Fanatics Sportsbook Review - Up to $200 in FanCash

Fanatics Sportsbook at a Glance

Quickly climbing the ranks of the US sportsbook industry, Fanatics was previously known for being a titan of the merchandise market. It launched its sportsbook in January 2023, capitalizing on its longstanding relationships and experience in the sports industry. In fact, it was the first operator located inside an NFL stadium, at FedExField, through a partnership with the Washington Commanders. 

Fanatics Sportsbook is currently available in 10 states. After failing to be granted a license in New York, the company decided to purchase PointsBet for immediate market access to certain states. Fanatics acquired PointsBet in October 2023 and the acquisition is still ongoing. As soon as that is done, we can expect the platform to become available in additional states.

There’s a lot that I like about Fanatics, including its impressive variety of markets and some really fun and unique features, which I'm going to get into. There’s some room for improvement too, which I'll cover too. 

Fanatics Sportsbook User Experience ⭐3.5/5

Fanatics gets a 3.5/5 from me in this section. Right off the bat, it lost points because there is no way to access the platform from a desktop or laptop at the moment. If you wish to use Fanatics, you have to download the app from the App Store or Google Play Store. I found this to be quite restrictive, as, although mobile betting is taking over, many users still prefer to bet on sportsbooks through their browser. Perhaps this is set to change in the future, especially considering the acquisition of PointsBet. 

With that being said, FanDuel’s app itself is fantastic, with a well-thought-out and intuitive interface. It is a breeze to explore the various betting markets, select events, and seamlessly place bets. Visually, the sportsbook has a modern and sophisticated feel with crisp graphics. This sleek design is the icing on the cake, really enhancing the overall experience. I had a lot of fun playing with this app. 

It has a few unique features, too. For example, Fanatics excels when it comes to user customization, as algorithms are used to personalize your homepage with marquee games, trending bets, promos, and rewards. Similar to social media, this page is curated for you to find interesting offers. Essentially, the platform learns from your betting activity, so the more you engage with it, the more finely tuned it becomes to your preferences. This really improves the overall experience, the more you use it. 

Next to the homepage button is ‘Schedule’, where you can easily look at upcoming games and events. For certain sports, there are streaming and tracking options so you are always aware of the latest developments. 

Under the ‘My Bets’ section, you can review your open and settled bets. Winning bets are labeled in green, while losing ones are in red. The advanced search feature is particularly useful, where bettors can search by league, team, event, and even player. This eliminates the hassle of scouring through multiple menus and categories.

The app has a rating of 4.7/5 on the App Store, indicating that iOS users are quite satisfied with the app. However, the story is a bit different on Android, where the rating is much lower at 3.7/5. This is due to some Android users reporting issues with the app frequently crashing. I tried it out on both, and the performance was consistent in my experience. Still, it’s one to keep an eye on. 

Fanatics Sportsbook Features ⭐4/5

Fanatics gets a 4/5 regarding its features. I have to say that I'm impressed by the variety of markets, availability of live betting, streaming, and early cash-out. The withdrawal tracker is something different that definitely makes you feel seen and cared for by the customer. We have to shout out FanCash and the interplay between Fanatics merchandising business and the sportsbook too, which we cover in the promotions section.

There is some room for improvement, though: apart from the withdrawal tracker, most of the features at Fanatics are available elsewhere, so it would be nice to see them come up with something really unique to stand out.

Sports & Betting Markets

On Fanatics, you can find a huge variety of options when it comes to sports and betting markets. Whether you are looking for top leagues or niche sports, the platform has something for everyone. 

