What live dealer is and how it works
Live dealer tables are filmed in purpose-built studios equipped with multiple camera angles, optical card readers, and automated result capture. When you open a live blackjack or roulette table, you join a real-time stream. Your bets are placed digitally; the dealer physically handles cards and equipment; results are fed back to the game interface within seconds.
The technology is provided by specialist B2B companies — most online casinos do not run their own studios. This separation means the studio operator (not the casino) controls the physical game environment.
Main live dealer game types
| Game | Typical house edge | Key format notes |
|---|---|---|
| Blackjack | 0.4–0.5% (optimal play) | Multiple seats; unlimited side bets |
| Roulette (European) | 2.7% | Single-zero; variants include Speed and Lightning |
| Baccarat | 1.06% (banker bet) | Fast rounds; popular squeeze variant |
| Game shows (Crazy Time etc.) | 3–5%+ | Entertainment-focused; high variance |
| Poker (Casino Hold’em) | ~2% | Player vs dealer; no bluffing |
Game show formats carry a higher house edge and wide variance — they are entertainment products, not low-edge games. If minimising the house edge matters to you, stick to standard blackjack or European roulette.
Bonus interaction with live tables
Live dealer games are frequently penalised in bonus terms. A wagering requirement of x30 on a bonus sounds manageable, but if live dealer contributes only 10%, you effectively face x300 wagering when playing live.
Before claiming any offer you intend to use at a live table, read the bonus terms carefully and check the game weighting table. Our breakdown of wagering requirements explains contribution rates in full.
Choosing a live dealer casino
Look for these quality signals:
- Provider diversity — access to Evolution, Pragmatic Play Live, or Ezugi ensures a wide game library with independently audited results.
- Table limits that match your bankroll — live tables span from $0.50 minimum bets to high-roller rooms with five-figure limits.
- Stream quality and uptime — a casino that invests in reliable streaming infrastructure signals operational quality across the board.
- Mobile compatibility — most modern live platforms work in-browser on iOS and Android without an app download.
Mobile live dealer
All major live providers deliver mobile-optimised streams. The interface adapts to portrait mode with a simplified bet grid. Multi-table play is possible on desktop but impractical on mobile due to screen real estate. A reliable 4G or Wi-Fi connection is the only hardware requirement.
Browse our vetted casino listings where live dealer availability and software providers are listed for every reviewed operator. Crypto-friendly options with live tables are covered in our best crypto casino picks.