Pros and Cons of Casino Bonuses
- Different bonuses help casinos stand out among their competitors
- Welcome bonuses attract new players to an online casino
- Loyalty bonuses allow casinos to reward existing players
- Lucrative bonuses keep players interested and excited about an online casino
- Casino bonuses allow players to familiarize with the services at an online casino without risking too much funds
- Many casino bonuses come with strict and hard terms and conditions
- Some types of bonuses are not as lucrative as advertised
What is an Online Casino Bonus?
An online casino bonus is an incentive or reward that an operator gives to players for signing up or playing at an online casino. It can include free spins, deposit match bonuses, and various special deals.
Why do casinos offer bonuses?
Casinos offer bonuses to attract new players to their platform. Before players sign up at an online casino, they often assess their bonuses and offers. Casinos also offer bonuses to maintain the loyalty of their existing clients. They want their clients to feel appreciated by rewarding them for playing at their platform. Furthermore, casinos offer bonuses so they can stand out from their competitors.
Finally, the best online casino bonuses help casinos to get their clients to play with real money. This is because most bonuses come with terms that encourage players to make deposits and spend money at an online casino so they can earn real money from the bonus.
What are the benefits of casino bonuses?
Casino bonuses give players a great start at an online casino, especially if they are inexperienced and unsure of what to expect. They can use bonus funds instead of their real money to familiarize with the casino and its games. They also allow players to experience new games and get to know them before spending their real money.
Another benefit of casino bonuses is that they give clients bigger chances of winning. For instance, a cash bonus gives a client more funds for wagering, which increases their amount of returns. Additionally, players can use bonuses to meet minimum bet requirements without depositing a lot of funds into their online casino account.
Finally, with casino bonuses, clients can enjoy low risk bets with higher reward potentials that they may normally not make with their own real money.
Types of Casino Bonuses
Welcome bonus
A welcome bonus is an incentive that online casinos give to new players when they join the platform. Depending on the type of welcome bonus, the reward can be given immediately after successfully completing the registration process or after making a first deposit. Welcome bonuses that are usually given after registration, without a deposit are known as no deposit bonuses. On the other hand, those that require a deposit are known as deposit bonuses.
Welcome bonuses typically include free spins, bonus money, or free bets. Some online casinos offer one type of bonus while others offer a welcome package with different offers.
A welcome bonus is usually intended for a client to use to familiarize with an online casino and its games before they start risking their money. So, the money is usually given as site credit that you cannot cash out immediately unless you meet the requirements, like the wagering targets.
Welcome bonuses usually come with specific terms and conditions, like wagering requirements, minimum deposit limits, maximum win limit, and others, depending on the online casino. A welcome bonus at an online casino can only be redeemed once when a player signs up at the casino for the first time.
No deposit bonus
A no deposit bonus is a type of offer that allows players to play online casino games for free even before making a deposit. It is usually given to new players when they sign up at an online casino, before they make their first deposit.
A no deposit bonus can be given in the form of cash or free spins. The free cash is usually given so new players can explore the site and try out some casino games without wagering real money. On the other hand, the bonus spins allow players to familiarize with certain online slots before they risk their own real money. Cash back bonuses can also be considered as no deposit bonuses for existing clients. This is a bonus where the casino refunds players a percentage of their losses without any deposit requirements.
The key condition for getting this bonus is completing the registration process and verifying your email. A no deposit bonus can be activated automatically or using a bonus code, depending on the operator. No deposit bonuses come with other terms like wagering requirements. This can be the case for both free spins and cash bonuses, or only one of them, depending on the operator. Other terms and conditions for no deposit bonuses are usually explained by the operator and should be understood before claiming.
First deposit bonus
A first deposit casino bonus is a type of offer that gives players additional funds or rewards when they deposit money into their online casino account for thee first time. It is one of the most lucrative types of online casino bonuses whose goal is usually to attract new players and encourage them to deposit real money at an online casino. This type of bonus is usually accessible to a client as soon as they register at an online casino.
