Casino bonus review - are the offers worth it in 2023?

Casinos offer players a wide range of bonuses as part of their marketing strategy. The competition among gaming sites is increasing, which means that operators must come up with more attractive promotions to attract new customers. This has led to an overwhelming number of offers available to players today.

Almost every casino will offer you some sort of incentive on your first one or two deposits like Cafe Casino does (500% + 160 Free Spins), but how do you know if they’re worth claiming? In this guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at different types of casino bonuses, wagering requirements, game contributions, and other important factors to help you make an informed decision. We’ve also included a list of the best online casino bonuses currently available. So, let’s dive right in!

What Is a Casino Bonus? 

A casino bonus is a sum of money or free spins that a player can claim in addition to their own deposit. These offers are provided by online casinos to attract new customers and retain existing ones. Different types of bonuses come with specific terms and conditions such as wagering requirements, validity periods, and game restrictions. Understanding these conditions is essential to determine whether a particular bonus is beneficial and feasible to complete.

Types of Online Casino Bonuses 

Online casinos offer various types of bonuses to cater to the diverse needs of their players. Let's take a closer look at some of the most common types of casino bonuses:

Welcome Bonus

The welcome bonus is usually the largest and most generous offer that casinos provide. As the name suggests, it is offered to new players upon making their first deposit. The size of the bonus varies from casino to casino, but it can go up to several thousand dollars or even higher. For instance, SlotsandCasino offers a whopping $7,500 welcome package, while Ignition Casino welcomes its players with a 300% deposit bonus (up to $3,000) using crypto. 

Welcome bonuses may be divided into multiple deposits to encourage players to make larger initial transactions. They provide an excellent opportunity for newcomers to boost their bankrolls and enjoy their favorite games without risking their own money. However, as with all bonuses, welcome offers are subject to certain wagering requirements and other conditions that we will discuss later in this guide.

No Deposit Bonus

No deposit bonuses are highly popular amongst players as they require no initial investment. As the name implies, these bonuses are granted without any requirement for a deposit. They can be in the form of cash, free spins, or a combination of both.

While these bonuses may seem too good to be true, they do come with certain limitations. Typically, no deposit bonuses have smaller magnitudes compared to welcome offers. For instance, Las Atlantis Casino offers a $25 free no deposit bonus for new players, while Wild Casino treats newbies with $50 worth of free chips.

Despite the relatively lower amounts, no deposit bonuses present an attractive proposition for players to explore and potentially win real money without taking any financial risk.

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Reload Bonus

Once a player has exhausted their welcome bonus, online casinos offer reload bonusses to keep the excitement going. As the name indicates, these bonuses are granted when a player makes subsequent deposits. The structure of reload bonuses is similar to welcome offers, providing a percentage match on the deposit amount.

For example, a 50% reload bonus means that the casino will add 50% of the deposit amount as bonus funds to the player's account. Some casinos, such as BoVegas, go the extra mile by offering a lifetime reload bonus of up to 280% for each deposit. 

While reload bonuses are certainly appealing, it's crucial to note that their magnitude may diminish over time. Certain casinos reserve their biggest match percentages for a player's first few reload bonuses and gradually reduce the rate for subsequent deposits. Nevertheless, these bonuses remain a sought-after perk for regular players.

Crypto Bonus

With the rising popularity of cryptocurrencies, many online casinos have jumped on the bandwagon and started accepting digital currencies for deposits and withdrawals. To entice players who choose this payment method, most top-rated online casinos offer additional benefits in the form of crypto bonuses.

These bonuses often come with higher match percentages than traditional banking methods. For instance, Wild Casino offers a massive 250% crypto bonus (up to $5,000) for players making deposits with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Litecoin. 

If you're considering utilizing cryptocurrencies for casino transactions, it's definitely worthwhile to check if your preferred gaming site provides such incentives. TrustDice leads the way with a staggering 300% welcome bonus (+ 90 Free Spins) for crypto users.

