Winning real money at online casinos can be a great rush for any player, which explains why these virtual gaming destinations have become so popular. However, for newbies, trying to pick out the best real money online casinos can seem like an overwhelming process. So, we’re here to help you get your feet wet.
In this guide, we not only give our recommendations for top real money online casinos, but we also provide a wealth of information on how to choose the right one for you, highlight what kinds of games are offered, as well as share various bonuses for extra added value. Let’s dig in!
Our Top Real Money Casino Sites Reviewed
There are quite a few factors that go into determining which of our recommended real money online casino sites ranks first. In some cases, more than one site will excel in certain areas, such as a variety of real money casino games. At times, more than one site might find itself atop the leaderboard.
Michigan Online Gambling Update - New Sites & AppsFor example, Wild Casino leads the pack when it comes to welcome bonuses with its 250% deposit boost (up to $5,000) while BetUS and SportsBetting AG are close seconds with their respective 125, 125, 25% bonus (up to $3,750) and 50% welcome bonus (up to $1,000).
On the other hand, casino homepages can vary greatly from site to site. For example, the Bovada online casino platform may not be as flashy as BetOnline’s or Las Atlantis’, but when it comes to user experience, we found Bovada to be more intuitive thanks to its easy-to-use navigation bar.
When ranking our top online casinos that accept players from the United States, we look at all aspects of each gaming platform to deliver you the most accurate list possible.
Our Honest DraftKings Casino NJ Review & Top Game TitlesIs It Safe to Play at Real Money Online Casinos?
Yes, if you stick to playing at licensed sites that we recommend in this guide.
As with anything on the internet, there are always going to be scammers looking to take advantage. That’s why we want to stress just how important it is to play only at safe real money online casino sites.
Here are a few things that you should keep your eyes peeled for before committing to a particular site to ensure that it is legit.
- Licensing and Regulation – The best real money online casinos will proudly display logos from third-party security firms that they have been audited by, certifying that their games are fair, and proving they are regulated. Additionally, reputable sites will disclose their licensing information somewhere on their platform, typically in the website’s footer.
- Audited Random Number Generators – Online casino games rely heavily on luck. Still, to ensure that the results are not fixed, legitimate operators use random number generators (RNGs) to randomly shuffle decks, determine where slots’ reels will stop, and so on. Certificates from organizations such as eCOGRA and Technical Systems Testing (TST) attest that the RNGs are audited and functioning properly.
- Security Measures – SSL encryption ensures that all communications between the server and users are kept confidential. Look for a lock icon in the address bar of the browser to confirm the presence of SSL encryption on the page. Secure online casinos will also likely require identity verification before withdrawals can be made.
- Reputation – Check online reviews and ask around to see if others have had good experiences with the online casino in question. How do they respond to negative reviews? Do they interact with their community in a positive manner? These are all important considerations.
- Transparency – Legitimate sites will allow users to check the status of their transactions within their account. This usually takes the form of an “transaction history” page that lists each transfer in and out of the patron’s account.
Failure to meet any of these standards could be a red flag. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is. It’s better to err on the side of caution and avoid a shady operation than to put your hard-earned money at risk.
top 50 usa online casinosStart with one of our recommended real money online casinos.
Real Money Casino Games
Players at real money online casinos will encounter a range of game varieties. Classic casino games such as blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker can all be found in digital form.
Real money slot machines are arguably the most popular type of game, with thousands upon thousands of unique titles to choose from. Many of them feature cinematic cut scenes, bonus rounds, and other special features that add another layer of excitement.
Some of the best sites even offer live dealers, providing a more traditional gambling experience from the comfort of home. We’ll cover these options in greater detail below.
Slots
Slot machines are undoubtedly the lifeblood of the modern casino industry, and online venues are no exception to this rule. In fact, real money online slot machines are far more popular than they are on the casino floor.
