Comparing the History of DFS and Sportsbetting
Daily fantasy sports (DFS) and online sports betting represent two of the most dynamic and engaging platforms in sports entertainment. DFS, a game mode that allows participants to create fantasy teams from a pool of professional athletes, traces its origins to the early 2000s. This innovation offered sports enthusiasts a new, more active way to engage with their favorite sports, providing daily gratification rather than the season-long commitment traditional fantasy sports required. The rise of platforms like FanDuel in the early 2010s marked a significant milestone, turning DFS into a mainstream phenomenon and significantly influencing the sports industry and legal landscape in the United States.
On the other hand, online sports betting has a more storied history, with its roots deeply embedded in the traditions of sports gambling that span centuries. The transition from physical bookmaking to online platforms began in the mid-1990s, as the internet became more accessible to the public. This evolution allowed bettors to place wagers on the outcomes of sports events in real-time, from anywhere in the world. The legalization of online sports betting in various jurisdictions over the past two decades has led to a boom in the industry, and FanDuel has been at a major part of its growth in the US.
While DFS and online sports betting share a common thread of enhancing the sports fan's experience through technology and innovation, they cater to distinctly different preferences within the spectrum. DFS appeals to those who enjoy the strategic aspect of team management and player performance, while online sports betting attracts those inclined towards predicting game outcomes and being able to deal with the risk. Together, they encapsulate the transformative impact of digital technology on traditional sports fandom, offering diverse avenues for engagement, entertainment, and even financial gain
Most Popular Sportsbook in U.S.
What Users Say About Their Overall Experience at FanDuel
FanDuel Sportsbook has been a topic of much discussion among its users. Let's jump into what they have to say, covering everything from the odds they get to the way the app works, and how they feel about the support and perks they're offered.
Odds & Pricing
There's a real mix of feelings about the odds. Many users give a thumbs up for competitive odds and the variety of bets they can place. But, there's also a fair share who think the odds lean too much in the house's favor, especially when it comes to live betting. Issues like payout discrepancies and unclear pricing also pop up now and then.
Functionality & User Experience
On the brighter side, the sportsbook gets props for being user-friendly, easy to navigate, and keeping up with live sports betting updates. However, it's not all smooth sailing. Users point out hiccups with the location verification feature and general performance issues like slow loading and app crashes. The casino games section doesn't seem to hit the mark for some users either.
Payments & Withdrawals
When it comes to handling money, users appreciate the quick payouts and the straightforward cash out process. But, it's not all rosy. There are gripes about deposit and withdrawal hiccups, unexpected charges, and some run-ins with unapproved withdrawals. And when they reach out for help, the customer service experience often leaves them wanting more.
Market Coverage
The sportsbook scores points for offering a wide range of sports and betting options. Yet, some users feel left out, missing certain sports or betting options they're after. And then there's the frustration with geolocation issues that block betting in certain areas.
Support
Talking about customer support, it seems to be a bit of a sore spot. A lot of users talk about long waits, less-than-helpful responses, and issues that just don't get resolved. There are also mentions of accounts getting suspended out of the blue. It's not all bad, though – a few users have had positive experiences with the support team.
Bonuses & Promotions
Regarding the perks, about 30% of users are happy with the bonuses and promotions, saying they add a nice touch to their betting experience. However, the majority aren't too pleased. They're talking about missing out on promised bonuses, glitches that get in the way, and rewards that don't really feel rewarding. And again, when they try to talk to customer service about it, it often adds to their frustration.
Features Comparison
| Feature | DFS | Sportsbook |
| Welcome Bonus | No | Bet 5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets |
| Mobile Apps (iOS/Android) | Yes | Yes |
| App Store Rating | 4.8/5 | 4.9/5 |
| Google Play Rating | 4.7/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Legal and Active States | 37 | 23 |
| Live Betting | No | Yes |
| Live Streaming | Yes | Yes |
| Entry Fee Range | $0.05 - $10,000 | $10 |
| Prize Pool Range | $10 - $1M | N/A |
| Payout Speed | 1-5 Days | 1-5 Days |
| Rewards Program | Yes | Yes |
Bonuses Comparison
FanDuel implements bonus promotions across its sportsbook and daily fantasy platforms to engage and reward its user base. These promotions aim to provide added value to users, irrespective of whether they engage in sports betting or participate in fantasy contests. By offering a variety of bonus incentives, such as deposit matches, odds and profit boosts, sign-up bonuses, and freeroll contests, FanDuel seeks to attract and retain users.
