Bet365 vs DraftKings: What’s the Best Sportsbook?

Looking for the perfect sports betting platform can be challenging with so many options available. Two industry leaders, bet365 and DraftKings, consistently rank among the top choices for both new and experienced bettors. 

This comprehensive comparison breaks down everything you need to know about these powerhouse sportsbooks, from their mobile apps and betting markets to bonuses and customer support.

Whether you're placing wagers on the NHL, NBA or MLB, understanding the key differences between these platforms will help you choose the sportsbook that best matches your betting style and preferences. Let’s take a look at bet365 vs. DraftKings in various areas. 

Best Sportsbook Picks

 

Bet365 vs. Draftkings: Company Overview

Understanding the background and evolution of these sportsbooks provides valuable context for their current offerings. Both companies have distinct origins that have shaped their approach to the sports betting market.

bet365 Sportsbook Overview

bet365 has established itself as a global leader in online sports betting since its founding in 2000 by Denise Coates. Beginning as a UK-based operation, bet365 has grown into one of the world's largest online gambling companies with millions of customers across more than 200 countries.

The sportsbook entered the market more recently than some competitors but quickly made its mark with competitive odds and an impressive selection of betting markets. What separates bet365 from many other sportsbooks is its strong focus on international sports and its reputation for offering some of the earliest betting lines in the industry.

bet365 appeals particularly to more experienced sports bettors who appreciate its comprehensive betting markets and advanced features like live streaming. The platform's clean interface and straightforward navigation make it accessible to newcomers while offering enough depth to satisfy seasoned players.

Draftkings Sportsbook Overview

DraftKings began in 2012 as a daily fantasy sports provider before expanding into sports betting following the 2018 Supreme Court decision that legalized sports wagering across the United States. The company quickly capitalized on its brand recognition to become one of America's premier sportsbooks.

As one of the first sportsbooks to launch in Colorado in May 2020, Draftkings has built a strong presence in the Centennial State. Known for its user-friendly platform and innovative features, DraftKings has successfully transferred its expertise in creating engaging fantasy sports experiences to the betting world.

DraftKings has positioned itself as particularly appealing to casual bettors and fantasy sports enthusiasts. The platform excels at creating an entertaining betting experience with features like contest-style pools and social elements that make sports wagering more accessible to newcomers.

bet365 vs. Draftkings: Bonuses and Promotions

Promotional offers can significantly enhance your betting bankroll and overall experience. Both sportsbooks provide a variety of incentives to attract and retain bettors, though their approaches differ in structure and focus. We dig deeper into both offers below:

Welcome Bonuses and Promo Codes

New customer offers represent a significant point of differentiation between these platforms.

bet365's welcome package:

• Bonus Offer: New players receive up to $1,000 in bonus cash
• Activation: First deposit is matched 100% up to the maximum
• Minimum Deposit: $10 to qualify
• Playthrough Requirement: Bonus funds must be wagered once on selections with odds of -500 or greater
• Expiration: 7 days to use bonus funds

This structure allows players to receive substantial bonus funds with relatively straightforward wagering requirements compared to industry standards.

DraftKings' sign-up offer:

• Deposit Bonus: 20% match up to $1,000 on first deposit
• Minimum Deposit: $5 to qualify
• Release Structure: Bonus released as $1 per $25 wagered
• Odds Requirement: No minimum odds for qualifying wagers
• Expiration: 90 days to complete playthrough requirements

While DraftKings offers a lower match percentage, the extended expiration period and absence of minimum odds requirements may appeal to more casual bettors.

Ongoing Promotions and Rewards Programs

The long-term value of each platform is significantly influenced by its recurring promotional offerings.

bet365's ongoing promotions include:

• Early Payout Offers: Automatic wins if your team leads by a specified margin
• Parlay Boosts: Enhanced odds on multi-selection bets
• Sport-Specific Offers: Regularly updated promotions tied to current events
• Refer-A-Friend: Bonuses for bringing new players to the platform
• Loyalty Structure: Personalized offers based on playing history

The early payout feature is particularly valuable, with NFL moneyline bets counting as wins once your team leads by 17+ points, regardless of final outcome.

