The short version
“If you're in the US and want regulated esports betting, DraftKings is a sensible choice — just don't expect a specialist's menu.”
Key facts
How we rate →Where it’s available: US states where DraftKings is licensed and esports betting is permitted (21+). Esports rules vary — some states restrict or ban esports wagering.
What we like
Watch out for
Score breakdown
The overall score is the weighted average of these five criteria. See the weights.
Bonus terms, in plain English
Welcome offer: Sportsbook welcome offer applies (e.g. bet $5, get $150)
For US bettors, the safest way to bet on esports is through a state-licensed sportsbook — and DraftKings, available in more states than any rival, is one of the best options.[1] Brand review: DraftKings Sportsbook.
Coverage
DraftKings lists major CS2, League of Legends and Dota 2 events, mostly match winners and some map markets. Coverage is much thinner than at international esports books, and varies by state.
Alternatives in the US
If your state doesn't allow esports betting, federally regulated prediction markets offer esports contracts — see esports prediction markets.
Payments
PayPal, Venmo, debit, online banking, Play+. Withdraw to the same method you deposited with where you can; first withdrawals may wait for ID checks.
How to sign up at DraftKings
- Download the DraftKings Sportsbook app in a state where it's licensed.
- Register (21+, with the last four digits of your SSN) and allow location access.
- Deposit by PayPal, Venmo, debit card or online banking.
- Find esports in the sports menu — it only shows events your state allows.
- Set deposit limits before your first bet.
DraftKings vs the alternatives
| Site | Score | Welcome offer | Licence | Payments | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | 8.2 | Sportsbook welcome offer applies (e.g. bet $5, get $150) | US state regulators | PayPal, Venmo, debit, online banking, Play+ | Legal US esports |
| Polymarket US | 8.1 | US app: deposit $10, get $20–$50 trading credit via partner codes (reported) | CFTC (US app) | Bank transfer (ACH), card, Apple Pay | Trading esports outcomes |
| bet365 | 8.9 | US: bet $10, get $200 in bonus bets (most states; $150 in IL, TN, WV) | UKGC, MGA, AGCO, US states | Cards, PayPal, bank transfer, e-wallets | Live betting and streams |
Full ranking: best esports betting sites.
DraftKings Esports: our verdict
Regulated, safe and easy — but limited. Compare in best esports betting sites and read is esports betting legal?.
Not convinced? Compare it with bet365 Esports, Betway Esports and Unibet Esports, or see our full ranking of the best online esports sites.
DraftKings Esports FAQ
Can I bet on esports on DraftKings?
Yes, in states where DraftKings is licensed and esports wagering is permitted. The selection is mainly major CS2, LoL and Dota 2 events.
Which US states allow esports betting?
It varies. Several states allow it with restrictions; a few prohibit it. See our guide to whether esports betting is legal.
How we checked this review
Checked as of : the licence or regulatory status on the regulator’s own register, the operator’s published terms, fees and availability, and the reports listed under Sources. We did not make test deposits or withdrawals for this review, so payout times are the operator’s stated times, cross-checked against player reports. Our method.
Sources
- State of play: legal gaming by state — American Gaming Association ↩
