How We Rate Online Casinos: Our 6-Point System
Every casino on Top 5 Irish Bets is independently tested and scored using our transparent 6-point rating system. No casino can pay for a higher score. Here is exactly how we evaluate each brand.
Our Rating Categories
Game Selection
We assess the total number of games, variety of game types (slots, table games, live casino, jackpots), quality of game providers (NetEnt, Evolution, Playtech, etc.), and whether games load quickly on all devices. We also check for exclusive or Irish-themed games.
Bonuses & Promotions
We evaluate the welcome bonus value, wagering requirements, ongoing promotions, and loyalty programmes. We pay close attention to fairness — a large bonus with 70x wagering is worse than a smaller bonus with 30x wagering. We always include T&Cs and compliance messaging.
Payment Methods
We test deposit and withdrawal options available to Irish players, focusing on EUR support, processing times, and fees. We specifically exclude credit card deposits in line with the Gambling Regulation Act 2024. We prioritise e-wallet availability and fast payouts.
Mobile Experience
Given that 70%+ of Irish casino traffic is on mobile, this category is heavily weighted. We test on both iOS and Android, checking for dedicated apps, mobile-optimised websites, game availability on mobile, and overall user experience.
Customer Support
We contact each casino's support team to test response times, helpfulness, and availability. We check for live chat, email, phone support, and whether support is available during Irish business hours. We also verify that support agents can help with Ireland-specific queries.
Trust & Safety
The most important category. We verify licensing (UKGC, MGA, GRAI status), SSL encryption, responsible gambling tools, self-exclusion options, and data protection practices. We also review the casino's track record for complaints and regulatory actions.
How We Calculate the Overall Score
The overall score is a weighted average of all six category scores. Trust & Safety carries the highest weight (25%), followed by Game Selection (20%), Mobile Experience (20%), Bonuses (15%), Payment Methods (10%), and Customer Support (10%). This weighting reflects what matters most to Irish players: safety first, then quality of the gaming experience.
How Often We Update Reviews
All reviews are updated at least quarterly. Bonus information is checked monthly. When significant changes occur — such as a licensing update, new game provider, or major platform change — we update the relevant review immediately. Each review page shows its "last updated" date.
Our Independence Commitment
Top 5 Irish Bets earns revenue through affiliate links. However, our ratings are completely independent of commercial relationships. A casino cannot pay for a higher score. Our editorial team has full control over all ratings and rankings. Read our full affiliate disclosure.