Best Online Gambling Sites: Legal Status & Top Real Money Offers for 2024
By Jessica Whitehouse,Editor at online-gambling.com
Jessica Whitehouse
Editor at online-gambling.com
| Games |
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| Online Casinos |
| Sports Betting |
| Online Poker |
| Online Lottery |
| Daily Fantasy |
Online gambling has never been more popular, and there is a wide variety of online games available to gamble on worldwide. We are dedicated to finding safe, high-quality platforms that offer you the best experience possible. Whatever type of gambling you want to dabble in online, you can be sure that you will find the best gambling sites here.
We have expert authors in the fields of casino gaming, sports betting, poker, lottery, and daily fantasy. We have tested, compared, and rated gambling websites. Here are the top online gambling sites according to our latest ranking:
- Secure
- Trusted
- Verified
Top Online Gambling Sites for August
| Gambling Site | Welcome Bonus | Bonus Code | Legal In | Site Rating | Pros & Cons | Secure Link | Terms |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22bet | 100% up to $300 Welcome Offer |
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IN, PH, HK, GH, KE, NG | + Huge Game Selection, + Top Mobile App, – Prohibited in the USA | Play Here! | Full T&Cs apply. New players only, 18+ and of a required legal age to gamble. Bonus: Only one 100% first deposit bonus per customer | The minimum deposit required to get the bonus is $1 | The maximum casino bonus is $300 | Withdrawal of funds from the customer account will only be possible after the bonus has been redeemed (wagered), the wagering requirement is 50x the bonus amount. | |
| 888casino | 100% up to ￡100 + 88 free spins |
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UK | + Casino, & Bingo, + Live Casino & Betting, – Few Mobile Games | Play Here! | Full T&Cs apply. New players with valid mobile number only ? Claim in 48 hrs. ? 14 day expiry ? Valid for selected games ? Pre-1st deposit only: Bonus wins & max redeemable amount capped at ￡100, excl. JP wins ? Wager Bonus x1 - req. contributions vary by game ? Bonus expires in 90 days | |
| Royal Panda | Get $1000 Welcome Bonus |
Not Needed
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UK | + Casino & Sports Betting, + Progressive Jackpots, – No Native iOS App | Play Here! | Full T&Cs apply. 18+, first deposit only. Casino bonus: min. ￡10, max. ￡100. Bonus/free spins winnings wagering requirement: x35. Max. bonus bet: ￡5, can vary. Free sports bet: minimum deposit and stake ￡20 (min odds 2.0). Credited after all qualifying bets settled. | |
| Betsson | 100% up to €100 + up to 300 FS |
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SE, NO, IE | + Many Jackpots, + Exclusive games, – Not available in the UK | Play Here! | 18+. New customers only. Minimum deposit €/$10. Max available bonus €/$1000. The offer is valid for 14 days after registration. T&Cs apply. | |
| Betway | 100% up to €1000 Welcome Bonus |
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UK | + Casino & Sports, + Great Live Casino, – High Wagering | Play Here! | Full T&Cs apply. New customers only. Opt-in required. 100% Match Bonus up to €250 on 1st deposit of €20+. 25% Match Bonus up to €250 on 2nd deposit and 50% Match Bonus up to €500 on 3rd deposit. 50x bonus wagering applies as do weighting requirements. Credit Card, Debit Card & PayPal deposits only. Irregular gameplay may invalidate your bonus. Full T&Cs аpply. | |
| Fantastic Spins | Up to ￡150 + 25 Free Spins |
WOW150
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UK | + Unique Games, + 24/7 Support, – Few Payment Methods | Play Here! | Full T&Cs apply.18+.New players & 1st deposit only. Min deposit ￡10 with code WOW150. Deposit matched Games Bonus [“GB”] is 100% up to ￡150 + 25 Free Spins [“FS”]. FS must be claimed by 23:59 on day they are received and are valid for 3 days. FS valued at ￡0.10 per spin. FS can be used selected games only. Winnings from FS granted in Games Bonus [GB]. All GB funds must be wagered x35 before it can be cashed-out up to a value of ￡100. | |
| Dream Vegas | 100% up to ￡300 + 150 Bonus Spins |
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UK | + Many Jackpots, + Promos & Giveaways, – High wagering | Play Here! | 18+. New players only. One offer per player. Max bonus bet ￡5. Offer: 100% bonus match on 1st deposit + bonus spins. Value of bonus & number of spins depend on deposit amount: ￡20-￡100: max ￡100 bonus + 50 spins on selected games; ￡101-￡200: max ￡200 bonus + 100 spins on selected games; or ￡200+: max ￡300 bonus + 150 spins on eligible NetEnt Games. Winnings from spins credited as bonus and capped at ￡100. Bonus funds are separate to Cash funds, and are subject to 35x wagering the total bonus & cash. Only bonus funds contribute to wagering requirement. Bonus funds expire within 30 days; bonus spins within 72hrs. Affordability checks apply. Terms apply. BeGambleAware.org. | |
| Karamba | 100% up to €200 + 100 Spins |
Not Needed
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UK | + Casino & Sports, + Secure Payments, – Few Table Games | Play Here! | 18+. Welcome bonus: New UK depositing players only. Min first deposit: ?￡10. Max bonus ￡50. 100 spins require 3 deposits. 100% bonus and 20 spins on 1st deposit. 40 spins on 2nd deposit (min ￡20), and 40 spins on 3rd deposit (min ￡20). Spins issued on selected games. Spins and bonus wagering requirement: 35x, spins expire after 24 hours. Gambling can be addictive. Play responsibly, www.begambleaware.org. T&C's apply. | |
| JackpotCity | Up to €1600 Deposit Bonus |
Not Needed
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UK | + Secure Operator, + Many Payment Methods, – Limited Table Games | Play Here! | 1st / 2nd / 3rd / 4th Deposit - Match Bonus up to 400€ ? New customers only ? Min deposit 10€ ? 70x wagering |
Jessica Whitehouse is among the professional online-gambling.com editors in charge of ensuring that our readers get the best and most reliable news and details from the online gambling world. Her focus is on blackjack and roulette reviews, lottery, and more.
