Top Casino Platforms in the UK — Our Leading 10 Online Casinos
With hundreds of casino platforms available across the UK and fresh operators entering the market on a regular basis, selecting the right site can feel overwhelming. That is precisely why our panel of online casinos specialists has assembled this detailed guide. They have invested significant time and effort into every aspect of each operator to help you make an informed decision.
- Dedicated hours to researching every single casino platform
- Produced comprehensive review articles for each operator
- Tested and verified all the features that matter most to players
- Created side-by-side comparison guides across key categories
Below you will find a summary of our experts' top 10 UK casino sites, complete with an explanation of why each platform earned its place on this exclusive list. All ratings reflect the latest data, and terms and conditions apply to any bonus or offer mentioned.
Leading 10 UK Casino Platforms According to Our Expert Panel
| Casino Site | Highlight | Key Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Duelz | 6-minute withdrawals | Weekly cashback |
| 2. BetMGM | Quick KYC with a huge game library | 2500+ games, Live dealers |
| 3. 32Red | Fast payout and award-winning support | 3500+ games, instant PayPal |
| 4. Unibet | Best all-rounder for mobile apps and variety | 3750+ games, quick withdrawals |
| 5. Neptune Play | Slot Depth plus Easy banking | 2100+ games, instant payouts |
| 6. Midnite | Mobile first with good live dealer studio | Pragmatic live dealers, fast payouts |
| 7. Pub Casino | UK focus with quick banking | 2000+ games 24/7 support |
| 8. All British Casino | Live Dealer Choice plus Cashback | 2000+ games, cashback and fast withdrawals |
| 9. SpinYoo | Great game variety | 2750+ games plus big progressives |
| 10. Buzz Casino | Lots of jackpots and app-friendly | 2400+ games |
Each casino in the table above has been through rigorous testing by our team. We looked at payout speed, game variety, bonus conditions, customer support quality, and more. Let us now dive into the details of every single pick and explain what sets each apart from the competition.
1. Duelz Casino
Whenever we survey players about their priorities at a casino site, the answer is rarely about game variety or visual design — it is almost always about how quickly they can access their winnings. Duelz delivers on this front with an average payout time of just 6 minutes from the moment you submit a withdrawal request to the funds arriving in your account. For the majority of casino enthusiasts, that kind of instant speed is genuinely invaluable.
What makes Duelz even more impressive is that this lightning-fast withdrawal process is complemented by an enormous games library. Whether your preference is live table action or spinning the reels on titles from the biggest slot studios, there is plenty to keep you entertained for hours on end. The platform also runs regular tournaments and a 10% weekly cashback offer, adding extra value for returning players.
Pros:
- Instant Withdrawals with a 6-minute average processing time
- Designed for mobile with seamless cross-device functionality
- 10% weekly cashback, Duelz Prizes, and tournament events
Cons:
- Site navigation could be more intuitive
Player review: I signed up to Duelz because of the game selection hype, and it was a fantastic surprise to discover that my withdrawals processed almost instantly every single time.
2. BetMGM Casino
We are well aware of how much friction the account verification process creates for players. The frustration of uploading documents and waiting for approval is a common complaint across user ratings and review feedback. BetMGM addresses this pain point head-on with one of the most streamlined sign-up processes in the industry. Their KYC options can have you fully verified and playing within minutes, without the annoying account blockages that plague other platforms.
Add to that a superb library of slots, table games, and live studio experiences — including popular titles like Crazy Time — and BetMGM covers virtually everything a discerning player could want. Ongoing weekly promotions ensure that the offer extends well beyond the initial deposit bonus.
Pros:
- 2,500+ slots and casino games in the library
- Premium live dealer action from leading studios
- Excellent variety of deposit and withdrawal methods
Cons:
- Could expand the jackpot slot variety further
Player review: BetMGM initially attracted me with its welcome bonus, but what keeps me coming back are the regular promotions and the depth of the slots collection.
3. 32Red Casino
After years of playing across dozens of platforms and constantly hunting for fresh releases, discovering a casino that provides exclusive game variants is genuinely exciting for our review team. 32Red partners with studios to deliver exclusive versions of popular titles that are unavailable anywhere else, alongside early-release access to brand-new games. That level of exclusivity is something we rate very highly.
