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What is the difference between free spins and bonus spins?
Caesars Palace Online Casino sets out the difference clearly. Other casinos use the terms more loosely, so check the offer.
| In-game free spins | Bonus spins | |
|---|---|---|
| How you get them | Awarded during a slot game | From a promotion, before you play |
| Expiry | None, but you may forfeit them if you leave the game | An expiry date |
| Winnings | Paid as with real-money play | Usually credited as a casino bonus |
| Wagering requirement | None | Must be met to convert to cash |
| Which games | Depends on the slot | Specific games named in the offer |
How long do bonus spins last?
Only days, as a rule. DraftKings says its Casino Spins expire seven days after they are issued. BetMGM says the bonus spins in its current welcome offer last three days after activation. Each offer sets its own period, and it may differ by state, so check before you claim.
What is a free spin worth?
Each spin has a fixed value set by the casino. DraftKings gives the example of 100 spins at $0.20 each, where any win is worked out on a $0.20 bet. That means 100 spins represent $20 of play, not $20 in winnings, and your return depends on the game.
How are winnings from bonus spins paid?
Usually as bonus money with a requirement attached. BetMGM described its winnings as subject to a 10x requirement, though the same page gives 15x elsewhere for the welcome offer. This example shows what 10x means.
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Winnings from spins | $15 |
| Requirement | 10x |
| Bets needed | $150 |
| Average cost at a 4% house edge | $6 |
This is a worked example, not an offer from any casino.
Which slots can you use free spins on?
Only those named in the offer, for bonus spins. BetMGM says its spins are valid on eligible games only. For in-game spins, Caesars says most 5-reel slots with multiple paylines include them, while 3-reel slots usually do not. Our online casino games page explains how slots compare with other games.
What are the rules in your state?
Each state sets its own online casino rules. Pick a state to see its status, its regulator and the date we last checked it.
Read next: Sign-up bonuses
Sources
Checked November 5, 2026. Regulator rules were read through the sources listed, and they can change. How we research.