Online Casino Sites
Online casino sites remain incredibly popular with players. The vast number of games and accessibility help boost their popularity. Studies and reports have shown that there has been a significant increase in online casino play in recent years, with many players opting to play at online casinos instead of visiting land-based casinos. The convenience and accessibility of online casinos and the wider range of games and bonuses available have contributed to this trend.
Playing for real money
How to choose a casino site
Our team has extensive experience reviewing gambling websites, and we possess the expertise needed to identify top real-money casinos. Using our knowledge, we consistently update our site with new online casinos. So, keep this page bookmarked and check back regularly for the latest and greatest in online casino options.
We commit to providing the best online casino recommendations and reviews seriously. We understand that our UK players have many choices regarding online casinos, so we must give you the most accurate information.
When we review an online casino, we go through a rigorous process with strict criteria to ensure it’s up to scratch. Our experts look at all the key areas of an online casino, like its game selection, bonuses, customer service, and payment methods, before we give it the thumbs up. With so many options bombarding players from all angles, finding the best online casinos can be challenging – but that’s why you can trust the Compare Casino Sites team.
Our reviews will give you a deep insight into what makes these elite sites tick and how they can help provide you with an exciting and rewarding gaming experience.
Compare Casino Sites
Reputation is key
New Casino Sites
The sheer number of new casino sites channelling into the industry can make it difficult to know who’s running them. Thankfully, we have undertaken comprehensive research on each of these new casinos and uncovered exactly who is behind them and their related company records. This process allows us to filter through any businesses with a repudiated reputation in the industry and a commitment to ensure none of these companies is endorsed here. Ultimately, this leads to us adding an average of 2-5 new trustworthy casino sites per month, taking into account our detailed assessment criteria, such as the quality of their operation and customer service.
As online casino experts, our team is dedicated to reviewing all the latest online casinos that launch in the UK and beyond. We aim to provide our readers with honest and detailed reviews of each site, highlighting the positive and negative aspects.
When evaluating a new online casino, it is important to consider various features. The welcome bonuses available are an important factor, as well as the site’s mobile compatibility and how easy it is to use from your device. Furthermore, analysing the available games can also be a deciding factor when choosing a new online casino. Finally, security and safety protocols are other essential aspects; casinos must provide adequate means to ensure your personal data and transactions are safe. Considering all these components, we can objectively analyse each new online casino we evaluate.
We believe that it is important for players to have access to the latest and most accurate information when choosing an online casino. That is why we constantly update our site with the best new online casinos available in the UK. Whether you are a seasoned player or a newcomer to online gambling, you can trust us to provide the information you need to make an informed decision.
Mobile Casino Sites
Online casino sites have also improved their software and technology, making everyone’s mobile playing experience enjoyable.
The highly competitive UK gaming industry has seen a surge in mobile-compatible casinos over the past few years, prompting fresh and experienced gamers to switch devices. I would go as far as to say that I don’t know of any casino sites we list that do not offer mobile-friendly games.
To accommodate the increased demand, more gaming companies are investing effort into optimising their platforms for mobile use. Having said that, with so many varieties of mobile casinos out there to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. Be it game selection, usability, or payment options, you should consider various factors when deciding on the optimal platform for your requirements. Whatever you settle on, check the reviews and prioritise safety before doing any real money transactions with your chosen provider.
Mobile player stats
More than half of all online gamblers use their smartphones for gambling. However, there is a noticeable age disparity, with 75% of online gamblers aged 18-34 using their smartphones, compared to only 14% of those aged 65 and over. The data also reveals that online gamblers in the 18-34 age group tend to use a broader range of devices for gambling, averaging 1.7 devices, compared to the overall average of 1.4 devices.
Although mobile phones continue to be the primary device for online gambling, laptops, PCs, and tablets experienced a halt in their recent decline in 2020. Laptops are the second most popular means of accessing online gambling, used by 40% of online gamblers. Laptop usage for online gambling has been decreasing in recent years but stabilised in 2020, and they are the preferred choice for online gambling among those aged 55 and over. PCs are the third most popular method for online gambling, used by one in four online gamblers, while tablets are used by just under one in five. Similar to laptops, the usage of PCs and tablets for online gambling stabilised after years of decline.
