button in SafariCan You Win at Slots? What Actually Works (and What Doesn’t)
Slot machines are entirely random. There are no predetermined outcomes and no special strategies you can deploy to guarantee you win more.
However, there are certain things you can control that will improve your experience. By choosing the right slot games, understanding how slots work, and managing your bankroll effectively, you can make your money last longer.
In this guide, we explain all the important information you need to know about slots. From how they work to what factors actually matter when you play and even common costly mistakes you should avoid, we'll go through it all to help you get more value from your sessions.
Top 5 Quick Ways to Play Smarter
✅ Choose slots with a high RTP (96% or higher)
✅ Play slots with the right volatility
✅ Set a bankroll and stick to it
Can You Really Win at Slots?
Yes, you can win at slots in the short term - but in the long term there's no way to guarantee a profit.
Every spin is determined by a random number generator (RNG), meaning results are completely independent and unpredictable.
Slot machines are designed to give the casino the upper hand. This is known as the 'House Edge,' and means that slots are programmed to take in more money than they payout.
This is where Return to Player (RTP) becomes significant, as this figure directly reflects the amount of money a player can expect to win as a percentage of the total amount staked.
Key Takeaway:
You can’t change how much a slot machine pays out, but you can do certain things to impact how long your bankroll lasts.
How Slot Machines Actually Work
Modern slot machines use software called a random number generator (RNG) to determine the outcome of every spin. This ensures that results cannot be predicted or influenced.
In other words, each spin is entirely independent from one another and nothing you've done prior impacts the current or any future spins.
So contrary to some people's beliefs, just because you don't win anything for 100 spins, it doesn't mean that big payout is on the way. On the other hand, a big win might be immediately followed by another one the very next spin.
- Each spin is independent
- Results cannot be predicted, influenced or predetermined
- Past outcomes have no impact on future spins
Alongside RNG, there are two key factors that you should be aware of that define how slots behave:
- RTP: How much (as a percentage) the game pays back over time
- Volatility: How often and how much a game pays out
Understanding these is far more useful than trying to find hidden patterns or devising elaborate strategies that ultimately have no impact on payouts.
Why RTP Matters for Slot Players
RTP is potentially the most crucial factor when it comes to playing slots. It literally gives you the long-term payout you can expect as a percentage of how much you stake. Bonus features, themes, the minimum bet, jackpots and respins are all just mechanics a provider adds to a game to make it fun, exciting and more engaging. While the RTP actually matters and impacts how much you'll lose over time.
RTP Example
Let's take two popular slots and use them to look deeper into RTP.
Starburst is one of the most well-known slot game titles in the world. Its popularity has stemmed from its futuristic, cosmos theme, simple gameplay but perhaps most importantly, its high RTP of 96.09%.
This means if you play 100 spins at a stake of $1, you'll have spent $100 total and can expect a return of $96.09. This is theoretical, though, which means in the short term your returns from 100 spins might be way more or way less than the $96.09 mark. However, over hundreds of thousands of spins, that variance narrows and your returns will be far closer to the 96.09 RTP.
Buffalo is another hugely popular slot, but unlike the previous example, its RTP of 94.85% is relatively low. Let's take a look at the formula that you can use in this case to calculate your RTP based on 200 $5 spins.
200 spins x stake of $5 per spin = $1,000 total stake.
$1,000 staked x RTP percentage 0.9485 = Expected returns of $948.50.
Why Volatility Matters for Slot Players
Volatility is an important metric that every slot player should take note of. It relates to the frequency with which a slot will pay out and the size of each win.
What you want to get out of playing a slot might change from session to session. Of course, we all want the big wins. But sometimes you might have more of an appetite for consistent smaller wins, over the more infrequent larger ones. This is where volatility comes into play.
Learn more about the levels of volatility below.
| Volatility Level | Win Size | Win Frequency | Perfect For... |
| High | Tend to be larger | Infrequent | Patient players looking for the big wins. |
| Medium | A mix of large and small | Standard | Players with a mixed appetite, wanting regular big and small wins. |
| Low | Tend to be smaller | Frequent | Players looking for frequent wins, regardless of the size. |
Volatility Example
Sticking with the same slots in the RTP example, let's delve deeper into slot volatility.
Starting once again with Starburst, the game's low volatility is a good indicator into how often you can expect to win.
The low volatility means you should have more winning spins than medium and high-volatility slots, albeit the payout amounts might be more modest. This combined with the high 96.09% RTP means Starburst is a great slot if you want a prolonged session that might not include as many blockbuster wins - but is perfect if you want your bankroll to last longer.
