Shawn Bradley 
Bonuses, or we can call them the honey that tempts a ton of bees, who want to make big profits at online casinos. A high-quality bonus is your ladder to unlock risk-free rewards at casinos. However, one thing that many platforms mis-market or that players fail to understand is the difference between no deposit bonuses and welcome bonuses.
At first glance, they mostly seem to be similar: a reward for the new faces on a platform, right? But there’s the catch. Although they are designed to reward newcomers at the casino, they are supremely different. Here’s how?
What Is a No Deposit Bonus?
Let’s start with the bonus that drags all eyeballs: the no-deposit bonus. This bonus is true to its name. You won’t have to make any deposit to claim this bonus. Just register for the platform, and the casino will reward you with this bonus. The process to claim no deposit bonuses is simple: register, verify your account, and bingo! You get free spins or bonus cash to play with.
No-deposit bonuses offer you a risk-free option to try casino games on a platform. The casino won’t ask you for any credit card details, any sensitive information, or other details. Just add some basic details, and you can claim it. It’s a way for the casino to give you a sneak peek into its services before you make an investment. If you’re focused on saving money while exploring new platforms, no-deposit bonuses are your best bet.
What Is a Welcome Bonus?
The welcome bonus is a classic crowd puller for the casinos. At most online casinos where you see big sign-up bonus figures, all those are welcome or deposit bonuses. What’s the difference? As the name says, that is all. You need to make a deposit to claim this bonus. Here you will have to register, verify your account, make a deposit, and then get the bonus into your pocket.
To claim a welcome bonus, you must complete the signup process and add your personal and financial details. Some casinos also offer multi-tiered welcome packages, covering your first two to four deposits with escalating perks.
Key Differences Between No-Deposit Bonuses & Welcome Bonuses
Here are the main differences between no deposit and welcome bonuses:
| Specifications | No Deposit Bonuses | Welcome Bonuses or Deposit Bonuses |
| Is a deposit required? | No | Yes |
| Risk | Zero | Medium |
| Bonus Size | Small | Grand |
| Cahsout Cap | Usually €50 | Often unlimited |
| Games eligible | Limited | Wide range |
| Wagering requirements | Usually 30x to 45x | Usually 35x to 50x |
Which Bonus Should You Go For: No Deposit Bonus or Welcome Bonus?
Are you a new gambler who is just stepping into an online casino platform? Then, a no-deposit bonus is the thing you must chase. It offers you a risk-free chance to test a platform, get a taste of how gambling works, try new games, and even win some cash.
On the other hand, if you are a serious player who has been into online gambling and is ready to invest, the welcome bonus is for you. This bonus offers you a greater long-term value. It’s best for players who already have a budget in mind and are looking for ways to multiply their deposits.
Things to Look Out For
You should always read the fine print before chasing any bonuses. Here’s what you should keep an eye on to measure the true value of bonuses:
- Check the wagering requirements before you claim a bonus. If it has a high requirement, it will be too hard to claim it.
- Some bonuses are exclusive to Jackpot games or only apply to specific slots. So, check the list.
- When utilizing bonus money, casinos often impose a restriction on the maximum amount you may wager every spin. So, make sure the limit is generous.
- Check the validity of the bonuses. Typically, a bonus comes with a 7- to 30-day expiration date.