The popularity of mobile casinos has changed how UK players enjoy their favourite games. They no longer have to travel to Monte Carlo or rely solely on their laptop. With a smartphone or tablet, they can play their favourite new slot games while on the go.
Our mobile casino UK experts have reviewed the best mobile casino sites and provided insights into the latest mobile promotions, casino apps, and games. The increased visual quality of modern mobile casino games is a significant factor in their growing popularity. Mobile slot sites have been updated to include popular movies and shows, adding more excitement and engagement to the gaming experience.
Improvements in design and development
With mobile casinos increasingly becoming the go-to platform for UK gamers, casino operators are creating bespoke and responsive sites that operate on both phones and tablets. This enables them to enjoy the same range of games – from slots to baccarat and blackjack – all in the convenience of their pocket devices. This has led to a noteworthy surge in demand for optimised websites with little to no latency issues when playing games. It is evident that mobile casinos will continue to increase in popularity as long as casino operators keep up and stay ahead of technological trends.
While this is undoubtedly excellent news, choosing a mobile gaming platform can be challenging. One platform offers thousands of games, while another offers more payment options. How important is the platform’s usability? What about the design itself? Gambling should be a recreational activity that everyone can enjoy. However, slow, bug-ridden, cluttered user interfaces can often ruin the experience. Thankfully, there has been an increased focus on creating mobile-first designs for online casinos. Many now provide innovative features, unbeatable functionality, and attractive designs, making it much easier to select one you like. While this is excellent news for those, who want to relax and kick back with some gambling recreation – instability on gaming platforms should not be taken lightly, as it can discourage anyone from wanting to gamble again in the future.
Convenience is probably the number one factor for the rise of players playing at online casino sites on their mobile phones. The ability to play anywhere at any time is just amazing. Here’s an interesting fact: the number of people playing in the morning during their commute is rising. This time of the day also seems to be lucky when winning progressive jackpots.
Why do players prefer online casinos?
One of the biggest draws to online casinos is their convenience. There’s no need to travel to a physical casino when you can access real-money gaming from the comfort of your home or on the go using mobile devices. This saves both time and effort in comparison to traditional land-based establishments. The selection of games is often greater at online casinos, with a range of slot machines, table games, and speciality games that may not be available elsewhere. Promotions also feature prominently in the appeal of an online casino; new players are often offered welcome bonuses, free spins, or other incentives. Also, existing customers will likely benefit from loyalty programs, promotional offers, and VIP rewards that generally exceed those in physical casinos.
Online casinos usually have lower minimum bet requirements than their land-based counterparts, allowing players with smaller budgets to enjoy their favourite games without breaking the bank. They are also available around the clock, providing 24/7 accessibility for players to gamble at their convenience, regardless of the time of day or night. Online casinos offer a unique anonymity and privacy that many players may prefer.
Get some experience without being watched
Without the fear of judgment or scrutiny from other bystanders, it is more accessible to beginner and inexperienced gamblers who may be intimidated by other players. Moreover, these casinos provide instant access without needing to queue up for an available spot; instead, they can accommodate multiple players simultaneously. This form of gambling has evolved to give everyone access regardless of country or background, which allows for an inclusive gaming environment. There is a certain level of customisation when playing online that one wouldn’t find in land-based casinos, such as setting the tempo of games or adjusting music levels – making for more of a personalised gambling experience.
Some online casinos often provide free spins or demo versions of games, allowing players to learn and practice without risking their money. This can be particularly useful for beginners or those seeking new strategies.
While online casinos offer numerous benefits, some players may still prefer a land-based casino’s social interaction, atmosphere, and experience. Ultimately, choosing between online and land-based casinos depends on individual preferences and priorities.
That said, visiting a casino can be a more appealing experience for many people. Las Vegas, in particular, is a renowned destination for those who may not have a strong interest in gambling but still want to witness the excitement firsthand. The physical aspect of attending a traditional casino is often very different from playing online, as you can feel the slot buttons’ mechanics and hear the familiar sounds of bells or cheers around you. Depending on your location, some players may also have free perks, such as complimentary buffets and show tickets – although these benefits are usually reserved for high rollers. But many of us are at least a 10-hour flight away from Las Vegas or don’t have a local casino option.
Online Slots RTP
A contributing factor to online casino sites growing in popularity is that they can offer higher payback percentages or RTP (Return to player). Online casino sites usually offer 94.5% and above RTP percentages. The RTP can be as low as 70% at traditional land-based casinos. In layman’s terms, you have a higher chance of winning.
