Introduction
In the world of iGaming affiliate marketing, your success often hinges on one key decision: choosing the right commission structure. Whether you’re building a niche blog, growing a YouTube channel, or running paid ads — how you get paid makes a huge difference to your income.
We have also made this easier for you by publishing our Top iGaming Affiliate Marketing Programs.
There are three main models to consider:
- Revenue Share (Rev Share)
- Cost Per Acquisition (CPA)
- Hybrid (CPA + Rev Share)
In this guide, we’ll break each one down, compare the pros and cons, and help you decide which model suits your affiliate business best.
Section 1: Understanding the Basics
1. Revenue Share (Rev Share) You earn a percentage of the Net Gaming Revenue (NGR) generated by your referred players. NGR is calculated after deducting bonuses, taxes, and admin fees.
2. CPA (Cost Per Acquisition) You receive a flat fee for every new player you refer who meets certain criteria (e.g. makes a deposit or places a bet).
3. Hybrid You get a smaller upfront CPA payment and a reduced ongoing rev share percentage.
Section 2: Revenue Share — The Long Game
How It Works: If your player deposits and loses $1,000 over time and your rev share rate is 30%, you earn $300 — typically spread over months.
Pros:
- Passive income
- High long-term earning potential
- Compounding growth as your player base grows
Cons:
- Earnings take time to build
- High volatility month to month
- May suffer from “negative carryover”
Best For: SEO affiliates, YouTubers, review sites, and long-term content marketers.
Section 3: CPA Deals — Fast Payouts, Less Depth
How It Works: You get paid a fixed amount (e.g. $100–$250) when a player signs up and qualifies (e.g. deposits $10+).
Pros:
- Instant cash flow
- Less risk from player churn or inactivity
- Clear ROI for paid traffic
Cons:
- No recurring income
- Stricter approval rules
- Lower payout potential from high-value players
Best For: Influencers, paid media buyers, affiliates with high click volumes.
Section 4: Hybrid Deals — Balancing Risk and Reward
How It Works: You get a smaller CPA + a reduced rev share (e.g. $75 CPA + 15% rev share).
Pros:
- Upfront earnings + long-term potential
- Works across multiple traffic types
- Smoother transition to Rev Share model
Cons:
- Lower payouts on both ends
- Can be confusing to track
- Terms may change without notice
Best For: Affiliates experimenting with traffic sources or scaling with mixed platforms.
Section 5: How to Choose the Right Model
| Affiliate Type | Best Model |
|---|---|
| SEO content creator | Rev Share |
| Social influencer | CPA |
| Paid ads + content site | Hybrid |
| Beginner affiliate | CPA or Hybrid |
| Experienced, scaling | Rev Share |
Also Ask Yourself:
- Does the program offer negative carryover?
- Are CPA terms clear and achievable?
- Is the operator licensed and trustworthy?
- How’s their rep on forums like GPWA?
- Do they provide real-time reporting and affiliate support?
Section 6: Quick Comparison
| Model | Income Type | Risk | Upside | Ideal For |
| Rev Share | Ongoing | Medium-High | High | Long-term SEO or YouTube |
| CPA | One-time | Low | Medium | Influencers, paid ads |
| Hybrid | Mixed | Medium | Medium-High | Diverse traffic affiliates |
Conclusion
Choosing between Rev Share, CPA, and Hybrid deals depends on your business goals, traffic sources, and growth strategy. Rev Share is ideal for long-term thinkers, CPA for short-term results, and Hybrid for those seeking balance.
As with any partnership, do your due diligence. Read the terms, understand the risks, and always pick programs that align with your content and values.
Contact us today for an initial consultation with our iGaming and casino marketing agency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I switch commission models later?
A: Some affiliate programs allow switching, but many lock you in. Always ask upfront.
Q: Which model earns more over time?
A: Generally, Rev Share earns more long-term — if your players stay active.
Q: What is negative carryover?
A: If your players win, you may start the next month with a negative balance unless the program resets monthly.
Q: Are Hybrid deals common?
A: Yes, especially for newer affiliates or those negotiating special terms.
Q: Can I use different models for different brands?
A: Absolutely. Many affiliates mix and match based on brand performance and traffic type.
