Best Prediction Market Sites for Sports in the US

Greg Kajewski
1 day ago
11 min read

Looking for the best platforms to bet on sports in the US? Here’s a quick summary of the top prediction market sites, their features, and how they compare:

BettorEdge: A peer-to-peer platform where users trade bets directly with one another. Offers no house edge, low fees, and social features like groups and leaderboards.
Kalshi: A regulated exchange focusing on event-based contracts, including sports outcomes. Fees are higher (2-6% on winnings), but it’s CFTC-regulated for added legal protection.
Polymarket: A decentralized platform using cryptocurrency (USDC) for trades. Known for transparency via blockchain, but it’s still working toward a US relaunch.
Crypto.com: Combines cryptocurrency and USD betting with event contracts in select states. Features include leaderboards and community challenges.
ProphetX: A betting exchange allowing users to back or lay bets directly. Offers dynamic odds based on user demand and transparent pricing.
NoVig: Focuses on zero-commission betting, giving users full control over odds and trades without traditional bookmaker margins.

Quick Takeaway: BettorEdge stands out for peer-to-peer betting with low fees and a strong community vibe. Kalshi is ideal for those prioritizing regulation, while Polymarket appeals to blockchain enthusiasts. Each platform has its strengths depending on your priorities.

Platform	Model	Fees	Currency	Social Features	Regulatory Status
BettorEdge	Peer-to-peer	Minimal/none	USD	Strong	Varies by State
Kalshi	Centralized	2-6%	USD	Moderate	CFTC-regulated
Polymarket	Decentralized	0% but gas fees	USDC	Limited	Pending relaunch
Crypto.com	Hybrid	Standard betting fees	USD/Crypto	Limited	State-regulated
ProphetX	Betting exchange	Standard betting fees	USD/Crypto	Limited	Varies by state
NoVig	Peer-to-peer	Zero/low commission	USD	Minimal	Varies by state

Each platform offers something different - whether it’s low fees, regulatory compliance, or blockchain technology. Choose based on what matters most to you.

Inside Prediction Markets: What the Pros Know (and You Don’t)

1. BettorEdge

BettorEdge is changing the game for U.S. sports betting with its peer-to-peer exchange model. Instead of betting against a traditional sportsbook, users bet directly with each other, creating a marketplace where the community sets the odds. With over $50 million in bets already processed, it's clear that this approach resonates with sports fans looking for more control and transparency in their betting experience.

Betting Model

What makes BettorEdge stand out is its peer-to-peer structure, which eliminates the traditional "house" advantage. This allows users to set their own odds and bet against others on major U.S. sports like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and college games.

The platform uses U.S. dollars for all transactions, making it simple and accessible for American users - no need to navigate cryptocurrency or foreign exchange. Instead of profiting from the outcomes of bets, BettorEdge charges small transaction fees, ensuring users keep a larger share of their winnings compared to traditional sportsbooks. This setup promotes transparency and ensures pricing reflects real market dynamics.

Transparency & Pricing

With community-driven pricing, BettorEdge empowers users to make smarter, more strategic bets. Odds are shaped by real market sentiment, and users can track market activity in real time. Bets are settled automatically using official sports data, leaving no room for disputes.

To help users up their game, the platform offers advanced analytics tools. These tools let bettors analyze their performance by league, bet type, or time frame, helping them pinpoint strengths and refine their strategies.

Community Features

BettorEdge isn’t just about betting - it’s about building a community. Features like public bet feeds, user profiles, and leaderboards encourage social interaction. Users can follow successful bettors, join groups focused on specific teams or sports, and discuss upcoming games. The platform also supports group betting and social sharing, making it easy to connect with like-minded fans.

For those who want a more personalized experience, custom groups act like private chat rooms with their own leaderboards and feeds. These groups are perfect for office pools, fan clubs, or any tight-knit community. BettorEdge also allows users to challenge friends directly, with tracked win/loss records to keep things competitive and fun.

Regulatory Compliance

As a social betting platform, BettorEdge has structured its operations to meet U.S. regulatory standards. Since the platform is peer to peer and doesn’t take risk against you, it meets state and federal laws. It also implements age verification and responsible gambling measures, ensuring a safe and compliant environment for users in approved jurisdictions.