Sports Markets:

• Aussie Rules (AFL)

• Baseball (MLB, NPB, KBO)

• Basketball (NBA, NCAA, EuroLeague, EuroBasket)

• Boxing (Major Events)

• Cricket (World Cup, International)

• Cycling (International)

• Darts (Modus Super Series)

• Football (NFL, NCAAF, CFL)

• Golf (PGA)

• Hockey (NFL, International)

• MMA (UFC)

• Motorsports (Formula One, NASCAR)

• Soccer (MLS, Bundesliga, Champions League, Premier League, La Liga, Liga 1, Serie A)

• Table Tennis (International)

• Tennis (ATP, Challenger, WTA)

• Volleyball (Major Events)

Betting Markets:

• Moneyline

• Point Spread

• Totals

• Props

• Parlays

• Futures

Live Betting & Streaming

On the Fanatics app, bettors can wager on games in the heat of the action through live betting. It is an immersive way to bet, where the odds are adjusted according to what is happening in the game. On top of this, you can even watch live streams of games on your phone. You can seamlessly toggle on the platform to place bets while making informed decisions and analyzing the game.

Early Cash-Out

Early cash-outs allow you to settle your bet before an event has finished. Fanatics offers this feature so that bettors have the opportunity to stay ahead of the game’s twists and turns. Basically, you have the opportunity to lock in a profit to reduce potential losses, and it’s a great addition to in-play betting. 

Withdrawal Tracker

Fanatics has a nifty withdrawal tracker on its app, which I have not seen before. Think of it like tracking your pizza delivery, but for cashing out. It shows you each step of the withdrawal process, so that you can know exactly when your winnings will be in your account. It’s a real “customer-first” touch that improves the overall user experience.

Casino

Fanatics Casino is exclusively available in West Virginia as of Nov. 15, 2023. On the platform, players can bet on classic casino games such as slots, blackjack, roulette, and live dealer titles. It is a new addition to the betting realm and is expected to roll out in other states where online casinos have been legalized.

Fanatics Sportsbook Promotions ⭐4.5/5

Here, I’m giving Fanatics a 4.5/5. If you are looking for a generous welcome offer, you will be glad to hear that Fanatics Sportsbook has a really good deal for new users. After claiming Fanatics generous welcome offer, users can explore a whole host of regular bonuses that change according to events. Fanatics also has the unique advantage of utilizing its merchandise company within its sportsbook's rewards programme. 

Welcome Bonus 

New bettors are welcomed to Fanatics with an offer of up to $200 in FanCash, which can be used on all sports at any odds. This bonus is split into $40 increments across five days. It is quite a lengthy process to claim the full offer, which makes it a little more inconvenient than other welcome bonuses in the industry. 

After registration, you are eligible for $40 in FanCash each day when you make a bet of $10 or more. It does not matter if this bet is successful or not. The offer is only available for the first five days after signing up, so you have to remember to log in and make the qualifying bet each day for the maximum amount of $200, which will cost you $50 in total. Bettors will receive their FanCash bonus within 72 hours of making their bet. 

Other Promotions 

After the welcome bonus, bettors are treated to a healthy selection of other bonuses. It is always worth looking at the promotion pages, as offers are updated according to the season and popular events, from parlay boosts to moneyback specials. 

Refer A Friend

After referring a friend, both you and your friend can receive $50 in FanCash each. Your friend has to use your unique referral link, download the app, and make a minimum deposit and wager of $10. 

Odds Boost

An odds boost increases the potential payout for a specific bet or market. They are often for a limited time on popular events, so it is worth regularly checking the homepage or promotions section to see which markets have been boosted. 

FanCash Rewards Program

FanCash was introduced as a loyalty scheme for their merchandise lines, and it has now expanded to include their sportsbook. FanCash can be redeemed for bonus bets on the sportsbook or can be used as credits for merchandise.  Bettors are eligible to receive a percentage of their wagers back in FanCash:

• 1% FanCash on a straight bet.

• 3% FanCash on a parlay.

• 5% FanCash on a same-game parlay.

The minimum requirement for redeeming bonus bets is only $0.10, which is significantly lower than other sportsbooks, where it is typically $1 or $5 for loyalty points. After they are received, bonus bets have to be used within 90 days. If real world rewards are your thing, the loyalty scheme does have a long way to go before it is competing with that of BetMGM or Caesars Sportsbooks, but it is off to a good start. And if you’re a regular customer of Fanatics merchandise, it’s truly excellent. 