Return to Player (RTP) is a term used in the online casino industry to describe the percentage of all the wagered money that a game is expected to pay back to players over a long period of time. In other words, it represents the average amount of money a player can expect to win back from a particular game, expressed as a percentage of the total amount wagered.
For example, if a game has an RTP of 95%, it means that for every £100 wagered on that game, the average player can expect to win back £95 over the long run. However, it’s important to note that this is just a theoretical average and that individual players may experience different results in the short term.
RTP is an important factor to consider when choosing which games to play, as it provides a rough estimate of the expected payout from a particular game. However, RTP can vary greatly between different games and even different versions of the same game, so it’s a good idea to research the RTP of any game before playing it.
Games with a higher RTP tend to be more favourable to players, as they offer a better chance of winning in the long run. However, it’s important to remember that RTP is just one of many factors that can affect a player’s chances of winning and that there are many other factors to consider when choosing which games to play.
Registering at an online casino
Most online casinos have an easily accessible registration section located either at the top or bottom of the homepage. Sometimes, a pop-up window appears upon accessing the website, allowing you to join the platform instantly. The registration process usually takes a few minutes and involves several simple steps. For some casino sites, you can even sign up using an account from popular social networks.
Remember that the registration process includes several security steps that cannot be skipped to safeguard your data and banking information and ensure the casino completes its KYC checks. Accurately provide the required information to avoid issues when withdrawing winnings. Fill out the registration form with personal details, including full name, current address, email address, phone number, and security question. Remember that you will likely need to produce identification to withdraw funds.
Creating a memorable security question is essential for easy password recovery and added data protection. The security question may also be used as an alternative method for identity authentication.
You will also need to choose a username and currency for placing bets. It is important to select an online casino that supports your country’s currency to avoid currency conversion and potential losses.
The content of the actual registration form may vary slightly depending on the online casino. Optional fields, such as setting a deposit limit, may be left blank for better fund management. As a new user, remember that you may be eligible for a welcome bonus, which varies depending on the casino. Always review its wagering requirements and terms and conditions to know what to expect.
If you’ve played at a land-based casino in the past, you’ll quickly realise the games are pretty much the same and played in the same way. If you’re a newbie to casinos and unsure of anything, then you can contact 24/7 customer service. Overall, online casino sites are easy to play; you select the game you want, choose your stake or betting amount, and you’re away.
To make a deposit, you will need your banking, PayPal, or online wallet details. When you’ve done this once, you usually can store your details to prevent you from re-entering them whenever you want to make a deposit.
When confirming your account and identity, it’s highly likely you will have to prove your ID and/or a household bill with your name and address on it. You will have to scan this into the casino sites.
Restrictions when signing up at a new casino
Before initiating your online casino registration, you should always read the terms and conditions. These can typically be found in the footer of the website. Familiarising yourself with the terms of use will help determine whether you are eligible for registration.
Here are the most important eligibility criteria UK players must meet:
- Age Requirement: Underage gambling is strictly prohibited under sections 45 through 47 of the Gambling Act of 2005. Only individuals aged 18 or older can legally participate in online casino gaming. Refrain from attempting registration if you do not meet the minimum age requirements, as you cannot pass the verification checks, and the operator will close your newly registered account.
- Account Restrictions: UK-facing online casinos restrict customers to a single registered account per person, household, mobile number, email, and IP address. Ensure you do not have an existing account with the online casino you wish to sign up with, and do not attempt to create a new one if you do. Violators typically have their duplicate accounts suspended and winnings confiscated.
- Self-exclusion: Customers who have previously voluntarily excluded themselves from gambling are prohibited from registering new accounts. The UK has several multi-operator self-exclusion schemes, with GAMSTOP being the most prominent example. Those registered with such a scheme are prevented from playing at all gambling sites licensed to operate in the country. Access to accounts can be regained once the self-exclusion period expires. Refrain from creating new accounts if registered with a national exclusion scheme, as this violates the rules and will inevitably lead to consequences.
Verification and proof of age checks
All registered players from the UK must undergo mandatory verification before transacting with authorised gambling businesses. This standard practice is required at all UK-licensed online casinos. Verification checks serve multiple purposes, including establishing the age of registrants, confirming their identities, preventing self-excluded individuals from gambling, and enabling operators to combat money laundering, terrorist financing, and other fraudulent activities.