Active FanDuel DFS Bonuses
- Free rolls/free entries: Upon signup and depending on the active contests.
- Refer-A-Friend: Existing users can invite friends and receive $15 upon signup and following the completion of terms.
- FanDuel is currently offering shares of bonus prize pools attached to three specific DFS contests in the NBA and MLB:
- A rostered player who hits a grand slam in the MLB Rally contest will earn the user a share of the $5,000 Grand Slam Bonus.
- If a pitcher that records the most strikeouts is rostered in the MLB Pinch Hit contest, users will be entitled to a share of the $5,000 bonus pool.
- Earn a share of the $1,000 Bonus Pool if a player rostered in any March NBA Dribbler contest scores a triple-double.
Active FanDuel Sportsbook Bonuses
What Users Say About FanDuel's Bonuses
After analyzing the reviews, it's clear that users have mixed feelings about the bonuses and promotions offered by the sports betting app. On the positive side, around 30% of users appreciate the promotions and bonuses offered, highlighting the ease of use and the generous boosts. They also commend the app for its fast payouts and the variety of betting options available. However, a significant number of users, approximately 70%, express dissatisfaction with the app's bonuses and promotions. The most common complaints include not receiving promised bonuses, experiencing technical issues that prevent them from using their bonuses, and feeling that the rewards from bonuses are too small. Some users also express frustration with the app's customer service, feeling that their concerns about bonuses and promotions are not adequately addressed. A few users also mention issues with the app's location verification system, which prevents them from redeeming their bonuses. Additionally, some users feel that the app's promotions are not as good as those offered by competitors. In conclusion, while the sports betting app does offer bonuses and promotions that some users find appealing, there are significant areas for improvement. These include ensuring that bonuses are awarded as promised, addressing technical issues that prevent users from using their bonuses, and improving customer service responses to concerns about bonuses and promotions.
Game Variety and Entry Fees
FanDuel DFS users have access to a wide range of fantasy sports contests and games. These options encompass daily and weekly competitions across multiple leagues, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and PGA Tour. Furthermore, FanDuel provides various salary cap formats, enabling users to build fantasy teams while adhering to specific budget limitations. Users have the flexibility to participate in different contest formats:
FanDuel Daily Fantasy Contests
- Tournaments: Also known as Guaranteed Prize Pool (GPP) contests, are expansive competitions that offer different prize structures. Participants compete against each other to earn a portion of the guaranteed prize pool, which is distributed among the top performers. The prize structures can range from a larger payout to the winners or a more evenly distributed distribution among a greater number of participants.
- Head-to-Head: In Head-to-Head competitions, two DFS users go up against one another, choosing their own fantasy teams. The participant with the highest-scoring team emerges as the winner. Entry fees are usually divided equally between the participants, and the victor takes home the entire prize pool after deducting the platform commission.
- Multipliers: Multiplier competitions, such as Double-Ups or Triple-Ups, present an opportunity for participants to increase their entry fee by two, three, or more times by finishing in the upper half or top third of the competition. These competitions offer a payout structure that is more reliable and steady compared to tournaments (GPP).
- 50/50s: Cash Games, also referred to as 50/50 contests, distribute prizes to around half of the participants. In order to secure a prize that matches or exceeds their entry fee, participants must finish within the top half of the competition. Prize distributions are typically divided equally among the winners, regardless of their final placement.
FanDuel Sportsbook Betting Markets
In contrast, FanDuel Sportsbook provides an extensive range of betting options on thousands of sporting events. Users can place bets on major professional and collegiate sports, including but not limited to football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, and golf, and close to 200 leagues around the world. The betting markets commonly available at FanDuel sportsbook include:
- Moneyline: Betting on the outright winner of a game or event
- Point Spread: Betting on the margin of victory or defeat, where the favored team must win by a specified number of points.
