Last Updated on 21/01/2026 by Andy Clark
Andy is the founder, owner and editor of thatsagoal.com, with over 20 years of experience in betting on sports. He has a keen eye for stats, particularly when looking at players to be carded, and these form a large part of the bet builder tips you see on the site. As well as creating daily football tips, Andy also keeps thatsagoal updated with all the best bookmaker promotions and offers for our readers. The Cheltenham Festival is one of the biggest weeks on the sporting calendar, and his expertise in betting promotions and marketing means you always get the best offers.
When it comes to online casino bonuses, players are often presented with two of the most popular types of offers: deposit bonuses and free spins. Both provide extra value for new and existing players, but they operate differently and are suited to different types of gameplay. Understanding the distinctions can help you maximise your bankroll and gaming experience.
In this article, we explore the differences between deposit bonuses and free spins, provide examples from top UK casinos such as 10Bet, Cosmic Spins, Swift Casino, and Play Ojo, and highlight strategies to make the most of these offers.
What is a Deposit Bonus at a Casino?
A deposit bonus is a promotion where a casino matches a percentage of your deposit with bonus funds. For example, 10Bet Casino offers a 100% bonus up to £50 on your first deposit, meaning that if you deposit £50, you receive an additional £50 to play with.
Key Features of Deposit Bonuses:
- Typically expressed as a percentage of your deposit (e.g., 100%, 200%)
- Often capped at a maximum bonus amount
- Usually subject to wagering requirements (e.g., 35x the bonus amount)
- Can be used on slots, table games, or live casino, depending on the casino’s T&Cs
Deposit bonuses are ideal for players who want extra funds to explore multiple games. Casinos like Cosmic Spins and Fruity Wins Casino offer similar deposit bonuses, giving players an opportunity to double their initial bankroll.
What Are Free Spins at an Online Casino?
Free spins are a type of bonus that allows players to spin a slot machine a certain number of times without using their own money. Unlike deposit bonuses, free spins are usually tied to specific slot games.
Examples from top UK casinos:
- Play Ojo gives 50 free spins with no wagering requirements, allowing players to withdraw winnings immediately
- Mr Q offers spend £10 get £60 in free spins, giving a substantial number of spins for minimal initial investment
- Vegas Mobile Casino includes free spins as part of its up to £1000 welcome package + 100 free spins
Key Features of Free Spins:
- Usually tied to specific slot games, though some casinos allow selection from a few titles
- Can be no-deposit, meaning you don’t need to deposit your own funds
- Often subject to wagering or maximum win caps, though some casinos like Play Ojo remove these restrictions
- Ideal for players who primarily enjoy slots and want risk-free gameplay
Deposit Bonus vs Free Spins – Key Differences
| Feature | Deposit Bonus | Free Spins |
|---|---|---|
| Usage | Can usually be used on multiple games (slots, table games, live casino) | Limited to specific slot games |
| Requirement | Requires a deposit (minimum amount varies) | Can be deposit-based or no-deposit |
| Wagering | Often higher (e.g., 35x) | Can be lower, or sometimes no wagering (Play Ojo) |
| Flexibility | Greater for experienced players | Perfect for slots enthusiasts |
| Value | Larger monetary boost | Often smaller but can yield real cash from spins |
The choice between the two depends on your gameplay style. If you enjoy a variety of casino games, a deposit bonus is ideal. If you primarily play slots or want to test a casino without risk, free spins are more suitable.
How to Maximise Your Bonus at UK Casinos
- Check the T&Cs: Understand wagering requirements, eligible games, and expiry dates. For instance, 10Bet Casino has standard wagering for its deposit bonus, while Play Ojo free spins have no wagering.
- Target games that contribute most to bonus clearance: Slots usually contribute 100%, while table games may contribute less.
- Combine offers strategically: Some casinos, like Swift Casino or Cosmic Spins, offer both a deposit bonus and free spins, giving you maximum playtime.
- Mobile optimisation: Ensure the bonus works on your device. Vegas Mobile Casino and Fruity Wins Casino are fully mobile-friendly, allowing play on the move.
- Responsible gaming: Only wager amounts you are comfortable with and use self-exclusion or deposit limits if necessary.
Examples of UK Casino Offers in 2026
Here’s a quick overview of some of the top UK casinos offering deposit bonuses and free spins:
- 10Bet Casino: 100% deposit bonus up to £50 on first deposit
- Cosmic Spins: 100% bonus up to £50 + extra gameplay opportunities
- Swift Casino: 100% bonus up to £25 + 100 free spins on Book of Dead
- Play Ojo: 50 free spins, no wagering required
- Mr Q: Spend £10, get £60 in free spins, no wagering
- Vegas Mobile Casino: Up to £1000 welcome package + 100 free spins
These offers show that some casinos blend deposit bonuses with free spins, giving both flexibility and extra fun. Players should compare casinos carefully to find the best value for their gameplay style.
“According to research from Gambling Commission UK, online casino players are increasingly engaging with no-wagering free spins offers and deposit bonuses to maximise their gaming experience.”
Deposit Bonus and Free Spins – Strategic Combination
Some players benefit from using both bonuses together. For example, depositing at Swift Casino not only gives you a 100% deposit bonus but also 100 free spins on Book of Dead, effectively combining the monetary boost with the chance to play slots risk-free.
Similarly, Cosmic Spins or Fruity Wins allows players to leverage the deposit bonus for bankroll growth while using free spins to explore new games without further risk.
By understanding the differences and strategic value, players can maximise their returns while minimising risk.
Final Thoughts
Both deposit bonuses and free spins are valuable tools for boosting your online casino experience, but they serve different purposes:
- Deposit bonuses are best for general gameplay and bankroll growth
- Free spins are ideal for slot-focused players and low-risk exploration
For 2026, UK casinos such as 10Bet, Cosmic Spins, Swift Casino, Play Ojo, and Mr Q are leading the way with generous bonuses and innovative promotions, combining flexibility, security, and mobile optimisation.
Pro Tip: Always read the terms, manage your bankroll responsibly, and choose offers that match your preferred style of play.
By understanding these differences, you can choose the right bonus for your needs and make the most of every casino experience.
See the full list of UK Casino sign-up offers for this month, offering both free spins and deposit bonuses.
Andy is the founder, owner and editor of thatsagoal.com, with over 20 years of experience in betting on sports. He has a keen eye for stats, particularly when looking at players to be carded, and these form a large part of the bet builder tips you see on the site. As well as creating daily football tips, Andy also keeps thatsagoal updated with all the best bookmaker promotions and offers for our readers. The Cheltenham Festival is one of the biggest weeks on the sporting calendar, and his expertise in betting promotions and marketing means you always get the best offers.