A first deposit bonus is typically represented by a specific percentage of the deposited amount. For instance, it can be 100% of the first deposit amount. However, it usually has a maximum limit. For example, it can be capped at a specific amount, like a 100% deposit match capped up to £1000. This means that the bonus cannot go beyond £1000, no matter how much money you deposit. However, you should always note that not all bonuses are equal. So, some online casinos may offer more attractive first deposit bonuses than others.
A first deposit bonus can also include free spins. They are usually given for a specific slot game and may come with a deadline for spending.
It is important to note that first deposit bonuses usually come with conditions. For instance, they have wagering requirements, which determine whey you can cash out the bonus and its related winnings. They also come with assisted games and bonus durations. Assisted games are ones that can contribute greatly to the wagering requirements. The conditions are usually explained in the T&Cs section.
Free spins
Free spins are a type of casino bonus where players get a certain number of spins on a specific online slot game. The offer allows players to spin the reels of a specific online slot without wagering real money on the outcome of the spin. Free spins can be obtained as promotional offers at online casinos. They may also be obtained as a promotional offer from a slot machine triggered by special features like scatter symbols.
This type of bonus is usually offered to new clients as well as existing ones. So, you can get free spins as a no deposit bonus when you sign up at an online casino, or as a deposit bonus after adding funds into your account. You can also get free spins as a loyalty bonus when you top up more funds or participate in promotions and tournaments at an online casino. Usually, free spins can only be used for specific casino slots.
The terms for getting the free spins will depend on the offer through which they are available. For instance, if they are available as a no deposit bonus, you must deposit a certain minimum amount into your account. The game or collection of qualifying games on which you can spend the free spins is usually specified in the offer’s terms and conditions.
Free spins bonuses may come with a duration period and wagering requirements, depending on the operator and the type of promotion. Still, free spins with no wagering requirements are often available and free spin winnings are treated as all other kinds of winnings at the casino.
Reload bonus
A reload bonus is one that is given when players top up funds into their online casino account. This type of bonus is usually given to existing players that have made at least one or more deposits. A reload bonus is usually part of the loyalty package that encourages clients to continue reloading their accounts and maintain their loyalty to an online casino.
A reload bonus can be a percentage of the amount reloaded into your account. However, it is typically a lower percentage than a welcome or first deposit bonus. Some casinos also bundle their reload bonuses with free spins offers. The bonus amount or products may differ from one online casino to the next.
Loyalty bonus
A loyalty bonus is a reward given to clients at an online casino for being loyal or to entice other clients to be loyal to the operator. It is usually given to players that have been playing at the online casino for a certain period of time or ones that have spent a specific amount of money at the platform. Loyalty bonuses are also given to players that visit an online casino frequently and have wagered consistently. Loyalty bonuses may include bonus bets, free spins, or cash. Loyalty points that can be converted into cash or site credit.
Loyalty bonuses are usually offered at casinos with loyalty programs. The program can be split into different levels or tiers, based on a points-based system. Clients earn points when they place real money wagers at the casino, and when they reach certain milestones, they get into the different levels of the program and unlock amazing gifts.
Cashback bonus
A cashback bonus is a percentage refund on the amount spend at an online casino. It is a way for online casinos to reward their loyal players by compensating their losses. A cashback bonus can vary in size and frequency, depending on the operator or player’s activity.
This type of bonus is usually given at specific times, dates, or periods. In some cases, players are allowed to withdraw cashback bonuses without meeting any wagering targets. However, this depends on the online casino. Also, depending on the operator, a cashback bonus can be automatically credited into your account when you meet the requirements, or you may have to enter a bonus code to claim the offer.
Mobile bonuses
A mobile bonus is a casino offer given to players who play at the casino through their mobile devices. This can be via the designated mobile app of the casino or the mobile website. A mobile bonus can be activated via mobile devices. Online casinos give this bonus as a way of encouraging players to play through their mobile gadgets.
A mobile bonus can come in different forms, from welcome bonuses, to free spins, and no deposit bonuses. Depending on the online casino, mobile bonuses can be similar to the bonuses that computer players receive. However, the terms for the bonus, like the rollover requirements may differ slightly from computer casino players. Some online casinos also offer exclusive bonuses to mobile players that computer players do not have access to.
