Education
Casino bonus types and how they work
UK casinos compete on welcome offers, but the structure matters more than the headline number. This guide explains the main bonus types you will see on sites like 10Bet, Casushi and QuinnBet — and what to check in the terms before you opt in.
Matched deposit bonuses
The operator adds bonus funds equal to a percentage of your first deposit — commonly 100% up to a stated cap. PokerStars and 10Bet frequently use this format. Bonus money sits in a separate wallet until you meet wagering requirements. You usually cannot withdraw the bonus itself, only winnings after playthrough.
Check three numbers: the match percentage, the maximum bonus amount and the wagering multiplier (e.g. 35× on bonus only vs 35× on deposit plus bonus). The third figure changes the real cost of the offer more than the first two.
Free spins packages
Casushi and several SkillOnNet brands lead with free spins on named slots. Spins have a fixed stake value — often £0.10. Winnings from those spins typically become bonus funds subject to wagering, not instant cash. Some offers cap maximum conversion from spin winnings.
Spins also expire. A 50-spin package might need using within 72 hours. Unused spins vanish; they do not roll into your cash balance.
Cashback offers
QuinnBet and sports-led brands sometimes promote cashback on net losses over a period. Cashback may arrive as bonus funds or withdrawable cash depending on terms. Percentages look modest (5–10%) but carry lower wagering than large matched deposits when structured as real money.
Wagering requirements
Wagering (or playthrough) means betting the bonus — or bonus plus deposit — a set number of times before withdrawal. If you receive £50 bonus at 30× wagering, you must place £1,500 in qualifying bets. Game weighting adjusts that total: a £1 spin on an eligible slot counts as £1, but £1 on live roulette might count as £0.10 or nothing.
Other terms to scan
- Max bet while wagering: Often £5 per spin; exceeding it can void the bonus.
- Excluded games: High-RTP slots or progressive jackpots may not count.
- Time limits: 30-day windows are typical; unused bonus expires.
- Opt-in: Bonuses are rarely automatic — tick the box or enter a code during deposit.
How we use this on Wager Catalogue
Our operator comparisons weight offer type and term transparency. A straightforward 100% match with published wagering beats a larger headline with buried exclusions. See the criterion rankings on the homepage for how each featured brand scores.