The Most Popular Sportsbooks in the U.S.
Navigating the intricacies of U.S. market leaders FanDuel and DraftKings reveals a competitive edge in online sports betting and fantasy leagues. This analysis presents a detailed examination of where and how these platforms stand in terms of accessibility across various regions and platforms, alongside a thorough breakdown of their diverse product offerings. With their substantial presence in the US market underscoring the comparison, this article aims to deliver an impartial overview, highlighting the scope of their operations.
Where is Sports Gambling Legal in the U.S.?
Sports betting in the United States has undergone a significant transformation, witnessing a rapid evolution that has changed the face of the gambling landscape across the nation. With individual states embracing the opportunity to craft their own rules around sports wagering, the result is a patchwork of regulations that vary widely from coast to coast. This shift has catalyzed a surge in the popularity of sports betting, making it more accessible to Americans than ever before.
Current Legal landscape:
- Live, Legal: Sports betting is operational and legal in 38 states, plus the District of Columbia, showcasing a robust adoption of sports gambling regulations across the country.
- Active Legislation/Ballot Initiative: Six states (Alabama, Georgia, Hawaii, Minnesota, Missouri, and Oklahoma) are considering active legislation or have ballot initiatives underway, signaling a potential expansion of legal sports betting soon.
- No Legislation: Five states have not introduced any legislation regarding sports betting, remaining on the sidelines of the sports gambling expansion.
- Dead Legislation: One state (CA) has seen sports betting legislation introduced but not passed, halting progress in that jurisdiction.
These regulations span online platforms, mobile applications, and physical establishments, and understanding each state's specific legal frameworks and compliance requirements becomes crucial. For those looking into the intricacies of sports betting legality and regulations, RG offers a comprehensive state-by-state guide that sheds light on the regulatory landscape, emphasizing the critical role of responsible gambling and the safeguards implemented to protect consumers.
Moreover, the American Gaming Association's State Gaming Map provides an interactive and up-to-date visual representation of sports betting and fantasy sports legal status across the United States. This resource is indispensable for stakeholders, policymakers, and enthusiasts aiming to keep up with the rapidly evolving legal context of sports gambling, showcasing the geographic distribution of legalized betting and the varying degrees of regulatory frameworks in place.
FanDuel vs DraftKings: Market Share
FanDuel and DraftKings emerge as the two most popular sportsbook platforms in the U.S., each with a distinct journey and position in the market.
- FanDuel Market Position: Today, FanDuel stands as a frontrunner, particularly recognized for its innovation in DFS and sports betting platforms. With a robust user base and a significant share of the U.S. market, it has established itself as a household name among sports enthusiasts.
- DraftKings Market Position: DraftKings is celebrated for its comprehensive sports coverage and competitive betting options, holding a substantial portion of the market alongside its rival. Its aggressive growth strategies and partnerships with professional sports leagues and teams underscore its significant influence and commitment to enhancing user experience.
Both platforms have navigated the evolving landscape with strategic expansions and innovations, catering to a wide audience of sports fans and bettors.
Most Popular Sportsbook in U.S.
Real FanDuel User Reviews
FanDuel Overall Review
Bonuses & Promotions:
- Positive Feedback (20%): Some users appreciate the bonuses and promotions, praising the instant payoffs and easy setup.
- Negative Feedback (80%): Many users express dissatisfaction with the bonus system, citing issues with the ticket system for the reward machine and lack of promotions for sports other than football. Common complaints include technical issues like freezing or glitches during promo use, failure to honor promised bonuses, and perceived inferiority compared to other apps like DraftKings.
Functionality & User Experience:
- Positive Aspects: Users commend the app for its user-friendly interface, wide range of betting options, and quick cash payouts.
- Negative Aspects: Common issues include the app crashing, freezing, or constantly checking for location, and an intrusive and problematic location verification feature. Customer service is often described as unhelpful and unresponsive, with reports of unexplained account suspensions and difficulties in getting assistance.
Cashiering:
- Positive Feedback (30%): Users appreciate quick payouts, easy deposit methods, and secure transactions.
- Negative Feedback (40%): Significant issues reported include account suspension shortly after depositing money, allegations of stolen deposits, slow transfer of winnings, and the cash out option disappearing randomly.
Odds & Pricing:
- Positive Aspects: Users appreciate the competitive odds offered by the app.
- Negative Aspects: Some users feel that the odds are manipulated, with changes occurring without prior notice or providing misleading information. Complaints also include low payouts, lack of loyalty rewards, and bonuses.
Market Coverage:
- Positive Feedback: Users appreciate the wide variety of sports and betting options available.
- Negative Feedback: Performance issues such as freezing lines and lagging updates, particularly during NHL games, handling of injured players, and inconsistency in the reward system are reported. The app's unavailability in certain states, despite online sports betting being legal, is also a source of frustration.