In our guide to the best online gambling sites, we will show you the process behind our rankings and the criteria used when we review a site. You will see how we test operators to ensure that they are safe and trustworthy. We will also give you a breakdown of all the important criteria we use to identify the best opportunities for you to gamble online.
Our guide also gives you in-depth information about gambling online. You will find out about the different types of gambling games that are available on the internet. We will also fill you in on the legality of online gambling around the world.
- Our team of experts has years of experience in the online gambling industry. We compile the most detailed and reliable reviews and guides you will find on the internet.
- We always try to stay one step ahead, keeping track of CNN, The New York Times, and other reputable sources, while also looking at the current trends and the expected changes.
- We support responsible gambling and only recommend gambling sites that are committed to player protection. GamStop and BeGambleAware are among the organizations partnered with our sites.
Is Online Gambling Legal?
There are various online gambling laws across the world. Some countries have legalized all forms of internet-based gambling, whereas others only permit certain types of online gaming sites. There are some countries that have taken a hard stance against gambling online altogether. You will also find the laws can vary by state within some countries. As such, you need to check the local legislation where you are and stick to safe sites audited by recognizable organizations.
We have carried out thorough research on the legal status of online gambling. We have produced detailed guides for different countries to help you understand the laws where you live. You can find details for your region below:
Online Gambling in North America – Where Is It Legal?
The legality of online gambling in North America varies from one country to another. Canada and Mexico have legalized and regulated markets for all types of online gaming. Although, Canada’s laws vary based on the province, with each of its self-governing entities applying legislation differently. As such, you should check out our detailed article to find out further details of the legality throughout Canada.
When it comes to the United States, the situation is much more complicated. There is no doubting that gambling is hugely popular across the whole country. The US is home to some of the biggest and best casino resorts in the world. Las Vegas and Atlantic City are synonymous with gambling. However, when it comes to gambling online, there are heavy restrictions in place, which vary from one state to another. Some states have taken a liberal approach, legalizing and regulating all forms of gambling websites. Some permit only certain types, while other states outrightly ban online gambling in all forms. Given thbe sure to check oe complex and differing laws that affect this industry in the USA,?ur dedicated article that will fill you in on all the details you need to know.
The Changing Status of Legal Online Gambling in the USA: 2024 Overview
Is online gambling legal? That’s a question that many Americans ask, and the answer can be tough to figure out. As already mentioned, the legality of online gambling in the US varies significantly from state to state. Furthermore, things are changing quickly, with more forms of internet gambling becoming legal. We keep a close watch on the situation across all states and review the latest changes. As such, you can keep up to date and fully informed of the current legal landscape of gambling at online casinos, poker rooms, daily fantasy, lotto, and sports betting sites.
The Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act (UIGEA) of 2006 made it illegal for financial institutions to process payments from US players to online gambling sites. As such, many sites stopped accepting US players. Yet, things are changing. Notably, following the US Supreme Court’s decision in 2018 to overrule the Professional Sports Protection Act of 1992, all states are allowed to legalize sports betting.
Yet whilst some states have embraced the option to legalize sports betting online, there are others that have decided not to. There are some states, including New Jersey, Nevada, Delaware, and Pennsylvania, that have taken bold steps towards legalizing online gambling across the board. You can find out more about the online gambling laws by state on our specialized pages.
Online Gambling in Europe – Widely Legalized and Regulated
Online gambling is legalized and regulated in most countries throughout Europe. It is no coincidence that many of the online gaming industry’s leading operators and software developers are based in the European region. Yet the laws vary depending on the individual country. Some countries have legalized all forms of online gaming, whilst some only permit certain types of gambling games, such as sports betting, poker, or casino games.
