.com offers sportsbooks for American football, including the NFL, NCAA and other popular leagues. BetOnline.com offers live dealers in their online casinos and the ability to place sporting bets in real-time wherever you are. BetOnline often offers special incentives for signing up, including free credits to get started.

3. Bookmaker.com

Image via Flickr by closari

Bookmaker.com is also consistently ranked at the top of betting apps and websites, supporting iPhone, Blackberry and Android devices. Bookmaker often offers promotions where players can get bonus points and credits for signing up. They've got extra special deals for spring sports betting if you sign up soon enough.

4. www.Bovada.lv

Image via Flickr by ryanknapp

This sportsbook is most known for their fast payouts, which are completely free. Also offering free sign up bonuses, Bovada features betting on all major sporting events as well as a fully functional online casino. Bovada is a newcomer to the world of mobile apps, but apparently the delay resulted in better user experiences. The app is well developed and sign up is quick, easy and free.

5. Spin Palace

Image via Flickr by clry2

With Spin Palace you have the option of downloading and playing games or just playing live on the website. Choose from Android, iPhone, Blackberry and other smartphone platforms and start playing right away. Spin Palace is a fully functional online casino, offering a wide range of betting opportunities. The primary focus at Spin Palace is security, and their apps and website offer some of the most highly secure online play available.

When choosing sports betting apps, it's always best to go with known and trusted sources, like the ones listed here. If you're in doubt, research the company and app developer before downloading the app. Security experts advise using a prepaid credit card for all online transactions. Only put the money you're willing to gamble on the card. Then, your liability is limited if someone hacks your account or intercepts your smartphone transactions.

Follow Charli Radke on Twitter: www.twitter.com/charliradke