Support:
- Negative Feedback: The majority of users have had a negative experience with the app's support, with common complaints about account suspension, poor customer service, and issues with verification. Users report being unable to pass the authentication process due to irrelevant questions or system errors and not receiving promised bonuses.
Conclusion: While FanDuel has several positive aspects, including a user-friendly interface, quick payouts, and competitive odds, there are significant areas that need improvement. Addressing technical issues, enhancing customer service, providing more diverse and reliable promotions, ensuring transparency and fairness in odds, and expanding market coverage and availability could greatly improve the overall user experience and satisfaction.
nice platform. easy maneuverability. Plenty of wager options. FanDuel is one of the best books to get some ACTION !!
Easy to use app
great
Great Choice for NFL & NBA
Real DraftKings User Reviews
DraftKings Overall Review
After analyzing the user reviews, the following average review of the DraftKings sports betting app can be summarized:
1. Bonuses & Promotions:
- Positive Aspects: The app offers generous bonuses and daily promotions, with a rewards system that some users find appealing.
- Negative Aspects: There are complaints about the lack of incentives for existing customers, technical issues with bonuses, and misleading promotions.
2. Cashiering:
- Positive Aspects: The app is praised for its quick payouts and ease of depositing funds.
- Negative Aspects: Users have reported issues with the app's reliability, lengthy verification process, ineffective customer service, and restrictive withdrawal policies.
3. Odds & Pricing:
- Positive Aspects: Some users appreciate the pre-calculated odds and wide range of betting options.
- Negative Aspects: There are complaints about perceived unfair games, slow loading times, poor customer service, and unattractive promotions.
4. Market Coverage:
- Positive Aspects: Users appreciate the extensive range of betting options.
- Negative Aspects: The app's slow speed, issues with location check and two-step authentication, lack of information for individual player bets, and unreliable teaser options are areas of concern.
5. Support:
- Positive Aspects: Some users find the app's customer service helpful and reliable.
- Negative Aspects: Many users have expressed dissatisfaction with slow response times, unresolved technical glitches, and difficulties with account verification.
Conclusion: While the DraftKings sports betting app has some positive aspects, there are significant areas that need improvement to enhance the overall user experience. These include improving the bonus system for existing customers, enhancing the app's reliability and speed, providing more information for individual player bets, and improving customer service response times.
The app is horrible. The app keeps closing out every time I try and place a bet. smh. I had to withdraw my money and go to another betting app.
The app keeps freezing and a big delay from when I press a selection on the app....an app keeps crashing
I love the games love to win some big money
Where is FanDuel Legal
FanDuel has significantly expanded its presence across the United States offering legal sports betting options, currently in 23 states for bettors looking to engage online:
Arizona | Colorado | Connecticut | Illinois | Indiana | Iowa | Kansas | Kentucky | Louisiana | Maryland | Massachusetts | Michigan | New Jersey | New York | North Carolina | Ohio | Pennsylvania | Tennessee | Virginia | Vermont | Washington D.C. | West Virginia | Wyoming | Ontario
Similarly, FanDuel has expanded its services to Canada with a presence in Ontario, providing a platform for legal online sports betting. Interested users in Ontario can find more details and access FanDuel’s offerings at FanDuel Canada.
Where is DraftKings Legal?
To place legal bets or play on DraftKings, individuals are required to be 21 or older. Additionally, they must be physically present in a state where DraftKings is operational when they bet or play, though they need not be residents of that state:
Arizona | Colorado | Connecticut | Illinois | Indiana | Iowa | Kansas | Kentucky | Louisiana | Maryland | Massachusetts | Michigan | New Hampshire | New Jersey | New York | North Carolina | Ohio | Oregon | Pennsylvania | Tennessee | Virginia | Vermont | West Virginia | Wyoming
In Canada, DraftKings has tapped into the Ontario market, where mobile sports betting is legal and active. Enthusiasts in Ontario can engage with DraftKings Sportsbook via the dedicated app, available for download and use within the province. For more information on the services offered and the legal framework in Ontario, visit DraftKings' Ontario Sports Betting page.
Market Share and Competitive Analysis
FanDuel and DraftKings have been neck and neck in the U.S. sports betting market, commanding a substantial portion of the industry. FanDuel has been the longstanding market leader, maintaining a significant presence across the states where sports betting is legal. As of late 2023, FanDuel held a market share of approximately 39.3%, marking it as the dominant force in sports betting and gambling markets. DraftKings, not far behind, secured a market share of around 34.1%, indicating a competitive position in the industry.
However, DraftKings has been closing the gap, particularly over the past year, elevating its market share from 27.7% to 32% in the 12-month period ending in May 2023. This growth did not come at the expense of FanDuel, which saw its market share remain stable despite a slight decline from 45.5% to 45.1% at the end of May compared to the same time in the previous year.