- Totals: Betting on the combined score of both teams in a game, whether it goes over or under a set total.
- Parlays: Combining multiple bets into one wager, with all selections needing to win for the bet to pay out.
- Teasers: Adjusting the point spread or total in exchange for lower odds, typically offered in football and basketball.
- Props: Betting on specific outcomes within a game or event, such as player performances or individual statistics.
What Users Say About FanDuel's Markets
The reviews indicate a mixed bag of experiences with the sports betting app's market coverage. A significant proportion of users appreciate the extensive variety of sports and betting options, with special commendation for the parlay options. The user-friendly interface and swift payouts also received positive feedback.However, there were some areas of dissatisfaction. Some users expressed disappointment with the absence of certain sports or betting options, such as women's NCAA, horse racing, and esports. Location verification issues were another point of contention, with users frustrated by restrictions preventing them from betting in certain states or regions.A few users criticized the app for not providing comprehensive player information, which they felt impacted their betting decisions. Additionally, some users were dissatisfied with the promotional offers, stating they were not as generous or frequent as those offered by competitors.In conclusion, while the app is generally praised for its market coverage, there are areas that could be improved. These include expanding the range of sports and betting options, improving location verification, and enhancing the quality and frequency of promotional offers.
Odds vs. Prize Pool Structure
Odds at FanDuel and prize pool structures in DFS contests are two different factors that users must take into account when engaging in sports betting and fantasy sports. Each of these aspects has its own unique considerations.
| Aspect | Sports Betting | Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) |
| Nature of Payouts | Immediate payouts. Users are aware of potential winnings beforehand. | Potential payouts are influenced by prize pool structure and performance relative to other participants. |
| Risk-Reward Profile | Determined by the odds, which may not always reflect true probabilities. | GPP contests offer substantial payouts but higher variance and risk. Cash games provide more consistent returns but smaller payouts. |
| Determination of Odds/Prize Structure | Odds are set by the sportsbook. | Prize pools are structured around the type of contest (e.g., GPP, cash games) and the number of participants. |
| Strategy | Betting strategy involves predicting outcomes based on odds. | Strategy involves selecting a lineup that maximizes points scored, considering the performance of selected athletes against other participants' lineups. |
| User Engagement | Users engage through the act of placing bets based on odds. | Engagement comes from building and managing fantasy teams, requiring ongoing attention to player performance and contest standings. |
| Outcome | Wins and losses are determined immediately after the event based on the bet and event outcome. | Outcomes depend on the cumulative performance of chosen athletes over the event duration, with final standings compared to other participants determining payout eligibility within the prize pool. |
Comparing Payment Methods
FanDuel provides multiple methods for depositing and withdrawing funds, simplifying the management and user experience for both daily fantasy and sportsbook account holders. However, the specific payment and withdrawal methods available may differ depending on the state due to local financial regulations and could also be subject to change. FanDuel doesn't charge any fees for transactions, but it is recommended to reach out to the payment provider beforehand to have a clear understanding of their policies about payments or withdrawals.
