Guide
Ethereum casinos: ETH, gas fees, tokens and networks
Ethereum is more flexible than Bitcoin, and that flexibility is where most mistakes come from. One address format works on many networks, and the same token name can exist on several of them. This guide covers what to check before you send anything to a casino.
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ETH, tokens and stablecoins
ETH is the native coin of the Ethereum network and is used to pay transaction fees. Many other assets, including popular stablecoins such as USDT and USDC, are tokens that run on Ethereum or on other networks. Casinos that accept “crypto” may accept ETH only, ETH plus selected tokens, or many assets across many networks. The cashier is the only reliable source for what is supported today.
Networks: the most common source of lost funds
Ethereum-compatible networks (often called EVM networks) share the same address format: 0x followed by 40 hexadecimal characters. That means an address that is valid on Ethereum is also valid on several other networks, and nothing stops you sending to it from the wrong one. Layer-2 networks such as Arbitrum, Optimism and Base, and separate chains such as Polygon or BNB Chain, may each be offered or not offered by a given casino. Other networks, such as Tron, use different address formats entirely.
Gas fees
Every Ethereum transaction costs a fee, called gas, paid in ETH (or the native coin of the network you use). Gas depends on how busy the network is and on how complex the transaction is, not on how much you send. Fees on the main Ethereum network can be noticeably higher than on layer-2 networks. You need to keep some ETH in the sending wallet to pay the fee, even when you are sending a token.
Confirmations
Ethereum blocks arrive roughly every twelve seconds, so deposits can be credited faster than on Bitcoin. Casinos still set their own confirmation requirements, and some wait for several blocks. Withdrawals can be reviewed before they are sent, so a fast blockchain does not guarantee a fast payout.
Token contracts and wallet approvals
- Fake tokens: anyone can create a token with a familiar name. If a casino or site asks you to interact with a token contract, confirm the contract address from the operator’s official channels.
- Approvals: some wallet requests give a site permission to spend your tokens. Read what you are signing, avoid unlimited approvals to unfamiliar sites, and review and revoke old approvals periodically.
- Wallet sign-in: signing a message to log in is different from signing a transaction. If you cannot tell which one you are being asked to do, stop.
Withdrawing ETH and tokens
When you withdraw, you usually choose the network in the withdrawal form. Choose the network your receiving wallet or exchange supports, and check that the exchange accepts the asset on that network. Some exchanges do not accept deposits from gambling sites. First withdrawals can also trigger verification (see our no-KYC guide).
Volatility
ETH and most tokens other than stablecoins can change price quickly. If your balance is held in ETH, its value in your local currency can change while you play. Stablecoins reduce price swings but not network risk or gambling risk.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use the same Ethereum address on any network?
The address format is shared by EVM networks, but a casino will only credit deposits that arrive on a network it supports. Always follow the network shown in the cashier.
Why do I need ETH if I am sending USDT?
Network fees are paid in the network’s native coin. If you are on Ethereum, you need ETH in the wallet to pay gas, even when the asset you send is a token.
Are gas fees refunded if a deposit is not credited?
No. Fees are paid to the network when the transaction is processed, whether or not the casino credits it.
Related guides
Compare crypto casinos
See how ten operators compare on licence statements, verification rules and payments on our top 10 crypto casinos page, or read an individual review: Stake, Duel, BC.GAME, Shuffle, BetPanda, Thrill, Rakebit, Winna, MetaWin, Roobet.
18+ only. Gambling involves financial risk. This guide is educational, is not legal, tax or financial advice, and information can change. Check current terms and your local laws.