Sticky Vs Non-Sticky Bonuses

One of the many ways that casinos try to attract customers is through offers, and as we have mentioned in other pieces throughout our matched betting blog, there are hundreds of offers to understand. One of the main things to realise with bonuses is the difference between sticky and non-sticky bonuses, as these can massively affect how you claim them and which ones you want to use through your betting strategy. Here, we are going to look at what sticky and non-sticky bonuses are, some examples of them, and which ones are ideal for different scenarios.

What is a Sticky and Non-Sticky Bonus?

When opting into different promotions and bonuses, some come with restrictions, whether that’s staking requirements or a time limit for use. However, some bonuses cannot be withdrawn. These are known as a sticky bonus, yet bookmakers tend not to use this term; we use it to identify offers that award things such as free bets that cannot be withdrawn. As expected, a non-sticky bonus can be withdrawn from your account.

If you find an offer and you are not sure if it can be withdrawn or not, look for terms such as ‘for wagering purposes only’, as this means the bonus cannot be withdrawn.

Sticky and Non-Sticky Offer Examples

To make the most of bonuses in your matched betting strategy, it is important to know what these offers might look like in actual bookmakers. Let’s take a look at some real examples so you can spot the difference and decide whether you still want to use the promotion.

Sticky Bonus:

(Deposit £100 for a 100% Deposit Boost)

With this bonus, bettors will have £200 to bet with, and if the bettor uses the £200 to create £300, then only the £100 extra can be withdrawn.

If the £200 is used to place successful bets, these funds can be withdrawn, but only the value awarded from the bets. This particular offer is typically seen for new customers and can be used for value betting, as it provides funds to place bets with, meaning you do not have to use your own bankroll.

Let’s look at a step-by-step guide on how sticky offers work:

1. Make a qualifying deposit.
2. Receive the sticky bonus alongside your deposit.
3. Play eligible games using your balance.
4. Complete any wagering requirements (if applicable).
5. Withdraw any eligible winnings, but not the bonus itself.
6. The sticky bonus is removed once you cash out.

Non-Sticky Bonus:

(Deposit £100 for a 100% Deposit Boost)

In a non-sticky bonus, users will deposit £100 and receive £100, and the extra £100 will become active once the initial stake has been used. This means if you are not successful with your bet, the bonus will be activated and can be withdrawn. There is no need to fulfil any bonus wagering requirements with non-sticky bonuses, making them simpler than sticky bonuses.

Both of these bonuses are very common at casinos and are typically used with online slot games, yet these offers are similar to those seen in our sports betting guides and can be used to potentially create profit.

Similarly, as we have done for the sticky offers, let’s look at how non-sticky bonuses work with a guide:

1. Make a qualifying deposit.
2. Receive the non-sticky bonus either with your deposit or once the qualifying conditions are met.
3. Play the eligible games or place the qualifying bets using your available balance.
4. Complete any wagering requirements or promotional conditions (if applicable).
5. Withdraw your eligible winnings and, where permitted, the bonus balance once the promotion’s requirements have been satisfied.
6. Your remaining balance stays in your account after a withdrawal, as non-sticky bonuses are not automatically removed like sticky bonuses (subject to the promotion’s terms and conditions).

Sticky Bonus Vs Non-Sticky Bonus Pros and Cons

Now we know the difference between sticky and non-sticky bonuses, we are going to look at the advantages and disadvantages of the two different offers.

Sticky Bonus:

✅Allows for larger stakes

✅Can be used with a strategy due to larger stake value

✅Can be used across a variety of games

❌The bonus cannot be withdrawn

❌Complex wagering requirements

❌Can lead to misunderstanding, as some players might believe they can withdraw it

Non-Sticky Bonus:

✅Withdrawable returns

✅Simple compared to sticky bonus

✅Provides additional funds to continue playing if the deposit is lost

❌Smaller initial balance

❌Bonus is only activated if your initial bet loses

❌Can be a lower maximum bonus compared to sticky bonuses

As you can see, there are pros and cons to both offers, so it is important to review different types of offers to see which ones you prefer.

Sticky Bonus Vs Non-Sticky Bonus FAQs

Can I convert a sticky bonus into cash?

No, the value of a sticky bonus can never be withdrawn, and only the returns you generate from the sticky bonus can be cashed out.

What happens to my sticky bonus if I want to withdraw early?

The sticky bonus amount and any funds created from the bonus are forfeited if you wish to make an early withdrawal.

Are sticky or non-sticky bonuses more effective?

Neither is more effective than the other, yet the choice depends on how you prefer to play. Both can result in returns, yet these can be made in different ways.