Free Spins: What They Are and How They Work
Lina Almans
25 May 2023
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Online casinos are popular among players, in part because they offer many bonuses and special offers to their users. One of the most common bonuses are free spins or FS.
What Are Free Spins?

Free spins (FS) are when you get to spin a slot machine without having to pay for it.
Basically, with free spins, you can spin the reels of a slot machine a certain number of times without risking your own money. This means you could potentially win some cash.
Free spins are usually given out in bundles of 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, or more.
However, there are some rules you need to be aware of:
- Free spins obtained from the casino have an expiration date. Use them before the deadline, or they will expire.
- Casinos often specify a limited list of slots where you can use these bonuses.
- When using free spins, you must not exceed the maximum bet size determined by the casino.
So, if you win from a bonus spin, it’s important to consider the wagering requirements.
How Do Free Spins Work?
When you receive free spins, you’ll be able to use them on a specific slot. The number of free spins you get will be pre-determined and the amount you can win is usually capped. Once you use up all your free spins, any winnings you earn will be added to your account balance, and you can use it to play other games or withdraw it as cash.
Wagering Requirements in Free Spins
Wagering requirements are conditions that come with free spins, which means you need to bet a specific amount of cash before you can cash out any winnings made from the bonus.
To calculate the wagering requirement, use this formula:
Wagering Requirement = (Bonus Amount) x (Wagering Multiplier)
For example:
Say you score a free spins bonus with a 25x wagering requirement, and each spin is valued at $0.50 with 15 free spins up for grabs. That means the total bonus is $7.50 (15 x $0.50). But before you can cash out any winnings from this bonus, you’ll need to bet 25 times the total bonus amount, which comes out to $187.50.
Types of Free Spins
There are three main types of free spins bonuses you’re likely to come across at online casinos:
Type of Free Spins | Description |
No Deposit Free Spins | Type of bonus you can get without putting any money into an online casino. You’ll usually get a smaller number of spins, but they’re a great way to try out different slot games without risking any of your own cash. |
Deposit Free Spins | Opposite of no deposit free spins. You’ll have to put some money into the casino to get them. There are usually fewer restrictions on how you can use the spins. |
Wager-free Free Spins | Unlike other types of free spins, there are no wagering requirements, meaning you can withdraw your winnings right away. However, these are still pretty rare, and you’ll have to hunt for online casinos that offer them. |
Another way to get free spins is to win them in a slot machine. Most modern slots have bonuses for certain combinations. For example, if a player collects several scatter symbols on the game board, they are credited with a package of free spins that they can use on the next spin.
FAQ
Are there any restrictions on free spins?
Yes, there are usually restrictions on free spins, such as a maximum bet limit, a time limit for using the spins, or restrictions on the games that can be played with the spins.
Can I win real money with free spins?
Yes, you can win real money with free spins, although the amount you can win may be limited.
Can I use free spins on any slot game?
No, free spins are usually limited to specific slot games, which will be designated in the promotion or offer.