How to Compare Welcome Bonuses Fairly (2026): headline match percentages are easy to market and hard to compare. This page gives a simple scorecard so you can rank offers by how they behave for your game mix, stake size, and time horizon—not by the biggest number in the banner.
Use it alongside our operator testing notes in casino reviews; bonuses change, mechanics evolve slowly.
The 6-field scorecard (copy into a spreadsheet)
- Wagering base: bonus-only vs deposit+bonus
- Multiplier and game contribution table
- Max bet while wagering + excluded games
- Expiry window and stake caps on free spins
- Win cap on bonus/free-spin conversions
- Withdrawal restrictions while a bonus is active
Field (1) and (4) usually decide feasibility. If you play live casino, field (2) often disqualifies otherwise “generous” offers—see wagering requirements explained.
Expected value thinking without fake precision
You do not need a spreadsheet model to the cent. You need direction: “clearable in my typical week” vs “theoretical only.” Compare two offers with the same deposit: the lower total wagering obligation after game weights usually wins, even if the headline match is smaller.
If you cannot explain the offer to a friend in two sentences—including what happens if you withdraw early—it is not yet a fair comparison. Clarify with support or skip.