The world of online casinos is always changing. New betting companies enter the market and that increases the sector’s competitiveness. This competition is a good thing for players because it often means more bonuses and deals.
However, some bonuses can seem too good to be true. As a result, you need to dig a bit deeper than the headline offers and study the terms and conditions.
Knowing and understanding these bonuses can be a huge benefit. Not only can it allow you to walk away with more money, but you could get the chance to play for free.
So in this guide, we’re going to not only take a look at some of the best casino bonuses of 2023, we’re going to look at how to find them and how to check they mean what they advertise.
First, let’s take a look at what we mean by casino bonuses.
What are casino bonuses?
Casino bonuses are deals and offers made by betting companies usually to attract new players or to reward loyal and existing players.
The betting market is fiercely competitive. Casinos are all vying for the attention of players and to do that they need to offer them something to turn their eyes in their direction. That’s how potentially lucrative welcome bonuses came into being, some of which we’ll cover in detail below.
In addition to welcome bonuses, some casinos offer bonuses to their regular players. Generally, these won’t be as lucrative as welcome bonuses but could come in the form of small amounts of free credit or free spins on slot machines.
Sometimes, bonuses can extend to sports markets that may be offered by a casino, allowing you to bet on both roulette and esports, for example.
Advice when considering bonuses
Occasionally, when a bonus or promotion appears to be too good to resist, there’s sometimes a bit of a catch.
It’s not uncommon for companies to tout extravagant offers, only to later reveal the fine print of narrow qualifying terms and conditions. Unfortunately, you may remain oblivious to these intricacies until after you’ve deposited your funds or even placed your initial bet.
To avoid this, it’s recommended to check reviews or seek advice from individuals who have previously explored the casino or taken advantage of their bonuses. You could also check independent third-party review sites such as Trustpilot, or you could look for comprehensive editorial reviews in industry magazines or reputable newspapers.
This way you can make a well-informed decision.
How to find bonuses
Navigating the realm of casino bonuses can prove perplexing, particularly for those betting for the first time.
The simplest piece of advice for finding bonuses and deals is to check comparison sites. Numerous websites are dedicated to scouring the internet for the most recent offers. You’ll also often find reviews and informative accounts of their experiences. This grants you valuable insight before taking the plunge.
The best casino bonuses of 2023
Now that we know what to look for and where to look, let’s examine some of the best casino bonuses currently on the market.
Matched first bet
Undoubtedly, one of the most sought-after bonuses, typically reserved for new players, is the matched first bet.
This particular bonus holds a prominent position due to its ability to deliver substantial potential returns. The concept is simple: when you place your initial wager on a casino game such as blackjack, the casino will match your bet.
For instance, if you place a bet of $20, the casino will double that amount. Should fortune favor you and your bet is a winner, you’ll not only receive twice the payout but also keep the whole sum.
While certain betting sites extend their matching offers up to $1,000, there are those that go above and beyond, reaching as high as $2,000.
Matched first deposit
Often offered as an incentive by online casinos to entice new players, the matched first deposit bonus is even more favorable to players than the matched first bet.
It operates in much the same way as a matched bet bonus. When a new player registers for an account and makes their initial deposit, the casino matches the sum with bonus credit.
For example, if you deposit $100 into your casino account, the casino would then add an additional $100 as bonus funds, effectively doubling your deposit.
It’s important to note that there are often terms and conditions attached to bonuses like this which prevent you from withdrawing the sum, for example. Factors such as the maximum bonus amount, wagering requirements and eligible games may also differ. As a result, it’s wise to do a bit of reading up on the terms first.
Free spins
Yet another alluring casino bonus that holds appeal is the opportunity to indulge in free spins on slot machine games.
Slot games offer a straightforward and enjoyable gaming experience. The objective revolves around spinning virtual reels to align logos or symbols. The potential payouts can be substantial, and certain betting sites entice new players with a generous amount of free spins on specific games upon signing up. Select casinos even extend free spins to their regular patrons.
Free credit
A rarer bonus but one of the most appealing to players is the simple promise of free credit.
Sometimes betting companies will give you virtual funds to spend on certain games or any games that interest you. While often seen accompanying welcome bonuses, and sometimes coupled up with free spins on slot machine games, it’s not uncommon for casinos to reward regular players with credit too.
In addition to being limited to the types of games you can play, free credit bonuses may also require you to deposit certain amounts, and the credit may only be released in stages, so you won’t get to spend it all at once.
What casino games can you use bonuses on?
As mentioned above, online casinos often attach terms to some of their bonuses. This sometimes limits the games that you can spend free credit on. For example, some bonuses, as we’ve seen above, are limited to certain slot machine games.
Here’s a rundown of some of the most common games that you can usually play with bonuses:
- Roulette – This timeless classic is a beloved casino game. It involves players selecting a number, typically ranging from 1 to 37, and hoping that the ball, dropped into a spinning wheel by the dealer, lands on their chosen number. Alternatively, players can opt to wager on either red or black or whether the winning number will be odd or even.
- Blackjack – Simplicity meets excitement in this game, also referred to as pontoon or 21. The objective is clear: secure a hand total as close to 21 as possible, without going over. Through strategic decision-making and calculating card values, players aim to outsmart the dealer.
- Poker – A masterful blend of skill and chance, poker is available in a number of exhilarating versions, such as the renowned Texas Hold’em. This captivating card game demands that players showcase their judgment, shrewd tactics and poker face as they navigate the realm of bets, bluffs and strategic maneuvers.
- Slot machine games – These games are very simple to play. With the pull of a virtual lever, players spin several reels covered in symbols that they have to try and match up in a line.