The list of European countries that have legalized all kinds of internet gambling includes Albania, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. The biggest European online gaming markets are the UK, Spain and Germany.
While gambling sites are widely accepted within the region, there are some exceptions worth noting. For instance, online casinos are banned in France and Iceland, yet other forms of gambling such as sports betting, along with land-based casinos, are permitted. There are certain countries that do not permit online gambling real money sites to operate within their boundaries, yet residents are permitted to gamble online at sites based outside of the country. These include The Czech Republic, Ukraine, Poland and Switzerland. You can find out more details about the legality of online gambling in individual European countries in our dedicated articles.
Online Gambling in Asia – Diverse Laws in Place
It is a tough task to generalize the legal situation in Asia, as laws differ significantly from one country to another. On the one hand, Muslim countries, including Kuwait, Brunei, United Arab Emirates, and Qatar generally outlaw all gambling for religious reasons. On the other hand, there are gambling havens, such as Macau and the Philippines that take a very liberal approach to gambling activities.
There are plenty of countries that fall in the middle of the spectrum too. Countries such as Thailand and Malaysia, for instance, may have forbidden online gambling yet playing at offshore sites is generally accepted. You will find that laws regarding gambling in Asian countries are often subject to change. For instance, it used to be permitted to gamble in Singapore until the government moved to ban it in all forms in 2014.
Some of the largest gambling markets in the region have prohibited gambling on the internet or do not fully regulate it, including Japan, China and Korea. There are also differences that can be found at a state level in some countries. For example, in India, online gambling has only been officially legalized in the Sikkim region. Given the various restrictions and complex laws that can be found across Asian countries, you should be sure to check out detailed guides for each individual country to understand where your favorite games are legal.
Online Gambling in Africa – A Widely Legalized Market
Advancements in technology and the wider availability of internet services, particularly mobile internet have led to a real boom in gambling games across Africa. Sports betting is perhaps the most popular form of gambling across the region, with casinos and lotto also attracting many players. The industry is widely regulated on a country-by-country basis.
Many African countries have embraced online gambling. Countries such as Tanzania and Kenya have recognized the benefits of legalizing such games, given that taxes contribute significantly to revenue growth. Here, all forms of gambling are legalized and regulated, with heavy taxes applied to operators. In countries where online casinos are not yet legalized, it is generally accepted for players to participate in gambling activities provided the operator is based offshore.
One such example is South Africa, which has a thriving land-based casino and sports betting industry that is licensed and regulated. Whilst online gambling sites are not permitted to operate within the country’s borders, South Africans can gamble at international sites based outside of the country without fearing legal repercussions. Nigeria, Ghana and Zambia take a similar approach. While many African countries take a friendly approach to remote gambling, you should be sure to check our detailed country articles to understand the legal situation in further detail.
Online Gambling in South America: Regulation Improvements
There is no denying the popularity of online gambling across South America. Yet many countries have outdated laws, which were put in place long before the boom in the industry. Colombia may be the only South American country with a fully regulated online gambling market, yet the industry is flourishing in other areas. In Peru, Panama, Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic you will find relatively liberal rules.
Across the continent, there are different attitudes towards online gambling laws. Argentina has a complex gambling landscape, with online gaming activities regulated on a provincial level. Yet it is leading the way in its efforts to allow internet gambling games, to gain growth from taxation, and to protect players. Brazil has taken steps towards legalizing and regulating online gambling, with attempts to modernize laws in order to reap the benefits of taxation. Other countries, such as Bolivia and Ecuador, adopt an anti-gambling stance. Ecuador passed laws in 2010 that explicitly banned all forms of gambling. Yet regardless, residents are not prosecuted for playing at offshore sites.
Online Gambling in Australia & New Zealand – Sport and Lotto Prevail
If you want to play casino games or poker in Australia, then you will need to head to one of the country’s many land-based casinos. This is because the introduction of new legislation in 2017 made it illegal for online casinos to operate within Australia or to accept players from the country.
Australia has long been known for having some of the biggest gambling fans in the world. Yet in 2017, the new legislation was introduced, which forbids online casinos from accepting players from the country. The Interactive Gambling Act is aimed at operators, and as such, the mass of offshore casino sites that used to welcome players from Australia have closed their doors to Aussies.
Australians are permitted to gamble online at sports betting sites, yet in-play betting is forbidden. Online lotto is also permitted within the country, provided you do not play scratch cards.
If you head over the water you will find a more liberal approach in New Zealand. While gambling sites cannot operate from within the country, it is completely legal to play at sites based offshore. There are also some types of internet gambling games which are licensed and regulated from within the country. Sports betting is legally available through a single operator, the TAB. Lotto New Zealand also operates within the country’s online gambling legal framework. You can find more details in our country pages.
