Not all casino bonuses work the same. Some give you more money to play with but take it back when you try to cash out. Others let you keep everything — no strings.
If you’ve heard terms like sticky and non-sticky bonuses and thought, “What even is that?”, you’re in the right place. Let’s break it down in a way that actually makes sense.
TL;DR – Sticky vs Non-Sticky Bonuses
Sticky bonuses give you more money to play with, but you can’t cash out the bonus itself — just your winnings.
Non-sticky bonuses let you play with your real money first, and only kick in if your balance hits zero. You can cash out the bonus and winnings after meeting the terms.
If you want control and flexibility, go non-sticky. If you want more playtime and don’t mind a locked bonus, sticky might be worth it.
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What’s a Sticky Bonus?
A sticky bonus gives you extra money to play with, but you can’t withdraw the bonus itself. Think of it like a temporary boost — great for trying new games or betting bigger, but once you’re done, the bonus disappears.
Quick example:
- You deposit €100
- The casino gives you a 100% sticky bonus — so another €100
- Now you’ve got €200 to play with
If you play through and end up with €300, you can only withdraw €200. The bonus part (€100) gets removed when you cash out.
Why pick a sticky bonus?
Sticky bonuses often give you more value upfront — bigger match percentages, lower deposit minimums, or easier wagering. If you’re mostly playing for fun and want more time on the reels, they’re a decent choice.
Just know: you’re never walking away with the bonus itself. It’s there to help you win — not to be won.
What’s a Non-Sticky Bonus?
A non-sticky bonus is way more flexible — and way more forgiving. You play with your real money first, and the bonus only kicks in if you lose your deposit.
If you win big before the bonus even activates? You can cash out right away — no wagering needed.
Quick example:
- You deposit €100
- The casino adds a 100% non-sticky bonus (€100)
- You still start playing with your own €100
If you turn your deposit into €400 before touching the bonus, you can just withdraw and skip the bonus entirely. But if you lose your €100, the bonus funds unlock — and then you play under the bonus rules (usually with wagering).
Why go non-sticky?
It’s ideal for players who want more control. You’re not locked into bonus terms unless you dip into the bonus. It’s like a safety net — there if you need it, gone if you don’t.
Sticky vs Non-Sticky: The Real Difference
| Sticky Bonus | Non-Sticky Bonus | |
|---|---|---|
| Bonus usable for play? | Yes | Yes |
| Can you cash out the bonus itself? | No | Yes (after meeting wagering) |
| When do you play with it? | Immediately | Only if your real money runs out |
| Best for… | Longer playtime, higher bonus amounts | Flexibility, early cashouts |
Which One Should You Choose?
Pick a sticky bonus if:
- You want more money to play with upfront
- You don’t care about cashing out the bonus itself
- You’re here to spin, try new games, and stretch your session
Pick a non-sticky bonus if:
- You want the chance to win and walk away — no strings
- You value control over your real money
- You’re hunting for clean, no-fuss bonuses
Final Thoughts
If you’re new to bonuses, non-sticky is usually the safer bet. It gives you freedom to walk away if you win early. But sticky bonuses aren’t bad — just different. They can be great if you’re looking to maximize game time and don’t mind that the bonus won’t follow you out the door.
Bottom line? Know what kind of bonus you’re grabbing — and what the rules mean for your money. That way, you’re playing on your own terms.
FAQ – Sticky vs Non-Sticky Bonuses
What happens if I win with a sticky bonus?
You can keep your winnings, but not the bonus itself. When you cash out, the bonus amount is removed from your balance.
Can I withdraw a non-sticky bonus?
Yes — after you meet the wagering requirements. You also get to play with your real money first, so you’re not locked in right away.
Are non-sticky bonuses better for low-risk players?
Generally, yes. They let you win and cash out early if things go well, without needing to wager bonus funds.
Why do casinos offer sticky bonuses at all?
Because they’re great for longer play sessions. They let the casino offer bigger bonus amounts while still managing risk.
How can I tell if a bonus is sticky or non-sticky?
Always check the terms and conditions. If the bonus says it’s not withdrawable or is removed on cashout, it’s sticky. If you play with real money first, it’s non-sticky.
Are all casino bonuses one or the other?
Most fall into one of the two, but some casinos use hybrids — like wager-free bonuses that are sticky. When in doubt, read the fine print or check our reviews.
Always play with control. Gambling should be fun – not stressful, rushed, or used to fix problems. If you’re feeling pressure, chasing losses, or just not enjoying it anymore, it’s okay to take a step back. For free, confidential help, visit BeGambleAware.org.
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