Fanatics Sportsbook Deposits & Withdrawals ⭐3.5/5

Fanatics receives a 3.5/5 for payment options, as I think that there could be a bigger variety of options in some states, and there are a couple of popular methods missing. Deposit and withdrawal methods actually vary quite a lot depending on the state that you are in. In some states, you can use payment options such as PayPal or Venmo. 

Credit cards, Visa gift cards and Play+ are not accepted in any state.

Below are the options that you will find in Colorado, for instance.

Deposit Methods:

• Debit Cards

• Apple Pay

• Bank Transfer / ACH

• Wire Transfer

• PayPal 

• Venmo

Withdrawal Methods:

• Debit Cards

• Bank Transfer / ACH

• Wire Transfer

• PayPal 

• Venmo

• Check via mail

I have to praise the fact that the minimum deposit is set at $5, considering that the industry standard is $10. The minimum withdrawal for bank transfers is $1, and it is $10 for bank checks. Wire transfers differ slightly, as they have high rollers who make large transactions. As such, there is a minimum deposit of $5,000 and a minimum withdrawal of $10,000. Generally, the limits are very user friendly.

Payout Speed

Deposits are processed instantly. Withdrawal times vary depending on your chosen method. For example, bank transfers can take 2-3 banking days, while bank checks can take 7–10 days. If you are in a state that accepts Venmo and PayPal, then you can even enjoy withdrawals within 24 hours.

Fanatics Sportsbook Customer Support ⭐5/5

Fanatics receives a 5/5 for customer support, as I found them to be helpful and quick to answer any queries. If you are looking for a sportsbook with excellent customer support and a phone support option, you should definitely consider Fanatics Sportsbook. Not only are they quick and helpful, but you also have plenty of ways to get in touch, which always impresses me. Before contacting support, you can consult the help center, where you can find pre-written guides.

Here are the support options:

• Email [email protected]

• Call (855) 438-9701

• Live chat

• Twitter @fanaticssupport

At the bottom of the app page, you can find a link to the live chat. It is the quickest and easiest way to get in touch with an agent, as it operates 24/7. Emailing, for example, can take over 48 hours. However, the live chat can only be accessed after making an account. Therefore, if you have any questions before signing up or you get locked out of your account, then you will have to resort to the other options.

Where is Fanatics Legal?

Currently, Fanatics is legal and operating in 10 states. This number is expected to grow with the sportsbook expected to launch soon in Michigan, New York, and Pennsylvania, after the acquisition of PointsBet.

How to Get Started at Fanatics

It is straightforward to make an account at Fanatics, similar to the registration process on other betting sites. It is important to note that Fanatics is exclusively available through an iOS or Android app.

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to join Fanatics:

1. Download the app. Fanatics is only available through the app. Therefore you must download it from the App Store or Google Play Store. If you load the site on your desktop, then you can scan the QR code  that will take you to the download page on your phone.

2. Fill in your account information. New bettors signing up will have to provide certain information, such as their full name, address, date of birth, and state of residence. You will also be asked to create a password.

3. Verify your identity. You will then be asked to input the last four digits of your SSN, which is required by state gambling regulators to verify your identity and for tax reasons.

4. Agree to the terms of service. Finally, you will be required to check a few boxes, confirming that you agree to the terms of service and are over the required age.

After the registration is done, you can explore the betting markets to make your first bet and claim your welcome bonus.

Fanatics Sportsbook Final Verdict

If you are looking for a sleek and modern sportsbook app, then Fanatics is definitely an option to consider. It is a drawback for some that the platform can only be accessed through the app, but as Fanatics continues to grow, they may change this in the future. 

I found the app to be user-friendly, and navigating through all the sections and features was seamless. The layout is intuitive, the visuals are crisp, and it makes for a very enjoyable experience. Although not a trailblazer in the betting industry, it is a solid option. The only issue to be found is the crashing of the app on Android devices, which some users reported, but I didn't encounter during testing. 