The digital format allows developers to include a wide range of themes, detailed graphics, cinematic cut scenes, and intricate storylines that would be difficult or impossible to achieve on the casino floor due to their size and complexity. Some even feature live actors and full motion video (FMV). Every reputable operator will have a vast selection of high-quality slot titles available.
Slots come in many forms. Three-reel machines with a single payline harken back to the early days of the casino industry, while five-reel games with dozens of lines provide a more immersive experience. Progressive jackpot slots offer the chance to win truly life-changing sums of cash; Mega Moolah, for instance, holds the record for the largest online slot machine win ever.
In addition to traditional formats, many software studios now produce Megaways titles that feature a large number of ways to win on every spin, delivering thrilling gameplay and massive rewards.
RTP & Slot Volatility Levels
When choosing among the rows and rows of slot machines at an online casino, one key metric that can help guide your decisions is return to player ratio, or RTP for short. This number tells players how much of their wagers the machine will pay out over the long term, on average.
For example, an online slot with an RTP of 95% will return $95 for every $100 spun for its entire existence. Though it doesn’t speak to the behavior of a specific machine at a specific time, it does give players a general idea of what they can expect; higher RTPs indicate a greater proportion of wagers will be paid out as wins.
It is important to note that these numbers are calculated over many spins, so variations will occur over shorter periods of time. No matter how lucrative a game looks on paper, the short-term behavior of a slot machine is essentially unpredictable; one machine can go for long stretches of time without paying out much, or it could hit winning combinations frequently.
Volatility (also known as variance) describes how often a slot machine hits and the size of those wins when it does. Low volatility games pay out regularly but in small amounts, while high volatility titles are more stingy but offer larger prizes. Medium is, predictably, in between.
Understanding where a particular machine falls on this spectrum can help players make informed choices about which games fit their particular style and goals.
Those who prefer a steady stream of smaller wins may want to seek out titles on the low end of the scale, while high volatility games are a better fit for players who can go longer periods of time without wins and prefer bigger payouts when they hit. Most of the time, this information is easily accessible via a Google search, the casino’s website, or the game developer’s site.
Roulette
American Roulette
Dream Gaming
EV 6out of 10 based on 184 user votes.
Free No Deposit Poker Sites that Offer Real Money Prize in 2023Real Deal Vegas Roulette
Bovada
EV 9.3 out of 10 based on 270 user votes.
Double Ball Roulette
Drake Casino
Best NY Poker Sites 2023 - New York Online Poker SitesEV 9.2 out of 10 based on 199 user votes.
Roulette is one of the classic casino games, and most platforms will offer several variants. Players can try their luck on European or American Roulette, placing bets on a number, color, or other criteria and watching to see where the ball lands after the wheel comes to a stop. Winnings are based on the specifics of the bet placed.
One big benefit to playing online is being able to set your own pace. There is no pushy pit boss giving you that look as you sit there pondering your next move; feel free to take as much time as you need to decide where to place your chips.
Additionally, some sites offer Live Dealer Roulette, which combines the best elements of online and brick-and-mortar gaming. More on that below.
Blackjack
Single Deck Blackjack
Bovada
EV 9.7 out of 10 based on 245 user votes.
Blackjack VIP
Dream Gaming
EV 9.6 out of 10 based on 185 user votes.
European Blackjack
Drake Casino
EV 9.5 out of 10 based on 198 user votes.
Blackjack is another classic casino game that has made a seamless transition to the online format. The goal is the same: beat the dealer by getting your hand as close to 21 without going over. Cards above that magic number are considered busts.
Players can try a number of different variants, including single deck and multi-hand Blackjack, as well as games with unique rules and side bets. As with roulette, being able to set your own pace is a major benefit; say goodbye to feeling pressured to make a decision before you’re ready.
Many games also allow players to retire winning hands earlier than usual, making the game less risky. Take advantage of this feature to extend your playtime and have more fun.
Video Poker
Deuces Wild
Drake Casino
EV 9.6 out of 10 based on 198 user votes.