BettorEdge prioritizes fairness and security, with dedicated customer support, clear dispute resolution processes, and secure handling of user funds. This commitment to compliance and user trust is a cornerstone of its success.

2. Kalshi

Kalshi is an online platform where users can trade predictions on real-world events, including sports outcomes. Instead of traditional betting, Kalshi operates by allowing users to trade contracts tied to specific event results.

How It Works

The platform uses a contract-based system. For sports events, users can trade on outcomes by selecting either 'Yes' or 'No' contracts. These contracts operate on a straightforward binary model, and all transactions are conducted in U.S. dollars.

Pricing and Market Dynamics

Contract prices are determined by market supply and demand, offering a real-time snapshot of collective sentiment. This dynamic pricing model provides users with valuable insights into how others view an event's likelihood. While the platform's fee structure hasn't been disclosed, the transparent pricing mechanism helps users make informed decisions.

3. Polymarket

Polymarket is a decentralized prediction platform that allows users to trade predictions on a variety of events, including sports, using cryptocurrency for transactions. Built on blockchain technology, it emphasizes transparency and offers a different approach to prediction markets. Its decentralized nature aligns with the growing trend of community-driven betting, providing a new way to set and trade odds.

However, specific details about Polymarket's betting structure and fees are not readily available. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, check out Polymarket directly.

4. Crypto.com

Crypto.com has made a bold move into the U.S. sports prediction market by introducing sports event contracts in 16 states. This expansion is made possible through a partnership with Underdog Sports, showcasing how crypto platforms are stepping into regulated prediction markets and diversifying their offerings.

Betting Model

The platform operates as a centralized exchange, allowing users to place bets against pooled liquidity. Bets can be made using either cryptocurrency or U.S. dollars, with odds and payouts clearly displayed. The event contracts offered by Crypto.com resemble traditional prediction markets, and all pricing is shown in USD to align with local preferences.

Transparency & Pricing

Crypto.com emphasizes upfront transparency by displaying odds and potential payouts clearly. While fees and commissions are disclosed, the exact fee structures for sports event contracts may differ from those on its standard exchange. However, the underlying pricing algorithms remain proprietary. This transparent approach helps set the foundation for user trust and community engagement.

Community Features

To boost user involvement, Crypto.com offers features like leaderboards and social sharing, spotlighting top performers. The platform also organizes community challenges and tournaments, which foster recognition and friendly competition among users. However, these features focus on building a sense of community rather than enabling direct peer-to-peer interaction.

Regulatory Compliance

Crypto.com adheres to U.S. regulations by working with licensed entities and meeting state-specific requirements for online betting and event contracts. Users must complete Know Your Customer (KYC) verification, and access is restricted in states where such activities are not allowed. The partnership with Underdog Sports enables Crypto.com to legally operate in 16 states, reflecting its commitment to regulatory standards. Additionally, research shows Crypto.com enjoys higher public awareness compared to niche prediction market platforms, giving it an edge in attracting a broader audience.

5. ProphetX

ProphetX is a peer-to-peer sports prediction exchange that lets users trade bets directly with one another. By cutting out traditional bookmakers, it offers bettors more control over their wagers and often better odds.

Betting Model

ProphetX operates as a betting exchange, where users can either back or lay bets directly. This setup allows for dynamic trading during live events, giving users the chance to lock in profits or minimize losses before the final outcome is decided. Unlike traditional platforms, where odds are dictated by algorithms, the exchange model ensures that odds shift based on actual user demand, creating a more fluid and responsive pricing system.

Transparency & Pricing

The platform emphasizes transparency by showing real-time market movements, allowing users to see how odds are formed and set their own prices for bets. ProphetX also provides upfront potential payout details, with all pricing displayed in USD for ease of use for American bettors. Additionally, market depth information helps users gauge liquidity, enabling them to make smarter betting decisions. This straightforward pricing structure is complemented by the platform's community-driven features.

Community Features

ProphetX takes user engagement to the next level with features like groups, leaderboards, and competitions. These tools encourage friendly competition and allow users to share strategies, making the platform more than just a betting exchange - it's a social hub for sports enthusiasts.

