How We Rate Bookmakers at TheGruelingTruth

When it comes to rating online gambling operators, our aim here at TheGruelingTruth is to bring you advice that you can trust. That’s why we have a number of strict criteria that we focus upon when rating operators. This includes licenses, payment methods, bonus offers, security measures, betting markets and more.

When it comes to rating online gambling operators, our aim here at TheGruelingTruth is to bring you advice that you can trust. That’s why we have a number of strict criteria that we focus upon when rating operators. This includes licenses, payment methods, bonus offers, security measures, betting markets and more.

Security and licenses

Make sure the site is legal where you are

In the US, the federal ban on online gambling has been lifted, but it’s up to each individual state to set its own laws, licensing rules, and regulations. Therefore, the first thing that we look for when rating an operator is the state licenses that they hold. We should note here that operators that only hold overseas gambling licenses are not legal in the US.

Additionally, we also look at the security measures that the operator has in place. From 16-bit SSL technology to protect transactions to two-factor authentication login systems – how your finances and data are protected is extremely important to us. That’s why we also take time to read the small print and go through the privacy policy with a microscope.

Payment methods

Funding your betting account

A good betting site should have a decent variety of payment options available when it comes to making deposits into your account. Additionally, we want to see fair and favorable conditions, including no transaction fees and fast processing times. As well as credit/debit card deposits, a good online betting site should ideally have at least one e-wallet, a prepaid card, and even a cash at the casino cage options for in-person deposits.

When it comes to withdrawals, we want to see quick processing times, a good range of methods, and reasonable minimum and maximum limits. Withdrawals typically take longer than deposits, but things are getting better in this respect.

Bonus offers

Start your online gambling journey with a little something extra

Most online gambling operators have a welcome offer to incentivize new customers, and naturally, they will all look appealing in the advert. Our job here at TheGruelingTruth is to check the terms and conditions and to put each bonus to the test.

By using the bonus ourselves, we can then give you an accurate report and tell you whether or not it really is worth your while. Popular bonus types include risk-free bets, matched deposit offers, and free spins on selected casino slots.

Game and betting market variety

The quality of the product

Now the real fun begins, as we test out the selection of games at online casino sites and the range of betting markets for online sportsbooks. Naturally, we want to see as many options as possible available for you, however, the quality of the product is also vitally important.

In the case of online casinos, we want to see well-designed games from top igaming software production studios. For online sportsbooks, we want to see all of the most popular sports available, as well as a diverse range of betting lines and good odds.