Draftkings' promotional offers:

• Dynasty Rewards Program: Points-based system with multiple tier levels
• Odds Boosts: Daily enhanced odds on selected markets
• Free-to-Play Pools: Regular contests with cash prizes requiring no deposit
• Missions: Gamified challenges that award bonus funds or free bets
• Sport-Specific Insurance: Refunds on certain losing bets under specified conditions

The Dynasty Rewards Program provides ongoing value through five tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Black), with benefits including exclusive promotions, priority customer service, and dedicated VIP hosts at higher levels.

Best Promotions for New Users

Each platform offers distinct advantages for different types of new customers.

bet365's strongest new user benefits:

• Low Playthrough: More attainable wagering requirements than many competitors
• No Odds Restrictions: Flexible use of bonus funds across many markets
• Quick Credit: Bonus funds available immediately after deposit
• International Events: Strong promotions for soccer and tennis
• Early Payouts: Unique feature not widely available elsewhere

New users who enjoy betting on international sports or prefer a straightforward bonus structure may find bet365's offers more appealing.

Draftkings' top new customer advantages:

• Extended Usage Period: Longer timeframe to clear bonus requirements
• Free-to-Play Access: Immediate eligibility for no-deposit pools and contests
• Cross-Platform Integration: Combined rewards across sportsbook and DFS
• Frequent Boosts: Higher volume of daily odds enhancements
• Local Team Focus: Special promotions for Colorado teams

Draftkings may attract casual bettors who prefer smaller, more frequent promotional benefits rather than one large bonus.

bet365 vs. DraftKings: User Experience and Mobile Betting

The mobile experience has become how most bettors interact with sportsbooks. Here's how these platforms compare when it comes to app design, functionality, and the overall betting process.

Website and Mobile App Performance

Both sportsbooks offer polished mobile experiences with distinct design approaches. bet365's app maintains a 4.6-star Google Play rating with a minimalist green and gray interface that prioritizes functionality. Navigation is streamlined, with major betting options accessible within 1-2 taps. The bet slip is particularly intuitive, and live betting sections update with minimal lag.

Draftkings' app boasts a slightly higher 4.8-star rating with a more visually rich black and green design. The home screen prominently features promotions and popular bets, making it welcoming for newcomers. Its same-game parlay builder is exceptionally well-designed, using visual elements to simplify complex wager construction.

Both apps perform reliably during high-traffic events, though Draftkings occasionally edges out bet365 in responsiveness during peak betting periods like NFL Sundays.

Account Registration and Verification Process

The registration process for both sportsbooks follows similar steps but differs slightly in execution.

bet365's registration requires:

• Personal Information: Name, date of birth, email, phone number
• Address Verification: Proof of Colorado residence
• Identity Verification: Last four digits of SSN, with potential requests for photo ID
• Account Security: Password and security questions

The process typically takes 5-10 minutes, with verification usually completed within 24 hours. bet365 employs a straightforward approach that focuses on security and regulatory compliance.

DraftKings' registration includes:

• Basic Information: Name, email, username selection
• Personal Details: Address, phone number, date of birth
• Identity Verification: Last four digits of SSN
• Security Setup: Password creation and two-factor authentication option

DraftKings often completes verification quicker, sometimes instantly, allowing many users to begin betting immediately after registration. The platform also seamlessly integrates with existing Draftkings fantasy sports accounts, streamlining the process for users already in their ecosystem.

Both sportsbooks maintain strict responsible gaming policies, requiring age verification (21+ in Colorado) and offering tools to set deposit limits during the registration process.

Mobile App Features and User Experience

When comparing bet365 vs. DraftKings for their mobile features, both apps offer comprehensive betting experiences with some key distinctions. Here’s a closer look at bet365 vs DraftKings in this area. 

bet365's mobile app highlights:

• Live Streaming: Exceptional coverage of international events directly in the app
• Cash Out: Flexible full and partial cash-out options on most bets
• Bet Builder: Customizable tool for creating complex multi-part bets
• Edit Bet: Ability to modify active bets before and during games
• Early Payout: Automatic win if your team goes ahead by a specified margin

The app prioritizes betting functionality and information density, making it particularly strong for in-play betting where quick decisions are essential.

