DraftKings Review
Best mobile app
Supreme navigation
Best for grading winners
Bet $5, Get $150 if You Win
Covers BetSmart Rating:
Bonuses & Promotions
Banking & Payout Speed
Key Features
Security & Trust
Customer Support
User Experience
Betting Odds
Payout Speed:
Within 24 hours
Deposits & withdrawals
Sign up bonus
Bet $5, Get $150 if You Win
New customers only. Deposit min. $5. Place first bet of min. $5 and get $150 in bonus bets.
Why DraftKings?
Best mobile app
Supreme navigation
Best for grading winners
Payout Speed:
Within 24 hours
Covers BetSmart Rating:
Covers BetSmart Rating:
Deposits & withdrawals
Pros and cons
With the new online sports betting landscape in the United States, the best sportsbook promos that appeal the most to me have low deposit and wagering minimums that carry minor playthrough requirements. DraftKings has a few great offers that I strongly recommend checking out, and none require a DraftKings promo code during the registration process.
DraftKings sign-up bonus: Option 1
If you have yet to wager with DraftKings Sportsbook, you qualify for $150 in bonus bets.
Make a qualifying deposit of at least $5 and place a $5 wager on any sports market, and DraftKings will credit your account with $150 in bonus bets if your wager wins. The bonus will arrive as six (6) $25 bonus bets. That's in addition to any cash winnings earned from your original bet.
Users in AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, MA, ME, NC, OH, PA, WY, or WV receive $150 in bonus bets if the initial wager wins or loses.
I found this promotion to provide solid value. Essentially, DraftKings is giving you a guaranteed bonus regardless of the outcome of your first bet. This offer expires on Jan. 5, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. ET.
DraftKings sign-up bonus: Option 2
Alternatively, you can elect for a 20% deposit match of up to $1,000 welcome offer. Though this promo is also quite lucrative, you must make an initial deposit of $5,000 and wager a total of $25,000 to maximize the full potential of this offer. If you do choose this welcome bonus, DraftKings will release your bonus in $1 increments each time you wager at least $25 on any market with -300 odds or longer. This offer is available until Nov. 30, 2024.
DraftKings loyalty program
You can join DraftKings' Dynasty Rewards program as a longtime bettor or a newcomer. This loyalty program operates on a tiered system, with the rewards increasing in value as you accumulate more 'crowns' — DraftKings' version of points. You can earn one crown for every $2 you place on a sports wager.
Progressing from tier to tier was more difficult than I anticipated, leading me to believe the Dynasty Rewards Program may be better suited for bettors with larger bankrolls, making it among the best sportsbook rewards programs in 2024.
DraftKings King of the Court Wednesdays
To celebrate the start of the 2024-25 NBA season, DraftKings is offering a token for hoops fanatics on Wednesdays. Customers who place a minimum $5 wager with odds of at least -200 on the player who is the day's points + rebounds + assists stats leader will receive an equal share of $1,000,000 in bonus bets the following day.
Offer expires on Dec. 11, 2024.
Ongoing promotions, bonuses, and boosts
DraftKings will often present boosted lines for selected markets, and these can cover different sports and leagues, including the NBA and NCAA March Madness. You will have to opt in from the promotions page and place the featured bets to qualify. If successful, some boosts can add up to $250 to your total payout.
Happy Hour Boost
'Happy Hour Boosts' are available for a wide range of sporting events. Be sure to check DK's promos after 5 p.m. ET to score a variety of exclusive bonuses for a more lucrative payday.
While this promotion provides solid value, I found that the maximum wager on odds boosts to be very limited. Having your bets capped ultimately reduces the overall upside of the offer.
DK Squares
For those NFL bettors looking for a different type of wager, DraftKings has repurposed the popular Super Bowl squares concept. Simply predict what you think the score will be and choose the corresponding square.
This feature is available for many major sports league games, and I found it to be one of the most entertaining betting options on DraftKings.
DraftKings referral bonus
Encourage friends who haven't signed up on DraftKings to register and score a DraftKings referral bonus. You'll both benefit when they deposit a minimum of $25, with you receiving $25 and the maximum potential reward reaching $100.
DraftKings promo code
You do not need a DraftKings promo code to claim the sportsbook's current welcome offer. I was able to simply register and make a $5 deposit and wager to activate the promotion.
