Slot volatility, also called variance, refers to the level of risk that of a particular game. Simply put, the term refers to the frequency and cash value of payouts.
High volatility slots yield few wins with high prices. Low volatility slots feature more payouts for lower amounts.
Along with the return to player (RTP), variance is one of the most important elements to consider when choosing a slot to play for real money at an online casino. This is because it doesn’t simply impact the odds of winning and the amounts of cash you can win. It has a huge influence on the gameplay and the overall gaming experience.
Casino software developers build games in such a way that everything comes together to provide a unique gameplay tailored for different players’ preferences and styles. Thus, volatility is directly linked to a slot’s design, mechanics and features, including bonus games.
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High volatility
High variance slots carry a high risk, with less frequent payouts. However, landing just the right combination can yield truly big wins.
These games are for players who are comfortable with seeing their bankroll decrease over several spins without seeing any winnings. That said, when the symbols do line up, there’s a chance you could be cashing out a life-changing amount of money!
Best high volatility online slots
- Mega Moolah (Microgaming): as far as high volatility games go, there’s no beating the record-breaking progressive jackpots of this historic jungle-themed video slot.
- Book of Dead (Play’N Go): this game launched an entire series of beautifully designed games set in ancient Egyptian temples.
- Bonanza Megaways™ (Big Time Gaming): this timeless classic introduced the world to the Megaways™ engine, launching a new era of innovative and action-packed mechanics.
Medium volatility
Medium volatility slots are hugely popular among players because they yield more frequent wins with a more acceptable level of risk. While the prizes are not as high, you get much more playtime for your bankroll.
The best medium variance slots have the best of both worlds. They’re great for relaxing with a less intense gaming experience, while packing great bonus features that spice up the game with an extra layer of excitement.
Best medium volatility online slots
- Gonzo’s Quest (NetEnt): the animated conquistador Gonzo takes you on an adventure into the heart of the jungle, complete with tumbling reels and exciting reaction wins.
- Chronos Joker (Play’N Go): this game follows a space-age on a journey to the stars with a great re-spin feature and a traditional 3×3 layout.
- Egyptian Emeralds (Playtech): one of the best slots to lay back and relax, while watching the reels spin against a background of the pyramids gleaming in the desert.
Low volatility
Low volatility slots are all about having fun. They carry very little risk, with a higher hit frequency yielding small wins. This is the perfect choice for players who want to pass the time and have fun, but aren’t into running high risks in exchange for potentially bigger wins.
Best low volatility online slots
- Starburst (NetEnt): this is the all-time most popular online slot, and its low variance is one of the main reasons why it consistently tops the charts every year.
- Blood Suckers 2 (NetEnt): this vampire-themed slot takes you on an adventure that you can play all the way to the end without staking a large bankroll.
- Big Bad Wolf (QuickSpin): this quirky cartoon slot with a storybook theme is all about the joy of immersing yourself in the world of the three little piggies and the big bad wolf.
How to choose the right slot volatility for you?
Knowing what the best type of slot is for you is crucial to having a good online gambling experience. The key to deciding between low, medium and high volatility slots is to know what kind of player you are. In particular, you need to define the risks you’re willing to take and the type of gaming experience that you prefer in terms of intensity.
What is slot volatility?
u003ca href=u0022https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slot_machineu0022u003eSlot volatilityu003c/au003e, also known as variance, refers to the risk associated with playing a particular slot machine. It indicates how often a slot pays out and the size of those payouts.
What are the different types of slot volatility?
Slots can have low, medium, or high volatility. Low volatility slots pay out smaller wins more frequently, while high volatility slots have fewer but larger payouts. Medium volatility slots strike a balance between the two.
How does volatility affect my gameplay?
High volatility slots can lead to longer dry spells between wins but offer the potential for bigger payouts. Low volatility slots provide more consistent but smaller wins. Choose a volatility level that suits your bankroll and playing style.
Can I find the volatility of a slot machine before playing?
Yes, many online casinos and slot review sites provide information on the volatility of different slot games, allowing you to make an informed choice before playing.