Draftkings' mobile app strengths:

• Stats Hub: Integrated sports statistics and analysis
• Social Features: Ability to create betting pools with friends
• Flash Bet: Specialized interface for rapid-fire live betting
• Game Tracker: Visual representation of live game action
• Rewards Integration: Visible progress toward rewards tiers

DraftKings emphasizes engagement and entertainment value alongside core betting functions, creating an immersive experience that extends beyond simple wagering.

How the Platforms Handle Bet Placement

The bet placement process reveals important distinctions in how these platforms approach the user journey.

bet365's bet placement flow:

1. Select your desired sport and market
2. Tap on the odds to add selections to your bet slip
3. Enter your stake amount
4. Review the potential payout
5. Confirm the wager

The platform excels with its quick bet feature for live markets, allowing users to place pre-set stake amounts with a single tap, which is especially valuable during fast-moving events like NHL or NBA games. bet365's offers straightforward options for straight bets, parlays, and player prop bets with clearly visible odds and potential payouts.

Draftkings' betting process:

1. Browse featured bets or navigate to specific sports
2. Select your preferred market
3. Tap odds to add to bet slip
4. Choose between standard bet, parlay, or teaser options
5. Enter stake and confirm

DraftKings distinguishes itself with an intuitive parlay builder that visually guides users through combining multiple selections. The platform also offers "sweat-free bets" promotions that provide bonus credits on certain markets regardless of the outcome. Player prop bets are particularly well-presented, with statistical context provided alongside available markets to help inform decisions.

DraftKings vs. bet365: Betting Markets and Options

The range and depth of betting markets can significantly impact your sports betting experience. Both sportsbooks offer extensive options, but their strengths lie in different areas that may appeal to various types of bettors. Below is a comparison of bet365 and DraftKings' sports coverage. 

Available Sports Leagues and Events

Both sportsbooks offer extensive coverage of major sports leagues, but their approaches to market depth vary significantly.

bet365's international roots show in its particularly deep soccer markets, offering bets on leagues from over 50 countries, from major competitions like the English Premier League to obscure regional divisions. Draftkings stands out with its investment in eSports markets and entertainment betting, offering unique opportunities beyond traditional sports.

Betting Types and Features

The variety of bet types available illustrates each platform's betting philosophy.

bet365 offers:

• Traditional Markets: Moneyline, spread, totals, and futures
• Props: Extensive player and team proposition bets
• Specials: Unique markets like first touchdown scorers and half-time results
• Multi-Sport Combinations: Ability to combine selections across different sports

bet365's prop betting markets are particularly impressive for soccer and tennis, offering hundreds of options for major matches.

Draftkings provides:

• Core Markets: All standard betting options with competitive odds
• Player Props: Detailed performance-based bets for individual athletes
• Same-Game Parlays: Enhanced tools for combining bets within a single event
• Flash Bets: Rapid-cycle markets for live betting during games

DraftKings excels with its same-game parlay functionality, which offers more combinations and better usability than most competitors.

Live Betting and Streaming

In-play betting represents an increasingly important segment of the sports betting experience, and both platforms have invested heavily in this area.

bet365's live betting environment features:

• Comprehensive Coverage: Live markets for virtually every sport they offer
• Premium Streaming: High-quality video for thousands of events annually
• Match Visualizers: Graphical representations for non-streamed events
• Instant Stats: Real-time performance data integrated with betting markets
• Quick Bet: One-tap wagering for fast-moving opportunities

The platform's streaming rights for international soccer, tennis, and basketball provide a significant advantage for bettors who want to watch and wager simultaneously.

Draftkings' live betting focuses on:

• Responsive Odds: Quickly adjusted lines reflecting game developments
• Live Stats: Detailed in-game statistics to inform betting decisions
• Game Trackers: Visual representations of play-by-play action
• Flash Bets: Micro-market options for individual drives or possessions
• Parlay Insurance: Protection on live same-game parlays under certain conditions

While Draftkings offers less extensive streaming than bet365, its innovative Flash Bet feature for NFL and NBA games provides a uniquely engaging live betting experience.