Seasonal promotions
Seasonal casino promotions are bonuses, tournaments, and other offers that online casinos give their clients in celebration of a specific season or event. The event may vary from an international holiday like Christmas to a sporting event or the start of a weather reason like summer. They are one-off promotions or recurring, depending on what event they are associated with. Examples of seasonal promotions are birthday promotions, Halloween, Christmas, Easter, and more.
A seasonal promotion may include fantastic gifts like cash prizes, site credit, and free spins, depending on the operator. Cashback offers, reload, no deposit, and deposit bonuses can also be awarded as seasonal promotion offers. These are not standard offers. So, you should not expect them to be available at all times at all online casinos. You can keep an eye out for seasonal promotions by checking the online casino’s promotions page.
Game-specific bonuses
Game-specific bonuses are ones that players can only use to play certain games. They are usually associated with the most popular games at an online casino, like slots, poker, roulette, and blackjack, among others. For example, free spins are game-specific online casino bonuses because they are designed to be used on specific slot games.
Other casino games like roulette usually feature their unique bonuses as well. For instance, some online casinos offer free rounds for roulette, especially live roulette games. These bonuses aim at promoting a specific game. It can be a new game or one of the most popular ones.
Casino bonus codes
A casino bonus code is a series of numbers and letters that is put together to form a code which is given to players as a means of activating a bonus. Certain online casino promotions or bonuses require a bonus code to activate. The code is usually associated with a specific bonus, like a welcome, first deposit, or loyalty bonus.
The first step for using a bonus code is locating the code in the offer you are interested in. Next, you must read and understand the terms and conditions, then copy the bonus code. From there, you must log into the online casino, go to the promotions section and find the offer you want to activate, then paste the copied bonus in the bonus code field. This should activate the bonus, if you have completed all other requirements, like checking a box to confirm that you have read and intend to comply with the terms and conditions.
Best Online Casino Bonuses 2024
Top 5 Online Casino Offers
There are many online casinos that offer fantastic bonuses. However, not all of them are equal. Some online casinos have better offers than others. We have researched ones with the most lucrative and attractive online casino offers. They are:
Vulkan Vegas Casino
Vulkan Vegas is a renown online casino that offers a number of lucrative bonuses. The 50 no deposit Vulkan Vegas free-spins bonus is among some of the most sought after offers. Its value is nearly equal compared to real money spins, making it one of the most competitive offers on the market. There are also seasonal promotions and various special deals at the casino – and the collection of available games is truly impressive.
Pokerstars Casino
Pokerstars is a leading online casino with its own poker platform. This site offers a good collection of casino games from some of the world’s best software provider. The poker room features the largest number of poker players of any online betting platform. This online casino also has some of the most attractive bonuses, including game-specific offers and a lucrative welcome bonus.
Verde Casino
Verde is a licensed and regulated online casino that offers a fantastic range of casino games. The casino features over 2000 games. It was established in 2022, and has managed to attract thousands of players thanks to its generous bonuses. For instance, the casino has a welcome package featuring a 250% deposit match capped at £2000 plus 50 free spins. There are also seasonal promotions and loyalty bonuses at Verde casino.
iWild Casino
iWild is a popular and positively-reviewed online casino. Most of its positive reviews feature comments about the casino’s wide range of games, usability, and great gambling experience. Clients also comment positively about the casino’s bonuses. For instance, the casino features a first deposit bonus containing a 100% deposit match capped at £500 plus 100 free spins. This casino has several other bonuses for existing clients, and a loyalty program featuring a lot of fantastic offers.
Ice Casino
Ice casino is one of the best online casinos that was released in 2022. The casino offers a vast games library featuring over 3500 titles and frequent new releases. It is a secure platform with a simple structure for a good gambling experience. The online casino attracts most of its players with its generous bonuses and promotions. Ice casino’s welcome bonus features 120% first deposit match with a maximum amount of £300 and 120 free spins on Big Bass Bonanza.