On top of the exclusive content, 32Red boasts a massive catalogue of jackpot slots, an extensive table game section, and a first-rate live dealer library. Regular promotions keep the experience engaging, and their award-winning customer care team is available around the clock. Withdrawal speed is also impressive, with 12-hour processing and no fees.
Pros:
- 3,500+ slots featuring numerous exclusives
- 12-hour withdrawals with zero fees
- Mobile apps and 24/7 customer support
Cons:
- Somewhat limited selection of banking options
Player review: The slots are brilliant, but I particularly enjoy 32Red for the live casino section. I play Crazy Time here most of the time, along with a bit of blackjack.
4. Unibet Casino
Although Unibet has built its reputation primarily in the sports betting arena, the casino offering deserves serious attention. The games are exceptionally easy to locate through a well-designed interface, and the platform secures exclusive early releases from studios — titles only available at Unibet for a couple of weeks before general release elsewhere.
Withdrawal speed at Unibet has consistently impressed our team. Standard cashouts are handled quickly, though larger withdrawals may require a 24-hour processing window. Once your documents are uploaded and verification is complete, the entire banking experience is smooth and hassle-free.
Pros:
- 3,750+ slots including 250+ jackpot titles and exclusives
- iOS and Android mobile apps
- 24/7 support and sub-12-hour withdrawals
Cons:
- PayPal is not currently available
Player review: I have processed a couple of significant withdrawals at Unibet and found the experience far easier than at several other online casinos. I feel confident that my winnings will arrive promptly.
5. Neptune Play Casino
Neptune Play stands out as one of our personal favourite platforms, particularly for slots enthusiasts. What we appreciate about Neptune is their commitment to delivering exactly what the player is looking for. New releases are prominently displayed, and the site learns from your playing habits to suggest similar titles and providers that match your tastes.
The rapid payout processing of withdrawal requests adds significant value to the overall experience. There are always fresh promotions running, alongside tournaments that give players additional chances to win. The deposit and withdrawal process is completely free of hidden charges, which is a major plus in our review.
Pros:
- Massive game library with 2,000+ slots, live dealer, roulette, and blackjack
- Fee-free banking on both deposits and withdrawals
- Intuitive search filters and game discovery tools
Cons:
- Limited bingo and poker content
- No dedicated mobile app available yet
Player review: Neptune actually implemented changes to their menu layout based on my direct feedback. That level of responsiveness earned my loyalty without question.
6. Midnite Casino
Our team has been enthusiastic about Midnite since the brand first appeared on the scene. Much like Neptune Play, Midnite prioritises a clean, simple interface that makes locating your preferred games straightforward. The platform provides personalised top picks based on your play history, ensuring you spend less time browsing and more time playing.
We particularly appreciate the ability to create a custom favourites tab in the menu, as well as the dedicated rewards section where free spins, vouchers, and credits can be easily found. The payout system supports both instant and 24-hour processing, with PayPal among the available options.
Pros:
- Free spins with no win cap restrictions
- Instant and 24-hour payout options including PayPal
- Mobile-first design with dedicated Android and iOS apps
Cons:
- Would benefit from additional payment methods
- Limited selection of progressive jackpot slots
Player review: I simply trust Midnite. I have never encountered any issues with verification or withdrawals there, and that reliability means everything to me.
7. Pub Casino
One of the most appealing aspects of Pub Casino is the distinctive branding — it is clever, memorable, and genuinely fun. A recent site redesign has given the platform a refreshed, modern look that complements the theme perfectly.
The branding pairs exceptionally well with the live dealer section, which is an area where Pub Casino truly excels. This part of the site is separated from the main lobby, allowing you to browse an extensive range of live dealer experiences. From classic blackjack and roulette through to live poker, the variety is impressive. Regular and new players alike benefit from attractive promotional offers that keep the experience fresh.
Pros:
- Over 2,000 slot and casino games available
- UK-focused platform with fast, free withdrawals
- Strong promotions for both new and returning players
Cons:
- Could expand the progressive jackpot offering
Player review: Pub feels genuinely enjoyable to me — the theme creates a comfortable atmosphere and I can find everything I need without any hassle.
8. All British Casino
All British Casino has built its identity around cashback, and the permanent 10% cashback on deposits is something we had not encountered before reviewing this platform. The live casino section is particularly strong, and there are thousands of slots to explore. While the slot display layout could be improved, the search functionality allows you to locate specific titles quickly if you know what you are after.
