Kalshi alternatives: cheaper and similar options (Oct 2026)
The best Kalshi alternatives are Polymarket (Polygon, partly available in the US).
Checked 2026-10-27Why look beyond Kalshi
- Sports contracts are restricted or under injunction in Nevada, Massachusetts and Washington, and New York's AG is suing.
- Full KYC with a government photo ID is required for every user.
- Referral bonus amounts vary by offer and are not published as a fixed rate.
- Perps are open only to approved US users and cost 12 bps taker at the base tier on each side.
The alternatives
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Polymarket
Polygon · US: partial
Traders who want order-book prediction markets on politics, sports, crypto and world events, through the international site or the CFTC-regulated US app.
+ Makers pay no fees, and geopolitics markets are fee-free for everyone.
Open Polymarket · Kalshi vs Polymarket
Cost compared
Cost of a round trip (buy + sell). Platform fee only; network and pool fees are extra.
| Venue | Rate (round trip) | You pay |
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More on Kalshi: Overview · Referral code · Fees · Is it legit? · Alternatives · Available in the US? · KYC required? · Mobile app? · Custodial? · Withdrawals · Tax forms
FAQ
What is the best alternative to Kalshi?
For most people, Polymarket: Traders who want order-book prediction markets on politics, sports, crypto and world events, through the international site or the CFTC-regulated US app.
Why do people switch from Kalshi?
Sports contracts are restricted or under injunction in Nevada, Massachusetts and Washington, and New York's AG is suing. Full KYC with a government photo ID is required for every user.
Is there a cheaper alternative to Kalshi?
None of the close alternatives we track charge less than Kalshi at the default tier.
Which Kalshi alternatives work in the US?
None of the close alternatives we track list the US as fully available.