Methodology: How We Rank Casinos

CasinoGPT rankings are based on factual, measurable operational characteristics of Ontario's AGCO-regulated casinos. We focus on player-relevant factors including licensing compliance, payment processing, withdrawal speed, game availability, customer support, and responsible gambling tools.

Our Ranking Philosophy

Unlike affiliate sites that rank casinos based on commission rates, CasinoGPT prioritizes operational factors that directly impact player experience:

  • Objective criteria: Rankings based on measurable factors, not subjective opinions or commission rates
  • Player-focused: Emphasis on factors that affect actual user experience (payment speed, support quality, game selection)
  • Compliance-first: All featured casinos must be iGaming Ontario registered
  • Transparent methodology: Clear explanation of criteria (this page)

Ranking Criteria

Casino rankings are determined by evaluating and weighting the following factors:

1

Licensing & Regulatory Compliance

Weight: Required (disqualifying if absent)

All casinos must be registered with iGaming Ontario (iGO) and regulated by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). Unlicensed operators are excluded regardless of other factors.

  • •iGO registration status (verified via official registry)
  • •AGCO regulatory oversight
  • •Compliance with Ontario player protection standards
2

Payment Methods & Withdrawal Speed

Weight: High (25-30%)

Payment processing is critical for player satisfaction. We evaluate availability of Ontario-preferred methods and typical withdrawal processing times.

  • •Interac support: Most popular payment method in Ontario
  • •Credit/debit card acceptance: Visa, Mastercard availability
  • •E-wallet options: Alternative payment methods
  • •Withdrawal processing speed: Typical timeframes (1-3 days for Interac preferred)
  • •Deposit speed: Instant or near-instant processing valued
3

Game Selection & Diversity

Weight: Medium-High (20-25%)

Game variety and provider diversity contribute to player choice and entertainment options.

  • •Game count: Total number of titles available
  • •Provider diversity: Multi-provider platforms offer more variety than single-provider casinos
  • •Game categories: Slots, table games, live dealer availability
  • •Progressive jackpots: Big-prize games (e.g., Mega Moolah) where available
  • •Live dealer: Real-time streaming games with professional dealers
4

Customer Support

Weight: Medium (15-20%)

Accessible, responsive support is essential for resolving issues and answering questions.

  • •Live chat availability: Real-time support channels
  • •Support hours: 24/7 availability preferred over limited hours
  • •Email support: Alternative contact methods
  • •Help center/FAQ: Self-service resources
  • •Bilingual support: English + French for Ontario's bilingual population
5

Mobile Experience

Weight: Medium (10-15%)

Mobile accessibility is increasingly important as players expect seamless cross-device experiences.

  • •App availability: Dedicated iOS/Android apps
  • •Browser-based mobile: HTML5 instant play without downloads
  • •Mobile game selection: Availability of games on mobile devices
  • •Mobile functionality: Full feature access (deposits, withdrawals, support) on mobile
6

Responsible Gambling Tools

Weight: Medium (10-15%)

AGCO regulations require comprehensive responsible gambling tools. We evaluate implementation and accessibility.

  • •Deposit limits: Daily, weekly, monthly limit options
  • •Loss limits: Maximum loss restriction tools
  • •Time limits: Session duration controls and alerts
  • •Self-exclusion: Temporary and permanent exclusion options
  • •Reality checks: Periodic notifications of time/money spent
  • •Resource visibility: Clear access to ConnexOntario and support resources
7

Brand Reputation & History

Weight: Low-Medium (5-10%)

Operational history and brand recognition provide context but do not override player-relevant factors.

  • •Years of operation: International operational history
  • •Brand recognition: Major brands vs newer entrants
  • •Ownership structure: Major operators vs independent brands
  • •Multi-jurisdiction licensing: Operations in other regulated markets

What We Don't Consider

To maintain objectivity and comply with Ontario regulations, we do NOT factor in:

  • ✗Bonus values or promotional offers: Ontario regulations prohibit bonus advertising
  • ✗Affiliate commission rates: Rankings are not influenced by potential commissions
  • ✗Marketing spend or partnerships: No pay-for-placement
  • ✗Payout percentages or RTP: Cannot be independently verified
  • ✗Subjective "quality" assessments: Focus on measurable operational factors

Data Sources

Information is compiled from:

  • •Casino operator websites (terms, support pages, payment method pages)
  • •iGaming Ontario registry (licensing verification)
  • •AGCO public information (regulatory standards)
  • •Software provider information (game catalogs, certifications)
  • •Direct verification (testing withdrawal times, support responsiveness when feasible)

Update Frequency

Casino profiles and rankings are reviewed and updated periodically to reflect operational changes. However, casino details (payment methods, game catalogs, support hours) can change without notice. Players should always verify current information directly with casino operators before playing.

Limitations

While we strive for comprehensive evaluation, some limitations exist:

  • •Subjective experience: Rankings reflect operational characteristics, not individual player preferences or outcomes
  • •Information lag: Casinos may change operations faster than we can update profiles
  • •Regional variation: Experiences may vary by payment method, device, or individual circumstances
  • •No guarantees: Rankings do not predict player outcomes, guarantee service quality, or ensure satisfaction

Important Reminder

Rankings reflect operational characteristics, not recommendations to gamble. All gambling involves risk. Only gamble with money you can afford to lose. If gambling is causing problems, help is available 24/7 at ConnexOntario: 1-866-531-2600.

Questions About Our Methodology?

This page explains our general approach to ranking Ontario casinos. For specific questions about ranking criteria, data sources, or update frequency, see our About page.

Note: We cannot assist with individual casino accounts, deposits, withdrawals, or player disputes. Those issues must be resolved directly with casino operators.