Pros:
- Distinctive All British site theme and branding
- Fantastic selection of games including live dealer tables
- Good variety of bonus offers and promotions
Cons:
- Difficult to identify significant faults
Player review: I completely forgot about the cashback for months, and when I finally checked the balance I was genuinely surprised. Now I only check occasionally and it honestly feels like free money.
9. SpinYoo Casino
Our team selected SpinYoo for the top ten based on several compelling factors, not least of which is the welcome offer available to new players. When combined with the loyalty programme and regular promotional events, SpinYoo delivers a platform where regular players genuinely feel valued — and that is something we consider essential in our ratings criteria.
Beyond the promotional layer, everything a player needs is present. A wide range of live casino options, an extensive slots catalogue, and reliable customer support make SpinYoo a confident choice within our top ten. Full terms and conditions apply to all bonuses.
Pros:
- Rapid withdrawal processing
- Optimised for mobile with cross-device compatibility
- Weekly cashback and regular tournament events
Cons:
- Site navigation could be more polished
Player review: I enjoy SpinYoo primarily for the Pragmatic Play titles, which come with the added excitement of the Drops and Wins jackpot promotions.
10. Buzz Casino
Buzz Casino is an outstanding choice for jackpot enthusiasts, thanks to an enormous selection of jackpot games. If you are the type of player who loves chasing life-changing progressive prizes, this platform comes highly recommended. Equally, if online blackjack is your game of choice, Buzz Casino offers one of the broadest selections available — dozens of live dealer blackjack variants alongside RNG-powered options.
The straightforward sign-up process is another aspect we appreciate. Getting started takes only minutes, which removes yet another barrier for new players looking to explore what the site has to offer.
Pros:
- 2,400+ casino games in total
- 1-4 hour withdrawal processing time
- Huge range of jackpot slots
- Extensive live dealer casino games
- Sleek website plus dedicated mobile apps
- Responsive support team via Live Chat
Cons:
- Customer support not available around the clock
- Could benefit from more withdrawal options
- No way to filter games by studio
Player review: I prefer playing on my mobile and Buzz has a really solid app. Blackjack is my main game and this is always my first port of call.
Recently Launched Casino Sites
Our casino content is managed and updated on a daily basis, which includes the addition of newly licensed operators to our listings. Every new casino site undergoes the same rigorous evaluation process, with its performance data fed into our comparison framework to determine whether it deserves a place in — or even at the top of — our ranked lists.
Recent player feedback has revealed a growing trend: more and more users are selecting their casino platform based on the quality of software providers, with studios like Evolution and Pragmatic Play topping the list of priorities. This shift is likely to drive standards upward across the industry as brands compete to meet heightened expectations. Additionally, UK players are increasingly placing emphasis on bankroll management tools rather than simply chasing the biggest bonus.
Newly Reviewed Casino Sites
| New Casino Sites | Rating | Established | Listed | UKGC Licence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Vegas | 4.9 | 2026 | February | 48695 |
| London.bet | 4.5 | 2025 | February | 66162 |
| 36Vegas | 4.6 | 2025 | January | 66806 |
| LuckyMate | 4.4 | — | January | — |
| Apuestarey | 4.7 | 2023 | October | 39483 |
| 21Bets Casino | 4.3 | 2014 | October | 39335 |
| 247Bet Casino | 4.4 | 2025 | August | 52894 |
| Quickbet Casino | 4.3 | 2025 | August | 38758 |
Every casino site featured on this page is licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. Alongside each newly listed operator above, you can see the corresponding UKGC licence number, which you can cross-reference on the official UK Gambling Commission register to verify its authenticity. It is critically important that you only play at licensed casino sites, as these platforms are required to meet stringent standards covering security, fairness, and responsible gambling practices.
Unlicensed operators present genuine risks, including the potential for unprotected funds, unresolved disputes, and a complete absence of regulatory oversight. By sticking to UKGC-licensed platforms, you ensure that UK legislation and consumer protection laws apply to your gaming experience. The terms of each licence require operators to uphold responsible gambling conditions, offer self-exclusion tools, and process payouts fairly.
