With food delivery fees climbing and promo codes changing constantly, choosing the right platform can have a big impact on your dining budget. DoorDash and Grubhub are two of the most popular delivery apps in the U.S.—but which one offers better savings, rewards, and cashback potential?
Delivery Fees and Service Charges
DoorDash and Grubhub both charge similar base fees, but the total cost often depends on the restaurant, time of day, and delivery distance.
- DoorDash: Delivery fees typically range from $1.99 to $5.99. They also charge a service fee (~10–11%) and small order fee if your subtotal is low.
- Grubhub: Base delivery fees are set by restaurants, and service fees can vary. They tend to be slightly lower than DoorDash overall, but not always.
Both apps offer free delivery through subscription programs:
- DashPass (DoorDash) – $9.99/month for free delivery and reduced service fees at eligible restaurants.
- Grubhub+ – $9.99/month with similar benefits, plus donation matching for select causes.
Promo Codes and App Deals
Each platform runs promotions frequently, but they’re often targeted.
- DoorDash tends to offer better first-time user promos like $10 off your first order.
- Grubhub frequently offers limited-time deals like $5 off $15 or discounts from specific restaurants.
Enable notifications to stay updated and check the offers tab inside each app.
Cashback Opportunities
You can stack savings even further by pairing delivery platforms with cashback apps.
- Rakuten often features up to 5% cashback when you order through its browser extension or mobile app.
- Ibotta occasionally partners with delivery services for cashback on featured restaurants.
- With Fluz, you can get cashback at Uber Eats—a third platform to consider if you’re looking for more consistent rewards through gift card payments.
Where to Save the Most
If you’re looking for:
- Reliability and frequent promos: DoorDash wins for onboarding offers and more restaurant coverage.
- Lower delivery fees: Grubhub may edge out slightly if you order from budget-friendly chains.
- Subscription perks: Both DashPass and Grubhub+ offer value if you order more than 2–3 times a month.
Final Verdict
The best app depends on where you order from, how often you order, and which promos are currently active. For regular diners, combining platform offers with cashback from Rakuten, Ibotta, or Fluz can make every meal more affordable.



