How We Rate Casinos

At Simply The Best Man, we evaluate non-Gamstop casinos using a comprehensive methodology to help UK players find trustworthy operators. Our ratings are based on rigorous testing and analysis across eight key criteria, listed below in order of importance.

1. Licensing & Regulation

We prioritise casinos holding valid licenses from recognised jurisdictions. Our preference hierarchy includes:

• UKGC (UK Gambling Commission) – The gold standard for UK players, offering strong consumer protections
• MGA (Malta Gaming Authority) – Reputable European regulator with strict standards
• Curaçao eGaming – Common for non-Gamstop operators; we verify authenticity
• Other Local Licenses – We assess alternative regulators on a case-by-case basis

Unlicensed operators are marked down significantly. We verify all license claims independently.

2. Game Selection & Software Providers

We evaluate the breadth and quality of gaming options, including:

• Slot Games – Variety, RTP rates, and theme diversity
• Live Casino – Live dealers, table limits, and streaming quality
• Table Games – Blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and variants
• Software Providers – Partnerships with NetEnt, Pragmatic Play, Evolution Gaming, and other industry leaders

We favour casinos offering 500+ games from multiple reputable providers.

3. Bonus Terms & Wagering Requirements

We scrutinise promotional offers to assess genuine value for players:

• Transparency of Terms & Conditions – Clear, accessible bonus T&Cs
• Wagering Requirements – We highlight rollover multiples and assess fairness (typically 30x-50x)
• Maximum Cashout Limits – Restrictions on bonus winnings
• Expiry Periods – Realistic timeframes for bonus completion
• Game Restrictions – Which games contribute to wagering

Casinos with deceptive bonus structures receive lower ratings.

4. Payment Methods & Withdrawal Speed

We test and rate the casino's banking options and efficiency:

• Deposit Methods – Credit/debit cards, e-wallets (PayPal, Skrill, Neteller), cryptocurrencies, bank transfers
• Withdrawal Options – Variety and accessibility
• Processing Times – We measure average withdrawal speeds (ideally 24-48 hours)
• Transaction Fees – Transparency and fairness of charges
• Minimum/Maximum Limits – Practical thresholds for players

Crypto support and fast withdrawals are viewed favourably for non-Gamstop operators.

5. Customer Support

We evaluate the quality and accessibility of customer service:

• 24/7 Live Chat – Immediate assistance availability
• Email Support – Response times and resolution quality
• Phone Support – Availability and helpfulness
• FAQ & Help Resources – Comprehensive self-service options
• Responsiveness – We test support channels and rate based on actual experience

Casinos with slow or unresponsive support teams receive lower scores.

6. Mobile Experience

We test mobile compatibility and usability across devices:

• Responsive Design – Seamless gameplay on smartphones and tablets
• Dedicated Mobile Apps – iOS and Android availability and functionality
• Load Times – Speed and performance optimisation
• Navigation – Intuitive menus and account management
• Game Compatibility – Full library accessibility on mobile

A poor mobile experience results in a reduced overall rating.

7. Responsible Gaming Tools

We assess the casino's commitment to player protection:

• Deposit Limits – Daily, weekly, and monthly spending caps
• Loss Limits – Restrictions on losses
• Self-Exclusion – Ability to block access for specified periods
• Cooling-Off Periods – Mandatory breaks from gambling
• Reality Check Reminders – Session notifications
• Problem Gambling Resources – Links to support organisations (GamCare, Gamblers Anonymous)

Casinos with robust responsible gaming features are rated higher, reflecting safer practices.

8. Our Rating Scale

We rate each casino on a scale of 1 to 10, with the following breakdown:

• 9-10 (Excellent) – Outstanding across all criteria; highly recommended for UK players
• 7-8 (Very Good) – Strong performance; minor weaknesses in one or two areas
• 5-6 (Good) – Solid operator with some concerns; use with caution
• 3-4 (Poor) – Significant issues; not recommended
• 1-2 (Avoid) – Major regulatory or safety concerns; we do not endorse

Note: Individual criterion scores are weighted by importance. A weak Licensing & Regulation score will significantly impact the overall rating, whereas a lower Mobile Experience score has proportionally less influence.

Disclaimer: Our ratings are based on research and testing as of 2026 and are subject to change. Non-Gamstop casinos operate outside the UK's primary regulatory framework. We recommend all players gamble responsibly and understand the risks involved. Simply The Best Man does not endorse gambling for players who have self-excluded through Gamstop or other schemes.