Casino Bonus Terms and Conditions
Bonus limits
All casino bonuses come with limits. For instance, deposit bonuses have a minimum deposit limit and a maximum limit of the amount of bonus one can get. For instance, a 100% bonus up to £500, the £500 is the bonus limit. There can also be withdrawal limits for the bonus. This is the maximum amount of money a player can win by playing using bonus funds or free spins. The limits differ depending on the casino.
Eligible games
These are the games that can participate in a promotion or an offer. This term applies to game-specific promotions. This means that you can only participate in the promotion when you play an eligible game. Depending on the operator and the promotion, there may be one or more participating games.
Free spins are perfect examples of casino offers that include eligible games. This is because they are usually attached to a specific game. The eligible games for a casino bonus are usually listed in the terms and conditions section.
Wagering requirements
A wagering requirement is one of the most crucial conditions for bonuses. It refers to the number of times you have to wager through your bonus before you turn it into real money. It usually depends on the bonus amount and may differ from one promotion to another. For instance, if you win a bonus of £1000 and the wagering requirement for the offer is 35x, it means that you have to wager (35 x 1000 = £35,000) before you can turn your bonus into real cash. Wagering contributions vary depending on the game and the type of the bonus. Sometimes, only bonus funds count towards wagering contributions.
Meeting wagering conditions allows you to withdraw your bonus and any associated winnings. This means that you cannot withdraw the money you win by placing bets with your bonus cash unless you meet the wagering condition. Wagering requirements are also known as rollover or turnover requirements. These conditions also apply to free spins bonuses.
Time limits
A bonus time limit is the period of time you have to spend your bonus before it expires. This is the time during which you must meet the wagering requirements for your bonus money so you can withdraw it before it expires. So, if you do not achieve the rollover target before the time limit lapses, you lose your active bonus and associated winnings.
Free spins expire faster than match bonuses and cash bonuses. This is usually explained in the offer’s terms and conditions at the casino bonus sites.
Minimum qualifying deposit
A minimum qualifying deposit is the least amount of money you have to deposit into your casino account to generate or claim a bonus. It can vary from £1 to £50, depending on the casino and the payment method.
The currency also influences the amount. Some online casinos have extremely high minimum qualifying deposits, which makes them less attractive to players. The minimum qualifying deposit determines the size of the bonus you receive from the casino. This is because a deposit bonus is usually a percentage of the deposited amount.
Cap on winnings
This refers to the maximum amount of money you can cash out from the winnings you achieve when playing using casino bonus funds. Also known as maximum payout cap, a cap on winnings limits the amount of cash you could potentially win when a bonus game is triggered or awarded. Online casinos use this condition to protect themselves from risking a lot of money in addition to the bonuses they offer. Once a maximum payout cap is reached, a player cannot withdraw any more bonus winnings.
Payment methods
A payment method is a way through which online casino players can deposit and withdraw money at the casinos. Depending on the casino and the payment operator, similar methods can be used for withdrawals and deposits or they may differ. In some cases, the payment methods for bonuses are also specific and limited. For instance, some online casinos will only give out deposit bonuses if you make your first deposit using a specific payment method.
Regardless, many online casinos strive to provide a wide array of payment methods to their clients for convenience. The payment methods are usually listed in the cashier section of the online casino. You can read terms and conditions for bonuses for information on qualifying payment methods.
Withdrawal conditions
Withdrawal conditions are the requirements a player must meet before they can withdraw their bonus winnings. It is worth mentioning that online casinos do not allow players to withdraw bonuses, instead, players can play and win money using the bonus cash then withdraw the bonus winnings once the withdrawal conditions are met.
Withdrawal conditions may include elements like wagering requirements, maximum payout cap limits, and qualifying withdrawal methods. The withdrawal time also falls in this category. This condition usually differs depending on the operator and the payment method.
How to get the best online casino bonus
You can get the best online casino bonus by making a list of things to look for in the bonus. You will use this list to create a shortlist of the best options available to you.