UK customers must pass verification before depositing, requesting withdrawals, gambling with real money, or accessing demo versions of casino games. Verification requires submitting documents as proof of age, identity, address, and payment method. Here is an overview of the documents typically requested:
- Proof of age and identity: The identification document must contain a clear photograph of the owner and their signature. Casinos often request colour copies and may reject those with cropped edges.
- Proof of address: You can supply the operator with a utility bill or a recent bank statement no older than three months. Only colour copies in your name are accepted, and the address on the document must match the address provided during registration.
- Proof of payment method: You must upload legible copies of a debit card, a bank account statement, or unredacted screenshots of an e-wallet account. This practice is part of the UK-licensed casinos’ anti-money laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) policies.
To ensure a smooth verification process, ensure the documents you provide are in good order, with legible information and no cropped edges. Meeting these requirements will help the casino’s team process and verify your information more quickly.
Identity checks – KYC
KYC (Know Your Customer) is a comprehensive customer identification verification process by banks, digital wallets, and gambling operators. In some jurisdictions, like the UK, operators are required to conduct thorough KYC procedures and gather user information to ensure financial clearance credibility.
The KYC checks involve collecting player information during signup, login, and when making deposits or withdrawals. Although most casino sites allow players to skip the process when signing up, they must complete the verification process before withdrawing any funds.
KYC requires players to provide specific documents to verify account ownership and identity. Players typically complete forms with personal details, contact information, and email addresses.
The KYC player, identity verification process, promotes responsible gambling and maintains safer gambling standards. KYC helps identify players registered on the Gamstop database and protects minors from gambling products. It is also essential for tracking problem players. Some benefits of the KYC procedure in gambling include:
- Anti-Money Laundering: KYC and AML software for iGaming help track player activity and detect potential money laundering attempts.
- Anti-Terrorism Financing: The KYC process aids in identifying and cancelling transactions associated with or suspected of funding terrorist activities.
- GamStop Support: The GamStop scheme relies on data collected through the KYC process to block access to gambling websites for those who have voluntarily chosen to self-exclude.
- Age Verification and Responsible Gambling: The KYC procedure enables gambling operators to determine if account owners are of legal gambling age and help protect vulnerable players from potential gambling harm.
What to expect from the casino industry in future?
Online casino sites are ever-changing, and it’s our job to keep you up to date. We have more fantastic games and user-friendly casinos than ever. The Gambling Commission sets many regulations that we must stay on top of.
The biggest factor for online casinos is the mobile movement; mobile devices are simply revolutionising the industry. We all love playing on mobile devices, and casino sites must stay current. As mobile device technology improves, so does our player experience. Almost all casinos are mobile-optimised, and those that aren’t will vanish into oblivion.
Virtual reality slots and casino games
One of the most recent advancements in online casino technology is the adoption of virtual reality (VR). This state-of-the-art technology enables players to immerse themselves in a lifelike casino atmosphere, interacting with other players and dealers and witnessing computer-generated reels spinning before their eyes. This offers a more authentic gambling experience resembling a land-based casino environment.
Some casinos have already embraced VR technology, and its popularity is expected to grow in the future. However, certain challenges, such as technical issues and the high cost of VR headsets, must be addressed before casinos can fully integrate VR.
Blockchain
Applying blockchain technology is an intriguing but sometimes tricky advancement for the online casino industry. Using the decentralised ledger technology, users can create secure and reliable transaction records that are tamper-proof. This could prove highly beneficial to the safety and security of online casinos by preventing fraud and cheating. Moreover, blockchain could enable decentralised casinos not controlled by a single entity.
Whilst several online casinos already employ blockchain technology, challenges such as scalability remain to hinder its full implementation in the gambling industry. Ultimately, though this unique technology has the potential to revolutionise online gambling, its success will ultimately depend on how effectively it can overcome these issues.
Cloud Casinos
Online casinos are also increasingly adopting cloud services, enabling players to access their favourite casino games from any location or device. Cloud-based casinos offer greater convenience for players, as they are accessible anytime, anywhere globally. Furthermore, cloud-based casinos are more scalable and capable of accommodating larger player numbers than traditional online casinos.