Let's say you play 100 spins at $1 per spin. The low volatility could mean 40 of those are winning spins, but the majority of them are between $0.50 and $5, with the occasional larger win sprinkled in.
Alternatively, Buffalo has a high volatility, meaning wins won't be anywhere near as frequent. You might play through the same 100 $1 spins, but only get paid out on 10 of them. However, when you do win, the payout amount is likely going to be considerably larger than the average win on Starburst. So, if you have the appetite for a bit of patience and want the reward of a potentially thrilling payout, high-volatility slots are the ones for you.
Be cautious with higher-volatility slots. Wins are never guaranteed and the nature of their payout frequencies mean you can burn through your bankroll very quickly.
Slot Volatility vs Return to Player - What's the Difference?
Slot volatility dictates how frequently you'll win, while RTP measures the amount you can expect to win back over a long period of time.
While both relate to payouts, slot volatility and return to player are different metrics.
Volatility measures how often a slot pays out. This is valuable when choosing games that fit your bankroll. For example, if you're playing with a smaller budget, low-volatility slots can help your funds last longer.
RTP is relevant in the long term, but the short-term variance means if you're only playing quick sessions, volatility is potentially the more significant factor when it comes to slots.
Take note of volatility and RTP with slot games. Volatility dictates if you'll experience big but infrequent wins, or frequent but smaller wins. Whereas, RTP is the main impact on your bottom line.
5 Best Ways to Play Slots Smarter
These quick tips will help you maximize your bankroll, make your sessions last longer and ultimately give you an all-round better slot gaming experience. While we can't give you tips on exactly how to win at slots (and no site can!), if you follow this advice, you'll at least be making informed decisions about your slots play.
- Choose slots with a high RTP (96% or higher)
- Understand slot volatility
- Set a bankroll and stick to it
- Utilize bonuses and free spins
- Avoid common slot myths
1. Choose Slots with a High RTP
As mentioned earlier, RTP is a critical factor when it comes to slots. An easy way to ensure your losses aren't as severe as they could be is to exclusively play high RTP slot games.
The Return to Player (or RTP) is a percentage of all the wagered money that a slot pays back to its players. The RTP is calculated on a scale from 1 to 100.
Most online slots tend to have an RTP between 94% and 97%, but we recommend playing slots with an RTP above 96%. Anything lower, and you're putting yourself at an even further disadvantage from the outset.
That's not to say you should never play slots with a lower RTP. If, for instance, you enjoy the game, are simply playing for fun or just want to play a quick session, the RTP becomes a little less relevant. Playing a low-RTP slot for 20 spins doesn't mean you are guaranteed to not win anything. Short term, you might come out with a profit - but long-term your bottom line will be more heavily impacted.
Top 5 Highest RTP Slots
| Slot Game | RTP | How to Play |
|---|---|---|
| Mega Joker | 99% | Play Game |
| Blood Suckers | 98% | Play Game |
| Starmania | 97.7% | Play Game |
| White Rabbit Megaways | 97.7% | Play Game |
| Medusa Megaways | 97.63% | Play Game |
How to Find the RTP of a Slot Machine
The quickest option is to search for it online. If you use Google, you can type the following text to see all the online gambling pages that mention the RTP of the type of slot machine you are about to play:
"[SLOT GAME]+RTP"
When you browse an online casino you'll usually be able to see the RTP listed with each slot game, or sometimes you'll need to click to read more details about a particular game before you can see it.
2. Understand Slot Volatility
Volatility affects how a slot pays out. It's another critical factor to consider when you want to pick a slot machine.
Many games and gambling news sites refer to the games' volatility as their 'variance', although you may also see it referred to as the 'risk level' of a slot.
The volatility of a slot machine game measures the risk involved in playing a particular slot for real money. One of my favorite tips for playing slots is to consider it the 'risk factor' of the game you are about to play. That's because volatility determines how you win at slots.
- Low Volatility Slots: Your odds of winning at these slots are high, and it's easier to strike winning combinations when you spin the reels, but your wins may be smaller.
- High Volatility Slots: The odds of winning at these games are smaller, but the wins pay more. These games can be more rewarding, if you can invest the time and money to play for longer.
Pick the slot machine type that feels right for you. But keep this in mind:
To play high volatility slots, you need to be patient, have enough money to invest in a long online gaming session. If this isn’t you, low volatility slots may be a better option.