Name | Deposit | Withdraw | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Time | Min | Fee | Time | Max | Fee | |
 VISA | 0-1 day | $1 | 2% | 2-7 days | $50000 | 2% |
 Mastercard | 0-1 day | $1 | 2% | 2-7 days | $50000 | 2% |
 Discover | 0-1 day | $1 | 2.8% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
 Debit Cards | 0-1 day | $1 | 0.76% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
 ApplePay | 0-1 day | $10 | 0% | 1-3 days | $10000 | 1.5% |
 Google Pay | 0-1 day | $10 | 0% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
 Venmo | 0-1 day | $10 | 1.75% | 2-5 days | $20000 | 1.75% |
 PayPal | 0-3 days | $10 | 1.9% | 2-7 days | $60000 | 1.9% |
 FanDuel Prepaid Card | 0-1 day | $5 | 0% | 1-3 days | N/A | N/A |
Cash at Retail Stores | Instant | $10 | 0.5% | 0-2 days | $1000 | 0.5% |
Cash at Cage | Instant | $0 | 0% | 0-2 days | $100000 | N/A |
ACH/eCHECK | 0-1 day | $10 | 0% | N/A | N/A | N/A |
 American Express | Instant | $1 | 2% | 1-5 days | $50000 | 2% |
Bank Wire Transfer | 0-1 day | $10 | 0% | 1-7 days | $50000 | N/A |
 Diners | 0-1 day | $1 | 2% | 2-7 days | $50000 | 2% |
 VIP Preferred | 0-1 day | $5 | 0% | 1-5 days | $100000 | 2% |
 Play+ | 0-1 day | $5 | 0% | 2-7 days | $25000 | 1.9% |
User Reviews Comparison
| Aspect | FanDuel Fantasy Sports App | FanDuel Sportsbook App |
| Platform Ratings | iOS: 4.8/5 (183K ratings) Android: 4.7/5 (82K ratings) | Analysis of 3,873 user reviews: 36% negative, 40% mixed, 24% positive |
| Common Complaints | ID verification issues, failure to honor promotions, inability of support staff to correct issues | Location verification issues, app stability problems, unreliable authentication process, disparity in features between app versions |
| User Praise | App runs smoothly, user-friendly interface, helpful tips for forming winning lineups | iOS: User-friendly interface and real-time updates of live betting odds praised |
| Specific User Feedback | “Good not great. Not as many NHL or NASCAR contests as there used to be.. Seems like the only sports with big GPP's are NFL, NBA, MLB." | “This is like the 5th time since the summer I've been locked out of my account without even trying to use the app. To have to consistently make new passwords every month is super annoying." |
| Overall Impression | Despite the high ratings, a significant number of reviews highlight critical issues, tempered by positive feedback on app functionality and user support. | The feedback is mixed, with a notable portion expressing dissatisfaction, especially regarding the Android app. Positive comments focus on the iOS version's user-friendly nature and efficient display of live betting odds. |
What Users Really Say About Their FanDuel Experience
The sports betting app has received a range of reviews from users, with a focus on its functionality and user experience. Users have praised the app for its user-friendly interface, ease of navigation, and the wide range of betting options available. They also appreciate the quick deposit and withdrawal process, and the real-time updates on live sports betting. The app's promotional offers and bonuses have also been well-received, with some users stating that they add to the excitement of betting. However, there are also significant areas for improvement. A number of users have reported issues with the app's location verification feature, which is often unreliable and frustrating. There are also complaints about the app's customer service, with some users finding it unresponsive and unhelpful. Some users have reported issues with the app's stability, particularly during crucial moments of gameplay. Problems with the authentication process have also been reported, preventing some users from using the app. There is a perceived disparity between the app's offerings on different platforms, with some features reportedly only available on Apple devices. This has led to calls for the app to level the playing field between Apple and Android users. In terms of user experience, while some users find the app satisfactory, there is a desire for more rewards and incentives, such as parlay boosts and insurance. In conclusion, while the app has some strong points, it also has significant areas for improvement, particularly in terms of its location verification feature, customer service, app stability, authentication process, and feature parity across different platforms.
Customer Support
FanDuel provides various options for users to contact their customer support team regarding inquiries about their daily fantasy and sportsbook products. In addition to round-the-clock live chat and email support, they also provide user-friendly FAQ sections and informative video tutorials to assist with any queries or concerns. Moreover, FanDuel actively interacts with users via social media, creating an additional channel for communication.
FanDuel Customer Service Options:
- 24/7 Live Chat
- Submit a Ticket
- Email (support@fanduel.com)
- Social Media: Facebook | X | Instagram | YouTube | SnapChat
We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of FanDuel's customer support teams by engaging in live chat conversations on four different occasions throughout the day. Our objective was to evaluate the speed, helpfulness, and overall quality of the assistance provided. Through these interactions, we gained valuable insights into the effectiveness of their support systems and their ability to promptly address customer inquiries and concerns in real-time scenarios.
| Time (ET) | FanDuel Average Wait Time |
| 10:00 | 3 minutes and 47 seconds |
| 15:00 | 3 minutes and 11 seconds |
| 18:00 | 4 minutes and 16 seconds |
| 23:00 | 5 minutes and 27 seconds |
FanDuel promptly connected us with live representatives on all four occasions that the FanDuel Coach couldn't address our queries. This experience continued throughout the day and night, swiftly resolving issues related to deposits, withdrawals, geolocation, GPP contests, and betting lines. Our encounters with FanDuel support have consistently been better than average.
