The casino industry has grown enormously in recent decades. Today, gamblers have more options than ever when it comes to playing their favorite games. You can visit a traditional brick-and-mortar casino or log on and enjoy the action at an online casino site from the comfort of home.
Both land-based and internet casinos have their own sets of pros and cons. There are excellent arguments to be made for either choice. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between real-world and online casinos, like RoyalReels, across several categories. Read on to learn the advantages and disadvantages of each to help decide where you should spend your bankroll.
Bonuses and Promotions
One area where online casinos excel is offering lucrative bonuses and ongoing promos. As they compete intensely for business online, many sites provide generous welcome bonuses for new players in the form of first deposit matches. These can equal 100% or more of your initial bankroll. Reload bonuses and free spins are also common.
Land-based casinos tend to have fewer and smaller bonuses. You might get some free play credits when you sign up for a player’s club card. But the bonuses don’t match those available online.
Winner: Online casinos
Game Variety
Internet casinos win hands down when it comes to game selection. Top sites have thousands of slots and hundreds of table games in their lobbies. Due to space limitations, even the biggest brick-and-mortar casinos only offer a fraction as many games.
Online slots come in countless different themes with all types of bonuses and special features. You’ll find dozens of blackjack and roulette variants, plus specialty games rarely located in land-based venues.
Winner: Online casinos
Convenience Factor
Another area where internet casinos excel is convenience. You can access sites 24/7 from nearly anywhere. All you need is a mobile device and internet connection. There’s no travel time or getting dressed up required.
Meanwhile, land-based casinos have set hours and locations. While some are open 24 hours, you still need to have transportation to get there. This gives online casinos a big edge in convenience.
Winner: Online casinos
Here is a table comparing some key convenience factors:
| Factor | Online Casinos | Land-Based Casinos |
| Accessibility | Available 24/7 on any internet-connected device | Limited hours, physical location |
| Travel Time | None, play from home | Varies depending on distance |
| Dress Code | None, play in pajamas! | Most require respectable attire |
Social Atmosphere
Although online casinos are more convenient, land-based venues excel in providing an exciting social environment. The chatter around tables and cheers across the floor create a fun, energetic vibe you won’t find online.
Many players also love going out with friends or meeting new fellow gamblers at brick-and-mortars. Online play tends to be a more solitary experience unless you join a community.
Winner: Land-based casinos
Safety and Security
When it comes to safety and security, regulated online casinos win hands down. Reputable sites use top-tier encryption to protect all transactions. Player information and funds are kept secure.
Land-based casinos also have plenty of security on site. However, you’re still carrying cash around and need to transport yourself to/from the venue. This introduces added risks relative to playing on the internet.
Winner: Online casinos
Make sure any online casino you play at carries licensing from a respected regulatory body like the UK Gambling Commission or Malta Gaming Authority. Avoid unlicensed sites.
Verdict: It Depends on Preferences
As we’ve seen, online and land-based casinos both have their own unique advantages. While internet casinos beat out their brick-and-mortar counterparts in some key areas like game variety and bonuses, real-world venues also offer compelling highlights such as social atmospheres.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preferences. Convenience-minded gamblers who want access to lots of games in a safe playing environment are likely better off with online casinos. Those seeking a friendly social scene may prefer heading out to their local casino.
Many players opt to enjoy the best of both worlds by visiting land-based casinos on some occasions while playing online from home on others. This lets you capitalize on the key benefits of each. Just make sure to only play at reputable, licensed sites for internet gambling sessions.
Follow our casino advice and reviews to discover the best real money online and land-based casinos to play at depending on your needs. Have fun and gamble responsibly!