The Complete Online Casino Guide for Online Gamblers

Author Image Author: | Last Updated: March 2024

Online casinos have revolutionized the gambling industry, offering a convenient and thrilling alternative to traditional land-based establishments. You can access a multitude of games, indulge in exciting promotions, and potentially win big from the comfort of your own home.

We understand navigating the world of online casinos can be overwhelming, especially for those new to it. That’s why we put together this online casino guide, so we can help you understand the different types of games and bonuses, and to grasp the ins and outs of payment methods and security measures.

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Types of Online Casinos

Types of Online Casinos

When it comes to online casinos, there are two main categories: offshore casinos and regulated online casinos.

Understanding the difference is especially important in the context of the US, where the legal landscape surrounding online gambling is complex.

While some states have legalized online gambling within their jurisdictions, others have strict regulations that limit or prohibit online casino operations from happening within the state.

As a result, offshore casinos have emerged as a popular alternative for US players, providing access to a wide range of casino games and promotions.

Let’s delve into the key differences below:

  • Offshore Online Casinos – Offshore online casinos are international casinos that accept players from the US. These casinos often offer a wider range of games, bonuses, and more features than their regulated counterparts. However, it’s important to note that playing at offshore casinos carries some risks. The lack of direct oversight and regulation from US authorities means that players may have limited legal protections in case of disputes or fraudulent activities. That’s why it’s crucial that you thoroughly research and choose reputable offshore casinos that have a strong track record of security, fair play, and reliable customer support. An example of such a casino is DuckyLuck, one of our top-rated online casinos.
  • Regulated Online Casinos – Regulated online casinos are licensed and overseen by state-based authorities within the jurisdiction where they operate. They are required to meet stringent standards of fairness, security, and player protection. Regulatory bodies conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with these standards and enforce strict guidelines to maintain a trustworthy environment for players. In the United States, the availability of regulated online casinos is limited, with only a few states allowing online casino operations. Thus, the number of casino sites that fall under the regulated category is also relatively small. One example would be Bet365, which is licensed in Colorado, Virginia, Ohio, and New Jersey.
Common Online Casino Games

Common Online Casino Games

Blackjack Beginners

Blackjack, or 21, is one of the most beloved and widely played casino games of all time. Its simple rules make it accessible to beginners, allowing them to quickly join in on the action. What’s even more exciting is that mastering certain strategies can significantly reduce the house edge to less than 1%, which is one of the lowest you’ll find in any casino game.

Roulette Wheel

Roulette is the epitome of casino gambling, and it requires little skill. There are some different fun bets you can try and also a few variations of the game as well. While the house edge is very high, the potential for big wins is equally high.

Craps Dice

Craps takes some skill to master, but the core of the game is simple. It becomes complicated if you want to get involved with the more complex bets. The great news is the simpler bets have the best odds in the game, and the pass line bet (which you will learn about in our craps guide) is the only fair bet in the casino.

Three-Reel Slot Face


There are thousands and thousands of different slots options, and you can play them for as little as a penny. If you’ve never tried a slot before and want to learn more and give it a go, we highly recommend checking out our slots guide.

Baccarat Cards and Chips

Baccarat is a simple game that lots of players LOVE to play. The good news is that even though it is favored by high rollers, you can play it at all stakes, especially online. The specific minimum bet amount can vary between online casinos but is often as low as $1. Take a look at our baccarat guide and see if James Bond’s favorite casino game is a good fit for you.

Video poker

For the poker playing fiends who don’t want to deal with the other players at the table, video poker is a great fit. The game operates a lot like five card draw where you are given five cards and get to decide what to throw away and what to keep. Make hands and get paid! With tons of different variations, you’re bound to find a version that suits you perfectly.

live dealer

Live dealer games are a cross between the in-person gambling experience and the convenience of online play. Online casinos host live games with real dealers spinning roulette wheels, dealing blackjack hands, or throwing craps dice.

Mini Guide to Casino Bonuses

Understanding the Value in Casino Bonuses

Casino bonuses are a way for online casinos to attract and reward players. Online casinos are able to offer much more generous bonuses than land-based casinos, and they can enhance play, especially for frequent players.

Before you claim your first welcome bonus or no-deposit bonus, there are a few key elements to brush up on:

  • Rollover Requirements – Casino bonuses come with rollover requirements, also known as wagering or playthrough requirements. These indicate the number of times you must wager the bonus amount (and sometimes the deposit amount) before you can withdraw any winnings associated with the bonus. Generally speaking, the more generous the bonus seems, the higher the rollover requirement will likely be.
  • Minimum and Maximum Deposits – Some bonuses have minimum deposit requirements, meaning you need to deposit a specified minimum amount to be eligible for the bonus. Conversely, there might also be maximum deposit limits that determine the maximum amount you can receive based on your deposit. Familiarize yourself with these limits to determine the deposit amount that suits your preferences and budget.
  • Contribution Rates – Different games contribute differently towards meeting rollover requirements. This is typically indicated by a contribution rate percentage. For example, slots may contribute 100%, while table games like blackjack or roulette will have a significantly lower contribution rate. Understanding the contribution rates will help you strategize your gameplay and optimize the bonus requirements accordingly.
  • Time Limitations – Many casino bonuses come with a time limit within which you must fulfill the wagering requirements. It’s important to be aware of this timeframe to avoid losing any unused bonus funds or associated winnings.
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It’s important to carefully read and understand the terms and conditions of each bonus before accepting it, as they may vary between casinos and can significantly impact your gaming experience.

