Live casino games are streamed from a studio, with a real dealer, real cards and a real wheel. You place your bets on screen, and the result happens in front of the camera.
They feel more social than standard online games, but the rules, odds and bonus terms work differently. Here’s what to know before you sit down at a live table.
Try it yourself
Put your own numbers into our free tools.
1How live dealer games work
Each table is filmed in a studio and streamed to thousands of players at once. A betting window opens, a timer counts down, then the dealer deals or spins. Cameras and software read the cards or the winning number, and bets are settled automatically.
Because many players share one table, you can’t slow it down or ask for a re-deal. If your connection drops, bets you’ve already confirmed are usually settled by the game’s rules. Check the help screen so you know what happens.
2Classic tables vs game shows
Live blackjack, roulette and baccarat follow the same rules as their standard versions, so the house edge is similar. European roulette is 2.7%; blackjack is around 0.5% if you use basic strategy.
Live game shows, such as money wheels and dice games, are different. They’re built for entertainment, with multipliers and bonus rounds. Their RTP varies a lot between bets on the same game, and some bets cost noticeably more than others. The RTP for each bet is listed in the game’s info panel.
3Why bonuses rarely count
Most welcome offers either exclude live casino entirely or count only a small share of live bets towards wagering, often 10% or nothing at all. Playing live games with bonus funds can also break the terms and void your winnings.
If you want to play live games, a no-wagering offer or playing with your own cash is usually simpler. Read the offer terms first; our guide to casino bonus terms shows where to look.
4Stakes and pace
The UK online slot stake limits don’t apply to live table games. Instead, each table sets its own minimum and maximum bets, which you’ll see before you join.
Live games are slower than digital ones. A live roulette round can take around a minute, compared with a few seconds for a digital spin. Fewer bets per hour usually means a lower cost per hour, as long as you don’t raise your stakes to make up for it.
5Our live casino tips
- Check the table limits before you join, so the minimum bet suits your budget.
- Look up the RTP for each bet in game shows; it can vary a lot.
- Avoid side bets unless you accept the higher edge.
- Use basic strategy at live blackjack.
- Watch the clock. Live sessions can run long because the rounds feel slow.
- Keep chat friendly. Dealers can’t influence results, and abusive messages can get you removed.
6Is live casino right for you?
If you enjoy the atmosphere and slower pace, live games can be good value per hour. If you’re mainly chasing a welcome bonus, they’re usually the wrong choice. Either way, set a session budget and a time limit before you start.