Cashback Bonus

Losses are an inevitable part of playing at online casinos, but some gaming sites aim to lessen the pain through cashback bonuses. These bonuses offer a percentage of the losses incurred by a player during a specific period, typically the past week or month. El Royale Casino stands out by returning up to 20% of net losses every week, while SlotsandCasino goes even further, rewarding up to 25% of total weekly losses. 

While cashback bonuses don't require winning streaks to be profitable, they do have certain conditions. The returned amount is usually credited as bonus funds, subject to specific wagering requirements before it can be withdrawn. Nonetheless, these bonuses provide a safety net and a second chance for players to recover a portion of their losses.

High Roller / VIP Bonus

Online casinos actively court high-stakes players by offering exclusive bonuses tailored to their substantial deposits. Known as high roller bonuses or VIP rewards, these offers are designed to attract players who are willing to gamble large sums of money. DuckyLuck Casino stands out with a whopping $9,000 high roller bonus for deposits exceeding $1,500. 

In addition to traditional deposit matches, some casinos take it a step further by throwing in extra perks for elite players. For instance, TigerGames not only provides a 400% bonus but also gifts high rollers with as many as 75 free spins. 

However, it's crucial to note that the qualifying deposit thresholds for these bonuses can be significantly higher compared to standard welcome offers. If you consider yourself a high roller, these bonuses could prove to be incredibly lucrative.

Referral Bonus

Online casinos often rely on word-of-mouth promotion, and what better way to do so than offering referral bonuses to their existing loyal players? Under this scheme, players are encouraged to invite their friends and colleagues to join the same casino. When their referral registers and makes a deposit, both the new player and the existing one receive a reward. 

The size of the bonus may vary depending on the casino and the specific terms. Vegas Wild Casino stands out with a double-sided referral program. New players are treated with a $1,000 welcome bonus package, while existing gamblers can earn up to $500 by inviting their peers. 

Referral bonuses not only benefit the casino by expanding its customer base but also provides an opportunity for existing players to gain additional profits.

How Do You Claim a Casino Bonus?

Claiming an online casino bonus is generally a straightforward process. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to claim your desired bonus:

  1. Choose a Reputable Online Casino: Research and select a licensed and regulated online casino that offers attractive bonuses and a wide variety of games.
  2. Create an Account: Visit the casino website and click on the "Sign Up" or "Register" button. Provide the required details to create your new account.
  3. Access the Bonus Information: Once you have set up your account, navigate to the promotions or bonuses section of the casino website. Here, you will find detailed information about the available bonuses, including their terms and conditions.
  4. Understand the Terms and Conditions: Carefully read and understand the wagering requirements, validity periods, game restrictions, and other important terms associated with the bonus. Make sure you agree with these conditions before claiming the bonus.
  5. Claim Your Bonus: After reviewing the terms, proceed to claim your chosen bonus. The process of claiming might differ based on the type of bonus. For example, a welcome bonus is usually claimed automatically after making the first deposit, whereas a no deposit bonus might require entering a bonus code or clicking on a specific link.
  6. Meet the Wagering Requirements: Most online casino bonuses come with wagering requirements. This means you need to wager or bet a certain multiple of the bonus amount before you can withdraw your winnings. Make sure you fulfil the wagering conditions within the specified validity period.
  7. Withdraw Your Funds: Once you have completed the wagering requirements, you can withdraw your winnings and any remaining bonus amount from your account.

Do Online Casino Bonuses Have Wagering Requirements?

Yes, almost all online casino bonuses come with wagering requirements. Wagering, also known as playthrough, refers to the number of times you need to gamble the bonus amount (along with the deposit, in some cases) before you are permitted to withdraw the winnings. 

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For instance, if a casino offers a 100% matching bonus of $100 with a 30x wagering requirement, you need to place bets totalling 30 times the combined value of the bonus and the deposit (in this case, $300). Only after meeting these requirements can you access and withdraw your winnings.