Some leading online casinos are already utilising cloud services, and this trend is expected to continue. Cloud-based casinos present numerous advantages for players and operators, so they will likely become the standard.
AI
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly popular tool in the online gambling industry. It is used for various purposes, such as player verification, fraud detection, and game development. AI can make virtual reality casinos especially engaging by creating 3D avatars for players. Additionally, AI technology can help developers create new casino games that are more interactive and enjoyable for players than before. While these developments are still relatively new, it seems clear that AI will play a major role in the future of the gambling industry.
AI algorithms are increasingly used in online gaming to give players an enhanced and more refined experience. Using AI, sophisticated analysis systems can detect patterns in a player’s gaming behaviour to suggest personalised recommendations that can improve the player’s overall satisfaction with the casino. For example, if a customer has consistently played slots, the casino’s AI may direct them toward other slot games that they may find interesting. This level of personalisation makes it possible for customers to enjoy a more tailored experience while playing at the online casino.
This technological shift is yet another step towards enriching the overall gaming experience for consumers.
Smart Watch
The gaming landscape continues to evolve, and with it, the ways players access games. Initially, casino games were available only on computers, but today, tablets and smartphones have joined the list of gaming devices. Now, smartwatches are becoming the latest addition to this lineup, with developers exploring ways to integrate slots, roulette, blackjack tables, and even sports betting into these compact gadgets.
The most evident advantage of using smartwatches for online gambling is its flexibility. Players can enjoy games like poker and roulette anywhere in the UK, provided they have a strong internet connection. This level of freedom is unmatched by desktop gaming.
Another significant benefit of smartwatch gambling is the convenience of not carrying additional equipment ie your phone or tablet. Everything you need is built into a watch you would wear anyway, making it even more accessible. It’s worth noting that while desktop gaming offers a larger screen for better visuals, smartwatches provide a unique on-the-go experience. As smartwatch gambling is still in its early stages, websites and platforms are continually being developed and refined. Be sure to check for updates as this gaming revolution unfolds.
It’s always savvy to remember that accessing real-money casinos on mobile devices, including smartwatches, can incur data charges. Therefore, it’s good to research your data allowance and be aware of your monthly plan to avoid unexpected costs.
FAQs
Why should you compare casino sites?
Comparing casino sites can help you find the one that best suits your preferences and needs. It allows you to evaluate various aspects such as the selection of games, bonus offers, security measures, payment options, and customer support, ensuring that you have the best possible gaming experience.
What factors should be considered when comparing casino sites?
Key factors to consider when comparing casino sites include their licensing and regulation, game variety, software providers, bonus offers, payment methods, withdrawal speed, customer service quality, and most importantly user reviews.
How to compare the bonus offers of different casino sites
You can compare bonus offers by looking at the amount and type of bonus (e.g., match bonus, free spins), the wagering requirements, and the terms and conditions. Always consider the feasibility of meeting the wagering requirements within the specified time.
Can I trust casino comparison websites?
Not all casino comparison websites can be trusted, as some may promote certain casinos for profit. Look for comparison sites that provide unbiased, detailed reviews and that clearly state their relationship with the casinos they review.
How do I compare the game selection at different casino sites?
Look at the number of games, the variety (slots, table games, live dealer games, etc.), the software providers, and the presence of your preferred games.
How important is licensing when comparing casino sites?
Licensing is crucial when comparing casino sites. A license from a reputable authority such as the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority ensures that the casino operates fairly and transparently, and its players and their personal data are protected.
How can I compare the customer service of different casino sites?
Take note of the methods of contact (live chat, email, phone), the availability (24/7 or specific hours), the response time, and the quality of the responses. Reading casino reviews often provide insights into a casino's customer service.
How can I compare the payment options at different casino sites?
Again, check the variety of methods available (credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, etc.), the transaction speed, the fees, and the minimum and maximum limits for deposits and withdrawals.
Is it better to play at newer or older casino sites?
Both newer and older casino sites have their advantages. Newer sites may offer innovative features and modern design, while older sites may have a proven track record and established reputation. It ultimately depends on your personal preferences.
How can I compare the mobile experience of different casino sites?
Check if the casino has a dedicated mobile app or a mobile-optimized website, whether all games are available on mobile, the ease of navigation, and the stability of the platform on your mobile device. Player reviews can also provide insights into a casino's mobile experience.
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