If you want to make sports picks in the United States, you have two main options: social sportsbooks and real sportsbooks. Both are similar in some ways, but there are also notable differences. We’ll explain it all in this post as we compare social vs real sportsbooks.
Operational Model
The most apparent difference between social and real sportsbooks is their primary mode of operation. At social sportsbooks, the aim is not just fun, but also the thrill of competition. You can make sports picks and challenge your friends to determine who is better at making predictions. However, you wager to win money from your predictions at real online sportsbooks. Hence, the goal is profit and not just entertainment.
Currencies Supported
When you sign up with a social sportsbook, you make predictions using virtual coins. These are usually Gold Coins (GC) and Sweeps Coins (SC) — similar to sweepstakes casinos. However, real sportsbooks use actual currencies like the USD if you’re in the USA. You can’t bet if you don’t deposit funds in your account.
Payment Processes
The payment methods at real and social sportsbooks are pretty similar. You’ll find options like bank cards, eWallets, and transfers. Although there are options to buy coins at sweepstakes sportsbooks, they’re entirely optional. You can always get free virtual coins from bonus offers, which are usually available daily.
Furthermore, social sportsbooks don’t process withdrawals like their real alternatives. You can only exchange your Sweeps Coins for prizes after meeting specific requirements. Meanwhile, you can withdraw cash to your bank account or other options at real casinos when you win bets.
Sports Markets
Real money and social sportsbooks are very similar in this aspect. On both sites, you’ll find all popular sports in the United States — basketball, football, baseball, soccer, tennis, and more. Likewise, the markets are similar, including money line, spread, totals, winner, and many others.
Based on our expertise, the only difference is that real sportsbooks usually have more comprehensive coverage for sports categories and markets. This is understandable since the sites serve far more players. It’s similar to how conventional gaming sites feature thousands of games while sweepstakes casinos offer only hundreds.
Legality in the USA
Social sportsbooks also differ from their real counterparts in terms of legality. In the US, real-money online sportsbooks are available in only a few states. Additionally, the sites allowed to operate are relatively limited. In contrast, social sportsbooks are widely available in the United States.
Since the platforms primarily focus on fun using free coins, social sportsbooks are not considered gaming sites per US online gaming laws. The platforms remain legal and available in almost all states so long as no payment is necessary to make sports picks and predictions.
Bottom Line
If you’re in the USA, you can choose between real and social sportsbooks, depending on which ones are available in your location. That said, the latter is your sole option if you’re after fun and entertainment. Ensure you sign up with the best platforms for an optimal experience.
Also Read: The Business of Sports Betting: Economic Impact and Revenue Streams in Canada