High volatility slots are a bit riskier, too. You never know how much time and money you'll need to invest to hit a lucky spin and celebrate yet another day of winning money on slots.
So, the key takeaway here is to understand the impact volatility has on slot payouts. Once you fully understand it, you can then use this information (which is commonly available within a slot's rules page) to determine which slot to play based on your preferences.
How to Find the Volatility of Slots
Online casinos don't make the variance of the games as accessible as the RTP numbers.
An easy way to choose games with the right variance is to use Google to do the hard work for you, like this:
- Open Google
- Type the name of the game + 'variance' into the search bar - E.g. ''Mega Moolah variance.''
- Analyze the search results - it should be clear if the slot's volatility is low, medium or high.
3. Set a Bankroll and Stick to it
With any form of gambling, whether it's on poker sites, online casinos or even prediction markets, bankroll management is absolutely crucial.
You should never wager more than you can afford to lose. Always assume you will lose every bet you make, and if you can't afford or aren't comfortable doing so, you shouldn't do it. Full stop.
Slots are exciting to play and staying within your financial limits is a big part in keeping things fun.
Before a session, always have in mind an amount of money you're willing to spend (and potentially lose) and stick to it! It's tempting to keep spinning to chase losses. 'I'm due a win' - you're not necessarily and a win is never guaranteed, regardless of how much you've previously staked or lost.
IMPORTANT
⚠️ Never chase your losses
⚠️ A win is never guaranteed
⚠️ Each spin is independent - meaning prior outcomes are irrelevant
⚠️ Set a budget and stick to it
4. Utilize Bonuses and Free Spins
If you're looking to start playing the best slots right now, then let us direct you to our list of the best real money casinos! This list will show you the best real money casinos to play online slots depending on your location.
We also have detailed articles that tell you all about the best free spins and casino bonuses at top real money online casinos such as Fanduel Casino, BetRivers Casino and 888Casino.
Taking advantage of free spins and casino bonuses is a good way of playing your favorite games with less risk, but remember that bonuses usually come with wagering requirements.
All the different types of online casino bonuses and the best sites to claim them on are outlined below:
| Bonus Type | Explanation | Best Site for Bonus (US) | Best Site for Bonus (ROW) | Claim Bonus |
| No-Deposit Bonuses | Bonuses where no prior deposit is required. These often carry no risk but are also very rare. | 888casino | Sky Vegas | ➡️ Claim 888casino bonus ➡️ Claim Sky Vegas bonus |
| Matched-Deposit Bonuses | Bonuses where your (usually first) deposit is matched up to 100%. | BetMGM Casino | GG Poker Casino | ➡️ Claim BetMGM Casino bonus ➡️ Claim GG Poker Casino bonus |
| Free Spin Bonuses | Bonuses that often come as part of other bonuses, or as a no-deposit offer. | FanDuel Casino | 888casino | ➡️ Claim FanDuel Casino Bonus ➡️ Claim 888casino bonus |
| Rakeback Bonuses | Bonuses that offer players cashback based on their playing activity and stakes. | BetRivers Casino | Bet365 Casino | ➡️ Claim BetRivers Casino bonus ➡️ Claim Bet365 Casino Bonus |
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5. Avoid Common Mistakes
There are some common mistakes and misconceptions that players fall victim to that more heavily impact the amount they lose. In other words, by avoiding these, you can better mitigate your profit/loss while playing slots.
- Increasing Stakes After Losses
- Chasing 'Due' Wins
- Paying Games you Don't Understand
Increasing Stakes After Losses
Some think that increasing the stake per spin after losing money will help to recoup some of those losses. It's essentially the same premise as the Martingale roulette strategy. While this sometimes might be successful on the odd occasion, doing this will just mean you end up losing more in the long run.
Chasing 'Due' Wins
You're never 'due' a win, regardless of previous outcomes and spinning activity. Just like if you get dealt a Royal Flush in poker, the odds of it happening again the very next hand are always the same, regardless of whether you made a Royal in your previous three hands. Each slot spin is independent, meaning you might not win anything for 100 spins in a row but that has no impact on your next spin
Playing Games you Don't Understand
Most slots follow the same, basic concept. There might be a unique feature or a special symbol mixed into the frame, but ultimately you click spin and either win or lose some money. However, some games might be a little more complex - especially when it comes to paylines, stakes and bonus buys. So, be sure to read the rules and fully understand the game before you start spinning.
Avoiding these habits will do more for your results than any “strategy.”