Banking Options at Online Casinos

Banking Options at Online Casinos

The best online casinos offer a variety of online banking options, including credit/debit cards, eWallets, and cryptocurrency. Before you make a deposit, make sure you check each banking method’s processing times, fees, and min/max limits. This info can help you decie which banking method works best for you!

Below is a table highlighting some standard payment methods available at online casinos, along with their average fees and processing times:

Payment TypeAverage FeesAverage Deposit TimeAverage Withdrawal Time
Credit/Debit Cards0-3%Instant1-5 business days
E-wallets$0Instant1-2 business days
Bank Transfers$0 – $501-5 business days5-15 business days
CryptocurrenciesVariableAlmost instant 1-24 hours
Prepaid Cards0-5%Instant N/A (not applicable)

One last note on payments–it’s crucial to double-check whether a payment method is available for both deposits and withdrawals. You might mistakenly think a payment method is available for both when it is only available for depositing, which can lead to complications when you try to cash out your winnings.

You may be required to choose an alternative payment method, which could involve additional fees, longer processing times, or be less safe.

Player Safety

Importance of Player Safety

Perhaps the most important factor in selecting a good online casino is the level of safety and security.

Let’s delve into the most important safety factors you need to consider before you hand over your money to any online casino.

Site Security

To maintain a secure environment, these sites employ state-of-the-art security measures, including the implementation of robust TLS protocols and regular security audits to make sure there are no vulnerabilities that someone could exploit.

Additionally, some sites these days offer the option to enable two-factor authentication (2FA), which adds an extra layer of security by requiring you to provide a second form of verification, such as a unique code sent to your mobile device, in addition to your password when you log in.

Game Fairness

Independent game auditors such as eCOGRA and iTech Labs are prominent names in the industry, providing thorough assessments of Random Number Generators for game fairness and integrity.

In addition, leading software providers like Rival Gaming, Woohoo Games, and Saucify are known for their commitment to developing reliable and audited RNGs.

Licensing

Having a license in the online casino world signifies that the operator has met specific standards and regulations, reassuring players that they’re in the capable hands of a legitimate establishment.

However, lack of licensing isn’t always a deal-breaker. While it may raise an eyebrow or two, it simply emphasizes the importance of review sites like ours, helping you separate the good from the bad.

Guide to Signing Up, Depositing and Withdrawing

Guide to Signing Up, Depositing and Withdrawing

Most casinos make the registration and banking process seamless, but in case you need some pointers, here’s a step-by-step guide on everything you need to know about signing up and then banking with any online casino.

Signing Up

  1. Choose a reputable casino and visit their website.
  2. Click on the “Sign Up” or “Register” button and provide accurate personal information, including your name, date of birth, email address, and phone number.
  3. Create a unique username and a strong password to secure your account.
  4. Read and accept the casino’s terms and conditions, and complete any optional verification process if required.
  5. Activate your account through a confirmation email or phone number — you’re ready to explore the casino’s offerings and start your online gaming adventure.

Depositing Funds

  1. Access the banking or cashier section of your account and choose a preferred payment method, such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, or bank transfers.
  2. Enter the desired deposit amount, then follow the instructions provided by the payment provider to complete the transaction securely.
  3. Be aware of any associated fees or processing times, and consider taking advantage of available bonuses or promotions. Some promotions will automatically be applied to your account, while others might need to be keyed manually via a bonus code. Others might need you to contact live chat or send an email in order to claim your bonus.

Withdrawing Funds

  1. If you want to claim any bonus funds, ensure you meet any wagering requirements or bonus conditions before making a withdrawal.
  2. Access the banking or cashier section of your account and select the withdrawal option.
  3. Choose your preferred withdrawal method and enter the desired amount to withdraw, keeping in mind any minimum or maximum limits.
  4. Follow the withdrawal process, which may involve identity verification, and await the processing of your request.
  5. Once approved, the funds will be transferred to your chosen withdrawal method, with the timeframe depending on the method and other external factors.
  6. Consider any associated fees or limits associated with the withdrawal method. If you have any concerns, reach out to customer support.

Responsible Gambling

Even the most responsible gambler occasionally gets caught up in the thrill of the game. That’s why it’s crucial for online casinos to provide measures to prevent and combat problem gambling.

Play limits, cool-off periods, and self-exclusion options act as the virtual safety nets, ensuring players can enjoy their gambling experience responsibly. Additionally, reputable sites offer accessible resources and support for those who need a helping hand. We all know that sometimes even the best of us need a little reminder to take a breather.

If self-exclusion isn’t enough, it’s important to seek help. Our gambling addiction guide has some great resources for people struggling with their gambling habits.

Online Casino Guide Summary

Online gambling can be a very rewarding experience, and we hoped you found all the information you needed to get started in this online casino guide. Choosing the right online casino for your needs doesn’t have to be difficult! You can use our game-specific pages to find online casinos that fit your needs, as well as our banking method pages.

The best online casino should be secure, have good customer service, and offer a wide range of gambling options, such as slots, table games, live dealer games, and specialty titles.

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About the Author

Isaac Payne is the static content writer at Gamblingsites.org, and he has a passion for learning about table games. Blackjack, in particular, is his favorite. In his free time, Isaac loves writing science fiction and doing arts and crafts.