Additional Features
FanDuel DFS Features
- Position Flexibility: Allows for more strategic lineup decisions.
- Single-Game Contests: Engage in fantasy contests focused on a single game.
- Friends Mode: Create and compete in private leagues with friends.
- Beginner Contests: Level playing field for newcomers to learn and compete.
- Late Swap: Adjust your lineup even after games have started.
- FanDuel Scout: Provides insights and tips for creating competitive lineups.
- Live Streaming: Watch live games in the app.
- Refer-A-Friend: Incentives for referring new users to FanDuel.
- FanDuel Faceoff: Exclusive contests and challenges.
- Rewards Center: Loyalty rewards for active and consistent participation.
FanDuel Sportsbook Features
- Early Cash Out: Option to settle bets before the event concludes.
- Live Betting: Place bets on games as they're happening.
- Same-Game Parlays: Combine multiple bets from the same game.
- Props Betting: Bet on specific events or player milestones within a game.
- Early Pay Out Bonuses: Bonuses for early settlement of bets.
- Horse Racing: Bet on a wide range of horse racing events.
- Live Streaming: Access to live broadcasts of sporting events.
- Refer-A-Friend: Benefits for both referrer and referred new customers.
- FanDuel Faceoff: Unique betting challenges and competitions.
- FanDuel TV: Access to sports-related content and live events.
Shared Features Between Fantasy and Sportsbook
- Live Streaming: Both platforms offer users the ability to watch live sports.
- Refer-A-Friend: Encourages existing users to invite new users with incentives.
- FanDuel Faceoff: Engage in exclusive contests and betting challenges.
- Rewards Center/FanDuel TV: Provides added value through loyalty rewards and exclusive content, respectively, enhancing the overall user experience and engagement on both platforms.
Responsible Gambling at FanDuel
Ensuring a safe and responsible gambling experience is crucial when it comes to online betting be it sports or fantasy. FanDuel provides a range of tools and resources to help users bet responsibly and stay within their financial means. Here is an overview of the responsible gambling features currently made available by FanDuel for users partaking in DFS or the sportsbook:
- Self-Exclusion: Users can exclude themselves from the platform for a specified period.
- Deposit Limits: Users can set limits on deposit amounts over a given time frame.
- Time Limits: Limits can be set on the amount of time spent on the platform.
- Wager Limits: Users can limit the amount wagered within a certain period.
- Reality Check: Shows users amount of time and money spent on the site.
- Cool-Off Period: Users can take a short break from betting on the platform.
- Educational Resources: Information and resources to promote responsible gaming.
FAQs
Meet Our Authors
Mike Rosenberg
Mike made the decision to dive headfirst into the booming world of sports betting fresh out of college. Back in the day, when 1-800 pick lines and sports pagers were all the rage, he couldn't resist the allure, having grown up idolizing sports legends like Sweetness, MJ, and Slammin Sammy. Mike dedicated his early years to the industry, tirelessly analyzing games, writing articles with free picks, and selling his expertise on reputable handicapping sites. Unlike many others, Mike was known for his integrity and only released one Game of the Year per sport, per season. His hard work and unwavering commitment paid off, earning him a devoted following and propelling his career to new heights. Then came the explosion of Daily Fantasy Sports. Believe it or not, companies like DraftKings and FanDuel used to pay Mike's company to increase their brand exposure. Now, those same industry giants don't even bother responding to his emails. While Mike appreciates the convenience of being able to place legal bets in his own backyard, he can't help but feel disheartened by what has become of the industry. People are being led astray, falsely believing that a mere $5 wager on a 20-team same-game-parlay will be their ticket to financial security. If there’s one thing Mike learned from making book back in the day, it’s that parlays are a bookie’s best friend. A bankroll is the only leg you have to stand on in the battle with the books, and Mike’s here to offer up advice on how to protect it.
