It can be difficult to decide between Uber Eats and DoorDash. Both apps are some of the biggest in the food delivery world, complete with convenience, a large variety of restaurant options and user-friendly tools.
But in terms of daily use — cost, speed, service and value — how do they really compare? In this post – we break it down so you can figure out which is better Uber Eats or DoorDash for you.
Market Reach and Availability
DoorDash now has the largest share of the U.S. food delivery market and is more likely to be available in smaller cities and suburbs all over the country. Uber Eats, on the other hand, operates globally across more than 45 countries.
If you’re an international traveler or someone living in a big city, then Uber Eats might provide more options. DoorDash also provides stronger local coverage for purely domestic users.
Restaurant Variety and Options: Benefits and Drawbacks
Both platforms have a selection of restaurants that range from fast food to local and specialty options. But Uber Eats is frequently a better platform, offering a more extensive selection of international cuisines and dietary preferences like vegan, halal and gluten-free.
DoorDash is slowly adding to its partnerships and tends to gravitate toward U.S.-based chains and small local restaurants.
Pricing and Delivery Fees: Is Uber Eats or DoorDash Better for Your Budget?
For a lot of users, the delivery and service fees are the deal breaker. DoorDash has typically charged a base delivery fee beginning at roughly $1.99, and service fees at about 10 to 11 percent.
Uber Eats also has more variable pricing that often depends on distance and order total and where service fees can be as high as 30 percent. Prices on both platforms may be a little inflated compared to ordering direct from the restaurant.
So, which is cheaper Uber Eats or DoorDash? It varies by where you are and what promotions are currently available, but both can become expensive pretty fast.
Speed and Reliability: Which Wins When You’re Hungry?
Uber Eats tends to be faster, especially in cities with higher population density. Typical delivery time is 25–40 minutes in suburbs and as little as 15 minutes in metro areas. DoorDash clocks in on average at 35 minutes, but it can vary based on location and driver availability.
The Best Service for Subscriptions and Perks
Both applications come with subscription plans designed for heavy users. DoorDash has DashPass, which features free delivery and lower service fees from eligible restaurants.
Uber Eats has Uber One, which comes with similar perks and ones that apply to Uber’s broader platform, including ride services. If you order frequently, the subscription plans might be worth it — and can help tip the scales in the battle between Uber Eats and DoorDash for regular ordering.
Driver Experience: What’s Better, Uber Eats or DoorDash?
Different advantages come from the perspective of a delivery driver. DoorDash permits drivers (whom the company calls Dashers) to schedule shifts in advance and provides more time — up to 45 seconds — for them to accept or reject orders.
Uber Eats drivers are able to sign in at any time without scheduling, but are given only around 15 seconds to accept an offer. Uber Eats also has a lower instant payout fee, a plus for gig workers who like the flexibility and faster access to earnings.
Customer Service and Company Culture
Both apps let users report problems in the app itself and typically refund or credit missing items or cold food. But both companies have faced criticism of their industry practices around fees, driver wages and restaurant commissions.
Recent battles in the courts, including Uber Eats taking DoorDash to court, also illustrate how competitive it is in this space.
Conclusion: Who’s Better, Uber Eats or DoorDash?
So, for you, what is better Uber Eats or DoorDash?
• Go with DoorDash if you are in the United States and appreciate local restaurant choices, good market coverage, and scheduled delivery options.
• Choose Uber Eats if you want faster delivery in urban areas, access to more types of cuisine and intend to use Uber services like ridesharing.
In the end though, it all depends on where you live, how often you need deliveries and your own preferences. Both platforms are stiff competition, and you may want to give both a try—especially their new-user offers and subscription benefits.
No matter which one you settle on, be sure to compare fees before every order because what might seem cheaper up front can quickly end up costing more by checkout.