DraftKings bonus comparison
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Welcome bonus | Bet $5, Get $150 if You Win | Bet $5, Get $150 if You Win | Bet $1, Get 100% Boost on Next 10 Bets | $1,500 in bonus bets |
| Promo code | Not required | Not required | COVERSBONUSDYW | CVRBONUS1500 |
| Bonus type | Bet and get | Bet and get | Bet and get | Bet and get |
| Bonus form | six $25 bonus bets | $150 in bonus bets | 10 100% profit boosts | One (< $50) or five (> $50) bonus bets |
| Wagering period | 7 days | 7 days | 14 days | 7 days |
| Min. deposit | $5 | $5 | $10 | $10 |
| Covers BetSmart Bonus Rating | ⭐ 4.6/5 | ⭐ 4.9/5 | ⭐ 5/5 | ⭐ 4.8/5 |
Deposit options
I appreciate the convenience of banking at DraftKings, which lands on our list of the best betting sites for deposit and withdrawal options, ensuring straightforward transactions. Deposit methods include credit cards — like Visa and Mastercard— debit cards, PayNearMe, eCheck, wire transfers, and more.
One of the great things I've noticed is that DraftKings is one of North America's most popular PayPal betting sites, which adds an extra layer of convenience for me. I used my PayPal account for transactions, making the process even smoother.
While I would love for DraftKings to join our list of crypto sportsbooks, I can't fault the operator for missing a feature very few betting sites offer.
| Deposit Method | Fee | Process Time | |
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Free | Instant | $5 |
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Free | Instant | $5 |
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Free | Instant | $5 |
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Free | Instant | $5 |
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Free | Instant | $5 |
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Free | Instant | $5 |
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Free | Instant | $20 |
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Free | Instant | $20 |
Withdrawal options
When it came to withdrawing my winnings, I had no issues at all. I was able to do so at any time through most of the same methods I used for deposits. This flexibility is a significant advantage, and I appreciated having the freedom to manage my funds according to my preferences.
Moreover, I've found that in addition to its online betting site, DraftKings operates retail sportsbooks in many states, allowing bettors like me to withdraw in person. This option provides an added level of comfort and assurance, knowing that I can handle my withdrawals more personally if I prefer.
| Withdrawal Method | Fee | Process Time | |
|---|---|---|---|
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Free | 1-3 Banking Days | $20 |
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Free | 1-3 Banking Days | $20 |
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Free | 1-3 Banking Days | $20 |
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Free | 1-3 Banking Days | $20 |
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Free | 1-3 Banking Days | $20 |
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Free | 3-7 Banking Days | $20 |
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Free | 1-3 Banking Days | $20 |
At DraftKings, you have access to a complete online sportsbook where you can bet real money on both pre-match and live events. DraftKings has been recognized in the industry with multiple awards, including the '2023 Sports Betting Business of the Year' by the Fantasy Sports & Gaming Association (FSGA).
I'm excited to see that the platform is continually adding new features that have been successful on other betting sites. Here are some of the standout qualities at DraftKings.
Live betting
Live betting is one of the most popular online sportsbook features, and DraftKings' Live In-Game' betting section is excellent. You can immediately check out markets for games in progress and view updated odds. Additionally, DraftKings offers a wide range of prop bets for major live sporting events, which adds to the excitement of live betting.
See how DraftKings' 'Live In-Game' section stacks up to FanDuel's 'Live now' in our FanDuel vs DraftKings comparison.
Live streaming
I was pleased to discover that DraftKings has been working on offering live streaming for sporting events. Although this feature is still in its early stages and limited to certain locations, it shows great promise and enhances the overall betting experience.
Daily Fantasy Sports
As a market leader in DFS contests, the DraftKings Daily Fantasy section is prominently featured on its website. I was able to choose from a variety of contests covering standard sports and esports, with entry fees ranging from $1 to over $5,000. I appreciate that this diversity ensures there's always something for every type of interested bettor.
Early cash out
Sports bettors can find DraftKings' cash-out feature in many markets, as the sportsbook has made this option more widely available as of late. Early cash out allows you to settle bets before matches reach their natural conclusions. In general, I find it is a great way to guarantee winnings or limit losses.
That said, I've found DraftKings to be wildly unpredictable with its cash out offers. If I make a sharp futures bet and the odds move in my favor, I will be offered less than my original stake, which is counter-intuitive. If you mistakenly place a wager and desire an immediate cash out, you won't be offered an equal-value return.
DK Horse
Wagering at horse racing betting sites has never been easier than with DK Horse. Download the dedicated DK Horse app to live stream races and feel the thrill of one of the best Kentucky Derby betting sites.
I love that I can access DK Horse from some states where DraftKings doesn't currently offer sports betting like California and Florida.
