If you’re new to sports betting in the US, DraftKings and FanDuel are the two names you’ll see most often. Both run slick apps, cover major leagues and offer welcome bonuses — but their differences matter for beginners. This guide compares user experience, promotions, markets, fees and safety so you can pick the simpler, smarter start for your first bets.
Why this matters: Choosing the right first sportsbook affects how quickly you learn, how much value you get from sign-up offers, and whether you stick with betting responsibly. We test both platforms on features that matter most to new bettors: clarity, cost, and tools for managing risk.
Also Read: Which US sportsbook has the best odds?
Quick verdict
Both DraftKings and FanDuel are excellent for beginners. If you want the simplest, most beginner-friendly experience with frequent small promos, FanDuel often edges ahead. If you plan to try contests, same-game parlays or a combined sportsbook + daily fantasy sports (DFS) experience, DraftKings may suit you better.
1. Ease of use: app and web experience
FanDuel keeps menus tidy and places common bet types front and centre. New users find its app slightly easier to navigate for single bets and parlays. DraftKings offers more features on the main screen — useful later, but a little busy for a first-timer. Both apps load fast and let you place a bet in three to five taps once you find the market.
2. Sign-up offers and promotions
Welcome offers change often. FanDuel usually promotes a simple “risk-free bet” or a “matched bet” for new accounts. DraftKings also runs risk-free bets and deposit match promotions, and sometimes bundles DFS credits. For a new bettor, FanDuel’s straightforward risk-free model is easier to understand and use without scanning long T&Cs.
3. Markets and bet types
Both sites cover the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports (where legal) and niche markets. DraftKings provides slightly more niche markets, player props and same-game parlays. FanDuel focuses on core markets and makes popular bets easy to find. If you prefer to keep things simple, FanDuel’s trimmed menu helps you avoid overcomplicating bets.
4. Odds, vig and value
Odds vary day-to-day. Neither site consistently outprices the other across every market. For small, beginner bets, the difference in vig (the house edge) is negligible. As you scale up or seek value, compare lines between both apps before placing a larger stake.
5. Bankroll management and responsible betting tools
Both DraftKings and FanDuel provide deposit limits, self-exclusion and account activity history. FanDuel highlights its safety tools in onboarding, which helps new bettors set sensible limits from the start. Use these features to protect your bankroll and avoid impulsive bets.
6. Customer support and cashouts
FanDuel and DraftKings offer email and chat support; response times are similar. Cashout speeds depend on payment method. Both accept ACH, cards, PayPal and prepaid options in many states. Expect ACH withdrawals to take a few days — plan for that if you need quick access to funds.
7. Contests and extras
DraftKings integrates DFS tightly with its sportsbook. If you plan to try fantasy contests, DraftKings gives a joined-up experience. FanDuel also offers DFS but keeps the sportsbook and contest flows a bit more distinct, which some beginners prefer to avoid mixing the two activities.
8. Which one is cheaper for beginners?
Neither is meaningfully cheaper for single, low-value bets. Differences appear when you chase lines or play many parlays. For occasional bettors placing modest stakes, choose the app that feels easier — small cost differences won’t matter much at this stage.
9. Recommended pick for new bettors
Pick FanDuel if: you want the simplest app, clear promos and fewer menus to learn. It’s friendly for quick single bets and cash-out features that beginners like.
Pick DraftKings if: you plan to explore same-game parlays, player props, or DFS alongside sports betting and you don’t mind a slightly busier interface.
How to get started safely
- Check that sports betting is legal in your state before you sign up.
- Start small: treat your first bets as learning exercises, not quick wins.
- Set deposit and loss limits immediately in account settings.
- Compare one line between apps before bigger bets to find small pricing edges.
Comparison table
| Feature | FanDuel | DraftKings |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Simple, quick single bets | Players who want props, parlays, DFS |
| App friendliness | Very easy | Feature-rich, slightly busier |
| Welcome offers | Clear risk-free promos | Risk-free + DFS bundles sometimes |
| Markets | Core markets, easy to find | Broader market depth |
| Responsible tools | Highlighted in onboarding | Comprehensive settings |
FAQs
Is DraftKings or FanDuel better for beginners?
FanDuel is generally simpler for total beginners. DraftKings gives more options if you want to expand into parlays or daily fantasy later.
Do both sites accept the same payment methods?
Both accept common methods like ACH, debit cards and PayPal in many states. Availability varies by state and your bank.
Which site offers better welcome bonuses?
Bonuses rotate. FanDuel often promotes simple risk-free bets, which are easier for beginners to use. Always read the terms before claiming any offer.
Can I use both apps at the same time?
Yes. Many bettors create accounts on multiple sportsbooks to compare lines and use the best price for each bet.
How do I know if these apps are legal where I live?
Check your state regulator’s website or the apps’ help sections. Both FanDuel and DraftKings block sign-ups in states where sports betting is not legal.
Also Read: What is juice/vig and how does it affect your bets?
