The whole trust model is fundamentally different if it comes to licensed sites then trust regulator to enforce rules. If caisno violates, you have recourse through UKGC/MGA/etc. Downside is intrusive KYC and they can freeze funds during "investigations" while offshore sites goes with trust reputation and track record. No regulator protection, but also can't be frozen for arbitrary reasons. Your funds move fast or they don't move at all.
Neither is objectively "safer" you say but only at first glance, my comparison across people i discussed showed me that regulated sites mostly suspend money as most cases reasolved fairly just takes time and nerve while crypto and similar casinos just take and nothing can be done about it.
I'd say true difference is safety VS frustration