DraftKings and FanDuel Sportsbook are rapidly growing in popularity in the United States and have already established themselves as two of the best online sportsbooks in the industry.
Both sportsbooks have made their presence known across the country and beyond, as their compelling advertisements can be found all over television, social media, radio programs, and billboards.
As the betting sites become available in a growing number of states, sports bettors have a very tough decision to make: DraftKings or FanDuel?
Both DraftKings and FanDuel are great options, but which sportsbook best fits your needs and will offer you the best overall experience? Read on to learn about the differences in their promotional offers, loyalty programs, betting markets, and more!
DraftKings or FanDuel Sportsbook: A General Overview
When you think about sports betting and daily fantasy sports in the United States today, two clear-cut options typically come to mind: DraftKings and FanDuel.
The rivaling online sportsbooks have a lot in common, but they also have a few key differences in what makes them so appealing to customers. Some of the best qualities of each platform are outlined in the chart below!
👑Why Pick DraftKings Sportbook?👑 | 🟦Why Pick FanDuel Sportsbook?🟦 |
---|---|
Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets Instantly | Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins + 3 Free Months of NBA League Pass |
Incredible Rewards Program | Immediate Customer Support |
Available in More U.S. States | Reliable and Well-Designed Mobile App |
Competitive Odds | Speedy Payouts |
User-Friendly Interface | Appealing Lines |
Frequent Profit Boosts and Odds Surges | Unrivaled Live Betting Experience |
Why FanDuel Is Better Than DraftKings
FanDuel stands out with its fast payout system, ensuring winnings reach players swiftly. It also boasts a slightly more intuitive mobile app, making it a breeze for users to navigate and place bets on the go.
Furthermore, FanDuel Sportsbook excels in the area of ongoing promotions, offering a variety of deals that keep users engaged and maximizing their win limits compared to other platforms.
Why DraftKings Is Better Than FanDuel
On the other hand, DraftKings Sportsbook shines in different aspects. It offers a unique loyalty program, rewarding regular users for their continued patronage, a feature currently not offered by FanDuel.
Additionally, DraftKings tends to provide more enticing welcome bonuses, making it an attractive option for newcomers to the sports betting scene. Beyond sports betting, DraftKings also boasts a superior online casino experience, offering a wide range of games from slots to live dealer games.
Are DraftKings and FanDuel the Same?
While FanDuel and DraftKings share similarities as sports betting platforms, there are some nuanced differences in their sports menus. Notably, DraftKings offers a range of niche sports, including e-sports, volleyball, and jai alai.
On the other hand, FanDuel distinguishes itself by providing users with a broader array of betting markets within each sport or league it covers. These variations cater to different preferences, allowing users to choose a platform that aligns with their specific sports interests.
Which One is Better: DraftKings or FanDuel?
Choosing between DraftKings and FanDuel ultimately depends on individual preferences and priorities. Both sportsbooks offer a robust set of features, making it challenging to declare a clear winner.
It’s advisable for sports bettors to consider factors such as available sports markets, user interface, promotions, and unique offerings on each platform.
Some may find that using both DraftKings and FanDuel enhances their overall betting experience, as each platform brings its own strengths to the table. In the end, the “better” choice is subjective and varies based on personal preferences and betting habits.
Do More People Use FanDuel or DraftKings?
As of late 2023, FanDuel is the leading platform in the rapidly growing sports betting and gambling market, boasting a 39.3 percent market share. DraftKings followed closely behind with a 34.1 percent market share. As more states continue to legalize sports betting, this market is expected to experience significant expansion.
Sportsbook Welcome Offer Comparison
DraftKings sportsbook and FanDuel are providing new customers with some incredible welcome offers. The promotions are both very exciting, but they are somewhat different in how they benefit new users.
DraftKings Sportsbook New User Bonus
Customers who sign up now with DraftKings Sportsbook can claim $200 in bonus bets when they place their first bet of $5 or more on any game or matchup of their choice.
The minimum deposit amount required to claim this promotional offer is also just $5, and the initial wager can be placed on any matchup of the user’s choice. It doesn’t matter if their first bet wins or loses; the customer is guaranteed to receive the $200 bonus in the form of eight $25 bonus bets that will be valid for a period of seven days.
Plus, DraftKings is providing a daily no-sweat SGP token to all users. This means you can log in every day, build a same-game parlay for any matchup of your choice, and receive a full refund (up to $5) if the parlay doesn’t hit.