Rapid bet grading
Sports bettors at DraftKings' will be ecstatic to learn the sportsbook is the best for grading winners. This industry-leading pace is a prominent feature — especially for experienced bettors — as I've placed bets with my winnings before other operators have made a ruling on a particular wager.
Casino
For casino enthusiasts like me, the DraftKings Casino offers an impressive range of games from renowned developers. Although it's available only for players in states with legal online casinos, it was accessible from the same account I use for sports betting.
The casino lobby hosts hundreds of popular slot games, along with live dealer options and a few exclusive titles, without the need for a DraftKings Casino promo code.
To learn more, check out our comprehensive DraftKings Casino review.
Only available in: CT, MI, NJ, PA, and WV
Same-game parlays
DraftKings has quickly become one of the best parlay betting sites. You can place bets on popular same-game parlays in numerous sports, including football and baseball. It's easy to build and add your parlays to your bet slips after locating a game with the '+SGP' icon in the top-left corner and toggling on 'Same Game Parlay' to view available bets.
I had no difficulty navigating through my parlays with DraftKings. The sportsbook also recently launched a new 'Progressive Parlays' feature, allowing you to receive a payout on a parlay wager even if one or more legs lose.
Player-centric betting
DraftKings also offers player-centric betting, allowing you to access 'Player Pages' that display all available player prop markets for a single player. Whether it's head-to-head wagers or same-game parlays, you can easily access them from this page, which currently covers NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL events.
Rapid bet grading
Sports bettors at DraftKings' will be ecstatic to learn the sportsbook is the best for grading winners. This industry-leading pace is a prominent feature — especially for experienced bettors — as I've placed bets with my winnings before other operators have made a ruling on a particular wager.
The DraftKings Sportsbook app is truly impressive, ranking highly on our list of the best sports betting apps. You can download the mobile betting app on both Android and iOS platforms or via a link on the DraftKings website. Once installed, the app provides a mobile-friendly interface with access to over 20 betting markets.
In my opinion, DraftKings offers one of the best mobile experiences in North America and is always striving to make improvements.
DraftKings app design
I find the design of the DraftKings app to be stylish and completely optimized. Adding bets is a breeze with just a few taps, and the bottom menu offers excellent navigation between different sections. The years of DFS experience have provided DraftKings with ample opportunity to hone in a design that is both visually appealing and highly functional.
DraftKings app improvements
Since downloading the DraftKings Sportsbook app, I've observed regular updates, bug fixes, and enhancements, all contributing to an improved user experience. Here are some recent noteworthy updates:
June 24, 2024: General performance and UX improvements.
March 11, 2024: DraftKings introduces 'My Stat Sheet,' a new responsible gaming tool that gives players the ability to track, evaluate, and engage with their personal betting stats.
Oct. 23, 2023: DraftKings updates its Same Game Parlay functionality so that you can build SGPs from anywhere in the mobile app.
Sept. 25, 2023: DraftKings launches a brand new 'Search' capability to help you easily find betting markets, from player props to team futures, what's trending, and more.
DraftKings iOS rating
The DraftKings Sportsbook mobile app for Apple devices boasts an exceptional rating of 4.8/5.
DraftKings Android rating
Likewise, Android users have awarded the DraftKings mobile sports betting app a rating of 4.6/5, garnered from over 130,000 user reviews.
DraftKings iOS app
DraftKings operates under the supervision and regulation of several state authorities. The sportsbook operator is licensed in two dozen U.S. states and is only available within the borders of these jurisdictions.
The DraftKings website uses state-of-the-art 256-bit encryption and geolocation software for the best online security and to ensure compliance.
Access to the DraftKings sportsbook is available in the following states:
New Jersey (DGE)
Colorado Division of Gaming
Michigan Gaming Control Board
Indiana Gaming Commission
West Virginia Lottery Commission
Virginia Lottery
Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board
NH Lottery
Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission
Tennessee Sports Wagering Advisory Council
Illinois Gaming Board
Arizona Department of Gaming
Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection
Wyoming Gaming Commission
Louisiana Gaming Control Board
New York State Gaming Commission
Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission
Ohio Casino Control Commission
Maryland Lottery and Gaming
Massachusetts Gaming Commission
Kentucky Horse Racing Commission
Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery
North Carolina Education Lottery
DC Office of Lottery and Gaming
DraftKings' customer support team is dedicated and knowledgeable. You can easily reach out to them through the website's contact page, sending messages and expecting prompt responses. You also have the option to email the staff directly, start a live chat, or even request a callback.
I recommend using DraftKings' 24/7 live chat, as I received a response almost immediately.