Jacks or Better
Bovada
EV 9.4 out of 10 based on 241 user votes.
online casinos texasBonus Deuces Wild
Dream Gaming
EV 9.2 out of 10 based on 184 user votes.
Video poker provides a good combination of skill and luck, making it a favorite among many gamblers. Players are dealt five cards and must choose which ones to hold and which to discard; new cards are drawn to replace the ones left behind, and winning hands are rewarded according to a standard pay table.
A strong understanding of basic strategy can tip the house edge in the player’s favor, making it a plus-expectation game for many variants. These tips are easy to learn and can significantly improve one’s chances of winning. Look for games with high payouts for a better player experience.
Live Dealer Games
Live dealer games bridge the gap between online and brick-and-mortar casinos, offering players the best of both worlds. The action is streamed online in real time, allowing users to watch as the deals the cards or spins the wheel.
This creates a level of interaction that goes beyond simply pressing a button on a computer screen, all while enjoying the convenience of doing so from the comfort of home. Many consider this to be the best way to play real money online casino games.
Head to the Bovada Casino to play their live dealer games.
Best Online Poker Sites Ranked (2023) - PokerListingsReal Money Casino Apps & Mobile Compatibility
Just because you’re away from your desktop computer doesn’t mean you should be forced to miss out on the gaming action. Today’s leading online casinos understand this, which is why almost all of them offer mobile apps for players on the go.
These web-based applications utilize responsive design principles to automatically fit the content of the desktop site to whatever device is being used to access it, whether it’s a smartphone or tablet. In many instances, users won’t even need to download an app from an app store; visiting the online casino’s website is all that is required to get in on the fun.
Of course, dedicated mobile apps exist as well. These can often be accessed through the website—look for a link at the bottom of the homepage—or downloaded from the app store. They may offer a slightly different selection of games than the desktop site, as developers work to optimize titles for mobile play.
Generally speaking, online casino apps will provide most, if not all, of the features and benefits found on a desktop site. Real money deposits and withdrawals are supported, along with bonus opportunities and loyalty rewards programs. Users can enjoy a wide range of games wherever they happen to be, bringing the casino floor right into their hands.
Look no further than Bovada for excellent mobile casino games.
Real Money Casino Bonuses & Promos
Welcome bonuses serve as an enticement for new players to sign up for an online casino. These offers match a percentage of a player’s initial deposit, giving them extra funds to get in on the gaming action right away.
For example, a 100% welcome bonus up to $1,000 means that the casino will add $1 to the pot for every $1 contributed up to a total deposit of $1,000. All told, players have $2,000 to work with.
Casino Deposit Bonus Tips - How to Beat Wagering RequirementsOf course, there are terms and conditions to be aware of. Most welcome bonuses come with a playthrough requirement, specifying how many times the bonus amount must be wagered before it can be withdrawn as cash-outable winnings. Additional restrictions may apply, such as which types of games count toward the playthrough and when the promotions expires if they are not met.
Read the fine print carefully to fully understand the details of each promotion. Also, compare the offers across multiple casinos for the best deals; some platforms offer multiple bonuses as part of a multi-stage Welcome Package.
Beyond the opening salvo, there are plenty of opportunities for ongoing rewards. Reload bonuses give players a little extra when they add funds to their accounts, while cashback promos provide a portion of lost wagers in a risk-free way to play. Loyalty programs track player activity to determine status levels and provide corresponding perks such as enhanced bonuses, faster withdrawals, and access to exclusive events.
Tournaments and leaderboards allow players to compete against one another for prize pools, while special promotions tie in in conjunction with holidays or new game launches. Keep an eye on an online casino’s promotions page for all the latest offers.
Payment Methods
Depositing and withdrawing funds from a real money online casino should be simple and straightforward, and nearly all sites support common payment methods like credit and debit cards. Additional options may be available depending on the jurisdiction.
Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies are becoming increasingly popular due to their speed, security, and anonymity; many platforms now offer special bonuses for Bitcoin deposits. Regardless of the method chosen, players should check to make sure that their preferred option is supported by their chosen online casino.
