AI-Powered Universal Comparison Engine

Food delivery services: DoorDash vs. Grubhub

Quick Verdict

DoorDash is generally faster and has wider geographic coverage, while Grubhub offers more robust customer service and a guarantee for order accuracy. The best choice depends on individual priorities, such as speed, customer support, or restaurant selection.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeDoorDashGrubhub
Delivery SpeedAims for accurate estimated delivery times, averaging 26 minutes and 24 seconds in a study. Times can vary from 20 to 40 minutes depending on distance.Average delivery time is around 40 minutes, but can be longer during busy times or driver shortages. Delivery times can range from 25 minutes to 2 hours.
Order Accuracy90% satisfaction rate in a 2024 study. Measures 'Missing or Incorrect rate' focusing on store operation errors.Grubhub Guarantee ensures order accuracy, promising to correct any mistakes.
Delivery FeesVary depending on the merchant, location, and demand, ranging from $1.99 to $5.99 or higher. A flat service fee of 15% (minimum $3) is charged. Small order fees (around $2.50) may apply.Delivery fees start at 10% and can vary based on distance, order size, and time of day. Some restaurants may not charge a delivery fee.
Restaurant SelectionOffers a wide variety of restaurants, including national chains and local options, as well as partnerships with grocery and convenience stores.Grubhub has a comprehensive network of restaurant partners. The platform features more than 300,000 restaurant partners in over 4,000 U.S. cities.
Geographic CoverageOperates in over 4,000 cities across the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Delivery range is typically 5-7 miles but can extend to 30 miles in some areas.Grubhub is available in over 1,100 U.S. cities and London.
Customer Service ResponsivenessOffers a place on their website to refute fees and address hidden charges.Grubhub offers 24/7 customer service via phone (1-877-585-1085) and email (help_me@grubhub.com). They also have a dedicated support Twitter account.
App UsabilityAvailable on Google Play and the Apple App Store. Allows customers to track the status of their order.Grubhub has a straightforward, intuitive interface with multiple filtering options. The app allows users to save dietary preferences and streamline future searches.
Special Offers and DiscountsProvides discounts for new users, students, and DashPass subscribers. Common deals include percentage-off savings, fixed discounts, and free delivery promotions. DashPass members get exclusive deals.Grubhub provides various discounts, including 10% off select orders. New users can save 30% off their first order of $10 or more using the code "GH30". Grubhub+ members get free delivery on eligible orders and exclusive discounts.
Driver ProfessionalismTipped orders get accepted first.Grubhub offers contact-free delivery options.
Order Tracking AccuracyAllows customers to track the status of their order on the app.Real-time order tracking is available.
Dietary Options and FiltersAllows customers to filter restaurants by allergy and dietary restrictions. The app has filters for 'Healthy,' 'Vegan,' and 'Salad' options. Customers can add special instructions for dietary needs.Grubhub includes filters for people with special diets, helping users find compatible meals quickly. Users can save sets of filters to streamline future searches.
Packaging QualityBagging all items together in one bag and sealing the bag helps ensure quality and accuracy.Proper food delivery packaging may result in improved ratings and potentially reduced delivery times. Restaurants are advised to use containers with strong seals to keep ingredients intact and consider sustainable packaging.

Overall Comparison

DoorDash: Average delivery time of 26 minutes, 90% order accuracy satisfaction. Grubhub: Average delivery time of 40 minutes, Grubhub Guarantee for order accuracy, 300,000+ restaurant partners.

Pros and Cons

DoorDash

Pros:
  • Fast delivery speeds (average 26 minutes 24 seconds in a study)
  • Wide variety of restaurants
  • App allows order tracking
  • Offers discounts and promotions
  • Filters for dietary restrictions
  • Cheapest service for small orders
  • Generally offers slightly lower fees
Cons:
  • Delivery fees can vary and be high depending on demand
  • Small order fees may apply
  • Driver professionalism may vary (tipped orders get accepted first)

Grubhub

Pros:
  • Comprehensive network of restaurant partners
  • 24/7 customer service
  • Intuitive app interface
  • Various discounts and promotions
  • Contact-free delivery options
  • Real-time order tracking
  • Dietary filters
  • Grubhub Guarantee ensures order accuracy
Cons:
  • Delivery times may be inaccurate
  • Delivery fees can vary
  • Potential delays due to driver availability or restaurant preparation times

User Experiences and Feedback