Kalshi vs Polymarket: which should you use in 2026?
Both are CFTC-regulated in the US now. The real differences are devices, markets and fees.
Short answer: Choose Kalshi if you use Android or a computer, or want the widest range of US-regulated markets (economics, weather, politics, sports). Choose Polymarket if you're on iPhone and want the biggest markets on politics and world events. Many people open both to compare prices and claim both welcome offers.
On this page
Side by side (checked 27 September 2026)
| Kalshi | Polymarket (US) | |
|---|---|---|
| Regulator | CFTC | CFTC |
| Devices | Web, iPhone, Android | iPhone |
| Strongest markets | Economics, weather, politics, sports | Politics, world news, culture, sports |
| Fees | Published formula, highest at 50¢ | Low; shown on the order screen |
| Availability | Most states, not Nevada | Most states |
| Welcome offer | Trade $25, get $25 | Deposit $10, get a $50 trading bonus |
| Code | WINPREDITCS | WIN |
Where Kalshi wins
- Works on every device.
- More kinds of markets, especially economics and weather.
- Transparent fee formula. See fees explained.
Where Polymarket wins
- Bigger global crowd on politics and news.
- Slick iPhone app.
- Larger welcome bonus right now.
Our verdict
For a first account, Kalshi on Android or desktop, Polymarket on iPhone. For active traders, both: the same event can trade at different prices.
Kalshi offer, checked 27 September 2026
Trade $25, get $25
Promo code: WINPREDITCS
Certain limitations apply. The offer is available to new users only, subject to the terms and conditions at kalshi.com/tc/500. 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Event contract trading involves significant risk and is not appropriate for everyone. Please carefully consider if it is appropriate for you in light of your personal financial circumstances. Kalshi products are not available in all jurisdictions. See kalshi.com/regulatory for more information. Terms apply.
Polymarket offer, checked 27 September 2026
Deposit $10, get a $50 trading bonus
Promo code: WIN
iPhone app only. 18+ only. Restrictions and eligibility requirements apply. Not available in all jurisdictions. Trading is risky. 100% loss can occur. See polymarket.com/tos for more information. The Polymarket US App serves as an independent software provider and affiliate of Polymarket US and Polymarket Clearing, the CFTC-regulated exchange and clearing organization. Terms apply.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kalshi or Polymarket more legit?
Both are legitimate. Kalshi has been a CFTC-regulated exchange since 2020; Polymarket's US app is also CFTC-regulated.
Do Kalshi and Polymarket have the same prices?
Often close, but not always. Differences in rules, fees and users mean prices can differ by a few cents.
Can I use both?
Yes, and you can claim each welcome offer once.