FanDuel Sportsbook New User Bonus
New users who sign up with FanDuel Sportsbook will typically get the Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets promo. It works a lot like the DraftKings offer; however, you can divide the bonus amount into any number of bets you prefer (e.g., one $150 bet, two $75 bets, or ten $15 bets).
It is worth mentioning, however, that FanDuel’s welcome offer tends to fluctuate throughout the year, and you may also come across a no-sweat bet opportunity, which allows first-time users to place a large initial wager and receive a 100% refund in bonus funds if it happens to lose.
Both new user sportsbook welcome offers at DraftKings and FanDuel are enticing, and choosing between the two ultimately comes down to your personal preference and what’s available on the day you go to sign up.
If you feel confident about an upcoming matchup and are looking to bet big, FanDuel’s occasional no-sweat bet promo will offer some insurance in case things don’t go your way.
On the other hand, if you are planning on making a smaller deposit or just looking to try out a new sportsbook, you can’t go wrong with the DraftKings Bet $5, Get $200 promotional offer to help get your betting experience off to a great start.
DraftKings vs FanDuel Sportsbook: Ongoing Bonuses & Promotions
In addition to their exciting welcome offers for new users, DraftKings and FanDuel generally offer a wide range of bonuses and promotional deals to their existing customers.
Some of FanDuel Sportsbook’s ongoing offers include parlay insurance, odds boosts, and free-play contests. Meanwhile, DraftKings Sportsbook offers special promos like profit boosts, free-to-play pools, and odds surges.
Furthermore, DraftKings and FanDuel offer referral bonuses to customers who get their friends to sign up on the platform. Both sites have a good selection of promos and bonus offers for their everyday customers, and neither one seems to have a distinct advantage in this category.
Location & Availability: Where Are They Legal?
DraftKings and FanDuel Sportsbook are both available in 21 U.S. states (AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, MA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, and WY). However, unlike FanDuel, DraftKings Sportsbook is available in New Hampshire and Oregon as well.
It is expected that these numbers will increase in the coming years, as more states begin to legalize sports betting and allow DraftKings and FanDuel to expand their presence in the United States.
State | Is DraftKings Available? | Is FanDuel Available? |
Arizona | Yes | Yes |
Colorado | Yes | Yes |
Connecticut | Yes | Yes |
Illinois | Yes | Yes |
Indiana | Yes | Yes |
Iowa | Yes | Yes |
Kansas | Yes | Yes |
Kentucky | Yes | Yes |
Louisiana | Yes | Yes |
Maryland | Yes | Yes |
Massachusetts | Yes | Yes |
Michigan | Yes | Yes |
New Hampshire | Yes | No |
New Jersey | Yes | Yes |
New York | Yes | Yes |
Ohio | Yes | Yes |
Oregon | Yes | No |
Pennsylvania | Yes | Yes |
Tennessee | Yes | Yes |
Vermont | Yes | Yes |
Virginia | Yes | Yes |
West Virginia | Yes | Yes |
Wyoming | Yes | Yes |
Daily fantasy sports (DFS) contests from DraftKings and FanDuel are also available in the vast majority of states, including California, Florida, Texas, and many others.
Ultimately, the availability of these two sportsbooks is quite similar across the United States, and it is expected to remain this way for the foreseeable future.
Market Depth & Variety
There is a wide variety of betting options offered by DraftKings Sportsbook and FanDuel Sportsbook. The chart below shows all the different sports currently covered by each platform.
Sport | Available on DraftKings? | Available on FanDuel? |
Aussie Rules | Yes | Yes |
Baseball | Yes | Yes |
Basketball | Yes | Yes |
Boxing | Yes | Yes |
Cricket | Yes | Yes |
Cycling | Yes | Yes |
Darts | Yes | Yes |
Football | Yes | Yes |
Golf | Yes | Yes |
Handball | Yes | Yes |
Hockey | Yes | Yes |
Lacrosse | Yes | Yes |
MMA | Yes | Yes |
Motorsport | Yes | Yes |
Rugby League | Yes | Yes |
Rugby Union | Yes | Yes |
Snooker | No | Yes |
Soccer | Yes | Yes |
Tennis | Yes | Yes |
As you can see, there is little to no difference when it comes to the availability of sports on the two platforms.
