With iGaming becoming a more prominent way for gamblers to spend their time and money, it begs the question of how land-based casinos fare. When comparing, iGaming seems to reign victorious where accessibility is concerned. However, it becomes increasingly more difficult to pick a winning side when looking at it through a lens of frugality.
For one, iGaming can prove much more cost-effective when using online casinos, where players are offered weekly cashback and other bonuses that can help stretch bankrolls. Paired with Instant Casino immediate payments, it does sound frugal and rational. With land-based casinos, punters are privy to more than just gambling – they get food, drinks, and special prizes. And in an industry known for big spending, it is always great to know which option is more frugal: online or land-based casinos.
Frugality in Brick-and-Mortar Casinos
One major factor that makes land-based casinos that much more affordable is their physicality, in that players use real cash or casino chips to gamble. When gambling online, it can be quite difficult to spend money in a controlled manner, and punters can easily go over their designated spending limits. This is a direct result of digital currency and its lack of physical presence, whereas chips or cash act as a reminder of player limits. For example, if a punter purchases $100 worth of chips, that is the physical amount they would be gambling with which, in turn, reduces their willingness to buy more than required.
Furthermore, real-world casinos are designed with the idea of keeping customers occupied and engaged for extended periods of time. While there are games with high stakes to match the high-roller image associated with casinos, there are also more budget-friendly options. These could include low-stakes poker tables where gamers can still use the same strategies and skills they may in a high-stakes game or options like penny slots that allow punters to stretch their budgets and still enjoy the thrill of the game. This also eliminates the pressure of making large financial commitments in the heat of the moment, in comparison to the nature of online gambling.
Lastly, land-based casinos offer something online casinos cannot, and that is food, drink, and other combo items. While online casinos are easy to access, traveling to a real-world casino becomes increasingly more appealing when it allows for more than just gambling. Taking a vacation, staying in beautiful hotel rooms, and enjoying complimentary meals are a great perk included to make the experience more cost-effective. Additionally, major casinos may offer rewards, vouchers, and show tickets to keep their customers satisfied and ready to hit the slot machines.
Online Casino Frugality
A large part of why iGaming has become so popular is that players can access online casinos and sports betting platforms from the comfort of their own homes. This presents a glaring difference between iGaming and land-based casinos – there are no costs involved to access these platforms. Casino gamers can play slots, poker, or roulette from home and those who enjoy wagering on sports can check sportsbooks for odds, betting outliers, and upcoming matches to wager on all from the comfort of home.
Traveling can be quite expensive, especially when larger physical casinos are the final destination. Not only do individuals need to consider traveling fees, but also accommodation and rental prices, which can empty punter wallets at an alarming rate. Online casinos provide the full gambling experience while proving to be more cost-effective for its target audiences.
For players who are not as experienced when it comes to gambling, many online casinos offer a “free-to-play” option wherein punters can familiarize themselves with game mechanics and the rules of games, from blackjack to poker. They do not have to spend any money when using these options and place bets using non-existent currency. In comparison, a land-based casino would expect an upfront investment for any bets placed, as they rarely offer these practice games. This option is also a great way for punters to enjoy the excitement of gambling without ever spending any money, which is not something one can experience in a brick-and-mortar casino.
Unlike land-based casinos, these online platforms incentivize punters with welcome bonuses and promotions, which also attract new customers. Furthermore, online casinos may offer extended promotions and loyalty programs that could double a punter’s regular winnings. Unless they are a frequent visitor or VIP guest at a real-world casino, there is little to no chance of new customers receiving those same perks at a land-based site. Additionally, online casinos also often offer lower minimum betting rates as their digital nature does not need as much money to maintain as a land-based casino. Flexibility with factors like these makes online casinos (and iGaming in general) easier on punter wallets.
To Conclude
Whether land-based or online casinos are more cost-effective depends entirely on what a punter considers value for money. In terms of practicality, iGaming platforms showcase more pros than cons when listing the various ways they can save their players’ money. Fees as kept to a minimum and there is ample opportunity to double (even triple) their winnings. Land-based casinos offer better spending control and low-stake options, but any additional expenses would still cost the average person an arm and leg. Overall, iGaming platforms are a more cost-effective option if players want straightforward gameplay, ease of access, and efficient payment/withdrawal methods.