In terms of features, Fanatics has the standard options like live betting and streaming, but with some nice extra touches like early cash-out. I have to praise the withdrawal tracker, as it is a unique feature that genuinely adds value. I am also impressed by the variety of sports, leagues, and betting markets available. 

The bonuses are good but fairly run of the mill, while the loyalty scheme is interesting but probably just behind those of the leading competitors. The overlap between the merchandising business and the sportsbook will definitely appeal a lot to some users and less so to others. 

I would like to see a couple of tweaks to the variety of payment methods as well. However, Fanatics does excel when it comes to customer service, and I have to praise the number of support options. I found the team to be extremely helpful and responsive to any questions. Furthermore, Fanatics clearly wants to foster a responsible and safe gaming environment with plenty of resources available, which always gets a big tick from me. 

Fanatic’s sportsbook app is a great choice for bettors, especially anyone heavily mobile-focused. There is some room for improvement, as I've mentioned, and Fanatics is still a young platform. I’m excited to see where it goes.

How We Rate Sportsbooks

Our rating process is simple: It’s always based on firsthand experience, signing up and actively engaging in betting on each platform. We take on the perspective of the user, putting ourselves in your shoes, to evaluate the sportsbook and provide informed insights.

Our experts are required to commit a minimum of 2 hours to each of the following areas:

1. User Experience - We go through the sign up process, before immersing ourselves in the sportsbook. We pay close attention to usability and ease of navigation, while also looking at overall aesthetics. We know that a well-designed sportsbook is fundamental for an enjoyable experience. 

2. Features - We explore the depth and variety of sports and betting markets. Additionally, we take note if there are any standout features such as cash-out, live betting and streaming, DFS, and picking services. The Withdrawal Tracker really caught our eye, with Fanatics.

3. Promotions - We opt-in to any available bonuses, like the welcome offer, to see if it is worth your time. We also assess how rewarding the loyalty scheme is and the availability of bonuses for existing users. We call out any hidden terms and conditions.

4. Payment Methods - We deposit and withdraw funds to thoroughly understand the payment process, looking at the speed, limits, or any fees. We praise platforms that have a variety of options whether e-wallets, bank transfers, or credit/debit cards.

5. Customer Support - We personally contact all available customer support options, whether using the live chat, calling the phone number, or sending emails. By doing this, we can relay how helpful, fast, and responsive they are to any queries.

6. Responsible Gambling - We value sportsbooks that prioritize responsible gambling, putting it at the forefront of their platform. This can include helpful guides and links, in addition to specific tools like deposit/wager limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion. 

After this, our team of post-publication editors is tasked with dedicating 5 hours per month to ensuring that these reviews are up-to-date according to any changes on the platform.

Why You Should Trust Us

At WSN, we are committed to being a trustworthy and dependable source of information for you. We thoroughly explore and engage with each platform so that we have authentic opinions about their performance. This hands-on approach is the cornerstone of our process.

Our team has extensive knowledge of the sports betting industry from years of active involvement and learning. We have been a part of this industry since the start, so we know exactly how it works. Our experience is a testament to our authority in the field. We know exactly what makes a great sportsbook.

Using a combination of our expertise and hands-on process, we form our reviews with the goal of helping you. At the end of the day, we want to help you make informed betting decisions. 

Fanatics Compared to Similar Sportsbooks

Responsible Gambling

At WSN, we are committed to advocating for the practice of gambling responsibly. Although we are passionate about sports betting, we are mindful of the potential risks associated with it. It is important to emphasize that gambling should be seen as a form of entertainment and not a means of making income. We want to make clear the importance of seeking support if you, or someone you know, is struggling with problem gambling. Here are a few helpful resources:

• The National Council on Problem Gambling has several guides and articles for those who are looking for help.

• If you are looking to speak to someone directly, you can call 1-800-GAMBLER or text 800GAM.

• Each state has its own regulatory authority, which will have state-funded and state-backed organizations that can provide help through hotlines, guides, or support groups.