Coverage of College and Amateur Sports

College sports betting is extremely popular in Colorado, and both sportsbooks cater to this interest while respecting regulatory guidelines.

bet365 approaches college sports with:

• Major Programs: Extensive coverage of Power 5 conference teams
• Colorado Schools: Enhanced markets for Colorado, Colorado State, Air Force, and other local programs
• Tournament Focus: Expanded options during March Madness and bowl season
• Compliance-Minded: Careful adherence to state regulations on prop bets
• International Amateur: Coverage of youth competitions in sports like tennis and soccer

Draftkings' college sports offerings include:

• Conference Variety: Markets for all Division I conferences
• Local Enhancement: Boosted odds and specials for Colorado schools
• Tournament Brackets: Integrated bracket contests during March Madness
• Responsible Limits: Adherence to state-by-state regulations on college props
• Olympic Coverage: Comprehensive markets for amateur athletic competitions

Both platforms comply with Colorado regulations regarding college sports betting. These regulations permit wagering on college events but impose certain restrictions on proposition bets involving individual college athletes.

Availability of In-Game Betting Features

In-game betting capabilities reveal significant differences in how these platforms approach the live wagering experience.

bet365 provides:

• Market Depth: Typically 50+ live markets for major games
• Fast Updates: Odds refresh every 5-10 seconds in most cases
• Cash Out Flexibility: Partial cash out and auto cash out options
• Edit Bet: Ability to alter selections on in-play bets
• Early Payout: Automatic win if your team leads by a specified margin

The early payout feature is particularly valuable for NFL bettors. Bets on the money line automatically pay as wins if your team gains a 17-point advantage, regardless of the final outcome.

DraftKings offers:

• Visual Interface: Graphical representations of game situations
• Micro Markets: Bets on individual drives, innings, or possessions
• Odds Boosts: Frequent in-game enhanced odds opportunities
• Lightning Bets: Ultra-fast markets for basketball and football
• Parlay Integration: Ability to add live bets to existing parlays

Draftkings' micro-markets stand out for major Colorado team games, allowing bettors to wager on outcomes like the result of the current Broncos drive or the next Nuggets scoring play.

bet365 vs. DraftKings: Odds and Payouts

Finding the best value for your bets and getting quick access to your winnings are crucial factors when choosing a sportsbook. Let's examine bet365 vs. DraftKings to see how these platforms compare on odds competitiveness and the efficiency of their payout processes.

Comparing Competitive Odds

Odds comparison reveals subtle but important differences in the value offered by each sportsbook.

Analysis shows bet365 particularly excels with soccer and tennis odds, often offering 10-15 cents better lines than competitors on three-way markets. Draftkings frequently offers the best moneyline odds on Colorado home teams, particularly the Avalanche and Nuggets, making it attractive for local sports fans.

Payout Speed and Reliability

The efficiency of withdrawal processing is a critical factor for many bettors.

The platform maintains a reputation for consistency in processing times, rarely deviating from expected timeframes even during high-volume periods. Draftkings occasionally offers promotional "Fast Track" withdrawal periods where processing times are expedited for all users.

Factors Affecting Payout Times

Several variables can impact how quickly you receive your funds from either sportsbook.

For bet365, key factors include:

• Verification Status: First-time withdrawals require additional checks
• Payment Method: E-wallets are significantly faster than bank options
• Withdrawal Amount: Larger amounts may trigger additional security measures
• Account Standing: Regular players with established histories see faster processing
• Time of Request: Withdrawals initiated on weekdays process faster than weekend requests

Draftkings' payout timing is influenced by:

• Identity Verification: Complete verification speeds up all withdrawals
• Method Selection: Digital wallets process significantly faster
• Rewards Status: Higher-tier members receive priority processing
• Promotional Periods: Processing may slow during major sporting events
• Banking Hours: Traditional banking methods are subject to bank processing schedules

Both platforms may temporarily delay withdrawals if they detect unusual account activity or potential bonus abuse, though these situations are relatively rare for legitimate users.

Bet Settlement Policies

The policies governing when and how bets are settled affect when winnings become available.

bet365's platform is known for its efficiency in settling straightforward markets but takes a careful approach with complex props that might require statistical verification. 

Draftkings has received positive feedback for its handling of unusual settlement situations, such as when games are postponed mid-contest or when official scoring changes occur after initial settlement.

bet365 vs. DraftKings: Banking and Payments

The efficiency and security of financial transactions form a critical part of the sports betting experience. Colorado bettors need reliable methods to fund their accounts and access their winnings with minimal hassle.

Deposit and Withdrawal Options

Payment method availability impacts convenience and transaction speed.