What to look for in online casino bonuses
There are many factors that make a good online casino bonus. From the bonus amount to the legitimacy of the online casino, the things to look out for are many. Let us discuss a few below;
Bonus offer
One of the first things you must consider is the details of the bonus offer. For instance, consider the percentage rate of the bonus. This element will influence how much money you can get from the bonus. Higher percentages are always more attractive.
Additionally, take a look at the number of free spins you get in the bonus. A higher number with a longer duration limit is something you should always opt for.
Also, you must consider the minimum deposit requirements. While people always shy away from large deposit requirements, it is worth noting that the amount will influence the bonus amount you receive. However, you can always go for a low minimum, which does not hinder you from depositing more so you can earn a bigger bonus.
Finally, pay attention to the maximum bonus amount. For example, if a bonus is a 100% deposit match up to £1000, the £1000 is the maximum deposit amount. A higher value is usually more attractive.
Before you fall for a bonus offer, you should always make your calculations so you know the exact amount you will earn. Online casinos usually count on clients not understanding the mechanics of the promotion so they don’t give them huge bonuses.
Wagering requirements and other bonus conditions
Something else you must never neglect to consider when choosing the best casino bonus is the wagering requirement. This factor influences how and when you can turn your bonus into real money that you can withdraw. A large wagering requirement means that you would have to spend a lot of money on wagering before you can cash out.
While looking at the wagering requirement, also consider the duration limit or expiry date of the bonus. If a bonus has a high wagering requirement and a small validity period, it is not worth-while. Other bonus conditions like the maximum payout cap, the eligible games, and the maximum bonus amount are also worth looking into.
Many players fail to benefit from online casino bonuses because they do not read and understand the terms and conditions for the offer. All the bonus conditions are usually explained in the terms and conditions. Make sure you understand them and calculate your bonus based on the amount you want to deposit so you know if it is worth it.
Withdrawal process
The withdrawal process for bonuses does not differ a lot from withdrawing other funds. First, you must check the terms and conditions to make sure that you have met all of them. If you have, you can follow the simple procedure below:
- Go to the cashier section on your online casino’s website
- Choose your preferred withdrawal method from the list of acceptable methods by the casino
- Enter the amount of money you wish to withdraw
- Submit your withdrawal request by providing all the necessary details
- Wait for the withdrawal time limit to lapse
- Enjoy your real money winnings
If you have not met the withdrawal conditions, your withdrawal request will be denied.
How to claim different casino bonuses
You can claim different casino bonuses by following the simple steps below:
- Find a casino with the best bonuses (consider the elements explained in the sections above)
- Register at the online casino
- Verify your account
- Locate the welcome bonus on the website. It is usually in the promotions page or the home page
- Read the terms and conditions (ensure you understand them)
- Claim your bonus (if it is a no deposit bonus)
- Go to the cashier section and make your first deposit so you can claim your deposit bonus
- If you need to enter your bonus code, you can copy it when you locate the bonus then paste it after you have made your deposit in the bonus code box
- Turn your bonus into real cash by wagering through it and withdraw it
For other bonuses that are not the welcome bonus, you can follow the procedure below:
- Sign into your online casino account
- Go to the promotions page and check out the available offers
- Read and understand the bonus terms and conditions
- Make sure you meet the conditions
- Opt into the bonus
- Claim the bonus
- Turn it into real money by wagering
Top 3 Free Spins No Deposit Offers
| Operator | Bonus | CLAIM HERE |
|---|---|---|
 Slottica | 50 | |
Online Casino Bonuses FAQs
How do online casino bonuses work?
Online casino bonuses are offers that operators give to players to encourage their loyalty or attract new players to sign up. They may include products like free spins and site credit. Clients can claim casino bonuses from the promotions page. The bonus cannot be withdrawn. Instead, it is meant to be spent within the online casino so players can familiarize themselves with the platform.
Different types of casino bonuses exist, like reload, welcome, cashback, game-specific, and loyalty bonuses. Their terms and conditions usually differ and they influence how the bonuses work. However, you can turn the bonus into money by wagering through it. All casino players can benefit from bonuses as long as they meet the conditions for the bonus, like the minimum deposit amounts.