Online Gambling in Pakistan – Open for Offshore Operators
Pakistan is not the most progressive of countries when it comes to online gambling laws. The Gambling Prevention Act, enacted in 1977 is inflexible in that it defines playing games of chance as immoral and illegal. However, the wording in this piece of legislation is so out of touch with the current trends, that it can’t possibly account for what we now know as online gaming. As a result, operators based abroad can freely provide their services to players from Pakistan.
Most of the gaming firms that have an online platform are licensed and based in non-Muslim countries or jurisdictions. The Internet did not exist in 1977 but the law is still not amended. That, however, doesn’t seem to be much of a hinderance for the best online gambling sites that want to operate on the territory of Pakistan.
Online Gambling in the Philippines – The Only Country with a Licensing Body in Asia
The gambling sites available in the Philippines that we can recommend are those operated by international firms with a license from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR). This is an extra layer of regulation that is much welcomed by punters based in the country. The Philippines is the only Asian country with a licensing body for online gambling.
The strictness of regulation really shows through. The legal age for online gambling in the Philippines is 21. Underage gambling is pursued by the law with the utmost severity, so it’s fair to say that the PAGCOR is doing what it should.
For the players from the Philippines who are of legal age, there is an almost overwhelming variety of options. In terms of casino games that you can find online, the players can avail of a long list of categories including blackjack, roulette, baccarat, slots. Sports betting, in its entirety is still not on the list for legal gambling activities but traditional cockfighting and horse racing are fully legal.
Types of Online Gambling
The online gambling industry is thriving, and players have more options of where to play than ever before. Fans of gambling games online can choose from countless casino sites, that boast a rich and diverse range of exciting, real money games.
Online gaming sites are not limited to casino games. For instance, there are opportunities to play poker on the internet, as well as lotteries. Betting on sports is another hugely popular form of gambling online. Whatever your favorite sport, be it soccer, horseracing, or anything else, you can bet on it at the best gambling sites.
In our diverse team of writers, we have fans of all types of gambling. Each brings their own expertise and experience to create complete and useful guides to all types of online gambling. In the following sections, you can find out more about the main online gambling games that we cover on our site.
Casino Games – Slots, Roulette, Blackjack and Other Games
Online casinos feature hundreds of games to gamble on. Playing casino games online is great fun. When you add on the chance to win real money, it is no surprise that online casinos are hugely popular with players worldwide. Whether you are completely new to online gambling, or if you are an experienced player, you will find a diverse range of games to suit your preferred style of play.
Of the many casino games that you can play at a casino site, online gambling slots are without doubt the most popular. They are super simple to play and come with endless themes, special features, and big jackpots. Roulette is a casino classic game that never goes out of style. It is simple, exciting, and features many different types of betting options.
Blackjack is another timeless casino game that is a popular choice with players at online casinos. Online blackjack gambling gives you the chance to put your skills into use to maximize your chances of winning real money. Owing to their popularity, you will find that most online gambling sites offer casino games. If you want to play casino games online, then check out the top offer for 2024 based on our rankings.
Best Casino Gambling Site
| 888casino | Up to ￡100 Bonus + 88 free spins |
Not Needed
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UK | Casino, & Bingo | Get Bonus | Full T&Cs apply. New players with valid mobile number only ? Claim in 48 hrs. ? 14 day expiry ? Valid for selected games ? Pre-1st deposit only: Bonus wins & max redeemable amount capped at ￡100, excl. JP wins ? Wager Bonus x1 - req. contributions vary by game ? Bonus expires in 90 days |
We have put online casinos to the test to bring you only the best options. You can check out the criteria behind our rankings to get a better understanding of what we consider important. One factor we never compromise on is safety. After all, when you play with real money, you need to be certain that you only choose safe sites.
Sports Betting – Football, Horse Racing and Other Markets
Sports betting may be one of the most traditional forms of gambling, yet nowadays, online sports gambling is the way many gamblers choose to bet. As such, online platforms are a must for modern sports betting. The best sports gambling sites feature plenty of betting markets, with options to bet on a diverse range of sports. Plus, there are more and more betting markets appearing, to cater to every type of gambler.
Online football gambling and horse racing are two of the most popular markets and you will find them featured at all the best online sports gambling sites. As you can see from the list above, traditional sports are joined by modern types, like eSports. As well as featuring a wide range of sports, online bookmakers also offer a wide range of bets that you can place on them. In-play betting is a fast-growing market, and the availability of live betting markets is important to be considered a top site. If you want to try sports gambling online, then why not try our top-rated sports betting platform for August, 2024.
Best Sports Gambling Site
| Bet365 | Bet ￡10 Get ￡50 For new customers |
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UK | Top Sports Betting Platform | Get Bonus | Full T&Cs apply. 18+. New customers only. Registration Required. Min deposit $5. Bet Credits available to use upon settlement of bets to value of qualifying deposit. Min odds, bets and payment methods exclusions apply. Returns exclude Bet Credits stake. Time limits and full Terms and Conditions apply. |
Our recommended sports betting site is mobile-friendly. Wherever you choose to register to bet on sports online, be sure to keep mobile compatibility in mind. Most sports betting is done on the go, so a quality mobile sports betting app is essential if you want to gamble at sports betting sites from your mobile phone or tablet.