The platform consistently processes over 99% of deposits instantly, with PayPal and Play+ being the most reliable methods. DraftKings' integration with Venmo provides an additional convenient option not available on bet365, particularly popular with younger bettors.

Transaction Fees and Limits

Understanding the financial parameters helps manage your bankroll effectively.

Both platforms allow users to set deposit limits as a responsible gambling measure, with options for daily, weekly, or monthly restrictions.

Online Banking and Payment Security

Security measures for financial transactions represent a critical component of the betting experience.

bet365 employs:

• SSL Encryption: Industry-standard 128-bit security
• Segregated Funds: Player balances kept separate from operational accounts
• Verification Steps: Multi-factor authentication for sensitive transactions
• PCI Compliance: Adherence to payment card industry security standards
• Transaction Monitoring: Automated systems to detect suspicious activity

Draftkings implements:

• Advanced Encryption: State-of-the-art security protocols
• Biometric Options: Fingerprint and facial recognition where supported by devices
• Session Management: Automatic timeouts and login verification
• Fraud Detection: AI-powered monitoring of transaction patterns
• Regulatory Compliance: Full adherence to state-specific security requirements

Both platforms maintain excellent security records, with no major reported breaches affecting Colorado users.

bet365 vs. DraftKings: Security and Licensing

Safety and legality are non-negotiable aspects of online sports betting. Let’s have a look at how these platforms protect your information and comply with state laws: 

Legal Sports Betting and Compliance

Regulatory adherence ensures a safe and legitimate betting environment.

bet365 operates in Colorado under:

• Licensing Authority: Colorado Division of Gaming
• Local Partnership: Century Casinos for market access
• Regulatory Oversight: Regular audits and compliance reviews
• Responsible Gambling Certification: Recognized by responsible gaming organizations
• Data Protection: Full compliance with privacy regulations

Draftkings' regulatory status includes:

• State License: Colorado Division of Gaming
• Market Entry: May 2020 as one of the first legal operators
• Compliance History: Strong record of regulatory adherence
• Audit Procedures: Regular independent verification of practices
• Responsible Gaming Partnership: Active collaboration with prevention organizations

Both operators maintain good standing with Colorado regulators, ensuring players can wager with confidence in their legal compliance.

Responsible Gambling Features

Tools to promote healthy betting behaviors are a crucial component of legitimate operations. Let’s look at DraftKings vs. bet365 for their responsible gaming features. 

Both platforms prominently display the 1-800-GAMBLER helpline and provide access to organizations like the Problem Gambling Coalition of Colorado.

User Verification and Fraud Prevention

Security measures protect both the platform and legitimate users.

bet365 implements:

• Identity Verification: Multi-point checks against public records
• Document Validation: Secure upload system for identification
• Location Tracking: Advanced geolocation to ensure Colorado residency
• Account Monitoring: Systems to detect irregular betting patterns

Draftkings employs:

• KYC Procedures: Comprehensive Know Your Customer protocols
• Automated Verification: Real-time validation against identification databases
• Manual Review: Secondary human verification when needed
• Geofencing: Precise location verification within state boundaries

Both platforms require location services to be enabled when using their mobile apps in Colorado, ensuring compliance with state-specific regulations.

bet365 vs. DraftKings: Customer Support

Even the best betting platforms occasionally require assistance with account issues, promotions, or technical problems. Here’s a bet365 vs. DraftKings comparison for their customer support. 

Support Channels and Comparison

Availability and quality of assistance contribute significantly to the overall user experience.

The platform's customer service representatives receive extensive training in both technical and betting-related topics, enabling them to resolve most issues without escalation. 

DraftKings has invested heavily in its self-service help resources, with particularly strong video walkthroughs for common procedures like deposits and bet placement.

User Reviews and Feedback

Customer experiences provide valuable insights into support quality.

bet365 feedback trends:

• Response Speed: Generally positive reviews for quick chat response
• Issue Resolution: High first-contact resolution rate
• Knowledge Base: Praised for comprehensive help articles

Common feedback suggests bet365 excels at handling complex betting rule questions and settlement disputes.

Draftkings' review patterns:

• Accessibility: Positive mentions of multiple support channels
• Agent Knowledge: Good ratings for representative expertise
• Promotional Clarity: Strong explanation of bonus terms

DraftKings receives particularly strong reviews for its handling of promotion-related questions and withdrawal assistance.

