What RTP and volatility mean in slots
What does RTP mean in slots? You’re in the perfect place to find out as our oddschecker slots guide will reveal the ins and outs of RTP and volatility.
RTP (Return to Player) and volatility are two common terms used for online slot games. Understanding these two terms can help you identify which online slots to play. Also, you can set a betting strategy and bankroll depending on what RTP or volatility you prefer.
In this RTP slots and volatility guide, you will find examples of high and low RTP games, and learn about volatility. Moreover, we offer real-life examples of slots RTP and variance to help you deepen your knowledge of online casino games.
Contents
- RTP and RNG: two key concepts in slot machines
- How does the Return to Player (RTP) work?
- How does the Random Number Generator (RNG) work?
- What is volatility and what is the difference with RTP?
- RTP of the most popular slot machines
- FAQs: RTP and volatility in slots
- How to pick the right RTP and volatility slots online
- Slots guide chapters
RTP and RNG: two key concepts in slot machines
The Return to Player (RTP) rate and the Random Number Generator (RNG) are both slot mechanics. These two functions are algorithms that determine how frequently a bettor is paid when playing a slot.
But what is RTP in slots, and what is the RNG system? We define these below:
- RTP – The percentage that shows how much of a return a player will get over a playing period. A slot’s RTP is shown as a percentage (i.e., 96%, 97%, etc.). This shows how much a player can potentially receive over 100 spins (e.g., a game with 96% is likely to return $96 on $100 staked on average).
- RNG – The system that randomly decides winning combinations on slot reels and lines. An RNG slot machine system ensures fairness and removes the element of prediction. Moreover, the RNG algorithm cannot be removed or tweaked to suit the casino rake or player winnings.
While slots RTP and RNG systems are different concepts, they also work collaboratively to provide a fair and balanced gaming experience.
Ultimately, the slot RTP lets players know roughly how much they can win over a period of 100 spins in order to offer transparency. However, the RTP is balanced by the RNG function, which provides the element of chance that is associated with casino games.
Players can use their knowledge of a slot game’s RTP to employ betting strategies at online casinos. However, it’s important to use this knowledge with further understanding to make well-rounded picks and bets. See our further casino guide chapters for more tips and approaches to online betting.
How does the Return to Player (RTP) work?
Players can figure out how to find RTP on slots simply. The RTP is worked out by viewing a slot’s payouts to players and comparing them to the game’s earnings. This calculation can only be completed by playing a game over a long series of spins.
For example, if a slot game paid out $100,000 over a month and took $110,000 in earnings, you could divide these figures to find the RTP value. $100,000 divided by $110,000 is 0.9, meaning that the slot has a 90% RTP.
However, the RTP is less predictable for short-term betting. The RNG system ensures that each spin has a different outcome.
Slots providers will determine the RTP and share this information when publishing the game. As a result, bettors can quickly view whether they’re playing a high or low RTP slot. Generally, games with 96% or greater are considered the highest RTP slots.
Bettors can work out a particular game RTP without paying real money at a social casino. Here, you can test slots for free without having to make a monetary deposit.
Pros and cons of playing high RTP slots vs. low RTP slots
When you are familiar with what RTP is in slots, you can decide whether high or low options are right for you.
Here, we review the pros and cons of high and low RTP slots. However, you can test out games with free spins at online casinos to see if a slot is suitable for you and your betting requirements.
High RTP slots pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| On average, payouts are more frequent for players. | Lower in-game multipliers and bonuses. |
| Potential for long-term returns for games with 96% or higher. | Potentially smaller wins but with more frequency. |
| High RTP helps to minimize quick bankroll losses. | High RTP slots (with 97% or more) are uncommon. |
Low RTP slots pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Some games offer larger jackpots. | Less frequency and smaller potential payouts. |
| Payouts may be infrequent but can be higher depending on volatility. | Can damage the bankroll with many regular spins without winning. |
| Many low RTP slots have progressive jackpots and bonus rounds. | Long-term returns can be low. |
How does the Random Number Generator (RNG) work?
All RNG slot machine games have a pre-programmed RNG. This runs every time a player spins the reels on desktop or mobile slots.
