How We Rate Casinos
At bookmakerscompared.co.uk, our casino reviews are built for UK players and reflect the standards expected in 2026. Each casino is scored from 1 to 10 using the weighted criteria below, listed from most to least important.
1. Licensing & Regulation
We only recommend casinos with valid licensing. For GB players, a UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) licence is essential. We also recognise reputable international regulators such as the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA) and treat Curaçao-licensed sites with caution. We verify licence numbers, player protection standards and compliance with local GB requirements.
2. Game Selection & Software Providers
A strong game library matters. We assess the range of slots, live casino and table games, plus the quality of software providers like NetEnt, Microgaming, Evolution, Playtech and Pragmatic Play. Variety, fairness and exclusive titles all influence this score.
3. Bonus Terms & Wagering Requirements
We read the small print so you don’t have to. We evaluate welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions based on wagering requirements, rollover, maximum cashout limits, game weighting, time limits and hidden restrictions. Fair T&Cs score higher.
4. Payment Methods & Withdrawal Speed
Fast, secure banking is a priority. We test and rate deposit and withdrawal options including crypto, e-wallets, bank transfers and debit cards. Payout speed, fees and verification processes all affect the score.
5. Customer Support
Reliable help matters. We check for 24/7 live chat, email response times, phone support and the depth of the help centre. Support quality is tested through real queries, measuring accuracy and resolution speed.
6. Mobile Experience
Most UK players bet on mobile. We review responsive design, dedicated app availability for iOS and Android, loading times and how smoothly games run on smartphones and tablets. A well-optimised mobile site is essential, and dedicated apps can add points.
7. Responsible Gaming Tools
Player safety is non-negotiable. We look for deposit limits, loss limits, self-exclusion, cooling-off periods, reality checks and links to UK support services like GamCare and GAMSTOP. Comprehensive responsible gaming tools improve the rating.
8. Our Rating Scale
Each casino receives a score from 1 to 10, where 10 is outstanding and 1 is unacceptable. The final score is weighted based on the criteria above, with licensing and security carrying the greatest influence. Here is how we interpret the numbers:
- 9.5–10: Exceptional — safe, fair and feature-rich.
- 8.5–9.4: Excellent — minor drawbacks only.
- 7.5–8.4: Good — solid overall but room for improvement.
- 6.5–7.4: Fair — some concerns in important areas.
- 5.0–6.4: Poor — not recommended for most