Cristina Varela Galan
Cristina used to work as a Psychology Assistant in the Bizkaia Pathological and Risky Gamblers Association. She was also part of a research team in Deusto University, specializing in pathological gambling area. While working there, she managed to develop her own project
“Exploring the association between emotional regulation, alexithymia, stressful life events and gambling in adolescent and young adult women”.
Paruyr Shahbazyan
Paruyr Shahbazyan began his business career in 2000 as a private entrepreneur. Over thirteen years, he developed a deep understanding for business and leadership, laying a solid foundation for his professional journey.
In 2013, Paruyr stepped into the sports and betting industry as the founder and president of Bookmaker Rating. This online mass media platform, which he led until 2020, focused on providing in-depth analysis and insights in sports betting, earning a reputation for its quality content.
Continuing his innovative approach in 2022, Paruyr co-founded Azuro, a decentralized betting protocol. This venture showcases his dedication to integrating advanced technology in the evolving landscape of sports betting. Through these diverse experiences, Paruyr has continuously influenced and shaped the betting industry, driving new trends and setting high standards.
| Experience | Year |
| Engaged in private entrepreneurship | 2000-2013 |
| Founder and President at Bookmaker Rating, an online platform focused on sports and betting | 2013-2020 |
| Co-founder at Azuro, a decentralized betting protocol | 2022 |
"Innovation in sportsbetting comes from a deep understanding of both technology and the human element of sports."
- Paruyr Shahbazyan, Founder, RG
Principles and Ethics
Paruyr Shahbazyan's core beliefs lie in the power of informed decision-making and integrity in the betting industry. He understands that the foundation of successful betting is not just about odds and predictions, but also about the trust and reliability of the information provided. Paruyr advocates for a betting environment where transparency and knowledge are paramount, ensuring that bettors are well-equipped with accurate data and insights.
Strategic Vision
Paruyr's vision is to revolutionize the sports betting industry through the integration of technology. He sees the future of betting as a blend of traditional sports knowledge with innovative tech solutions, like decentralized protocols, to enhance user experience and fairness. His aim is to create platforms that are not only user-friendly but also uphold the highest standards of ethical betting, contributing to a more responsible and enjoyable betting culture.
Future Perspectives
Looking towards the future, Paruyr envisions a betting landscape that is more inclusive, technologically advanced, and globally connected. He anticipates a significant shift towards more decentralized and transparent betting systems, driven by blockchain technology. Paruyr is committed to being at the forefront of this change, continuously exploring new possibilities and innovations that can redefine what it means to engage in sports betting in a digital world. His focus is on building systems that prioritize user empowerment, fairness, and the global growth of the sports betting community.
Anna Kravtcova
Ph.D. in organizational psychology, an internationally certified psychologist (EuroPsy 2022, Cognitive behavioural therapy of mindfulness 2020, International Society for Emotional Intelligence 2017, Russian Psychological society 2014, American Psychological Association(Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychologist) 2011), speaker of many international conferences (USA, Brazil, Portugal, Czech Republic, Russia, etc.). TEDx speaker.
Sol Fayerman-Hansen
Sol's interest in sports was sparked at a young age, inspired by athletes such as Barry Sanders, Michael Jordan, and Wayne Gretzky. This early fascination evolved into a deep-seated passion, guiding him toward a career in sports journalism in 2007. Over the years, Sol has contributed thousands of articles and reviews to dozens of online platforms, sharing his research, knowledge, and perspectives.
“In the world of sports betting, truth is more valuable than any bonus offer.”
| Experience | Year |
| Content Manager, OnlineCasinoReports | 2012-2021 |
| Sports Journalist, Dottraffic | 2009-2011 |
| Content Writer, HouseTech | 2007-2009 |
Nick Ashbourne
Nick has been fascinated with sports since he was first taken to a Toronto Maple Leafs game back in 1998, and he's written about them professionally since 2014.
Nick has covered baseball and hockey for outlets like The Athletic, Sportsnet, and Yahoo Sports, and his sports betting expertise has grown since its legalization in Ontario in 2022.
Between 2022 and 2023 he worked for a betting startup called NorthStar Bets, and in 2024 he contributed to Oddspedia before joining the Responsible Gambling team.