The RNG is a sequence of numbers that chooses reel combinations from thousands or millions of possible outcomes. It is an algorithm where numbers link with the slot game to produce symbol combinations on the reels and lines.
Currently, online slot games are tested by third parties before being released. During this procedure, the slot RNG is verified to ensure fairness and compliance.
What is volatility and what is the difference with RTP?
Now that you are familiar with RTP and RNG, you might be wondering, what does volatility mean in slots?
So, what is volatility in slots exactly? Volatility, also called variance, refers to the frequency of slot payouts. There are currently three levels of slot volatility:
- Low – A slot machine that usually provides frequent payouts, but at smaller amounts. Sometimes, these low volatility slots offer small minimum bets, such as $0.01, and offer small potential returns.
- Medium – The medium slot variance offers a combination of smaller winnings with occasional larger payouts. As a result, bettors might expect moderate wins from a medium-volatility casino game.
- High – A slot that pays infrequently, but that provides higher payouts, is high volatility. Often, highly volatile slots have large jackpot games and many bonuses to provide large potential payouts.
With these definitions, we can review the difference between volatility and RTP.
Firstly, the RTP displays the potential percentage that a player can win over 100 spins (e.g., 95%). However, slot volatility is the size and regularity that a game can pay out.
The two concepts do overlap to an extent. For instance, many high RTP games have a low volatility. Similarly, some low RTP games offer more bonuses and jackpots and therefore have a high volatility rating. Test out the link between RTP and slot volatility at no-deposit casinos today.
RTP of the most popular slot machines
Online casino betting sites have a range of high RTP and low RTP slots for players to enjoy. Also, several slot casino games offer a variety of slot variances from low to high.
You can select a slot game based on several factors, including RTP and volatility. However, consider playing demo slots before you pay real money on online casinos and app games.
Bettors can test free-to-play games in casinos without making a deposit. This is a good way to see if you enjoy the game, and you can also see whether it has a high or low RTP and volatility.
Also, consider reading our slot reviews of the best RTP slots before you play a game for real money. Here, you can review the game’s key features, graphics, bonus features and gameplay quality.
High RTP slot games
Some of the highest RTP casino slot machines can provide well above the 96% rate considered as average. Often, you can identify lower RTP machines by certain features and functions, such as fewer lines and reels and limited bonuses.
The Immortal Romance slot from Games Global is a particularly high RTP game with a 96.86% rate and medium to high volatility. The game is a rare example of a high RTP slot combined with high volatility. However, bettors have many ways to unlock free spins and bonuses in this vampire-themed slot, which offers many winning combinations.
Another well-known high RTP slot is Sweet Bonanza from Pragmatic Play. This sweet-themed slot has a low stake range – from $0.20 – making it a strong choice for those on a low bankroll. However, this Pragmatic Play slot also has a high RTP and medium high volatility, meaning that players, on average, can receive frequent payouts.
Check out some of the alternative leading slots in the slot machine RTP list below:
| Slot | RTP | Developer |
|---|---|---|
| Reactoonz | 96.51% | Play’n Go |
| Sweet Bonanza | 96.51% | Pragmatic Play |
| Divine Fortune | 96.59% | NetEnt |
| Immortal Romance | 96.86% | Microgaming |
Low RTP slot games
Many online casinos have a selection of low RTP games as well as high RTP options. A high RTP slot machine has a payout rate of under 96%. Sometimes, higher RTP slot machine games have larger bonuses and jackpot games.
One of the lowest RTP slots currently available is Wanted Dead Or A Wild, created by Hacksaw Gaming. This Wild West-themed slot is a five-row and five-reel slot game with cluster pays. However, the bonuses make it a high volatility game to balance the low RTP. Hacksaw Gaming has included Wild multipliers and free spins rounds to add the element of high variance against the low 94.55% RTP.
Similarly, IGT’s Da Vinci Diamonds is a well-known high RTP slot with 94.93%. Again, the bonus features are the standout elements as this game only has 20 fixed paylines, offering few payout options in the regular gameplay. However, cascading reels and free spins bonuses increase the volatility level to a low medium.