Top Casino Platforms by Game Category
Our analytical team has conducted an exhaustive examination of every casino site to identify where each one truly excels. These detailed comparison guides are accessible through our dedicated casino game guides section, where you can explore the full details behind each recommendation.
Below we present the winners in each category — the premier UK casino site based on specific game types. Whether you are passionate about live roulette, blackjack strategy, or the thrill of game shows, these selections are backed by real testing and genuine player ratings.
Category Winners — Premier Casino Sites by Game
| Category | Top Casino | Why It Wins |
|---|---|---|
| Best for Roulette | Duelz | Massive live roulette variety, ideal for mobile play |
| Best for Blackjack | Buzz Casino | Extensive blackjack variants with low house edge |
| Best for Baccarat | VideoSlots | Top-rated baccarat library with numerous live tables |
| Best for Craps | Duelz | Dedicated craps tables alongside an elite live dealer network |
| Best for Slots | Midnite | See our dedicated Slots Page for full details |
| Best for Scratchcards | Monster Casino | Large scratch-card selection with instant-win focus |
| Studio Games | Midnite | Broad selection with reliable mobile performance |
| Best for Lightning Blackjack | Midnite | Fast play with strong live dealer quality |
| Best for Crazy Time | PlayOjo | Engaging show format trusted by live players |
| Best for Crazy Coin Flip | Neptune Play | Simple and high-payout live bonus game |
| Best for Dragon Tiger Live | Neptune Play | Quick rounds with great app stability |
| Best for Funky Time | Midnite | Distinctive show format with excellent engagement |
| Best for Dream Catcher | Midnite | Reliable live wheel with strong player feedback |
| Best for Monopoly Big Baller | Midnite | Popular brand with high-multiplier action |
Follow the links within the table above to access the full analysis for each game category. If there is a particular game you play regularly, it is well worth opening an account with the operator that provides the strongest offering in that area. Our detailed guides exist precisely to help you make that decision with confidence, and all recommendations are based on verified data and review assessments rather than advertising arrangements.
Top Casino Platforms by Feature
For many players, selecting the ideal casino site is not solely about game types — it may come down to a specific feature such as fast payout processing, low minimum deposit requirements, or a generous cashback programme. Our expert panel has rigorously tested each of these feature areas, and below you can see the winner in every category.
Key features that players commonly prioritise include:
- Withdrawal speed and reliability
- Minimum deposit thresholds
- Cashback and loyalty programmes
Feature Category Winners — Leading Casino Sites
| Feature | Top Casino | Why It Wins |
|---|---|---|
| Best for Low Minimum Deposits | Midnite | Low entry limits, ideal for casual players |
| Best for Cash Back | Duelz Casino | Regular rewards with transparent return-to-player offers |
| Best for Payouts | All British Casino | High payout rate with reliable transaction processing |
| Best for Fast Withdrawals | Duelz Casino | Quick approvals with consistent same-day payouts |
| Best for Quick Verification and KYC | BetMGM | Smooth onboarding with instant document approval |
| Best Independent Casino | Midnite | Privately run with innovative design and player-first focus |
| Best Casino Apps | Casushi | User-friendly app with stable live gaming performance |
| Best Live Dealer Casinos | All British Casino | Premier live tables with trusted UK reputation |
Use the links in the table to explore the full analysis behind each feature recommendation. If a particular feature matters most to you — or if you have a preferred style of playing at online casinos — understanding which platforms lead in that area will significantly improve your experience. That is the entire purpose behind these comprehensive guides: to connect players with the platform that best matches their individual requirements and conditions.
How to Select the Right Casino Platform for Your Needs
Picking a new casino site is about far more than simply choosing a place to spin the reels. You are entrusting an organisation with your time, money, and personal data. At our review centre, we believe every player deserves a platform that is safe, dependable, and genuinely designed with the player experience in mind. Below is a breakdown of the criteria we apply to every casino in our review process — and the same factors you should consider before making a deposit.
Trustworthy Casino Platforms
We exclusively feature casino sites that hold a valid UK Gambling Commission licence. Operating without this licence means players are exposed to significant and unnecessary risk. Licensed platforms are legally required to follow strict regulatory guidelines covering everything from fair game outcomes to data protection. Unlicensed operators, by contrast, may not safeguard your funds or offer any legitimate route for resolving disputes.