- Live chat available 24/7
- Email: sportsbook@draftkings.com
- Phone: Callback request
- Support languages: English
- (X) Twitter: @DKSportsbook
There's a reason DraftKings is often regarded as one of the sports betting industry's premium platforms. The sportsbook doesn't rely on brand recognition and its success in the DFS space — it simply delivers a great product.
I love the ability to sort by player props and the game-by-game breakdown. For example, under NBA, I can choose 'points,' and it will show every single game, along with every player point prop for that game, on one screen.
Here are some additional highlights:
One of the best apps
Point blank: DraftKings offers one of the best sports betting app currently available in the U.S. The navigation is intuitive, the layout is user-friendly, and there is no shortage of features to keep me entertained.
Fast grading and payouts
Nothing is worse than having to wait out a betting technicality to see if you're getting paid. DraftKings is the absolute fastest when it comes to grading winners. I was able to have my winnings in my account before another operator had even made the final call on a particular bet.
Reliable and trustworthy
The DraftKings website is secure, and the operator is known for being reliable, without any history of hacks that have compromised sensitive information. I was encouraged that I had to verify my location and identity before placing any bets on the platform.
One account
In states that allow it, I can enjoy daily fantasy sports, bet on real sporting events, and even play online casino games for real money — all using the same account balance. The ability to share liquidity without registering for multiple accounts is a convenience that I don't take for granted.
Room for improvement
I find the cash out offers to be unpredictable at DraftKings. I've been offered less than the original stake on futures bets, even after the odds have moved in my favor. Also, if you realize you made an incorrect bet, you will immediately be offered a cash out less than the original stake, whereas operators like bet365 will provide a full cashback.
There is also no apparent search function on the desktop version of the platform.
DraftKings in the news
Aug. 27, 2024: DraftKings to open a retail sportsbook in Wisconsin at the Lake of the Torches Casino on Aug. 28, 2024.
Aug. 22, 2024: DraftKings launches 'Electric Poker' platform in Michigan.
Aug. 14, 2024: DraftKings inadvertently sends an email blast about golf bets even if bettors did not place a relevant wager.
Aug. 13, 2024: DraftKings kills sports betting surcharge after FanDuel refuses to implement a similar policy on winning bettors.
Aug. 2, 2024: DraftKings' sports betting 'surcharge' could be less about money, and more about sending a message.
Aug. 1, 2024: DraftKings to start charging a "gaming tax surcharge" on winning bets in four states — Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, and Vermont.
July 31, 2024: DraftKings announces that it is discontinuing Reignmakers and its NFT Marketplace.
DraftKings vs the competition
Check out Covers' sportsbook comparisons to see how DraftKings stacks up against other popular sports betting sites in 2024.
DraftKings review FAQ
Yes, DraftKings is a legitimate real money sportsbooks available online. DraftKings operates under the supervision and regulation of relevant state authorities.
Yes, you can join DraftKings and bet real money if you are located in a state where it is legal.
Yes. As a new DraftKings user, you can deposit and wager $5 to claim $150 in bonus bets if your wager wins. Users in AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, MA, ME, NC, OH, PA, WY, or WV, can activate $150 in bonus bets if their wager wins or loses.
DK Squares is similar to Super Bowl squares, in which a winner is determined at the end of each quarter, plus the final game score. The winner is based on looking at the last number in each team's score and matching it to the DK Squares grid for that game.
Yes, the DraftKings Sportsbook app is perfect for mobile bettors. The app includes all of the sportsbook's top features, including live betting.
No, Bitcoin is not one of the supported payment methods at DraftKings.
Yes, DraftKings Sportsbook does accept American Express. However, Amex sportsbook deposits are only supported in New Jersey.
Yes. It is a complete sportsbook where bettors can legally withdraw their winnings. There are several options available for cashing out.
DraftKings withdrawals are normally processed within one or two business days. It can take a few more days for the funds to reach your bank account.
The site has a contact page with all the needed information for reaching the support team. There is a message form, a live chat button, an email address, and even a form for requesting a callback.
Yes, but only in five states: Connecticut, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
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Sign up bonus
$1,500 in Bonus Bets
Bonus bets expire in 7 days. One new customer offer per user. Additional terms apply. 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Sign up bonus
Choose: $150 or $1,000 Bonus
Bonus Bet amounts not returned with winnings. Minimum deposit required. T&Cs, time limits, and exclusions apply. 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
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Bet $1, Get 100% Boost on Next 10 Bets
New customers only. Must register using eligible promo code. Wager $1 to earn a profit boost on your next 10 bets. Max. winnings of $2,500 for each boost which expire 14 days after receipt. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms.