Availability of 24/7 Customer Support

Round-the-clock assistance availability differs between the platforms.

bet365 provides:

• Live Chat: 24/7 availability with typical response under 5 minutes
• Email: Continuous monitoring with prioritized response system
• Help Center: Available at all times

The platform's international presence enables true 24/7 support through its primary channels.

Draftkings' offers:

• Live Chat: 24/7 service with fluctuating wait times
• Email: Continuous processing with response time varying by volume
• Self-Help: Always accessible

Both platforms provide enhanced support during major sporting events, with additional representatives available during peak betting periods like NFL Sundays and major tournaments.

FAQ

Are bet365 and DraftKings legal in Colorado? 

Yes, both bet365 and DraftKings are fully licensed and legal in Colorado. They operate under licenses from the Colorado Division of Gaming, which ensures all betting activity is conducted legally and securely. The minimum age for betting on either platform in Colorado is 21 years, and you must be physically located within state lines to place real-money wagers.

DraftKings vs. bet365: Which platform has better odds for Colorado sports teams? 

Draftkings typically offers more competitive odds and special promotions for Colorado teams like the Broncos, Nuggets, Avalanche, Rockies, and Rapids. Their local focus makes them particularly attractive for fans who primarily bet on hometown teams. bet365 occasionally offers better underdog value, which can be advantageous when Colorado teams are not favored.

What deposit and withdrawal options are available on these platforms? 

Both sportsbooks offer multiple secure payment methods. They accept major credit/debit cards, PayPal, and online banking transfers. DraftKings uniquely offers Venmo as an option, while bet365 provides Skrill as an alternative e-wallet. Withdrawal times are comparable, with e-wallets like PayPal typically processing within 24-48 hours on both platforms.

Which Sportsbook is Right for Your Sports Betting Needs?

In the bet365 vs. DraftKings debate, the ideal choice depends on your betting habits, favorite sports, and what features matter most to your Colorado sports betting experience.

bet365 stands out for:

• International Sports Coverage: Unmatched depth in soccer, tennis, and global events
• Live Streaming: Superior in-app viewing options for a wide range of sports
• Early Payout Features: Unique automatic win conditions when your team leads by certain margins
• Straightforward Bonuses: Less complex playthrough requirements on promotions
• Comprehensive Live Betting: Expansive in-play markets with quick updates

Draftkings excels with:

• User-Friendly Interface: More intuitive design for newcomers to sports betting
• Colorado Team Focus: Strong promotions and odds for local franchises
• Same-Game Parlays: Superior tool for combining multiple bets within a single event
• Social Features: Opportunities to compete against friends in betting pools
• Rewards Program: More structured loyalty benefits for regular players

Final Recommendations Based on Betting Style

Your ideal platform ultimately depends on your specific betting preferences and habits.

Both platforms offer excellent experiences for sports bettors, with legitimate licensing, strong security measures, and comprehensive betting options. The final decision should align with your personal preferences and betting style. 

For Colorado residents who follow local teams closely, both platforms offer strong coverage of the Broncos, Nuggets, Avalanche, Rockies, and Rapids, with Draftkings often featuring more locally-targeted promotions and bet365 providing more extensive live streaming options for out-of-market games.

Ultimately, many experienced bettors maintain accounts on both platforms to compare odds, take advantage of different promotions, and access the widest possible range of betting markets. With both sportsbooks offering user-friendly mobile apps and strong security, Colorado sports fans have excellent options regardless of which platform they choose.

Disclaimer: These sites are for people 18+ only. Online gambling comes with many risks. Players should only gamble with money that they can afford to lose, and make sure they are behaving responsibly when visiting an online casino. Gambling laws and policies vary from region to region. Some sites mentioned in this review may not be accessible in your area depending on laws and restrictions. Always do your due diligence and check your local gambling policies before visiting any of these sites. It is always better to be safe than sorry.

If you suspect you’re becoming addicted to gambling, seek help immediately by contacting the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

For free online gambling addiction resources, visit these organizations:

• https://www.gamblersanonymous.org/
• https://www.ncpgambling.org/
• https://www.gamblingtherapy.org/