Bonuses: the value is in the terms, not the percentage
A bonus can only be judged together with the games you will use it on. The same offer can be worthwhile with a low-volatility slot and almost useless with a live table that counts only partly towards wagering. That is why every bonus type in this section is explained from the game's point of view.
The actual figures — percentages, wagering, deadlines and maximum stake — are set by the operator and shown in the offer terms.
Types of bonus
| Type | What it is | What to read |
|---|---|---|
| Welcome bonus | extra funds on the first deposit | wagering, maximum stake |
| Free spins | spins on a specific game | the game, value per spin |
| No-deposit bonus | a small bonus without paying in | withdrawal cap |
| Reload bonus | a bonus on a repeat deposit | frequency, wagering |
| Cashback | partial refund of losses | calculation period |
| VIP programme | levels for activity | how points accrue |
| Promo codes | a code that activates an offer | where and when to enter it |
| Refer a friend | a reward for an invited friend | conditions for both sides |
Why the game decides a bonus's value
Wagering is cleared through stakes, and different games count differently. Slots often count in full, while table games, live tables and crash games count partly or not at all. On top of that, a high-volatility slot can drain a bonus balance before the requirement is met.
The full calculation is on the wagering requirements page.
A quick estimate
A simple rule of thumb: multiply the stakes you need to place by the house edge (100% minus the RTP of the game you will play). If the result is close to the bonus amount or higher, the bonus is worth little. For example, 1,500 in stakes on a game with a 96% RTP is about 60 of theoretical house edge against a 50 bonus. The example is an illustration, not the operator's terms.
The maximum stake
Almost every bonus caps the stake while wagering is in progress. It is easy to breach in games with a feature buy or a stake multiplier. A breach can void the bonus and any winnings.
A bonus does not change the RTP
A bonus adds funds, but every stake during wagering is still subject to the game's maths. The RTP version is set by the game at the operator — not by the bonus, and not by a VIP level.
Declining is an option
A bonus is optional. If you plan to play live tables, or you want to withdraw winnings without conditions, playing without a bonus may be simpler and kinder to your budget.
Bonuses for sports betting
Sports bonuses are usually separate offers with their own rules, such as minimum odds or a required number of selections. Casino wagering and sports wagering rarely mix. If you use both sides of an account, read each offer separately.
Frequently asked questions
Which bonus is the best?
Can I withdraw a bonus straight away?
Can I use a bonus on every game?
Does a bonus change a game's RTP?
All guides in this section
- Bonus terms: what to read before you tick the box
- Cashback: it softens losses but does not change the maths
- Free spins: two ideas with one name
- No-deposit bonus: what it is and what it isn't
- Promo codes: a key to an offer, not a gift
- Refer a friend: what happens after the invite
- Reload bonus: the bonus that keeps coming back
- VIP programme: rewards for activity
- Wagering requirements: the arithmetic from a game's point of
- Welcome bonus: how to start without losing control