There are certain differences between Las Vegas slot machines and online slots games. One thing for sure is that for a certain Las Vegas slot machine, the payout ratio is determined by a Random Number Generator.  However, for online slots games, the payout ratio is determined by a program.

For information about Las Vegas slot machine games, please visit our other article. (link)

On average the online casinos keep about 75% of money deposited so they shouldn't need to cheat. However there are complaints after complaints of extremely bad luck from playing at some non-licensed online casinos that use no-name Java software.

The Basics of Online Casino Gambling

There are two ways you can go in terms of actually participating in online casino gambling, Java and downloadable software. Java offers almost immediately playing but downloadable software offers better sound and graphics. Personally I find downloadable software to be much more enjoyable and faster but I respect the opinion of those who prefer Java.

Once you have the software installed (unless with a Java based casino) the next step is to open an account. This is sometimes done on the online casino gambling web site and sometimes through the software. Then you must put some money into your account. The vast majority of the time this is done with a credit (or debit) card. Other options include Neteller, Western Union and bank wire transfers but the latter two necessitate substantial fees, which many online casinos will credit back to your account.

Beware that some credit cards will treat deposits to an online casino as a cash advance. If this happens then you may have success in arguing the charge but many credit cards have a flat policy that a purchase of casino chips counts as a cash advance. I recommend using Neteller or debit cards for online casino gambling. There is never a cash advance fee and the transactions are posted faster.

Once you have money in your account you may then begin to play. Be sure to check the rules first. As you play I would suggest documenting everything you do. Personally I use graph paper to keep a running track of my bankroll and the total amount bet. If you plan to return in the near future do not cash out, just leave your money in your account.

When you do cash out the chips will be converted to cash and credited back to your credit card, up to the amount of the initial purchase. If you have a net win then the winnings will have to be sent another way, usually by check. Most online casino gambling places will send winnings for free but others will subtract a finance charge.

The Differences of Online Casino Gambling vs. Las Vegas Slot Machine Games

Wondering whether to play online casino games or to visit Las Vegas and play slot machine games?  Below lists the advantages and disadvantages of online slot games.

Advantages:

1. Online casino gambling is a competitive business and many online slots will offer a lot to get and keep your online casino gambling business. Many will offer sign-up bonuses to new customers, adding 10 to 50% of their initial deposit to their bankroll. Some will randomly deposit money in customer accounts and others will give away vacations for specified levels of total money bet.

2. The rules are sometimes better than in physical casinos.

3. You don't have to travel long distances to Las Vegas. The casino is in your own home.

4. You don't have to suffer real casino annoyances, like smokers.

5. You don't have to feel obligated to tip.

Disadvantages

1. You have to be patient about getting your money after you cash out. In addition to waiting periods on the casino end there are also delays on the credit card end. Two to four weeks is the norm for the time between cashing out and your credit appearing back on your credit card. Debit cards are much faster taking only about 3 to 5 business days.

2. Customer service can be spotty depending on where you do your online casino gambling. Some places offer great service via e-mail and a toll-free number. Others take several days to reply to an e-mail, have no known telephone number, and generally seem like they just don't want to be bothered aside from taking your money. The latter are the places you don't want to be dealing with.

3. The player has no power or authority to turn to in the event of a dispute. Usually in the player agreement it says the casino can make up the rules as they go and in the event of a dispute the casino's word is final.

4. If you play at a lot of places your credit/debit card statement will be a nightmare to balance. Transactions seldom indicate the name of the casino you played at but instead specify the merchant bank.

Choosing Online Casinos

Below are some of the questions you might ask when choosing online slots games.

1. Is there a sign-up bonus? If so how much?

2. How are the rules? This can vary a lot in different online slots games..

3. Are there transaction fees? If so how much?

4. Is there a phone number you can call? Is it toll free? If you call is the line busy?

5. Is the casino licensed?

6. Is there information available about who owns and operates the casino?

7. Who provides the software, is it a reliable name or some mystery no-name company.

Do not expect any casino to score an A+ in all these categories. Consider the total online casino gambling package and use your best judgment.