Players can play the slots mentioned here at online casinos by making a deposit to their betting account. For more details on how to transfer funds to and from your online casino account, use our money pages as an expert guide.
| Slot | RTP | Developer |
|---|---|---|
| Wanted Dead Or A Wild | 94.55% | Hacksaw Gaming |
| Da Vinci Diamonds | 94.93% | IGT |
| Double Diamond | 95.44% | IGT |
| Buffalo Blitz | 95.96% | Playtech |
How to pick the right RTP and volatility slots online
Knowing what RTP and volatility are in slots can help you take the steps to find the right game. When you choose a slot, always check its RTP and volatility level to see whether it suits your betting habits.
However, use reviews, game demos and tips to judge the overall quality of a slot game. Focusing on the RTP and volatility should be just one of your overall considerations for slot game selections.
To make a well-informed decision on your next slot game, use some of the expert tips and slot strategies below.
Compare the RTP and volatility level of slots
A good starting point when selecting any slot is viewing the game’s RTP. As a guide, use 96% as the industry average for a mid-range RTP. Then, if you want a game with a higher RTP, look for anything above 96%. Alternatively, if you want a lower RTP casino game, find a slot with under 96%.
Also, try to balance your RTP selection with slot volatility. For instance, if you want a game with frequent but potentially low payouts, find a high RTP and low volatility slot. However, if you’re looking for a slot with potentially substantial wins but infrequent winnings, go for a low RTP and high volatility game.
Use slot demos
A great way to test a game’s slot RTP and volatility is to play free demos. Here, you can get a feel for the slot’s themes, symbols and bonuses. Also, you can play for a longer period to test the RTP and volatility without losing any real money.
Check a game’s bonuses and jackpots
Every online slot game will have settings where you can view the paytable, symbol values and bonus triggers. View this section before you start playing any slot machines, as it provides useful information about bonus frequency and value.
With this information, you can find out whether a particular game has enough bonuses, free spins, etc., to balance a low RTP. Alternatively, if slots have few bonuses and a high RTP, it might provide lower but more regular payouts.
Consider your bankroll
Lastly, choose a particular game based on your bankroll. For example, players with a low bankroll might prefer the high RTP and low to medium volatility slots. In contrast, bettors with a less restrictive budget could select the games with less payout frequency but larger bonuses via progressive jackpots and other possible wins.
However, this choice is individual to you and your betting requirements at online casinos. Read guides and reviews to make the best possible decision based on your circumstances.
FAQs: RTP and volatility in slots
What would a 96% RTP mean?
A slot game with a 96% RTP would, on average, pay out $96 for every $100 staked. Generally, slots with 96% are considered to have an average RTP. However, anything above 96% is considered a high RTP.
How does RTP work in slots?
The RTP is calculated by the slot game developer to provide bettors with a general overview of payout rates. This calculation is based on a huge number of spins to determine how frequently certain symbols or jackpots pay out.
Is it better to play with low or high RTP slots?
Generally, a high RTP slot, such as one with 97%, will pay out more often compared to a low RTP slot, such as one with 94%. However, players must also consider the slot volatility, as a high RTP game might have a low volatility, meaning that payouts are frequent but potentially lower value. Identify your preferred combination of RTP and volatility and bet accordingly based on strategy and bankroll.
Is the RNG working at all times?
Yes, the slot RNG is programmed to work on every spin. Ultimately, the random nature of slot games means that players cannot predict the outcome.
How do I know if my slot machine’s RTP is correct?
Gaming developers must reveal the RTP of their slot machine games for players to view. However, this is not always 100% accurate, and the true value of a slot’s RTP could be higher or lower due to the RNG system.
Other Slots Guide Chapters
- Chapter 1: How To Play Slot Machines
- Chapter 2: Slot Machine Symbols and Values: a comprehensive guide
- Chapter 3: Slot Machine Strategy: How to Win at Slots
- Chapter 4: What Type of Slots Exist
- Chapter 5: What RTP and Volatility mean in Slots
- Chapter 6: The Most Popular Slot Games: a Complete Guide
- Chapter 7: What is a Progressive Slot Machine, and how to Win on Them?
- Chapter 8: What are Video Slots and How to Play Them?
- Chapter 9: What Slot Machines Pay the Best?
- Chapter 10: Free Slots with Bonus and Free Spins
- Chapter 11: Free Slots to win Real Money: No deposit required
- Chapter 12: Slots Apps that Pay Real Money