Regulatory Compliance

Operating in the U.S., ProphetX must navigate a patchwork of gambling laws and federal regulations. While it is not currently regulated by the CFTC, the platform enforces strict compliance measures, including KYC verification with government-issued ID and proof of address, to meet anti-money laundering (AML) standards. Access is restricted in states where prediction markets are prohibited. These efforts aim to protect users and maintain the platform's integrity.

6. NoVig

NoVig takes a different approach to sports betting by eliminating the bookmaker's margin and offering zero-commission betting. This means users can hold onto more of their winnings while trading directly with other bettors, creating a betting experience that's more user-driven.

Betting Model

At its core, NoVig operates as a betting exchange. Instead of relying on traditional bookmakers, users set their own odds and trade directly with one another. Bettors can propose custom odds and wait for others to accept them. The platform allows users to either "back" (bet on an outcome) or "lay" (bet against it), turning the experience into a marketplace where you're wagering with peers rather than against a bookmaker.

Transparency & Pricing

One of NoVig's standout features is its zero-commission structure, which can lead to better odds and higher potential returns for users. Unlike traditional sportsbooks that build a margin into each bet, NoVig's model ensures that users get the full value of their wagers. All transactions are conducted in U.S. dollars, with clear breakdowns of any minimal transaction costs. Real-time market data lets users see available odds and bet offers, helping them compare prices and secure the best deals. Automated settlements are straightforward and fully transparent, ensuring bets are resolved clearly and fairly.

Community Features

NoVig goes beyond just offering better pricing - it also fosters a sense of community among its users. Public bet boards display active markets and proposals from other bettors, making it easy to see what's available. The platform also includes user profiles, discussion spaces, and social sharing tools, allowing users to track their betting history, build a reputation, and share strategies with others.

Regulatory Compliance

Operating within the United States, NoVig prioritizes regulatory compliance while maintaining its user-focused benefits. The platform adheres to strict Know Your Customer (KYC) and age verification protocols, ensuring a safe and secure environment. It also complies with anti–money laundering standards by requiring document verification. For responsible gambling, NoVig offers features like deposit limits and self-exclusion options. Access to the platform is restricted in states where peer-to-peer betting exchanges are not permitted, ensuring full compliance with local laws.

Platform Comparison: Pros and Cons

Each prediction market platform takes a different angle on sports betting, catering to varied user needs. Whether you prioritize regulatory protection, social features, or the ability to customize odds, understanding these differences can help you choose the right fit.

Betting Models and User Experience

BettorEdge uses a peer-to-peer model, allowing you to negotiate directly with other bettors instead of dealing with a house edge. Kalshi, on the other hand, operates as a centralized exchange, matching buyers and sellers under institutional oversight. This setup offers structure and liquidity but limits you to predefined market options. Polymarket leans into blockchain technology, offering decentralized trading with public transaction records for transparency. However, its reliance on cryptocurrency, particularly USDC, can be tricky for users unfamiliar with blockchain systems.

Fee Structures and Profitability

Fees can significantly impact your earnings. Kalshi charges a 2-3% fee. Currently, Polymarket takes a 0% in fees, but be careful of blockchain gas fees, which can add up, especially for smaller bets. BettorEdge, however, keeps costs low with minimal or no fees for head-to-head transactions, letting you keep more of your winnings. These differences in fee structures can shape how profitable each platform feels to users.

Regulatory Compliance and Safety

Regulation is another critical factor. Kalshi is regulated by the CFTC, providing strong legal protection for U.S. users but limiting market creation to officially approved event contracts. BettorEdge operates under state-level compliance, focusing on legal peer-to-peer betting in states where it’s allowed. Polymarket has faced past regulatory hurdles but is now working toward compliance by acquiring a CFTC-regulated entity. However, its U.S. relaunch, as of October 2025, is still pending, leaving some uncertainty for American users.

Platforms vary in how they engage users beyond betting. BettorEdge prioritizes community interaction with features like social feeds, public bet sharing, custom market creation, groups, and leaderboards. Kalshi and Polymarket offer moderate community options, such as market creation and discussion forums, but their main focus is trading. Other platforms like Crypto.com, ProphetX, and NoVig keep things more transactional, with limited social elements.