Wagering requirements are intended to prevent players from instantly withdrawing the bonus amount without engaging in any gaming activity on the platform. They range anywhere between 20x and 70x and greatly affect the overall value of a bonus. A higher wagering requirement makes it more challenging and time-consuming to fulfill the condition and increases the risks involved.

Other Important Bonus Conditions

While wagering requirements are a crucial aspect, there are other significant conditions attached to casino bonuses that you should be aware of:

  1. Validity Period: Online casinos typically give a limited timeframe within which you need to utilize your bonus. If you fail to meet the wagering requirements within the validity period, usually ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks, the bonus and any winnings generated from it will be forfeited.
  2. Game Contribution: Different games contribute varying proportions towards clearing the wagering requirements. Usually, slot games carry a weightage of 100%, implying that wagers on these games entirely contribute towards fulfilling the playthrough. However, table games, video poker, and other titles might offer partial or no contribution towards the wagering requirements.
  3. Minimum Deposit: Every bonus comes with a minimum deposit requirement that you need to fulfill to claim it. Failing to meet the minimum deposit amount will prevent you from availing the offer.
  4. Maximum Bet: While having a bonus active, online casinos impose maximum bet limits. Exceeding this limit can result in the voiding of the bonus, along with any winnings accrued thereafter.  Maximum bet limitations ensure that players don't abuse the bonus and walk away with substantial winnings using the casino's money.
  5. Bonus Code: Certain bonuses require a unique bonus code that you need to enter while making the deposit. Failing to provide the correct bonus code may result in you not receiving the intended bonus.

It's imperative to comprehend these conditions before claiming an online casino bonus. Ignoring the fine print can lead to disappointment and frustration down the line.

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Which Type Of Casino Bonus Is the Best? 

The suitability of a bonus type depends on individual preferences and playing styles. Here's a quick overview to help you choose the right bonus for you:

  • New Players: If you're just starting out, welcome bonuses are ideal as they offer a significant boost to your bankroll and provide a great way to explore different games. For instance, a 300% welcome bonus would mean $4500 in extra funds for a $1500 deposit at Drake Casino. 
  • Regular Players: Once you exhaust your welcome bonus, reload bonuses are a fantastic option to keep enjoying extra perks on your subsequent deposits. Many online casinos, including BC.game, treat their loyal players with a fresh deposit match on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. 
  • Crypto Enthusiasts: If you prefer the anonymity and speed of cryptocurrencies, opt for online casinos offering enhanced bonuses for crypto deposits. With up to 350% matches plus free spins, platforms like TrustDice entice players holding digital assets. 
  • Big Spenders: High rollers should explore VIP programs and bonuses customized for elevated stakes. By depositing above a certain threshold, you can enjoy exclusive rewards and extra perks, such as the 400% bonus + 75 free spins for elite players at TigerGames casino. 
  • Social Gamblers: Referral bonuses provide an opportunity to earn rewards by inviting your friends and family members to join the same casino. Whether you're a tech guru like Calvin Ayre or simply love introducing others to exciting games, schemes like the one at Wild Casino can be advantageous for social butterflies.

Remember to evaluate the conditions attached to each bonus before making a decision. While a higher match percentage seems tempting, carefully consider the related wagering requirements, validity periods, and other factors that can impact the overall profitability.

Our Top 11 Online Casino Bonuses 

After thoroughly analyzing the vast array of online casino bonuses, we have compiled a list of our top 11 picks across different categories. Each of these bonuses offers a compelling combination of magnitute, flexibility, and reasonable wagering requirements, providing a fair chance for players to reap the benefits.

