Although the terms social casino and sweepstakes casino are often used interchangeably, there are some distinctions. If you’ve been hearing these phrases bandied about a lot recently and want the inside track on what they refer to, you’re in the right place. Below is a simple guide to what both types of online establishments offer and how they differ so you can choose the option that’s most suitable for your preferences and needs.

What’s a Social Casino?

Visit a social casino if you’re in the market to play purely for entertainment. Players use virtual currency and can choose from a wide range of game titles and types; play is just for fun, and no real-world prizes are on offer. A cache of virtual tokens is usually given to players as a welcome bonus, and additional packages of coins can be purchased as desired. Unlike at a sweepstakes casino, however, these tokens cannot be exchanged for any “real” prizes – just glory!

 

At a social casino, the focus is firmly on fun: you may not be able to win a “real” prize, but you could achieve leaderboard props or a virtual trophy! These types of casinos are all about community engagement, and there’s a strong emphasis on welcoming, highly active chat forums and in-game events.

How Does a Sweepstakes Casino Differ from a Social Casino?

There are many similarities between sweepstakes and social casinos. For instance, players also use virtual tokens at online sweepstakes casinos, and, like social casinos, there’s a powerful element of community, fun, and sociability. But here’s the big difference: while social casinos don’t offer the opportunity for players to win real-world prizes, sweepstakes casinos do.

 

Players can use one of two types of virtual tokens to play sweepstakes casino games: Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins. While Gold Coins are used to play just for fun, Sweeps Coins can be redeemed for real-world prizes, including cold hard cash. Sweeps Coins can’t be purchased; instead, they’re typically obtained via welcome offers and other bonuses. Plus, because virtual currency is used to play, sweepstakes casinos are legal in most states – even those where online gambling is prohibited. 

 

To remain legal, these casinos need to operate within a legal framework which allows them to provide players with the chance to win “real” prizes. Fans of sweepstakes casinos tend to love the opportunity they provide for risk-free gambling, as well as the facility to easily switch between Gold and Sweeps Coins as the mood takes them.

Is a Social Casino or a Sweepstakes Casino Best for Me?

Understanding the similarities and differences between social and sweepstakes casinos is vital to choosing the option that will best suit you. If you’re looking for a fun and sociable platform where you can play purely for fun (or perhaps practice some unfamiliar games), then a social casino could be perfect.

 

On the other hand, if you’re in the market for some risk-free gaming and the opportunity to maybe bag a prize, then a sweepstakes casino could be your best bet – pun intended!