Our Core Criteria: How We Review Casinos Step-by-Step
Every casino review is built on a detailed, hands-on evaluation designed to give players the most accurate information possible. Here’s a step-by-step guide on exactly how we rate casinos across key categories.
1. Licensing and Security – Casino Safety, Regulation, and Data Protection
First and foremost, we only recommend casinos that hold licenses from trusted authorities, like Malta Gaming Authority, UK Gambling Commission, or Kahnawake Gaming Commission. Our research process verifies regulatory compliance, player protection protocols, and past operator performance. And our security checks include encryption standards, safe payment processing, and robust privacy policies.
2. Games and Software Quality
Next, we explore every casino’s game library. Our team reviews slot machines, table games, live dealer titles, and specialty games. We also rate casinos higher when they partner with respected software providers, use certified random number generators (RNGs), and deliver smooth gameplay with high-quality graphics and sound.
3. Bonuses and Promotions – Welcome Offers, Free Spins, and Loyalty Rewards
How we review and rate bonuses and promotions is an in-depth process. In fact, we make sure to look into bonuses closely in order to guarantee accuracy. This is because it’s in our name, CasinoBonus.com, so it isn’t something we take lightly! Here’s a rundown of all the things we do to make sure players only get the best of the best:
We open real accounts and deposit our own money to confirm the bonus is delivered exactly as advertised.
We document the full player journey from registration to receiving the bonus.
We read every term and condition to identify hidden bonus restrictions.
We test wagering requirements by playing across different game types.
We verify withdrawals for any winnings earned from bonus play.
We compare the overall value against industry standards.
We update findings regularly so our readers always have the latest, most accurate information.
By following these steps, we only list the casinos that actually maintain proper licensing, employ strong security, and hold positive player reputations.
4. Banking and Payout Speed – Banking Methods, Fees, and Speed
On top of reviewing bonuses, we also check payment flexibility. Our knowledgeable team searches for a variety of safe, convenient deposit and withdrawal methods. The most highly-rated casino sites will have credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and cryptocurrencies. We also rate payout speed, fee transparency, and how consistently casinos process transactions within their listed timeframes.
5. Mobile Experience – App Performance and Mobile Site Usability
We couldn’t call ourselves experts if we left mobile users out of the equation! Our team tests casinos on multiple mobile devices to review app stability, load times, navigation, and game selection. We rate platforms higher when they offer a fully-functional mobile site or a dedicated mobile app with the same features available on desktop.
6. Customer Support – Responsiveness and Problem-Solving
Another key part of how we review casinos and bonuses is testing all customer service channels. We contact customer support teams directly to review response speed, professionalism, and helpfulness. Plus, we rate casinos on the availability of live chat, email, and phone support, giving top marks to those offering 24/7 multilingual assistance.
7. Responsible Gambling Measures – Resources for Safe Play
We check whether each casino provides deposit limits, self-exclusion tools, and links to support organizations. We rate casinos higher when they promote responsible play actively and make these resources easy to find.
8. Localization and Accessibility – Language Support and Inclusivity
Lastly, we review how well casinos serve players from different regions, including language options, local payment solutions, and accessibility features for users with disabilities. We rate inclusivity as a key factor in our recommendations.
Now that you understand the criteria we use, let’s talk about the gameplay aspect of reviewing online casinos.