How We Find and Review Casino Sites

casino rating system

Our mission at New Casino Sites is to find you the best new casino sites. But how do we do this?

Our expert team assesses online casinos in the UK to ensure they meet high standards in security, game quality, bonuses, and customer service. Scroll down to learn more about our strict process.

How Do We Identify the Best New Casino Sites?

Our process for finding new online casinos is based on experience, industry knowledge, and player feedback. The main points we rank casinos on the following criteria:

  • Licensing & Security: We only list casinos licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) to ensure fair play and secure transactions.
  • Game Selection: You get access to the best slots, table games, and live dealer options from NetEnt, Microgaming, and Evolution Gaming.
  • Bonus Fairness: We rate all promotions using our 1-5 bonus rating system, ensuring clear terms and fair wagering requirements.
  • Payments & Payout Speed: Fast withdrawals and trusted banking methods like PayPal and Apple Pay for hassle-free transactions.

Our Strict Review Process

Each new casino goes through our detailed review process to ensure it meets our standards. We test every aspect of the casino, from game performance to withdrawal speeds. If a casino fails to meet our criteria, it does not get recommended. Read on to learn more.

Security, Licensing, and Fair Play

Your safety is our top priority. Before recommending a new casino, we verify that it operates legally and securely. A trustworthy casino must have:

  • A Valid Licence: An online casino has to have a UK Gambling Commission licence to feature on our site.
  • SSL Encryption: Secure data protection to keep your personal and financial details safe.
  • Independent Audits: Testing agencies like
    eCOGRA
    and
    iTech Labs
    certify fair gameplay and random outcomes.
  • Responsible Gambling Tools: Deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and links to support organisations.

Background and Safety Check

We investigate each casino’s background, checking the company’s reputation, previous brands, and user feedback. If a casino has a long history of complaints, delayed payouts, or unfair terms, we won’t recommended it.

Game Selection and Software Providers

The quality and variety of games are crucial for a top-tier gaming experience. Therefore, we rate new casinos highly if they offer:

  • A Wide Range of Games: Slots, table games, live dealer, and specialty games.
  • Top Software Providers: Games from trusted developers like NetEnt, Microgaming, Playtech, and Evolution.
  • Progressive Jackpots: Casinos that have games with huge jackpots rank highly.
  • Free Play Options: The ability to try games for free before playing with real money.
  • Seamless Mobile Compatibility: Games optimised for smooth performance on mobile devices.

Testing Game Performance

We play multiple games on desktop and mobile to check for smooth gameplay, fast loading times, and fair payout rates. If a new casino lacks top-tier games or has performance issues, we will give it a low score.

Bonuses and Promotions

New casinos often offer some of the most generous promotions to attract players. However, not all bonuses are created equal. We evaluate each offer to ensure it provides real value by checking:

  • Welcome Bonuses: Large, fair, and rewarding for new players.
  • Reasonable Wagering Requirements: Fair playthrough conditions, ideally 35x or lower.
  • Free Spins Offers: No deposit and deposit-based free spin promotions.
  • Ongoing Promotions: Reload bonuses, cashback, and seasonal promotions.
  • VIP and Loyalty Programs: Rewards for frequent players, including cashback and exclusive perks.

Bonus Testing and Fairness

We claim and test casino bonuses ourselves, ensuring that terms and conditions are transparent and fair. If we find hidden restrictions or unreasonable playthrough requirements, we won’t recommend the site or its promotions.

Banking and Payment Options

Fast and secure transactions are essential for a great online casino experience. We test the deposit and withdrawal process at each new casino to ensure:

  • Fast and Secure Deposits: Multiple payment options, including debit cards, e-wallets, and crypto.
  • Reasonable Withdrawal Speeds: Payouts processed within 24-48 hours where possible.
  • Fair Minimum and Maximum Limits: No unreasonably high withdrawal restrictions.
  • No Hidden Fees: Clear policies with no unexpected charges.
  • Strong Security Measures: Encrypted transactions and fraud protection.

Deposit and Withdrawal Testing

We deposit real money and request withdrawals to verify how fast and reliable the banking process is. Casinos with slow payouts, unnecessary delays, or excessive verification requests are not recommended.

Customer Support and Player Protection

A good casino must provide fast and reliable customer support. We test each new site to ensure players can get help when needed through:

  • Live Chat Availability: 24/7 support for quick assistance.
  • Email and Phone Support: Multiple contact methods for convenience.
  • Knowledgeable Support Agents: Staff who can provide accurate answers.
  • Responsible Gambling Resources: Self-exclusion, deposit limits, and support contacts.

Testing Support Responsiveness

We contact customer service with real queries to assess response times and helpfulness. If a casino has slow or unhelpful support, it won’t make our recommended list.

Mobile Gaming and User Experience

With more players using mobile devices for online gambling, new casinos must offer a smooth mobile experience. We test each site on different devices to ensure:

  • Full Mobile Optimisation: A responsive website that works flawlessly on smartphones and tablets.
  • Dedicated Mobile Apps: High-quality iOS and Android apps, if available.
  • Fast Loading Times: No lag or glitches when playing mobile games.
  • Touchscreen-Friendly Navigation: Easy to browse and place bets on smaller screens.
  • Complete Game Selection: Access to all key slots, table games, and live dealer options.

Testing Mobile Performance

We play games, make deposits, and test navigation on both iOS and Android devices. If a casino’s mobile experience is poor, it won’t make our list.

Localisation: Catering to Players Worldwide

New casinos must offer a seamless experience for players in different regions. We check for:

  • Language Support: Websites available in multiple languages.
  • Regional Payment Methods: Support for local banking options.
  • Local Currency Options: Deposits and withdrawals available in GBP, EUR, and other major currencies.
  • Country-Specific Regulations: Compliance with local gambling laws and restrictions.

Checking Regional Availability

We verify whether new casinos cater to UK, European, and international players by offering localised services.

What Happens When a Casino Fails Our Review?

Not all new casinos meet our standards. If a casino performs poorly in our review process, we add it to our **list of sites to avoid**. The main reasons we blocklist a casino include:

  • Unlicensed or Unregulated: Operating without a valid gambling licence.
  • Slow or Nonexistent Payouts: Players struggling to withdraw their winnings.
  • Unfair Bonus Terms: Misleading promotions or excessive wagering requirements.
  • Security Concerns: Lack of SSL encryption or reports of data breaches.
  • Poor Customer Service: Unresponsive or unhelpful support.

Now that you know about our strict casino review process, learn about our team.