If you search on the internet for a casino game, you will find hundreds of ads and platforms popping up on your screen. You will be bombarded with a number of promotional offers and welcome bonuses. Should you immediately sign up to a casino that offers an amazing welcome bonus? We would not suggest that. Choosing a reliable online casino is daunting, but you must go through it to make your journey safe. If you are new to this lucrative world, here are important factors you must consider.
Verify the Casino is Licensed
The first thing to check is whether or not the casino is properly licensed. Reputable online casinos will hold a license from a respected regulatory body such as the MGA, UKGC, Gibraltar Regulatory Authority, or the KGC in Canada.
You can usually find licensing information in the footer of the casino website. If you can’t find it, that could be a red flag. An unlicensed casino operates illegally and could potentially refuse payouts or close up shop unexpectedly, taking all your money with it.
Look into the Company’s Reputation
In addition to holding proper licensing, you’ll want to vet the company behind the casino. Search online to see if other players have filed complaints or reported issues with the casino. Check casino review sites and forums to get insight from experts and fellow players.
Beware of casinos that have a track record of poor customer service, delayed payouts, or disputes over winnings. A good reputation is critical for any business you entrust with your money.
Review the Game Selection
One of the perks of real money casinos is the immense variety of games available. When browsing new casino sites, take inventory of their game selection. At a minimum, they should offer classic table games like blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and variations of poker. Slot machines are also must-haves.
For variety, look for specialty games like keno, bingo, scratch cards, and live dealer options. Leading online casinos will have over 1,000 games from top providers like NetEnt, Microgaming, Playtech, and more. This ensures you’ll always have new games to explore.
Check Out the Bonuses and Promotions
The best online casinos compete for your business by offering lucrative signup bonuses and ongoing promotions. The catch is that bonuses come with terms and conditions, like wagering requirements you must meet before withdrawing bonus funds.
When assessing the value of casino bonuses, look at factors like:
- Percentage match on deposits
- Maximum bonus amount
- Wagering requirements
- Time limit to earn and use the bonus
- Eligible games
A good bonus has a high match percentage, reasonable wagering rules, and includes most if not all games. Be wary of bonuses that seem too good to be true.
Review the Banking Options
One mistake beginners make is registering at a casino before checking if their preferred banking option is supported. Most online casinos accept major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard. But support for e-wallets, bank transfers, and other methods can vary.
Ideally, the casino should allow deposits and withdrawals using your local currency. Check if they charge fees for transactions. Payout speed is also important – withdrawals should process within 1-3 days at most casinos.
Test their Customer Support
Before fully committing to an online casino, get a preview of their customer service. The easiest way is through their live chat function. Chat with an agent to see if they are responsive, knowledgeable, and able to address your questions.
At minimum, the casino should offer customer support through live chat, email, and phone. Check their hours of operation as well. The best offer 24/7 support so players can get assistance any time of day or night.
Try the Mobile Experience
Mobile gaming grows more popular every year. Be sure to test the casino’s mobile experience before signing up. The site should be fully optimized for smartphones and tablets, either through a dedicated app or mobile browser version.
Try playing games and making deposits/withdrawals through the mobile platform. There should be no loss of features compared to the desktop experience. If the mobile performance is lacking, consider it a strike against the casino.