Market Volume and Liquidity

Trading volume matters when it comes to placing bets at favorable odds. Kalshi and Polymarket dominate the U.S. prediction market, with a combined trading volume nearing $1.5 billion as of September 2025. Kalshi alone accounts for about 60% of the market share. During NFL Week 1, Kalshi saw hundreds of millions in trading activity, while Polymarket recorded over $32 million in game outcome trades. BettorEdge, while smaller, focuses on U.S. sports markets. Its growing user base may offer better odds for popular events, though niche bets can sometimes face liquidity challenges.

Platform	Betting Model	Fees	Community Features	Currency
BettorEdge	Peer-to-peer	Minimal/none	Strong social features	USD
Kalshi	Centralized exchange	2-4% on winnings	Moderate forums	USD
Polymarket	Decentralized blockchain	0% - but gas fees	Limited forums	USDC
Crypto.com	Hybrid/institutional	Standard betting fees	Limited	USD/Crypto
ProphetX	Hybrid/institutional	Standard betting fees	Limited	USD/Crypto
NoVig	Peer-to-peer exchange	Zero/low commission	Minimal	USD

Transparency and Market Data

Transparency also varies across platforms. BettorEdge openly displays all odds, fees, and market activity, as users interact directly with one another. Polymarket publishes every trade and market detail on the blockchain, ensuring visibility, though interpreting on-chain records can be daunting for some users. Kalshi, as a CFTC-regulated exchange, discloses fees and settlement rules, though its fee structure can feel complicated to navigate. Other platforms provide clear fee schedules but often lack detailed explanations of how odds are determined.

Ultimately, the platform you choose will depend on what matters most to you. Kalshi offers strong legal protections through its CFTC regulation. BettorEdge shines for those seeking a social, community-driven experience. And if blockchain technology and global markets pique your interest, Polymarket could be worth considering once it re-enters the U.S. market.

Conclusion

Picking the right prediction market platform depends entirely on your betting style and what matters most to you. Each platform caters to different priorities - whether that’s regulatory compliance, cutting-edge decentralization, mainstream ease of use, or a truly social peer-to-peer experience.

Platforms vary widely in their structures and regulatory frameworks, offering something for everyone. Among these, one stands out for delivering an authentic peer-to-peer experience.

Peer-to-peer betting is shaking up prediction markets. Unlike platforms where institutional market makers set the terms, a true peer-to-peer model lets users deal directly with one another. BettorEdge is a standout in this space, offering a sports betting experience where you can set your own odds, trade bets directly, and connect with a lively social community. This setup not only promotes better pricing and transparency but also boosts profitability for frequent users. BettorEdge’s approach highlights its commitment to putting control back into the hands of the bettors.

The sector’s rapid growth is reflected in the combined trading volume of nearly $1.5 billion across major platforms in September 2025. Meanwhile, traditional sports betting remains a force, with New York State alone reporting $2.3 billion in wagers during the same period.

Ultimately, the best platform for you depends on your priorities. As prediction markets continue to evolve, BettorEdge is leading the way with its social, transparent, and user-driven approach to sports betting.

FAQs

How is BettorEdge's peer-to-peer betting model unique compared to traditional sportsbooks?

BettorEdge takes a different approach with its peer-to-peer betting model, letting users bet directly against each other instead of going through a traditional sportsbook. This setup means you can create your own odds, negotiate terms, and enjoy a betting experience that's both more transparent and fair.

Unlike conventional sportsbooks that rely on hidden fees or skewed odds to make money, BettorEdge removes the middleman entirely. By focusing on direct exchanges between users, it offers a community-driven and budget-friendly way to engage in sports betting.

What features does BettorEdge offer to create a more engaging sports betting community?

BettorEdge transforms sports betting by creating a lively community where users can connect, share strategies, and compete directly with one another. Unlike traditional betting platforms, BettorEdge lets you set your own odds and trade bets directly with other users, offering a more flexible and tailored experience.

The platform includes features like social leaderboards, interactive competitions, and the option to buy or sell bets at optimal prices. This gives you greater control and clarity in your betting activities. BettorEdge isn't just about placing bets - it's about making the experience fairer, more interactive, and centered around community engagement.