Here are the best casino bonuses for June 2023 :

  1. Best Welcome Bonus Package: SlotsandCasino – $7,500 Welcome Package
  2. Highest Match Percentage Welcome Bonus: Wild Casino – Up to 250% deposit match (+ 50 spins) using crypto; 100% deposit match (+ 50 spins) with fiat banking methods
  3. Top No Deposit Bonus: National Casino – $25 instant bonus with promo code: GIFT25 
  4. Excellent First Deposit Crypto Bonus: TrustDice – 300% welcome bonus (+ 90 free spins) for crypto depositors
  5. Best Ongoing Promotions: Drake Casino – Weekly bonuses, tournaments, and loyalty rewards
  6. Great VIP Program & High Roller Bonus: BoVegas – Lifetime reload bonus of up to 280% for each deposit
  7. Top Referral Bonus: Vegas Wild Casino – Up to $500 for both the referrer and referee
  8. Best Crypto Bonus for Alt Coins: BC.game – Generous bonuses for popular altcoins like Ethereum, Doge, Binance, Shiba etc.
  9. High Roller Welcome Package: TigerGames – 400% bonus (+ 75 free spins) for deposits of $1,000 or more
  10. Top Loyalty Rewards: Ignition Casino – Lucrative cash back and achievement awards for long-term players
  11. Best Reload Bonuses: DuckyLuck Casino – 200% - 500% crypto reload bonuses

Are Online Casino Bonuses Really Worth It? 

From a purely financial perspective, it's essential to carefully evaluate the conditions attached to online casino bonuses before deciding whether they are worth pursuing. While bonuses can enhance your bankroll and increase your chances of winning, the wagering requirements, validity periods, and other restrictions can significantly impact their profitability. 

To illustrate, let's consider the following scenario:

You claim a 100% match bonus of $100 with a wagering requirement of 35x. This means you need to place bets totaling 35 times the combined value of the bonus and the deposit ($3500 in this case). If you fulfill these conditions, you stand a chance to generate substantial winnings and potentially profit from the bonus.

However, failure to meet the wagering requirements can result in hefty losses. Let's say you place bets totalling only 10 times the bonus amount. In such a situation, you would have lost $350 on flours alone, emphasizing the importance of comprehensively understanding the terms and conditions before claiming a bonus.

That being said, online casino bonuses can undoubtedly enhance the entertainment value of your gaming experience, especially if you are a casual player or a beginner. They enable you to try out new games without depleting your bankroll, giving you more bang for your buck. Additionally, ongoing promotions, loyalty rewards, and other long-term schemes can be particularly beneficial for seasoned players with a substantial budget.

Ultimately, the decision to claim an online casino bonus depends on your personal strategy, bankroll size, and playing style. Those with larger budgets may prefer to forego bonuses and solely focus on cash wagers, while others might find them essential to amplify their gaming adventures.

Tips on How to Effectively Utilize Casino Bonuses 

If you decide to claim a bonus, here are some tips to help you maximize your chances of profiting from it:

  1. Read the Fine Print: Before accepting a bonus, meticulously study the terms and conditions. Pay special attention to wagering requirements, validity periods, game contributions, and maximum bet limits. Ensure that you fully grasp these conditions to avoid unpleasant surprises later on.
  2. Evaluate the Wagering Requirements: Wagering requirements are perhaps the most critical factor affecting the profitability of a bonus. Try to find schemes with lower playthrough ratios, ideally below 30x. Also, check whether the wagering applies only to the bonus amount or includes the deposit as well.
  3. Consider the Validity Period: The timeframe provided to clear the wagering requirements is equally important. Longer validity periods offer more flexibility and a lesser rush to complete the requirements.
  4. Understand Game Contributions: Different games contribute differently towards clearing the wagering requirements. Go through the game weightings to identify titles with higher contributions, allowing you to accomplish the conditions swiftly.
  5. Manage Your Bankroll: Regardless of the bonus terms, proper bankroll management is essential for long-term success. Set limits on your deposits and wagers, and never risk more than you can afford to lose. Treat online casino gaming as a source of entertainment rather than a guaranteed way to make profits.
  6. Utilize Multiple Bonuses Strategically: If you register at multiple online casinos, carefully assess the available bonuses and plan your deposits and redeemptions strategically. This approach can enable you to maximize the benefits while minimizing the risks involved.

By implementing these tips, you can improve your chances of benefitting from online casino bonuses without falling prey to unfavourable terms or excessive risks. 

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How to Complain About a Casino Bonus? 

