If you've been reading LiveCasinoComparer game reviews and want to start playing but are unsure how to start, this guide is for you.
I'll explain the actionable steps you need to take to start gambling like a pro.
In no time, you'll be playing live dealer games you didn't know existed that thousands of players worldwide enjoy.
These games are entertaining, immersive, and even more action-packed than land-based games, as these have rewarding bonus rounds.
After you read this guide, you can register an account with any reputable online live dealer casino, deposit money to it without any fuss, play the best games that pay well and are fun to play, and finally withdraw the winnings back to your account.
If you're comfortable clicking the links to register a new account, you'll find my top list of casinos at the top of this page.
If not, continue reading and sign up when you have enough information.
Neil’s Recommended Live Casinos
Are you making a switch from RNG games? Read this first.
If you've been gambling online but doing so on automated random number generator (RNG) games that produce results using algorithms, then you'll be happy to hear that live dealer games are superior. They are also provably fair, and their randomness is real and not produced by a computer random number generator. If you're switching from RNG to live dealer games, it's the right thing to do.
Gambling online for the first time?
If you've never gambled online but have done so in land-based casinos, or perhaps not even that, the learning curve might be steep, depending on how comfortable you are with technology (email) and with sending and receiving payments online.
If you can fill out a signup form, open an email to click the link and send and receive payments online, you should be fine.
It's easiest to use your mobile phone for everything - yes, you can play live dealer games on it - though lots of players prefer desktop devices such as computers and laptops to see the games in all their glory on a larger screen.
Either way is fine.
Step 1: Sign up with an online casino
This is your starting point if you want to play live dealer games. You need an account with an online casino that has them.
I make many suggestions and recommendations on this site based on the games people want to play and the jurisdictions from where they come. The Best Casino may be different for each person, but my one recommendation as a starting point that should cover all players initially is Leo Vegas.
You'll be asked to enter your details and verify your email address.
Don't worry; your personal information is handled responsibly as this is a UKGC-licensed casino, and your email inbox won't be spammed.
Step 2: Make a deposit
Once you have an account with a live dealer casino, you need to put money in to be able to play.
Live dealer games can't be played in demo mode. You need to have cash in your account to join the fun.
The most popular way to deposit money to an online casino is using a debit card (credit cards won't work in most countries, the UK included).
In this case, you'll withdraw the money to your bank account.
Many people also use e-wallets such as PayPal, Skrill, or Neteller as an intermediary and an added level of security between themselves and the casino.
But if you're looking for a quick and easy way to deposit, a debit card is it. PayPal is also a good one since it links to your bank account.
Step 3: Play the games
Using LiveCasinoComparer.com game reviews and strategy guides, find the game you want to play and read about it to learn the rules and the optimal strategy.
Watch my video reviews to see how the game plays out before you place a bet yourself.
When you're ready to play, open the online casino on your computer or mobile device, go to the lobby, find the game, click it, and it will launch.
You'll be able to place bets on game rounds just like the other players are doing and will be able to chat with other players or ask the dealer for help or clarification of the rules if needed.
Step 4: Withdraw the winnings
When you're done playing, and you have some winnings you want to withdraw, you'll have to pass the KYC verification procedure before you're allowed to withdraw the funds.
This is normal, and every casino is doing it.
For this, you’ll need to provide the following:
- A scanned copy of your ID (Passport, Driver's license, etc).
- Something that proves your address, like a bank statement or utility bill.
- A scanned copy of the deposit method you plan to use, e.g. a credit/debit card. A screenprint from a web wallet will also do.
This is all part of money laundering checks that online casinos are obliged to perform and is completely normal.
It’s known in the UK as Know Your Customer. (Hint – Keep copies of your scanned documents, as you’ll always need them when playing at different online casinos).
If the details on your account and identity don’t match, you won’t be able to withdraw any winnings, and they may be forfeited.
Many players do this even before they request a withdrawal, so there's no delay when they want to withdraw.
It's always good to communicate with customer support if anything is unclear.
What to expect from live casinos
Whether you're switching from brick-and-mortar casinos to online casinos with RNG games or you've never gambled before, live casinos offer new things to experience.