Online Poker – Texas Hold’em and Other Popular Games
Online poker is all the rage. Playing at online poker gambling sites brings a different experience to playing in a land-based game. The importance of reading body language, looking for tells, and maintaining a poker face is replaced with skills in analyzing betting patterns and behaviors. You will find that many gambling websites offer poker rooms. Yet there are also separate online poker platforms that you can play at too. If you want to put your poker skills into use online, here is our top offer for August, 2024. Best Poker Gambling Site
| 888poker | 100% up to $888 + ￡20 Free |
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UK | Top Online Poker Room | Get Bonus | Full T&Cs apply.. New players only, 18+ ? ￡20 free bonus: includes $1 immediate bonus & $31 in tournament tickets ? Bonus will be granted gradually throughout 7 days after claiming ? Each part of the bonus expires after 24 hrs ? Immediate bonus may be withdrawn after a player has accumulated 2.5 bonus points for every $1 of the received bonus amount ?This offer may not be combined with any other offer ? Wagering requirements vary by game ? Withdrawal restrictions & T&Cs apply |
You can play Texas Hold’em at online gambling real money sites. It is by far the most popular and widely available of all online poker game variants. Other popular game variants include Omaha and Seven Card Stud. Five Card Draw Poker is another interesting variant, which does not involve any community cards. You will also find that there are numerous variations of classic poker games that you can play online to win real money.
Lottery – The Biggest Prizes in the Gambling World
Lotteries give you the chance to win life-changing money. And thanks to online lottery sites, there has never been an easier way to play the world’s biggest lottery games. You do not have to limit yourself to playing the lottery in your own country, with the best lotto gambling sites enabling you to purchase tickets for any game that takes your fancy. If you want to play the best lottery games online, here is our top offer for August, 2024. Best Lottery Gambling Site
| theLotter | Multi-Draw Package |
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UK | Top Online Lottery Site | Get Bonus | 18+. T&Cs apply. |
If you are new to online lottery sites, you may be surprised at just how many lottery games you can choose from. Perhaps the most famous of lotteries are the Powerball and Mega Millions in the US. Powerball holds the record for the highest ever lottery win of a whopping $1.586 billion. Whilst the largest payout on the Mega Millions does not fall far behind, at $1.537 billion.
Euromillions is another big money, popular lotto that is played across various European countries, including the UK, France, and Ireland among others. The UK’s National Lottery is also famous worldwide and can be played at many of the best lottery gambling sites.
Daily Fantasy – A New Way to Bet on Sports
Daily Fantasy is one of the newest forms of online gambling and is proving to be extremely popular. Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) work in a similar way to season-long fantasy sports contests, yet they take place over a single day or week.
The concept behind daily fantasy sports is to choose a sport and pick players to create a fantasy team. You’ll have to work within a salary cap and you compile points based on those players’ actual performances in real sports events. You win if you draft the team with the best statistics. If you want to try your hand at daily fantasy, here is our top offer for August, 2024.
Best Daily Fantasy Gambling Site
| Ownersbox | 100% up to $500 First Deposit Bonus |
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US | Top Daily Fantasy Site | Bet Now! | *Terms and Conditions apply for all bonuses. Must be 18+ to participate. |
Daily Fantasy leagues feature a wide range of games to choose from. Among the most popular sports for daily fantasy betting are football (NFL), basketball (NBA), baseball (MLB), and hockey (NHL). There are also daily fantasy sites that offer college football, college baseball, golf, soccer, mixed martial arts, and even eSports.
Given the level of skill involved in daily fantasy sports, most DFS gamblers choose a sport that they are fans of and have a good understanding of. Still, there is nothing to stop you playing any daily fantasy sport that you fancy.
How to Rate Sites for Real Money Online Gambling
Gambling online for real money holds certain risks. As such, it is imperative to only gamble at safe and trusted sites to be sure that you are protected from scams. We base our rankings of gambling sites on detailed research, to ensure we only recommend reliable, legit operators.
To identify the best online gambling real money sites, we use a set of criteria to test and compare operators. We will delve into each of the criteria in more detail in the following sections. Here is an overview of the main criteria behind the best online gambling sites.
- Safety – Your safety is our top priority. We always make sure that our recommended gambling sites hold the required licences, have reliable SSL certificates, and offer fair gaming conditions. We never feature operators that we have not tested.
- Bonuses – Most gambling sites offer attractive bonuses for its new and regular players. We, however, recommend only the best promotions with high bonus amounts, fair wagering conditions, and enough validity to complete them.
- Mobile Compatibility – Due to their busy modern lives, most players prefer to play on the go. That is why we always make sure that our recommended operators offer stable and reliable mobile platforms, compatible with iOS and Android.