Common Slot Myths (Debunked)
Here are some common myths surrounding slot games that many players believe, but are in fact incorrect. These common misconceptions can impact the amount you lose, compounding losses and turns a losing session into a catastrophic one. So, understanding the truth can help you think more logically and mitigate your slot losses.
MYTH: Slots are 'due' to pay out.
FACT: Every spin is random and independent. There is no logical pattern or timing 'tells' that players can take advantage of.
MYTH: You can predict when a slot will hit.
FACT: RNG (Random Number Generator) software ensures that outcomes of every spin are completely unpredictable.
MYTH: Playing longer increases your chances of winning.
FACT: The longer you play, the more susceptible you are to the house edge and on average you'll lose more.
MYTH: Betting more increases your odds.
FACT: RTP (Return to Player) is set for each slot game. Higher stakes can lead to larger payouts, but your chances of winning are always derived from a game's RTP.
Play Slots Responsibly
Playing online slots responsibly is crucial to ensure that you have an enjoyable and safe gaming experience.
Determining how much money you can afford to spend on slot gaming without negatively impacting your financial well-being is important to do before you start playing. This budget or bankroll should be money that you are willing to lose, as there are no guarantees of winning on slot games. Once you've set a budget, make sure to stick to it, you should never chase your losses.
Make sure you set a time limit for your gaming sessions, too. This helps prevent excessive gambling and ensures that you balance your leisure time with other activities. Taking regular breaks is another helpful way of managing your gaming, as it can help to clear your mind and allow you to make good decisions. Set win and loss limits for each gaming session. If you reach your win goal or hit your loss limit, it's a good time to stop playing.
Many online casinos offer tools to help you control your gambling, such as deposit limits, session time limits, and self-exclusion options, allowing you to seek help if needed. The PokerNews Safer Gambling page lists a number of organizations that could help.
How to Win at Slots FAQs
Can you guarantee a win in online slots?
No, there is no guaranteed way to win at online slots. These games are based on Random Number Generators (RNGs), which ensure that each spin's outcome is unpredictable.
Are there any strategies to win at online slots?
While there are strategies for slots and tips to manage your bankroll and potentially increase your chances of winning, there is no strategy that can consistently beat the odds in the long run. Slots are games of chance, and outcomes are random.
How can I increase my chances of winning at Slots?
There is no way to increase your chances of winning, but choosing slots with higher Return to Player (RTP) percentages and making use of casino bonuses and promotions can extend your playtime. Play games with low volatility if you prefer more frequent wins. Remember, there is no guarantee of winning in the long-term.
Should I play max bet to increase my odds of winning?
Playing max bet can be a requirement for some progressive jackpot slots to be eligible for the jackpot. However, it does not increase your odds of winning on standard slots, and it can lead to higher losses.
Is there a best time to play online slots?
Online slots are available 24/7, and there is no specific time that guarantees better odds of winning. When you play has no impact on the game's outcome.
Can I cheat or trick a slot machine to win?
Attempting to cheat, manipulate, or tamper with a slot machine is illegal and can lead to severe legal consequences, including criminal charges. Modern slot machines use advanced technology and security measures to prevent cheating.
Do slot machines follow a pattern?
Slot machines have no logical pattern in terms of payouts - each spin's results are entirely random.
Do some slots have a higher chance of winning than others?
Each slot game has its own Return to Player (RTP) percentage and volatility, which can affect the frequency and size of wins. However, no slot is designed to give a specific player an advantage over others.
Which slot machines pay the best?
With most slots featuring a Return to Player (RTP) of 92-96%, any games with a RTP above 96% is a good choice. In terms of win-size, progressive slots are the slot machines that pay the best – but they are also the ones with the lowest winning odds.
Are slot machines rigged?
No, slot machines are not rigged. All the slot machines on this list page are hosted on licensed platforms and are certified by third-party independent authorities. The games are not rigged.
Can you win real money on slot machines?
Of course. Just like any other casino game, slots offer a possibility to win real money, if you are in a location where real money gaming is allowed, but no one can guarantee you wins because slots are a game of chance.
How do you pick a winning slot machine?
There is no way to guarantee that you will win on any slot machine, so it's impossible to pick a winning slot. What you can do, however, is follow the useful tips on this page, such as picking slots with a high RTP %.
Do online slots pay out more than land-based slot machines?
Yes, online slot games often pay out more than land-based slots due to their cheaper operating costs. Physical casinos will typically have higher labor, utility and service costs compared to online casinos, which impacts their profitability. Therefore, by paying out less in their slot games, they can recover some of those costs - though payouts are largely dependent on the site or casino you're playing at.