Always verify a casino's licence status before registering, or simply rely on our curated list to save yourself the effort. Trustworthy operators also demonstrate a strong commitment to responsible gambling. As part of their UKGC licence conditions, all listed casinos must participate in GAMSTOP — the national self-exclusion scheme. If you ever feel that your gambling behaviour is becoming problematic, you can register with GAMSTOP and block yourself from all UK online gambling platforms. This is just one critical reason why you should only ever wager at UKGC-licensed casino sites.
Reputable casinos will additionally provide a comprehensive suite of player protection tools, including the ability to set deposit limits, take cooling-off periods, and access self-exclusion options. Full details of these tools and how to use them are available in our responsible gambling guide, linked in the footer of this page.
Reliable Casino Platforms
Not all licensed casinos deliver the same standard of service. Some operators alter their terms without adequate notice, while others delay payments or provide substandard customer support. Our review process does not stop after the initial assessment — we continuously monitor for warning signs, evaluate fresh player feedback, and downgrade or remove any site that fails to maintain our standards.
In extreme cases, where a platform presents too much risk to players, we will refuse to list it entirely. This ongoing vigilance ensures that our ratings remain accurate and that only genuinely reliable operators appear in our recommendations. The conditions for remaining on our list are strict, and we make no exceptions.
Low-Risk Casino Platforms
New casino sites can introduce exciting features and innovative approaches to gaming, but smaller companies sometimes carry elevated risk — particularly when they are still establishing their track record. Our assessment process examines several factors to determine the risk profile of each operator.
- Financial stability and backing
- Ownership transparency and corporate structure
- Payment reliability and processing history
Even if you have never heard of a particular brand, our review will clarify whether it is a promising newcomer or a globally established operation behind the scenes. This transparency helps you make an informed decision about where to deposit your money.
Reputable Casino Platforms
The most effective way to judge a casino is to consult the opinions of real players who use it regularly. We have gathered hundreds of user reviews from our community members, covering topics that matter most to prospective players.
- Bonus fairness and wagering conditions
- Customer service experiences and response times
- How fast or slow payout processing really is in practice
This is the kind of insight that you simply cannot obtain from a casino's own homepage. It is available here, completely free to explore, and it provides a level of detail and honesty that no marketing department would willingly publish.
Player-Friendly Casino Platforms
Hidden fees. Dormant account charges. Unexplained delays on withdrawals. These are the kinds of issues that can turn a promising casino experience into a frustrating one. Our team has spent hundreds of hours examining the fine print at every operator so that you do not have to wade through pages of legal text yourself.
If there is something unusual, unfair, or questionable in a casino's terms and conditions, we flag it prominently in our review. Our assessment includes the following details:
- Withdrawal policies and any potential charges that may apply
- Dormancy rules that could gradually reduce your balance
- Available payment methods and expected timeframes
- Any hidden clauses that we or our community members discover
Maintaining multiple accounts across different platforms and testing each one personally is always an alternative to relying solely on our guides. We recognise that some players prefer this hands-on approach, often taking advantage of the welcome offers available at each site. We update our lists of welcome offers on a daily basis, and you can view the current promotions on our casino offers page. All bonus offers are subject to specific terms, and conditions apply.
Casino Deposit Methods Explained
The banking options available at a casino site can be a decisive factor in choosing where to play. In this section, we explore the most popular funding methods for UK casino platforms and then highlight the best operator for each deposit type. Having the right payment method available means faster deposits, quicker access to your winnings, and a smoother overall experience.
Follow the links below for the full guides on each payment method. Alongside each guide, we have identified the category winner — the casino site that delivers the best experience for that particular deposit and withdrawal option.
- Best Pay by Phone Casino Sites — Duelz
- Best PayPal Casino Sites — Duelz
- Best ApplePay Casino Sites — Buzz Casino
- Best Google Pay Casino Sites — Midnite
Each of these payment methods offers its own advantages. Pay by Phone options are popular among mobile-first players who value convenience. PayPal provides an extra layer of security and is one of the fastest e-wallet options for both deposits and withdrawals. ApplePay and Google Pay integrate seamlessly with your device, enabling instant transactions without the need to enter card details each time.