Additionally, DraftKings and FanDuel cover all the most popular leagues, including but not limited to the NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, MLS, NCAA College Basketball, NCAA College Football, UFC, PGA Tour, and Premier League. However, there are a few differences when it comes to some of the less commonly followed leagues in basketball, soccer, and several other sports.
For example, unlike FanDuel, DraftKings Sportsbook currently covers the Turkish Basketball Super League, the Israeli Basketball Premier League, and Japan’s B.League. On the other hand, FanDuel Sportsbook is the only of the two currently offering wagers on the U.S. National Women’s Soccer League and Argentine Primera División.
Depending on a customer’s interests and preferences, some of these distinctions could potentially be an important factor to consider when choosing between the two sportsbooks.
DraftKings vs FanDuel: Types of Bets Offered
DraftKings and FanDuel each offer their users a variety of different bet types. This includes point spreads, moneylines, over/under totals, teasers, parlays, single-game parlays, futures, team props, player props, alternate lines, and many others.
Both platforms provide a great selection of live betting options as well. FanDuel tends to have a slight edge over DraftKings when it comes to live betting, as they cover more sporting events and offer more types of bets to their customers. Nevertheless, DraftKings and FanDuel Sportsbook are two of the best options for bettors who enjoy placing in-game wagers.
Odds Comparison: Getting More Bang for Your Buck
DraftKings and FanDuel offer some of the best and most competitive odds among all U.S. sportsbooks. Getting the best possible odds for a wager is extremely important because it can decrease the number of successful bets you’ll need to be profitable.
For example, if all your wagers were at -110 (i.e., the industry standard), then you would need a winning percentage of 52.4% to turn a profit. However, if your bets were being placed at -105, then you would need to win just 51.2% of your bets to be making money.
Although these percentage differences may seem insignificant, being able to find the best odds for your bets could very well be the difference between making money and losing it.
It typically varies in terms of which sportsbook offers the better odds for a given matchup. As a result, the best answer to the DraftKings vs. FanDuel debate may actually be “both.”
If bettors sign up with DraftKings and FanDuel Sportsbook, they can shop around for the best possible odds and be able to take advantage of great opportunities when they arise.
DraftKings vs FanDuel: Loyalty Programs & Customer Rewards
The Dynasty Rewards Program offered by DraftKings allows its customers to earn Crowns and Tier Credits every time they place a bet on a sporting event, enter a daily fantasy sports contest, or play a game in the online casino.
Crowns can be redeemed for items, free-play opportunities, and many other prizes through the Dynasty Store. Meanwhile, Tier Credits are used to determine a user’s Tier Status. As a customer reaches higher tiers, they will get a monthly Crown accrual boost and have the chance to earn bigger prizes!
Players earn 1 Tier Credit for every $10 wagered on straight bets and futures and 1 Tier Credit for every $5 wagered on parlays. They can also receive Tier Credits through the DraftKings Casino, DraftKings Daily Fantasy, and DraftKings Marketplace. Customers will begin in the Bronze Tier and have the opportunity to advance to the Silver, Gold, Diamond, and Onyx Tiers as they accumulate Tier Credits throughout the year.
On the other hand, the FanDuel Players Club rewards customers for their loyalty by providing special rewards each month based on the number of FanDuel Points (FDP) earned by each player. Unfortunately, FanDuel Points are only rewarded to users when they enter daily fantasy sports contests, not when they place bets through the sportsbook.
In other words, the loyalty program offered by FanDuel is only for DFS and not for FanDuel Sportsbook. Therefore, the Dynasty Rewards Program is one significant advantage DraftKings has over FanDuel when comparing the two sports betting platforms.
Deposits & Withdrawals at FanDuel and DraftKings Sportsbook
There are many different options on both DraftKings and FanDuel for making deposits. Although it can vary in different states, shown below are the general payment options provided by the two sportsbooks.
Deposit Method | Available on DraftKings? | Available on FanDuel? |
Online Banking | Yes | Yes |
Credit/Debit Card | Yes | Yes |
PayPal | Yes | Yes |
Venmo | Yes | Yes |
Play+ Prepaid Card | Yes | Yes |
Wire Transfer | Yes | Yes |
Cash/Cage (at Participating Locations) | Yes | Yes |
Additionally, both platforms offer a decent amount of options for customers to conveniently withdraw funds from their accounts. The most popular methods and their typical withdrawal times are listed in the chart below.