- Live Play – Live dealer games have gained significant popularity in the past few years. Thus, we make sure that our recommended operators offer high-quality live play platforms and plenty of games for you to choose from.
Safety – Your Protection Is the Top Priority
You should never underestimate the importance of safety when it comes to gambling online for real money. If you wonder how we rank gambling sites, keep in mind that safety is one of the main fundamentals we consider. Furthermore, we run detailed checks on every gambling site we recommend to ensure that they adhere to the highest standards of player protection. Each region has its own specific licensing and regulatory standards, and we make stringent checks to be sure sites operate legally and responsibly.
We place trust in recognizable, international bodies to find only the safest online gambling sites. These include testing agencies, who independently audit games and payouts to confirm they are fair. In the table below, you can see some of the most respected licensing and auditing organizations that verify how safe online gambling sites are.
| Organisation | Overview |
|---|---|
| UKGC | The United Kingdom Gambling Commission is a respected authority that licenses and heavily regulates all gambling operators that offer services to UK residents. |
| MGA | The Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) issues licenses to gambling sites within its jurisdiction. Operators must adhere to high standards of player protection in order to obtain and keep their gambling license. |
| eCOGRA | A trusted, independent testing and auditing authority. eCOGRA test and certify online gambling software. They test random number generators and analyze payouts to verify the integrity of gambling online games. |
| GLI | A leading authority that provides RNG testing and audits of game results. They produce payout reports, detailing the actual payout percentages of real money games. |
| Government of Gibraltar | Another leading authority that provides RNG testing and audits of game results. They also produce payout reports, detailing the actual payout percentages of real money games. |
| iTech Labs | A further authority that provides RNG testing and audits of game results. They produce payout reports, detailing the actual payout percentages of real money games. |
The more inspections a gambling online site has passed, the better. Given that many gambling sites operate internationally, they must gain licenses to operate in multiple jurisdictions. As such, when a site has numerous remote gambling licenses, it verifies that the operator has passed the strict standards set by several reputable regulatory bodies.
We keep a close eye on the independent tests a gambling site has passed. For instance, when a casino site is audited by a respected testing agency, you can be confident that the games are not rigged. We also check for high-end technical security and encrypted transactions, to ensure that your personal data is strictly protected.
Safe online gambling operators will also promote responsible gambling. They provide self-help tools and support to try to prevent gambling addiction. Trusted operators partner with independent charities and organizations that specialize in the treatment and prevention of problem gambling. The most reliable online gambling sites provide transparency when it comes to safety, clearly listing any licenses and certificates on their site, along with contact details for leading problem gambling organizations.
Welcome Bonus Offers and Promotions
With so many online gaming sites to choose from, many operators offer generous bonuses to encourage you to join. A bonus is always a nice add-on, boosting your bankroll and giving you more chances to win. To spot the best online gambling offers, you should consider the bonus terms. It is not simply the size of the bonus that matters, but also that it comes with favorable conditions. We rate our best bonuses based on a detailed comparison. Using the following criteria, we analyze the countless bonuses to bring you the best online gambling deals.
- Total Sum – How much bonus money you can get for your deposit?
- Eligible Players – Is the bonus available for all players, or are certain countries excluded?
- Min. Deposit – What is the smallest amount you need to deposit in order to receive a bonus?
- Wagering Requirements – How many times must the bonus be played through to convert winnings into real cash you can withdraw?
- Game Restrictions – Can the bonus be used to play all games or are there any restrictions?
- Validity – Does the bonus expire after a certain period of time?
- Eligible Payments – Is the bonus available with all payment methods, or are there exclusions?
Mobile Platform – The Best Online Gambling Apps
Most gambling fans prefer to play on the go. As such, a quality mobile platform is essential for any online gambling site. Some operators offer dedicated online gambling apps, which you can download for iOS and Android. Yet many sites can be accessed easily directly in the browser, without the need to download and install anything. Such sites are fully optimized for mobile play, so you can enjoy all the fun of gambling as and when you fancy.
Whether you choose to download an online gambling app or play directly in your mobile browser is simply a matter of personal preference. Good online mobile gambling sites should have all the features of desktop platforms. They will offer many gambling games, options to deposit and withdraw, and of course, be as safe and secure as playing on desktop. Here is an overview of the best online gambling apps:
| Gambling Type | Best Gambling App | iOS Version Required | Android Version Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports Betting | Bet 365 | iOS 10.0 or later | Nougat or later |
| Online Casino | 888casino | iOS 8.0 or later | Lollipop or later |
| Daily Fantasy | DraftKings | iOS 9.0 or later | KitKat or later |
| Online Poker | 888poker | iOS 9.0 or later | KitKat or later |
| Online Lotto | jackpot.com | iOS 8.0 or later | Jellybean or later |
Payment Options Available at Gambling Sites
To gamble online with real money, you need to make a deposit. Most operators accept a wide range of payment methods, which enable you to deposit and withdraw safely and conveniently. We’d also like to mention that credit cards are banned within the UK market in accordance with UK law since the 14th of April 2020. Whilst online gambling with credit card is the go-to option for many, there are others who look for alternative options. Online gambling with PayPal is a preferred option for many, thanks to the extra layer of security and anonymity the e-wallet provides.