Can I win real money with an online casino bonus?
Yes, you can win real money at an online casino using bonus funds. However, there is a condition called the wagering requirement that influences this element. This is the number of times you must bet through your bonus amount so you can turn your winnings into real money. Once the wagering target is met, you can withdraw your winnings up to a maximum payout cap. This information is usually explained in the bonus’ terms and conditions.
Are casino bonuses just for new players?
Welcome bonuses are exclusively designed for new players. However, there are other bonuses for existing players at online casinos. These bonuses are usually listed in the promotions and bonuses page. Examples of bonuses for existing players are reload, cashback, seasonal promotions, and loyalty bonuses.
Casinos reward players for toping up their accounts, their loyalty, and also give out special prizes on special occasions to existing clients. So, the best online casinos offer bonuses for all players, not only new ones.
What makes a good bonus?
A good bonus should be given by a legitimate online casino. It should also be lucrative. For instance, the percentage should be high, with a low or average minimum deposit amount, and a high maximum deposit amount. A good bonus should also have a high maximum payout cap, which is the limit of the winnings you can get from the bonus.
Furthermore, the wagering requirement for the bonus should not be too high. Also, a good bonus should have a good or long validity period. It should not have many limitations when it comes to how and for how long you can spend it.
Are the biggest bonuses the best?
The biggest bonuses may seem like the most attractive, but they are not always the best. For instance, a big bonus with a big minimum deposit amount would not be wise pick. Also, a big bonus with a high wagering requirement is not the best because it means you would have to spend so much money to meet the wagering target.
Furthermore, a big bonus with a big wagering requirement, and a short validity period is definitely not worth it. So, when calculating the bonus amount and how suitable it is, always consider its conditions like the wagering target, validity period, deposit limits, and more.
What games can I use casino bonuses for?
The games that you can use a casino bonus for are known as the eligible games. They are usually specified in the terms and conditions section for the bonus. They usually apply to game-specific bonuses, like free spins. However, when it comes to cash bonuses, there is usually no limit regarding to the games on which you can spend the money.
Are casino bonuses available for mobile play?
Yes, mobile players get mobile casino bonuses. A mobile bonus is a casino offer given to players who play at the casino through their mobile devices. This can be via the designated mobile app of the casino or the mobile website. A mobile bonus can be activated via mobile devices. Online casinos give this bonus as a way of encouraging players to play through their mobile gadgets. A mobile bonus can come in different forms, from welcome bonuses, to free spins, and no deposit bonuses.
How long does it take to receive my bonus?
Bonuses are usually given immediately you claim or activate them. However, when it comes to tournament bonuses, you may have to wait until the end of the tournament to get your reward or bonus. However, most online casinos reward bonuses instantly. So, you do not have to wait.
Can I withdraw my casino bonus?
No, you cannot withdraw your casino bonus because it is meant to be spent within the casino. Online casinos use bonuses as a tool to help clients get to know their way around their platform and familiarize themselves with their casino games. So, bonus money is not considered as real money, but site credit. However, you can withdraw the money you win from spending your bonus in the casino as long as you meet the withdrawal conditions.
Do I get a bonus if I deposit with cryptocurrencies?
Yes, you can get a bonus if you deposit with cryptocurrencies, if you are playing at a crypto casino. These are casinos that accept payments in cryptocurrencies. As long as it is an acceptable payment method or currency, you can get your bonus.
How do I know I can trust the casino bonus?
You can tell if a casino bonus is trustworthy by first making sure that the online casino providing the bonus is legitimate, licensed, and regulated. You can also check the terms and conditions for the bonus. A bonus with unfair or unrealistic terms and conditions is not worth your trust. For instance, a bonus with an extremely high minimum deposit amount, high wagering condition, low maximum payout cap, and a short validity period is untrustworthy.
The key is reading and understanding the T&Cs. You can also check the reviews for an online casino to see what experienced players have to say about the casino bonuses.
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