Withdrawal Method | Available on DraftKings? | Duration on DraftKings | Available on FanDuel? | Duration on FanDuel |
Online Banking | Yes | Up to 5 Days | Yes | 3-5 Business Days |
PayPal | Yes | Up to 2 Days | Yes | Up to 2 Days |
Venmo | Yes | Up to 2 Days | Yes | Up to 2 Days |
Debit Card | Yes | 1 Day | Yes | 1-2 Days* |
Check | Yes | Up to 7 Business Days (< $100) Up to 5 Business Days ($100.01 -$1,999) Up to 3 Business Days (> $2,000) | Yes | 7-10 business days |
Cash/Cage (at Participating Locations) | Yes | 1 Hour | Yes | 1 Hour |
*Note: The first withdrawal by debit card on FanDuel will take up to 48 hours and all subsequent withdrawals will take 24 hours.
Overall, a customer’s experience making deposits and withdrawals through DraftKings and FanDuel is very similar.
However, there are a few small differences worth noting. The minimum deposit amount for FanDuel Sportsbook is $10, while the minimum deposit amount for DraftKings Sportsbook is only $5. Although this does not seem to be a huge difference, some new users or more casual bettors may prefer the lower amount offered by DraftKings.
In addition, despite the similarity in typical withdrawal durations provided by the sportsbooks, many customers have found that FanDuel generally offers much quicker payouts than DraftKings, which is an important piece of information to take into account.
DraftKings vs FanDuel: Customer Service & Support
Overall, there are many similarities between the customer support offered by DraftKings and FanDuel Sportsbook, but there is also one major difference. Both DraftKings and FanDuel have a wide range of articles covering frequently asked questions (FAQ) related to payment methods, promotional offers, eligibility, sports betting terms, and much more.
In addition, the two sportsbooks allow their users to contact customer service via email or Twitter as well as over the phone by leaving a voice mail or requesting a callback at a later time.
However, the majority of FanDuel customers choose to use the platform’s live chat feature, which allows for immediate assistance from a virtual agent after answering a few basic questions and a quick verification of their email address.
Meanwhile, DraftKings does have a chat support option, but it does not connect the user to a member of their customer support team. Instead, the customer chats with a bot that either refers them to relevant FAQ articles or allows them to leave a short message that will get a response at a later time.
This means customers will almost always have their unique problems and questions addressed in a more timely manner with FanDuel Sportsbook. As a result, FanDuel has a distinct advantage over DraftKings when it comes to customer service.
Mobile App & User Experience
In addition to their websites, DraftKings and FanDuel Sportsbook each offer mobile apps that are available for download in the App Store and Google Play Store.
The DraftKings Sportsbook & Casino app has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on the App Store and 4.6 stars on the Google Play Store. Meanwhile, the FanDuel Sportsbook & Casino app has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on the App Store and 4.7 out of 5 stars on the Google Play Store.
Both mobile apps are well-designed, easy to use, and aesthetically pleasing. DraftKings and FanDuel users can easily transition between the sportsbook and casino offered on the app. They can also quickly navigate to the current promotional deals and odds boosts as well as the live betting options being offered by the platforms.
It is worth noting that there have been some complaints from users of the DraftKings Sportsbook & Casino app about occasional buffering and crashing. However, the differences between the DraftKings and FanDuel apps appear to be relatively minimal, and these two market leaders each offer an overall amazing mobile experience to their customers.
Final Verdict: DraftKings or FanDuel?
DraftKings and FanDuel are two of the most popular sportsbooks in the United States for a reason. They each offer user-friendly websites and mobile apps as well as a wide variety of betting options and some of the most competitive odds on the market.
Choosing between the two platforms comes down to your personal preferences, the type of experience you want, and what you value most in a sportsbook. FanDuel Sportsbook has fantastic customer service, offers speedy payouts, provides an unrivaled live betting experience, and often gives up to $1,000 worth of first-bet insurance (or another exciting bonus opportunity) to new users.
On the other hand, DraftKings Sportsbook has one of the best rewards programs in the industry, is widely available, and offers new customers the opportunity to claim $200 in bonus bets when they sign up.
Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either choice, and the best option may actually be to sign up for accounts with both DraftKings and FanDuel in order to shop for the best odds and decide which sportsbook works best for you!