When it comes to online sports betting, two giants dominate the industry: FanDuel and DraftKings. These sports betting platforms have evolved from fantasy sports powerhouses to full-scale sportsbooks, offering what feels like a near-infinite amount of betting options, bonuses, and user experiences.
But which is better? FanDuel or DraftKings?
Both FanDuel and DraftKings are known for their welcome offers, which play a huge role in attracting new users and retaining existing ones. Here’ how they compare to one another.
Current FanDuel Bonus: Bet $5, Get $150 In Bonus Bets — Guaranteed!
FanDuel currently offers a welcome bonus that is absolutely insane. Right now, all users have to do is sign up, place a $5 bet, and get $150 in bonus bets regardless of the outcome of that $5 bet. It’s guaranteed! There are a few terms, but in general, FanDuel’s terms are fairly loose.
What we really like about FanDuel’s bonus offers is that they always have them popping up. Sure, they change regularly with whatever major sporting events are going on, but they’re always good. Sometimes, they have a deposit match bonus; other times, like now, they have guaranteed return in bonus bets.
Current DraftKings Bonus: Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly, and Get a No Sweat NBA SGP Every Day of NBA Playoffs
DraftKings matches FanDuel with a similar welcome bonus but with a little more icing on the cake. Instead of $150 in bonus bets, the new customer gets $200 instantly. One thing about the FanDuel offer is that it’ll come back to you within 72 hours.
Also like FanDuel, the DraftKings bonuses are constantly changing. While DraftKings is beating out FanDuel for the time being, once the NBA playoffs pass, we’re sure both will change up their bonus offers, and either one may be the champion at that time.
In today’s market, the quality of a sportsbook’s mobile app is one of the most important aspects as bettors increasingly place bets on the go. Both FanDuel and DraftKings offer highly-rated mobile apps available on iOS and Android platforms.
Here’s what sets each apart.
FanDuel’s app is praised by nearly everyone for its user-friendly interface and smooth navigation. It is designed with clarity and simplicity in mind, making it easy for newcomers to find their way around. After all, new bettors might not be as familiar with the sports betting industry, and they’re going to want something simple. Perhaps more seasoned bettors can navigate their way around a cluttered app.
Fortunately for FanDuel, the app features quick loading times, easy-to-access betting slips, and live streaming of selected sports events, enhancing the live betting experience.
The DraftKings app, while slightly more complex than their FanDuel counterpart, offers a deeper level of detail that experienced bettors appreciate. It includes features like in-game betting, advanced betting options, and customized betting pools.
This is not to say a new bettor can’t figure it out, but we’ve noticed that DraftKings might appeal to more experienced bettors.
The app’s design is sleek, and although it might have a steeper learning curve, it provides more data and analysis, which can be a significant advantage for serious sports bettors.
Both platforms offer a massive selection of betting options, from basic moneyline bets to more complex parlays and in-game betting. However, there are subtle differences in how these bets are presented and the variety available.
FanDuel simplifies the betting process, making it accessible for beginners and those who prefer a straightforward betting experience.
It offers all the standard bet types, including point spreads, over/under, and prop bets, all on the homepage with an easy-to-use bet slip. FanDuel also provides an excellent range of live betting options, allowing users to bet on games as they happen with updated odds.
DraftKings tends to offer a more extensive array of bet types, appealing to bettors who may be looking for more sophisticated betting options.
Beyond the standard offerings, DraftKings provides futures, teasers, and an impressive range of prop bets. For some contests, you can find these same bets at FanDuel, but they’re not as common. It also excels in offering alternative lines and more intricate parlays, catering to the seasoned bettor looking for a challenge.
The overall user experience encompasses not only the functional aspects of the platforms but also the aesthetic and interactive elements that contribute to a user’s enjoyment and ease of use. This aspect may be more on the preferential side of the house.
FanDuel’s interface is generally cleaner and more intuitive, which can be particularly appealing to new users, as we mentioned. The platform focuses on providing a pleasant visual and interactive experience with less clutter and more straightforward navigation.
For the most part, FanDuel offers a wide range of betting options, which should be more than enough for most bettors.
DraftKings offers a more detailed interface that might appeal to the more data-driven bettor, whether novice or experienced.
It provides more comprehensive statistical information, which can be invaluable for making informed bets but might overwhelm newer users.
With more metrics and more betting types available, DraftKings does provide a more comprehensive experience for their users. We don’t necessarily have an issue with the UX, but we can definitely see how it might scare off a novice bettor.
Choosing between FanDuel and DraftKings often comes down to personal preference.
For those new to sports betting or who prefer a simpler, more streamlined betting experience, we highly recommend FanDuel. It’s easy to use for those who don’t have much experience in sports betting. The bonus is a nice touch as well.
On the other hand, for bettors who thrive on detailed analytics and a wide variety of betting options, DraftKings could be the way to go. While a new bettor might be able to log in, get the bonus, and start betting right away, it might take a bit more effort for those that aren’t too familiar.
Ultimately, both platforms offer robust features and solid bonuses and would be great for any type of bettor.