Regardless of which deposit method you prefer, we recommend checking the specific terms at your chosen casino site to confirm that your preferred option is supported and that no unexpected fees apply. Withdrawal speed can vary depending on the method selected, and some platforms offer instant processing only through specific channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
The leading UK casino sites in 2026 include operators that have earned top ratings for trustworthiness, fast payout processing, and a wide variety of games. Based on extensive expert testing and genuine user review feedback, standout names include Neptune Casino, Midnite Casino, and Pub Casino. Each of these platforms has been independently verified and holds a valid UKGC licence.
Always confirm that the platform holds a licence from the UK Gambling Commission. Look for SSL encryption, verified payment options, and robust responsible gambling tools. Our site only features UK-licensed and independently tested casino platforms, so browsing our curated list is the simplest way to ensure safety. The conditions of each UKGC licence require operators to meet strict standards.
As of the latest update, one of the newest UK casino launches is Kachingo. It offers modern features such as instant payouts, fresh game providers, and a mobile-first platform designed for today's players. You can find all newly listed UK casinos in our dedicated new sites section, complete with ratings and licence details.
The fastest payout UK casino sites typically process withdrawals within hours using instant banking methods. Operators like Duelz and Casushi consistently earn high ratings for their fast, hassle-free withdrawal systems. One effective way to speed up payout times at virtually any casino is to use an e-wallet solution such as PayPal, Skrill, or Neteller, which often support instant processing.
Yes, virtually all top-rated UK casino sites function seamlessly on smartphones and tablets. The majority offer either mobile-optimised websites or dedicated apps for iOS and Android devices. Mobile players can access the full range of slots, live dealer games, and banking features without any compromise in quality or speed.
You will find slots, blackjack, roulette, baccarat, poker, and live dealer games at most UK casino platforms. Many operators also offer exclusive titles, game shows, and innovative formats from leading providers such as Evolution and Pragmatic Play. The variety continues to expand as studios release new content on a regular basis, ensuring there is always something fresh to explore.
We rank casino platforms based on a combination of expert review analysis and ratings from real players. Key factors include licence status, payout speed, customer support quality, game selection breadth, and bonus fairness. Every operator is reassessed periodically to ensure our rankings reflect the most current conditions and performance data.
Our list of top online casinos is updated on an ongoing basis. While there is no fixed schedule, we aim to provide the most relevant and current information whenever a new UK casino launches and successfully passes through our rigorous testing procedures. This ensures that our recommendations always reflect the latest market conditions.
Our comprehensive review articles cover every significant aspect of a casino platform, including the games available, site usability, customer service quality, bonus offers and their terms, and the withdrawal process. We also include details on payout speed, deposit methods, and any notable conditions that players should be aware of before signing up.
New casino sites that hold a valid UKGC licence are subject to the same strict regulatory standards as long-established operators. However, newer platforms may carry slightly elevated risk simply because they have a shorter track record. Our review process accounts for this by examining ownership structure, financial backing, and early player feedback to give you an honest assessment of each new entrant.
Final Thoughts and Conclusion
When searching for the ideal casino platform to suit your individual needs, the most important areas to evaluate are as follows:
- Expert analysis of the best sites overall and the leading operator in each specific category that interests you most
- Genuine user reviews that reveal what regular casino players really think about their experiences at each platform
- The payment methods you prefer to use and which sites support them with the best terms
- How trustworthy, reliable, and reputable each operator proves to be under scrutiny
After comparing all of these factors across dozens of operators, it becomes clear that no single casino site is universally perfect for every player — but there is absolutely a right one for you. That is precisely why we combine expert analysis, community feedback, and detailed data-driven scoring to help you make the smartest possible choice based on how you want to play and what games you enjoy most.
Whether your preference lies with roulette, blackjack, slots, live dealer experiences, or any of the other game categories available, the casino platforms featured throughout this guide have been thoroughly tested, reviewed, and trusted by both our editorial team and our community of members. You can open a new account directly from this page, or explore the various bonus and promotional offers available at each operator through our dedicated Casino Offers section. All offers are subject to individual terms and conditions — always read the full details before committing your deposit.
Responsible gambling should always remain your top priority. Make use of the tools available at every licensed platform, set personal limits that work for your budget, and never wager more than you can comfortably afford to lose. Our goal is to connect you with safe, enjoyable, and fair online casinos that enhance your entertainment experience while keeping you protected at every step.