How to Choose an Online Casino Bonus

When gambling at an online casino, you can get access to different bonuses and promotions. These offers can extend gameplay sessions or provide the chance to win real money. We’ve explained the most popular bonuses and how to use them below.

What Are Online Casino Bonuses?

They are rewards or incentives that require a deposit or are given freely. Bonuses provide value to both new and existing players. Examples include welcome bonuses, deposit bonuses, cashback offers, and VIP rewards.

How to Choose the Best Bonus for You

With so many different bonuses out there, it can be hard to know which offer is right for you. To save you the time and effort needed to test multiple offers, we’ve listed some of the most important things to look at when choosing your bonus.

• Bonus type: Consider what you’re looking for from your casino bonus – free spins on the latest slot games or bonus funds on live casino games. Narrow down the options.
• Bonus value: Are you looking for the bonus with the highest potential rewards or the bonus with the best value for money? For example, one casino may offer a $1,000 matched deposit bonus when you deposit $1,000, and another casino may offer a $50 bonus when you deposit $20.
• Bonus terms: Read through the terms and conditions of the bonus. You’re ideally looking for bonuses with low wagering requirements, high maximum win limits, no game restrictions, and long expiry dates.

Types of Casino Bonuses

All bonuses differ, but main types of them are described below.

	No deposit bonuses A no deposit bonus is a unique type that gives players a reward, such as 50 free spins or $30 bonus funds after registering, without needing to make a deposit. Once a player creates and verifies their account, the bonus is automatically given. These offers are ideal for players who want to try out a new casino or experiment with a new game, as there is no risk of losing money. However, they are typically lower-value than deposit bonuses.
	Deposit bonuses These are rewards given when players deposit money into their accounts. These bonuses come in all shapes and sizes. There are welcome bonuses (offered to new players making their first deposit), matched deposit (give you a percentage of your deposit up to a certain amount), free spins (free rounds that can be used to play slot games), reload (provided to existing players for subsequent deposits), cashback bonuses (money back on your deposit losses) or a combination of all of them.
	Loyalty programs Some casinos offer loyalty programs for existing players. These programs reward players based on their playing habits; the more money you wager, the better your rewards will be. Players can earn various perks, including exclusive bonuses, free spins, free bets, bonus money, and potentially even real money.

Bonus Terms and Conditions

Before claiming any casino bonus, it’s important to read through the terms and conditions (T&Cs). Here are outlined rules around using bonuses.

• Wagering requirements: This condition outlines the number of times you have to play through your bonus before you can withdraw it. For example, if you have a $20 bonus with 40x wagering requirements, multiply these 2 numbers. You’ll have to wager $800 before you can make a withdrawal. The lower the wagering requirements, the better it is for the player.
• Expiry dates: You have to use your bonus before this date; otherwise you will lose your bonus and any winnings that you have accumulated.
• Game restrictions: Many casino bonuses, such as free spins bonuses, are limited to specific games. You’ll be able to find a list of eligible games within the T&Cs of the bonus, so check it.
• Maximum win limit: A number of bonuses will cap the amount you can win. The average maximum win limit ranges from 1x your deposit to 5x your deposit, but some may have larger or smaller limits. Any winnings over the limit will be removed from your account once the wagering requirements have been met.
• Deposit method: Some casinos will prohibit the use of certain deposit methods when claiming their bonus. If you make a qualifying deposit with one of these restricted payment methods, you will not receive the bonus. Always read the T&Cs of the bonus.
• Maximum bet: While using your bonus, you need to stick to the maximum bet amount. If you bet more than the maximum limit, the casino reserves the right to forfeit your winnings, even if you meet the wagering requirements. This prevents players from getting lucky with one large bet.
• Restricted countries: Some countries have legislation that prevents their residents from receiving casino bonuses. If you are located within one of these countries, you will not be able to claim any bonuses or promotions.

How to Calculate Your Bonus Value

To figure out the true value of a casino bonus, you need to calculate its Expected Value (EV). It tells you how much you can expect to have after meeting the bonus’s wagering requirements. Use the formula:

Expected value %100% – (WR * HOUSE EDGE)

Expected value $Bonus Money * (100 % – WR * HOUSE EDGE %)

A positive EV suggests a profit, while a negative EV means you’re likely to lose money in the long run. Casinos typically design bonuses with a negative EV to ensure they profit from the overall pool of players. But your individual experience will depend on short-term luck. The bonus gives you more game rounds, increasing your chances of winning. It also adds to your bankroll and prolongs your playing time.

Top Tips from Our Experts

To help prepare you, we’ve highlighted the main things you should look out for.

1. Explore new casinos: New casinos often provide bigger bonuses to attract players. Look out for these opportunities.
2. Prioritise reputation: Select casinos with a solid reputation and good track record. Find our top picks.
3. Keep an eye on the latest promotions: Check for new bonuses regularly, as they are often available for a limited time.
4. Match bonuses to your preferences: Choose bonuses that suit you. If you prefer slots, look for free spins; if you like roulette, seek out bonus bets.
5. Follow the rules: Always read the fine print. Use bonuses as instructed by the casino.
6. Opt for lower wagering requirements: Casinos can set these requirements at 10x, 20x,50 or 60x. Avoid high requirements that are difficult to meet.
7. Check the bonus match percentage: The casino can match your deposit in the range of 50% to 200%. A higher percentage means you get more extra money to play with.
8. Look for extra perks: Free spins or additional giveaways can add more value to the bonus beyond just the cash amount.

Online casino bonuses are worth it because they allow you to try new games without additional investment, extend your playing time and reward your loyalty. But only if you use them according to the terms and conditions.