We mentioned earlier that mobile gambling is extremely popular, and as such, more and more mobile payment methods are being accepted for depositing online. There has also been a significant increase in Bitcoin gambling sites in recent years, as operators constantly adapt to what their customers want. Here, you can see at a glance the top online gambling payment methods:
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e-Wallets:
- PayPal
- Skrill
- Neteller
- EcoPayz
- Entropay
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Credit/Debit Cards:
- Visa
- MasterCard
- Maestro
- Diners Card
- American Express
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Mobile Payments:
- Boku
- Payforit
- Apple Pay
- Zimpler
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Other:
- Bitcoin
- Paysafecard
- Bank Transfer
- Neosurf
Live Events
There is little that beats the thrill of real money gambling, and for most types of gambling, live events are the best around. Live casino games, for instance, provide an immersive, real-casino experience, where you play in real-time with real dealers. In-play sports betting enables you to bet on sporting events as they happen, with the odds changing to reflect the action in the game. Whilst playing in live poker tournaments is highly engaging and immersive.
Of course, to get the most from live gambling, you need to have a good internet connection. Yet just as important is for the site to provide excellent software. A combination of these two factors makes for the best live gambling online. Here, you can see the best online gambling sites for live events:
| Gambling Type | Best Live Platform | Software |
|---|---|---|
| Sports Betting | Bet 365 | Microgaming |
| Online Casino | 888casino | Evolution Gaming |
| Daily Fantasy | DraftKings | GAN |
| Online Poker | 888poker | Poker 8 |
| Online Lotto | jackpot.com | Kootac |
Tips & Tricks
Savvy gamblers are often on the hunt for tips and tricks to win when gambling. Yet it is hard to come up with a unified online gambling strategy. This is because there are so many different gambling games, and each has its peculiarities. Yet our team at online-gambling.com have plenty of experience across all genres of gambling, and each has their own hints and tips that can help you. Here you can see what our experts have to say.
Tips from John Isaac, Casino Expert at online-gambling.com
- Only play at licensed, reputable online casinos – By playing at safe and trusted casino sites, you can be certain that your personal data is protected and that you will be able to cash out your winnings.
- Understand the rules of the game – To boost your chances of winning, you need to know the rules of the game before you get started. You can read our games guides and play free demos to fully prepare you for playing optimally with real money.
- Take advantage of casino bonuses – Many online casinos offer welcome bonuses to new players. Check the terms to find the best bonus deals that will boost your bankroll and give you more chances to win.
Tips from Matt Speakman, Sports Betting Expert
- Don’t let your heart rule over your head – It is incredibly tempting to bet on your favorite sports team, and blind yourself to the chances of whether they are actually likely to win. If you want to be in with the best shot of winning, take a reflective, measured approach to the likely outcome of a game.
- Don’t be overconfident – There will inevitably come a time when you have a winning streak. Remember not to get carried away and become too overconfident. Keep your feet on the ground and stick to your budget.
- Compare odds – No two online bookies are the same and you will find different odds at different sites. Shop around to find the best odds and lines to ensure you get the best value – reading a review or two is a good way to do your homework.
Tips from Jessica Whitehouse, Lotto Expert
- Try playing in a syndicate – Many online lotto sites offer the chance to join a syndicate. This gives you the chance to buy more tickets at a fraction of the cost, as your tickets are pooled together with other players, increasing your odds of winning.
- Keep your eyes peeled for rollovers – Whilst there is no sure-fire way to win the lotto, you can influence how much you stand to win. Some lotto jackpots can rollover several times and reach staggering amounts. Keep an eye out for big rollover jackpots and play in the biggest money games.
- Beware of lottery scams – Only play lotto online at reputable gambling sites that can be trusted. It is the only way to be certain that you will get your money if you win a prize.
Tips from Scott Bowen, Poker Expert
- Begin with low-stakes – If you are new to online poker gambling, even if you are used to playing high-stakes games, you should start by playing with low-stakes. That will give you the chance to familiarize yourself with the nuances of online poker gameplay without high risk.
- Study the game and try to improve – Poker is a game of skill, so you should always be working on your game and trying to make better decisions. The more correct decisions you make, the better your chance of success at the poker table.
- Take advantage of freerolls – Many poker sites offer freeroll tournaments. Whilst these will attract many players, they give you the opportunity to enhance your skills and potentially win real money without risking your own cash.
Tips from Todd Winkler, Daily Fantasy Expert
- Start out with freerolls – The best daily fantasy sites will offer you the chance to play for free at certain times. Keep a lookout for such offers, so that you have the chance of winning payouts with zero risk.