DraftKings has seen substantial gains in key states such as Massachusetts, where it's headquartered, and New York, which is the largest U.S. sports betting market. For example, DraftKings accounted for a significant portion of all gross gaming revenues in Massachusetts, surpassing $1 billion in wagers since the launch of mobile betting in March 2023.
The implications of their market dominance are multifaceted. Their significant market shares mean both FanDuel and DraftKings can influence market trends, adapt quickly to new regulatory changes, and have the capital to invest in innovative betting products and user experiences. However, their dominance also means that new entrants into the market could find it challenging to secure a foothold.
DraftKings' recent ascension in the market can be attributed to strategic moves in key states and an ability to manage marketing and customer-acquisition costs effectively. Meanwhile, FanDuel's consistent performance and high market share highlight the brand's strong customer loyalty and market presence.
This intense competition has led both platforms to continuously improve and innovate their offerings, ensuring they remain the top picks for sports betting enthusiasts across the nation.
Final Thoughts
In this examination of FanDuel and DraftKings, we have navigated through the complexities of their presence across the United States and internationally. With a clear view of where each platform stands legally in various states, we also highlighted the nuances of their operational strategies and their respective positions in the online and retail spaces. Their legal maneuverings, market share, and financial fortitude suggest an industry on the brink of further expansion, underscored by FanDuel's NYSE debut and DraftKings' growing market share. Both companies not only lead the current landscape but are also strategically poised for future market expansion, as evidenced by their ongoing license filings and corporate maneuvers.
As we look ahead, the prospective moves of FanDuel and DraftKings will likely continue to influence the sports betting market's direction. Their potential expansions into new territories, both domestic and international, and their readiness to adapt to the evolving regulatory environment, mark a new chapter in the story of legal sports gambling. It is a narrative that promises to unfold with the persistence of legal changes and the undying spirit of competition that drives these market leaders. For those new to this rapidly expanding world, starting with a foundational understanding of sports betting through this Sports Betting 101 Guide can provide valuable insights. Moreover, exploring the broader landscape of sportsbooks offers a glimpse into the diverse betting options available today.
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Meet Our Authors
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.
Sol Fayerman-Hansen
Sol Fayerman Hansen is the Editor-in-Chief at RG.org. With over two decades of experience in sports journalism and iGaming content, Sol finds working with RG.org a refreshing experience focused on transparency and responsible, informed sports gambling.
No, that bonus won't make you rich; it might lead to a gambling addiction even faster.
Notable Achievements
Sol is the creator of the world's largest book on digital art, a work collected by Harvard University libraries for its historic significance. He also served as the head of innovation at the Bank of Montreal, specializing in advanced technologies.
Personal Passion
Writing is Sol's daily practice and his art. He loves enriching readers with every story, reflecting his commitment to helping people through his work.
Interests
An avid sports lover, technology enthusiast, and a dedicated collector of both digital and physical art, Sol is habitually curious and a serial experimenter who loves to test new things…it's the only way to learn.
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”.
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.
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.
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.
Mark Medina
Mark Medina is a longtime NBA reporter that includes stints as a Lakers blogger with The Los Angeles Times (2010-12), Lakers beat writer with the Los Angeles Daily News (2012-17), Warriors beat writer with Bay Area News Group (2017-19) as well as an NBA reporter/columnist for USA Today (2019-21) and NBA.com (2021-23). Medina is also an NBA insider with Fox Sports Radio and frequent contributor to CBSLA's SportsCentralLA with Jim Hill and with Spectrum Sportsnet.
Daria Tuboltseva
Daria went to St. Petersburg State University and earned a bachelor of international journalism. Working as a sports journalist from 2014, from 2016 as a hockey journalist. Covered 5 World Championships, 2022 Winter Olympics, 2020 World Juniors, 6 Gagarin Cup Finals.
Owner of a telegram channel Coolest Game on Earth.
Integrative nutritionist specializing on sports nutritionology.
Paul M. Banks
Paul M. Banks is a professional Content Creator whose career has seen bylines in numerous publications, including the New York Daily News, Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Yahoo, MSN, FOX Sports and Sports Illustrated.
Banks has made scores of guest appearances on live radio and television, featuring regularly on NTD News, WGN-TV, CCTV, ESPN Radio, the History Channel, SiriusXM and CBS Sports Radio.
He is the Founding Editor of The Sports Bank.net, which has been featured and linked in hundreds of leading media outlets all across the world.
He has also authored two books, one of which, "No, I Can’t Get You Free Tickets: Lessons Learned From a Life in Sports Media," became an assigned textbook in journalism courses at State University New York-Oneonta.
Nikhil Narain
Nikhil Narain is a die-hard cricket romantic, published author, and has worked for some of the leading digital websites and broadcasters in India and overseas. An alumnus of the London School of Economics, Nikhil's forte is using data and numbers creatively to weave interesting stories and revolutionize the way cricket statistics are generated and analyzed.
