Comparisons Between Traditional Brick-and-Mortar Casinos and Online Casinos for Real Money Play

05-04-2023

Whether you enjoy playing slot casino games and table games online on a casino’s website or in person at a physical location, they have various advantages and disadvantages, which we will explore.

Traditional brick-and-mortar casinos are ideal for Vegas-style gaming and social interaction with others. However, if you play from your phone or tablet, the casino might offer hundreds of games you can play 24/7 with lucrative cash offers (for MORE money to gamble with).

Differences in Accessibility and Convenience

A drawback with traditional brick-and-mortar casinos is driving there, finding parking, and facing crowds on weekends and holidays. Some casinos have non-smoking sections, but players sometimes complain that the air is stale in older casinos.

While online casinos are only a few clicks away if you use an iOS or Android device, they require a reliable internet connection. Online casinos are ideal for gamblers who want Vegas-style games. Some websites offer free spin offers, tournaments, and daily, weekly, and monthly cash prizes.

Game Selection

In traditional brick-and-mortar casinos, you might find hundreds or thousands of slot games, table games, specialty games, and sports betting.

A drawback is some casinos do not offer a diverse array of games. Hence, it might be beneficial to play in larger casinos that have multiple software providers like IGT, NetEnt, WMS, Microgaming, Evolution Gaming, and Novomatic.

Online casinos with numerous third-party partnerships will offer a mix of games, and most usually have a few hundred slot games and 25+ table games. Avoid smaller online casinos with only one or two software developers, as the games and features can become redundant.

Bonuses and Promotions

Unlike online casinos, in-person casinos might only offer signup bonuses ranging from $30-$50. Because gambling operators online are jockeying for your business, they can offer much bigger bonuses that might double your initial deposit.

While physical casinos used to offer more free spin comps for return players, not every casino can provide these promotions as some are still bouncing back from the closures during Covid.

For tournament entries, scratch card offers, and other incentives, the best online casino for real money usually offers bonuses, referral-based free spins, and cash match deals. Check the website`s promotions tab for details.

Social Interaction

Differences in social interaction between traditional brick-and-mortar and online casinos include the level of engagement.

You might hear your slot game music in the background online but never engage with others who might prefer anonymity. However, at a brick-and-mortar casino, games are exciting as you see people winning various games and even ask questions about a big win or the game rules. Traditional casinos offer more opportunities for social interaction than online casinos, as you can talk to people playing around you. Physical casinos include hosts, cashiers, waitresses, dealers, and player rewards personnel.

Online casino interaction with others is limited unless you play in a social casino. Other opportunities to engage with others online might be limited to dealers in the live dealer games and customer support.

Security and Safety

Security and safety between traditional brick-and-mortar casinos and online casinos differ. Physical casinos have security guards, pit bosses, and other staff.

Some slot games have dividers to protect your belongings from other people being able to reach into your wallet, while brick-and-mortar casinos (depending on their size) might have hundreds or thousands of security cameras to protect players and the house.

Online casinos use Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology which is 256-bit bank-grade (the highest level) encryption and secure servers to protect your data and privacy and to prevent cyber theft.

Players can also use virtual private networks to encrypt their data online as it hides your Internet Protocol (IP) address, or computer’s identifying number, in a tunnel where hackers cannot confirm your location.

FAQ

What are the advantages and disadvantages of traditional brick-and-mortar casinos and online casinos?

The advantages of online casinos include 24-hour access and anonymity. Disadvantages include needing constant internet access and unscrupulous sites that might try to steal your data.

With brick-and-mortar casinos, most are open 7-days a week but may not offer as many promotions as online casinos that want your business.

Are online casinos more accessible and convenient for players?

Yes. Most online casinos are accessible for Android and Apple devices, and you do not have to download bulky software. Simplifying navigation on easy-to-view platforms lets you play on your phone, tablet, or other mobile devices.

Do online casinos offer a wider variety of games than traditional casinos?

It varies by casino size. An online casino might state they have hundreds of games, but if they only have one or two software partners, the games might all have similar layouts and features. Online casinos with several third-party designers mean you will have interactive games that vary for a more enjoyable time.

Smaller physical casinos might have older machines that are fun and engaging but might not include progressive games. Larger casinos with a few thousand slots, for example, will offer favorites like Game of Thrones, Wonder Woman, Buffalo Wild, Wizard of Oz, and other themed games.

Are bonuses and promotions more generous at online casinos?

Yes, online casinos want new and repeat business. Hence some will offer match play bonuses that double your deposit.

To promote continuous gameplay, gambling operators will offer referral bonuses, free spin offers, weekly specials, and holiday-themed prizes. It differs dramatically from a physical casino location that might only provide a $30 to $50 new member bonus and monthly cash prize based on your gameplay.

Do traditional casinos offer more opportunities for social interaction than online casinos?

Yes and no. Some online casinos have tournaments with other players, or you can invite friends and family. Outside of that, you might not engage with other gamblers. Traditional casinos let you engage with other players, and the casino staff is available for questions.

Are online casinos safe and secure for players?

Yes, if they display their licensing and jurisdiction information on their page for added transparency. Avoid casino sites with poor or inexistent reviews, even if they offer generous bonuses. These might be rogue sites trying to steal your bank data and funds.

Conclusion

While brick-and-mortar casinos are exciting, you might find more promotions and bonus offers in online casinos. A mix of both can ensure you enjoy new and return player bonuses while interacting with others.

If you prefer playing anonymously, try reputable online casino sites. However, if you enjoy Vegas-style action and exciting crowds, visit the larger casinos (as smaller casinos might have older games).