- Don’t set your lineups too early – There is nothing wrong with setting up your lineup early but be sure to change it if there is any breaking news that could impact your chances. Keep a close eye on current player performance and any injury news.
- Avoid team bias and do your research – Whilst you may know one team better than another, you should always do your research to find rankings and values that could influence your chances of success.
Online Gambling Statistics
There is no denying that the online gambling market is on an upward trend. Gambling, in general, is a thriving industry, and with advancements in internet and mobile technology, online gambling growth can be seen year on year. We have done the research, to bring you an overview of online gambling statistics. Here, you can see some of the latest developments in the industry.
The best online gambling sites have been growing in recent years, providing fans from all over the world with quality service and 24/7 options for entertaining. With more and more countries joining the legalized market, gambling games are becoming increasingly accessible. Of course, this also poses certain dangers, so it is important to remember to always gamble responsibly. We support gambling as a hobby, but you should never allow it to become a vice.
Frequently Asked Questions
We aim to be thorough with our articles, to bring you useful, current, and accurate information about all things related to gambling online. From the legality of online gambling in different countries and states to in-depth game guides, we cover everything you need to know. In the following section, we have collated and answered some of the most frequently asked questions posed by online players.
1. What's the best online gambling site?
There is no simple answer to which is the best online gambling site, given that different people have different tastes and preferences. However, if you check our latest gambling site rankings, you will find the top-rated options according to our thorough research, testing and comparisons.
2. Can you gamble online in the United States?
At a federal level, gambling online is permitted in the United States. This includes casinos, poker rooms, sports betting, lottery and daily fantasy. However, the laws relating to online gambling in the US vary on a state by state basis. Whilst some states have legalized and regulated online gambling of certain forms, others have not.
3. Is it legal to gamble online in Australia?
The law prohibits many forms of online gambling in Australia, including casino games and poker. Although, there are no penalties for Australians who play at online casinos or poker sites, as the law applies to the operators that provide the services. Online sports betting is legal in Australia, with the exception of in-play. Playing lotto online is also permitted.
4. Can you win money playing online slots?
Yes, you can win money playing online slots, provided you play at a trusted, reputable casino site. It is important to keep in mind that slots are games of chance, and as such, it very much comes down to luck as to whether you win or not.
5. Are there any legal online gambling sites?
There are many legal gambling sites that are available to players throughout the world. You should check that the site holds a valid license from a respected regulatory body. The legality of online gambling varies from one country to another, so be sure to check our guide to gambling around the world to understand where you can gamble legally online.
6. Can you win money on online casinos?
Yes, it is possible to win money playing at online casinos. Some people have become millionaires playing jackpot slots at casino sites. Although, you should keep in mind that each game has a programmed return to player percentage (RTP), which means that the house always wins over the long run.
7. What is the best sports gambling website?
Identifying the best sports gambling website will come down to personal preference. Although the best operators, including our top recommended sports betting sites, have certain traits in common. They are licensed and regulated, offer many betting markets, and feature rewarding bonuses and promos.
8. Can you gamble online for real money?
Gambling online for real money is not only possible, it is a thriving industry. There are thousands of gambling sites to choose from. Whether you enjoy casinos games, poker, sports betting, daily fantasy or lottery, be sure to check our list of top real money gambling sites where you can play safely online.
9. Is it safe to gamble online?
Yes, it is safe to gamble online, provided you opt for a reliable and trusted operator which holds the necessary licenses and certification to operate legally. You should always check an operator's safety credentials to avoid scams when gambling online.
10. Where is online gambling legal in the US?
Each state in the US has its own rules relating to online gambling. Most forms of online gaming are legal in Delaware, Pennsylvania and New Jersey, for instance. The legal landscape is changing rapidly, however, so be sure to check our state guides to find out where online gambling is legal and where it is illegal in the US.
11. How do I place a bet online?
To place a bet online, you will first need to open an account at a betting site and make a deposit. You can then use the menu to find your chosen sport and market. Click on the odds and the bet will be added to your bet slip. Enter your stake on the bet slip and finally click the "Place Bet" button to confirm your bet.
12. Which online casino has the best payouts?
The casino with the best payouts is one with the highest payout rates according to their payout report. Licensed casino sites are tested by independent organizations. They produce reports that detail the percentage of all real money bets which are paid out to players as winnings. The higher the percentage, the better the payouts.
13. How do I withdraw money from online casino?
To withdraw money from an online casino, open the banking cashier and click the withdrawal option. Select the payment method, enter the amount you want to withdraw then click to confirm your request. Once the operator has authorized and processed the payment, the money will be released to your selected payment method.
14. What's the recent growth of the online gambling market?
According to market research reports, the global online gambling market is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 10% from 2017 – 2023. With a growing trend towards legalization and regulation in many regions, online gambling statistics indicate that the global online gambling market could generate revenues of over $74 billion by 2023.