£Spins

Our Methodology

Every ranking on this site follows one transparent process. We judge free-spins offers on their real value, not the size of the spin count. Here it is in full.

📅 Updated 30 May 2026✍️ By Michael Madden⏱ 6 min read✓ Fact-checked · UKGC-licensed only

1. Licensing first

An offer is only eligible for our tables if the casino holds a current UK Gambling Commission licence, verifiable on the public register. No licence, no listing — no matter how big the spin count. This guarantees tested slots, fund protection and real recourse for players.

2. Spin count and value

We record how many spins an offer gives and what each is worth (usually around 10p). We multiply the two to get the real play value, because 50 spins at 20p beats 200 at 5p — the count alone is meaningless.

3. Wagering on winnings

This is the most heavily weighted factor. We record the playthrough applied to spin winnings and reward low or zero wagering, because it is what decides whether you keep anything. A smaller wager-free offer routinely outranks a bigger one buried under 40x.

4. Win caps, eligible slots and expiry

We note any cap on winnings, which slots the spins run on, and how long you have to use them. A reasonable cap, a slot worth playing and a sensible window all lift an offer; tight versions of any of them pull it down.

5. Hands-on testing

We claim the offer, play the spins and try to withdraw, so our ratings reflect real experience rather than the terms on paper. You only learn how good an offer is by using it.

6. Independence

We earn commission on sign-ups, but it never moves an offer up the table. Rankings follow our testing and the criteria above alone. We publish corrections openly — if you spot an error, tell us.

Authoritative Resources

The guidance on this page draws on independent, authoritative UK sources. We link to these directly so you can verify everything for yourself:

  • UK Gambling Commission — the statutory regulator; check any casino's licence on the public register
  • GOV.UK gambling reforms — the official statement of the stake limits and statutory levy
  • BeGambleAware — independent gambling-harm advice and signposting
  • GamCare — runs the National Gambling Helpline (0808 8020 133)
  • GAMSTOP — the UK national online self-exclusion scheme
  • Advertising Standards Authority — the CAP/BCAP rules that govern how bonuses can be advertised
  • IBAS — independent adjudication for unresolved bonus and payout disputes
  • NHS gambling support — the National Problem Gambling Clinic and regional services