Despite thorough research, it's possible to encounter online casinos with unreasonable bonus conditions or outright breaches of agreement. If you find yourself in such an unfortunate situation, here's what you should do:

  1. Verify the Terms and Conditions: Before raising a complaint, ensure that you have fully understood and complied with the bonus terms and conditions. Double-check if you have met the wagering requirements, fulfilled any minimum deposit or maximum bet limits, and adhered to the validity period. Having a solid basis strengthens your complaint.
  2. Contact Casino Support: Reach out to the casino's customer support team through email, live chat, or phone. Politely explain your issue and provide relevant evidence such as screenshots or conversation logs. Give them a reasonable timeline to resolve the matter.
  3. Try Mediation Services: If the casino fails to address your concern satisfactorily, you can seek assistance from third-party mediation services like ThePoggocomplaints service or AskGamblers. These organizations aim to resolve disputes between players and online casinos fairly and impartially.
  4. Report Rogue Operators: In severe cases where the casino continues to violate rules or regulations, consider reporting them to the relevant authorities. Licensed online casinos undergo regulation by governmental entities like the Malta Gaming Authority or Curacao eGaming. Filing a complaint with the regulatory body can lead to disciplinary action against non-compliant operators. 
  5. Stay Vigilant and Learn from the Experience: Keep a close eye on warning signs and trust your instincts when selecting future online casinos. Use your experience as an opportunity to educate yourself further and share your learnings with the gaming community to prevent others from facing similar predicaments.

Dealing with complaints can be a frustrating experience, but following these steps can considerably augment your chances of resolving the issue amicably. Remember, education, and caution are key to navigating the world of online casinos.

Why Do Online Casinos Offer Bonuses? 

Online casinos offer bonuses for multiple reasons: 

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  1. Attracting New Players: The online gaming industry is highly competitive. Bonuses act as a powerful magnet, luring potential customers and providing them with an irresistible introduction to a particular gaming platform.
  2. Retaining Existing Players: Acquiring new players is merely half the battle won. Casinos also endeavor to retain the interest of their existing user base. Bonuses and ongoing promotions serve as a means of keeping players engaged, satisfied, and loyal to the platform.
  3. Enhancing Customer Loyalty: Loyalty programs and high roller schemes are crafted to foster strong relationships with long-term players. By rewarding consistent wagers with cash backs, achievements, and other perks, online casinos strengthen customer loyalty and advocate repeat patronage.
  4. Boosting Sales and Revenue: Online casinos operate in a commercial environment. Bonuses are a tactical tool to stimulate sales and enhance revenue. By enticing players to deposit and wager more, gaming platforms bolster their bottom line.
  5. Promoting Fair Play: Reputable online casinos prioritize fair play and transparency. Bonuses with reasonable wagering requirements and clear terms aim to level the playing field, offering players a balanced and equitable gaming experience.

Whether it's to reel you in, keep you hooked, appreciate your loyalty, make a profit, or ensure a level playing field, online casino bonuses serve as a multifaceted instrument to enrich your gaming journey. 

How to Find the Best Online Casino Bonuses? 

Finding the best online casino bonuses requires a combination of research, analysis, and vigilance. Here's a step-by-step guide to assist you in locating the most advantageous offers:

  1. Research and Shortlist Reputable Online Casinos: Begin your search by identifying reliable and legitimate online casinos. Look for platforms with a robust reputation, positive player reviews, valid licenses, and strict security measures. Narrow down your options to a manageable list.
  2. Compare Bonus Offers: Explore the promotions page of each shortlisted casino. Evaluate the variety and magnitude of available bonuses, including welcome packages, reload bonuses, cashback schemes, and loyalty rewards. Compare the key conditions such as wagering requirements, validity periods, and game contributions.
  3. Analyze Banking Options and Cryptocurrency Acceptance: Check if the casino supports your preferred banking method or cryptocurrency. Availability of convenient and secure payment options enhances your overall gaming experience.
  4. Assess Game Diversity and Quality: A good online casino offers a rich library of games from reputable software providers. Explore the collection of slots, table games, live dealer titles, and Specialty games. Ensure that the games meet your preferences in terms of themes, graphics, features, and payouts.
  5. Check Out Mobile Compatibility: In the current mobile era, it's crucial to choose a casino with a user-friendly mobile platform. Whether through a dedicated app or a responsive website, being able to enjoy your favourite games on the go adds immense convenience.
  6. Customer Support Channels: Reliable online casinos offer multiple customer support channels, including live chat, email, and phone. Timely resolution of queries or issues ensures a hassle-free gaming experience.
  7. Read Terms and Conditions: Before claiming a bonus, delve into the fine print. Analyze the wagering requirements, validity periods, game contributions, and other conditions. Ensure that the terms are reasonable, transparent, and enforceable. A clear set of rules helps avoid misunderstandings or unfair treatments.
  8. Compare Complaint Handling: Despite the best efforts, conflicts can arise. Study how the casino handles complaints. Do they have a track record of resolving issues fairly and promptly? Are there independent dispute resolution mechanisms available? Choosing a casino with a player-centric approach to complaints can significantly enhance your overall satisfaction.
  9. Stay Informed and Stay Safe: Continuously educate yourself about the latest developments, trends, and best practices in online casino gaming. Stay vigilant, trust your instincts, and immediately report any suspicious or unethical activities to the appropriate authorities. Remain proactive in safeguarding your personal and financial information. 

Adopting these guidelines empowers you to locate online casinos offering favorable bonuses while ensuring a secure and enjoyable gaming environment. 

  • What is casino bonus?

    A casino bonus is a promotion offered by online casinos to attract or retain players. It typically involves additional funds, spins, or other rewards added to a player's account when they perform a specific action, such as making a deposit or referring a friend. These bonuses come with certain conditions and wagering requirements that need to be fulfilled before players can withdraw their winnings.

  • Can I win real money with online casino bonuses?

    Yes, you can win real money using online casino bonuses if you comply with the accompanying conditions and terms. However, it's crucial to fully understand the wagering requirements, validity periods, game contributions, and other restrictions before claiming a bonus. Failure to satisfy these conditions can result in hefty losses.

  • How to claim a casino bonus?

    To claim a casino bonus, you typically need to create an account on the platform and fulfill the eligibility criteria, which could include making a deposit. During the registration process or in the banking section, you might be asked if you want to opt-in for the bonus offer. Alternatively, you could use a unique bonus code provided for the promotion. Once you claim the bonus, the associated funds or free spins will be added to your account. Always refer to the casino's instructions and bonus terms for specific claiming procedures.

  • Are online casino bonuses safe?

    While online casino bonuses can enhance your gaming experience, it's crucial to exercise caution and due diligence when claiming and utilizing them. Not all bonuses are safe or beneficial. Always read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure that the bonus comes from a reputable and licensed online casino. Review the wagering requirements, validity periods, game contributions, and other conditions to avoid bonuses with excessively high playthrough ratios or restrictive terms. Stick to well-established and trusted online casinos with a good reputation among players to minimize risks associated with fraudulent or unfair bonus offers.

  • How to avoid bonus abusers and fraudsters in online casinos?

    There are several ways to avoid bonus abusers and fraudsters in online casinos:

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    1. Stick to well-known and reputable online casinos with a proven track record of fairness and player protection.

    2. Read reviews from other players to gauge their experiences with the casino's bonuses and service quality.

    3. Verify the casino's licenses and certifications from recognized authorities in the industry.

    4. Analyze the terms and conditions of the bonuses carefully, looking out for unrealistic or one-sided requirements that could indicate fraudulent intent.

    5. Avoid casinos that solicit sensitive personal information or push you towards large deposits or unnecessary fees.

    6. Trust your intuition and immediate red flags. If something feels off or too good to be true, it's probably a good idea to steer clear.

    By exercising prudence, educating yourself, and heeding warnings from the gaming community, you can significantly mitigate the risks associated with bonus abusers and fraudulent actors in the online casino space.