In all cases, you'll be amazed by the sheer number, quality and versatility of live dealer games you can play, especially if you choose a casino that offers games by multiple providers.
If you're switching from RNG games, you'll never return, as you'll be able to play your favourite games with real cards, actual roulette wheels, and human dealers.
Live dealer casinos are the next best thing; they replicate the land-based casino experience from the comfort of your home.
How to choose the right casino
These are the steps I'd recommend you go through when deciding if a casino is the right fit for you.
Are you accepted as a customer?
Depending on your country or territory of residence, it may be easier or more challenging to find a casino that will take you as a customer. LeoVegas is UKGC-licensed and will accept players in regulated markets. Winz.io will take just about everyone else.
Does the casino accept your payment method?
Usually, you want the convenience of depositing money with the payment method you're most used to. Ideally, you're looking for someone who takes your local currency or one of the web wallets, like Paypal. You could even use Crypto, but your choice of casinos will be more limited. Whatever option you choose, make sure you can deposit and withdraw, and note whether fees are involved. Ideally, you want none, but some casinos include merchant fees, so watch out.
Does the casino have the game you want to play?
Each casino will have one or more game providers, such as Evolution, Playtech or Pragmatic Play.
If you don't know which one you want, go to a casino with lots like LeoVegas.
It's a good idea to check the casino's software and whether it has your favourite game(s).
Are there any bonuses you can claim?
If you're playing live dealer games, you're mostly condemning yourself to life without bonuses, as casinos are reluctant to offer rewards that apply to table games and live dealer games.
Some casinos offer them, but it's better to look into rewards for playing any game, such as Cash Back, loyalty programs and VIP clubs.
There are also reload bonuses, dedicated tables with on-table promotions, free spin offers and other perks that aren't necessarily related to a live dealer game. See if there's anything for you.
Does the casino pay fast?
These days, a casino is expected to make an extra effort to allow players to withdraw their winnings on the same day. Crypto casinos are the fastest, as you can get your withdrawal within an hour, while the best fiat casinos process the payment the same day.
The withdrawal is also expected to be processed without any fuss, additional checks or delays. Unfortunately, you can't know until you try - or unless you read my casino reviews.
Do you like the casino?
Often, in gambling, you'll notice you're doing better at one casino and worse at another. This may come down to subtle things such as the colours used, the website design and navigation, and how easy or difficult it is to find your favourite game in the lobby. If you feel good and have a positive attitude while playing, it's a suitable casino for you. Otherwise, consider playing at another one.
Are all the best games available?
Game developers such as Evolution have different levels of partnerships for online casinos that have their games.
Some casinos get the new blockbuster game as soon as it's released, while others rely on the standard delivery schedule. This can make a difference of about two weeks, so choosing a Tier 1 casino will generally mean you have access to the latest games before the official release date. If you don't, it's probably time to include one on your list of casinos you play regularly.
Is the customer support helpful?
The best possible scenario is that you never need customer support. Everything is straightforward, the rules are clear, there is no fine print and no glitches.
But when/if you do, they need to be there within minutes, ready to respond to your query, and it needs to be resolved within minutes, too. You can always test this by asking them about a bonus or withdrawals.
Does the casino fight to retain you?
If you don't play for a while at a casino, chances are, you'll get an email asking you to come back, offering you a unique retention bonus tailored just for you.
This is generally a good sign, as it shows your custom is important to them and they have retention processes in place. This is the sign of a well-run operation.
Is the casino protecting you?
Protection of Players from the harm gambling can cause is a primary requirement for licensed casinos and casinos that value their customers.
In the UK, as long as you visit UKGC-licensed casinos, you'll find all casinos included in the GamStop scheme. They also need to have protocols in place to detect problem gambling behaviour. The aim is to protect you from yourself. It would be great if a casino acted like this if they were not in the UK.
Watch out for the opposite behaviour, where a casino targets your weak spots and makes you gamble more than you want to.
How to choose the right games
I assume you don't know which live games there are, so I'll quickly guide you through what's available.
Game shows
The most exciting part of live dealer casinos is the entertainment game shows. These appeal to a mass audience with no specific preference towards table games such as blackjack or roulette.