Free Casino Slots You Can Play Online for FunHead to BetUS to start depositing today.
Deposits
- Visa – RCash, Xcoins, Bovada, BetUS, SportsBetting AG
- MasterCard – MyBookie, Sports Interaction, BetNow
- American Express – Sports Interaction, BetNow, Frankie Dettorie
- Discover – MyBookie, Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- Bitcoin +various OTHERS – Bovada, BetUS, SportsBetting AG
- Ethereum – Bovada
- Litecoin – Bovada
- Tether – Bovada
- Skrill – Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- Neteller – Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- PaySafe – Sports Interaction, PayNow
- Bank Transfer – Bovada, Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettoire
- Person2Person – Bovada, Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- Pastport Deposit – Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- Play+ – Bovada, Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- PayQwick – Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- Voucher – Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
Withdrawals
- Check – Bovada, Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- Bitcoin +various OTHERS – Bovada, BetUS, SportsBetting AG
- Money Order – BetUS, Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- ECash Direct – BetUS, Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- Skill – Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- Neteller – Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- Play+ – Bovada, Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- Bank Wire – Bovada, Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- PayStation – Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
- Pay4Freid – Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorne
- PayZeeD – Sports Interaction, Frankie Dettorie
Safe Real Money Online Casinos by State
While we recommend national and international online casinos, players may be interested in state-specific options. Below, you can find our guides to legal online casinos by state. We have yet to find a comprehensive database of US-based online casinos. Because of this, if you are trying to find local options we suggest searching online for “[your state] online casinos.” Alternatively, you can reach out to your preferred sports betting brand to see if they offer casino gaming options in your area.
of the Best Online Casinos in Canada 2023Tips for Beginners
Ready to dive headfirst into the exciting world of online casinos? Here are a few helpful tips for beginners to help you get started on the right foot.
- Take advantage of bonuses: Online casinos offer a variety of bonuses and promotions to attract new players. Be sure to read the terms and conditions carefully to understand the requirements for claiming and using the bonus, such as minimum deposits and playthrough requirements. Select bonuses that align with your playing style and budget.
- Manage your bankroll: Set a budget for your gaming sessions and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses or spending more than you can afford to sustain responsible gaming habits. Plan your bet sizes and adjust your game selection according to your financial limits.
- Experiment with various games: Don’t limit yourself to a single type of game. Discover what you enjoy by sampling different slots, table games, and more. You never know which games might turn out to be your favorites until you try them.
- Play the games: Trying out games is the best way to gain experience and understand the flow of the games. Most sites will let you test out games with play money, but you’ll still want to make deposits eventually to win real money.
- Stay Patient When Learning: It’s normal to make mistakes when learning to play. Give yourself time to adapt to the nuances and strategies of different games. With patience and practice, you’ll improve your skills and enhance your enjoyment of the gaming experience.
- Consider Your Internet Connection: A solid internet connection improves your online gaming experience. Slow connections or poor connectivity can lead to lag, disconnections, and missed opportunities. Ensure you have stable WiFi or cellular data to minimize interruptions during gameplay.
Questions you Might Have
Are online casinos legal?
Can you really win money on online casino games?
What is the best online casino game to win money?
Are online casinos safe?
Can you trust online casinos?
How do you know if an online casino is legit?
How do I withdraw my winnings from an online casino quickly?
Should I pay taxes on my online gambling winnings?
Can online casinos ban you?
Can you go to jail for online casino activities?
Do online casinos cheat?
Answer: As long as you stick to reputable sites operating in jurisdictions where online gaming is legally permitted, you have no reason to worry about being cheated. Licensed casinos undergo regular audits to ensure their games are fair and operate using proven RNGs.
New Online Casinos in UK Launched in 2023 [Updated]How old do you have to be to play at an online casino?
Answer: The minimum legal age to participate in online gambling varies from location to location. Players may be required to submit identifying documentation to verify their age and other personal information.
