Key Takeaways
- Volatility is crucial when choosing slots
- Variance or volatility comes in three parts: low, medium, and high
- RTP is different from volatility
- Choosing a slot with the right variance improves your play style.
Volatility, also called variance, is one of the factors to consider before choosing a slot. This indicates how frequently a game hits a winning combination and the average payout size.
In addition to volatility, we recommend checking the slot’s return-to-player (RTP) percentage and game features. That way, you choose an interesting title for your gambling session.
This article discusses the various types of volatility, how to identify a slot’s variance, and tips on managing your bankroll while spinning reels.
The Different Types of Slot Volatility
There are three types of volatility: low, medium, and high. Here’s a detailed look into each category:
Low Volatility
New players or gamblers who want to keep it safe are better off starting with low-volatility slots. While the wins are frequent, the amount is usually low.
Low variance slots won’t appeal to you if you prefer bigger payouts. The maximum win is often between 200x to 500x the initial bet, substantially smaller than high-volatility games. Also, you won’t struggle to form winning combinations when playing this type of slot.
Furthermore, your bankroll won’t deplete quickly while playing these titles. However, they’re probably not for you if you’re eager to make huge wins. Some low volatility slots we recommend include Starburst, Dragon Tiger Luck, Treasure Bowl, and Fortune Gems 2.
Medium volatility
Like low-variance slots, games with medium volatility offer regular but small payouts. However, as the name suggests, these games’ frequency to hit winning combinations and their size rests between high and low. Therefore, it’s ideal for players seeking sizable payouts and moderately fair frequent wins.
Note that the higher the volatility, the bigger the risk. Players who want safe gameplay with a well-balanced risk-reward ratio enjoy playing medium-variance slots. Top examples are Wheel of Fortune, Buffalo Gold, Diamond Queen, and Ramses Book.
High Volatility
As more players seek bigger payouts, high-volatility slots have become popular. However, note that the win might be big but occurs infrequently. Therefore, if you’re on a budget and want to manage your bankroll, this slot type isn’t suitable for you.
Some high-volatility slots to play include Book of Dead, Sweet Bonanza, and Big Bass Splash.
How to Identify Slot Volatility
Identifying slot variance is important when choosing a title to play. That’s because understanding volatility helps tailor the gambling experience.
Here are ways to discover your chosen game’s volatility:
- Checking Game Descriptions or Info Sections: Always find the variance when you check the game description or info section. Simply choose a title and click on it to see crucial details like volatility, RTP, and minimum bet.
- Analyzing Paytables: Each slot game has paytables. Analyzing them helps you discover the game’s volatility. For context, large gaps between payouts show higher variance.
- Researching Game Reviews: Our favorite way to discover a slot’s volatility is by reading online game reviews. These articles include important details, like variance, RTP, and bet information.
- Play in Demo Mode: Another way to check a slot’s volatility is by playing in demo mode. This version lets you play the game and discover details like variance without risking your money.
Volatility vs. RTP: What’s the Difference?
Many new slot players often confuse volatility for return-to-player (RTP) percentage. Variance affects win size and frequency, while RTP shows long-term payout percentages.
Although both features offer insights into the game, they serve different purposes. RTP indicates the amount a player gets over a period. This is usually shown as a percentage like 95%.
A slot’s RTP estimates how much to receive over 100 spins. Therefore, a game with 97% RTP likely returns $97 if you stake $100.
Alternatively, volatility means the payout frequency while spinning reels. As you already know, variance comes in three types. Depending on your preference, you need to choose one that appeals to your playing pattern.
If you prefer regular but small payouts, opt for low-variance slots. Alternatively, high-volatility games are ideal if you want high but infrequent wins.
Choosing the Right Volatility for Your Play Style
You’ll find thousands of slots to play depending on your chosen online casino. However, you must choose the best titles with the right volatility to suit your playing style.
Only go for high variance slots if you’re chasing big jackpots and ready to take risks. That’s because these kinds of games don’t pay frequently. However, when it does, the amount is usually significant.
On the other hand, low-variance slots are suitable for players who want smaller wins and extended play. With these games, you effectively manage your bankroll if you’re on a budget.
As expected, medium volatility games offer a balanced approach. You get sizable payouts and fairly frequent wins when playing these slots.
Before choosing a slot based on its volatility, consider other options like risk tolerance, patience, and budget. These factors help pick games that match your play style.
Tips for Managing Your Bankroll Based on Volatility
Your chosen slot’s variance determines how fast you deplete your gambling funds. Hence, we’ve included these tips for managing your bankroll:
Setting smaller bets for high volatility games to prolong playtime
Since high variance slots will eat into your bankroll quickly, we recommend setting small bets. That way, you prolong the game time.
Using consistent wagers in low-volatility slots for frequent payouts
Unlike high-variance slots, games with low volatility often offer frequent payouts. However, keep it small. Don’t get carried away and wager higher amounts. We always recommend creating a budget and sticking to it. Regardless of how frequently you’re winning, don’t exceed that amount.
Utilize responsible gambling tools
Reputable online casinos feature responsible gambling measures to help players control their betting activities. It’s best to take advantage of these tools to enjoy safe wagering. You can set deposit or session limits. Other measures include time-out, reality check, and self-exclusion.