You can play exciting money wheel games with a live presenter, such as Crazy Time or Adventures Beyond Wonderland, and other game shows, such as Monopoly Big Baller or Deal or No Deal. Game shows are truly a fun thing to play. You can play for small amounts and win big amounts for little outlay if you're lucky.
Blackjack
Blackjack players flock to live dealer casinos because real decks of cards are used, and there's a human dealer, making this the equivalent of visiting a land-based casino.
It's possible to look for favourable table rules, too. And then there are the multiplier blackjack games that give you a chance to get a large win.
Roulette
With Roulette, options in live dealer casinos are endless, making these casinos a true wonderland for roulette players.
You can play at real casinos virtually, French roulette with its reduced house edge, or one of the innovative roulette games. The most popular option recently is the roulette multiplier games, like Lightning Roulette or Cabaret Roulette, which have taken over as player favourites as they can't seem to get enough of those win multipliers!
Other games
Apart from the big three groups of live dealer games, many others can be found such as baccarat, teen patti, three-card poker, and many more. You'll find them all in the navigation menu of LiveCasinoComparer.com.
How to make a deposit and a withdrawal
All deposits and withdrawals are initiated on the casino website. You have to be logged into your account, and then you navigate to the banking section.
This is where you get all the available deposit and withdrawal methods information. When you choose a deposit or withdrawal method, click it, and all the information will be readily available. If you need further help, customer support is usually available via live chat and email, sometimes via phone. Here are steps in a nutshell for some popular payment methods:
Debit card
If you're depositing with a debit card, you'll click that as your chosen payment method at the casino website and enter the card numbers and the amount you wish to deposit.
A window will pop up asking you to verify the transaction, and the money will be instantly on your casino account, ready to play with.
When you withdraw, the payment must go to the same bank account.
Bank account
This is the slowest payment method but not as slow as most people think, as transfers will usually be done the same business day.
You'll be given the account number and other payment details if you're depositing with this payment method on the casino website. Then, go to your bank or online banking app and initiate payment. When you are making a withdrawal, you will need to provide your bank account details to the casino.
PayPal
If you're already using a PayPal account, depositing to a PayPal casino couldn't be simpler.
The PayPal account is already linked to your bank account, so it can pull money from it when you make a PayPal payment.
Likewise, when you're withdrawing money, it can be instantly transferred to your bank account.
To initiate payments, go to the casino website, type in the amount you wish to deposit or withdraw and enter your email. The payment processor handles everything else.
E-wallets
The same goes for other e-wallets such as Skrill and Neteller. The casino sends a payment request to the payment processor. If you're already using an e-wallet, it's best to try to find a casino that has it instead of learning to use a new payment method and going through all the account verification procedures.
Keeping your gambling under control
If you haven't gambled much before, or if you're seeing all these marvellous games for the first time, you must be careful that the bug doesn't bite you and you get hooked on the thrill of gambling.
That's why I suggest sticking to a strict budget. If you want to gamble, decide beforehand how much you are prepared to lose if the playing session will be a losing one. Is it £100? 500? Whatever it is, stick to it, and don't deposit more if you lose because that would mean you're chasing losses.
If the weekly budget is £100 and you lose, that's it for the week. It's done and over. Come back the following Monday.
If you stick to a budget and don't chase losses, you're safe from gambling-induced harm. Also, never expect gambling to be a winning activity. If you win, you win but don't count on it and don't treat gambling as an activity that owes you anything.
If the fun stops, stop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I start playing at online casinos?
To start playing at online casinos, read this newbie guide, and soon, you should be depositing money at online casinos and playing the games with confidence. You need to register an account with an online casino and deposit money into your account. After that, you can play any game you want.
How do I know if a casino is legit?
An online casino with a license, such as UKGC, Malta or Gibraltar, does business by the book, though this is never guaranteed to treat customers fairly. It’s best to read the casino reviews on LiveCasinoComparer.com to see if a casino is worth playing at.
How do I make deposits and withdrawals at online casinos?
Whatever payment method you’re comfortable using, online casinos will accept it. Choosing a familiar payment method is always best as it makes everything easier, especially withdrawals. Popular payment methods include debit cards, bank transfers, and other e-wallets.