ShareWith their cool themes, bright colors, and payout potential, online slots are one of the most popular games at many online casinos. But they don’t all work the same way. Some pay out small amounts often, while others offer bigger wins but less frequently. This is called “volatility”.
Volatility, also called “variance”, shows the risk level of a slot game. That’s why it is essential to understand how volatility works before playing online slots. Here is a clear breakdown of what volatility means, the different types, and how to identify a game’s volatility.
What Is Volatility In Slots?
Online slot games have different risk levels, called volatility or variance. This affects how often they pay and how big the wins are. Some give small, steady payouts, while others have long dry spells but bigger rewards.
There are three types of volatility: low, medium, and high.
- Low volatility slots pay small amounts often. They’re good for keeping a bankroll going and playing longer.
- Medium volatility slots strike a balance. They mix frequent small wins with the chance of bigger payouts.
- High volatility slots are for risk-takers. Wins don’t come often, but when they do, they can be significant.
Volatility plays a huge role in how a slot game feels. Knowing a game’s volatility helps players pick one that suits their budget and the kind of experience they’re looking for.
Key Differences Between High, Medium, And Low Volatility
Not all slots are created equal. Here’s a closer look at the three types of volatility:
Examples Of Popular Online Slots By Volatility
Here’s a list of popular slot games categorized by volatility that players can find at many crypto casino platforms. Players can use these examples to test different slots and see how volatility works in action.
Popular low volatility slots
These slots are perfect for players who enjoy frequent, smaller wins and longer play sessions. Here are some popular examples:
- Starburst (NetEnt)
- Charms of the Forest (Realtime Gaming)
- Age of the Gods: God of Storms (Playtech Vikings)
Popular medium volatility slots
For those who want a balance between steady payouts and decent wins, medium volatility slots are a solid choice. Some well-known options include:
- Treasures of Aztec (PG Soft)
- 3 Tiny Gods Bonanza (Foxium)
- Yukon Fever (Mascot Gaming)
Popular high volatility slots
High volatility slots are for thrill-seekers chasing big wins. These types of games are riskier but have potential high payouts. Popular examples include:
- Dead or Alive 2 (NetEnt)
- Bonanza (Big Time Gaming)
- Jammin’ Jars (Push Gaming)
How To Identify The Volatility Of An Online Slot
There are a few ways to figure out a slot game’s volatility. Checking the paytable and game rules can give some clues, like how big the gap is between symbol payouts. Games with large maximum payouts and lots of bonus features usually have higher volatility.
Research also helps. Many gambling forums, reviews, and guides talk about the volatility of specific slots. Playing in demo mode is another good way to get a feel for how often wins happen and how big they are before risking real money.
It’s also important to separate volatility from RTP (Return to Player). RTP shows the percentage a slot is expected to pay back over time, but it doesn’t say anything about how those wins are spread out.
A game can have a high RTP and still be highly volatile if it pays out big wins but not very often.
How Players Can Use Volatility To Their Advantage
Understanding volatility isn’t just about knowing the risks: it’s about using that knowledge to improve gameplay. When they understand how volatility affects a slot’s payout patterns, players can make informed decisions that align with their goals and preferences. Here’s how gamblers can leverage volatility to their advantage:
Choosing the right slot based on volatility
Choosing a slot with the appropriate volatility level is crucial for achieving desired outcomes. Low volatility slots are ideal for players seeking longer sessions with smaller, more frequent wins. These games are perfect for casual players or those with limited bankrolls.
In contrast, high volatility slots are better suited for players who don’t mind taking risks in hopes of winning big, even if those wins don’t happen often. Medium volatility slots offer a balanced option, providing a mix of excitement and steady returns for players who want the best of both worlds.
Managing bankroll effectively
Bankroll management is a critical aspect of playing slots, especially when dealing with different volatility levels. High volatility slots often require a larger bankroll to withstand potential dry spells, as these games can go long periods without paying out. Players should allocate funds accordingly and avoid betting too much in a single session.
Conversely, low volatility slots allow for smaller bets and extended playtime, making them suitable for players who prefer a more relaxed and budget-friendly experience. Regardless of the slot’s volatility, setting a budget and sticking to it is essential to avoid overspending.
Using bonus features
Many online slots come with bonus features like free spins, multipliers, and bonus rounds, which can help mitigate the risks associated with high volatility games. For example, free spins provide additional chances to win without requiring extra bets, while multipliers can significantly boost payouts when a win occurs.
Players should look for slots with features that align with their goals and preferences. These bonuses can make high volatility slots more manageable and low volatility slots even more rewarding.
Setting realistic expectations
Understanding the nature of volatility helps players set realistic expectations. High volatility slots can be unpredictable, and players should be prepared for potential losing streaks. Patience is key when playing these games, as big wins may take time to materialize.
On the other hand, low volatility slots may not offer significant payouts but provide a more consistent and steady experience. By managing expectations and approaching each game with the right mindset, players can enjoy their time without unnecessary frustration.
Experimenting with different slots
Trying out a variety of slots is one of the best ways to understand volatility and find the right fit. Many online casinos offer free demo versions of their games, allowing players to test low, medium, and high volatility slots without risking real money.
This experimentation can help players identify which types of games they enjoy most and which volatility level aligns with their goals. Over time, this knowledge can lead to more satisfying and strategic gameplay.
FAQs
What is the difference between volatility and RTP?
Volatility refers to how often and how much a slot pays out. RTP, or Return to Player, is the percentage of the money players bet on a slot, that the game is expected to return to them over many plays. They’re related but not the same.
How do players know if a slot is high or low volatility?
Players can check the paytable, read reviews, or try the game in demo mode to see how it pays out.
Should players only play low volatility slots to avoid losing money?
Not necessarily. All gambling carries risks, and while low volatility slots may offer more frequent payouts, it's important to play responsibly and within your budget, no matter the volatility level.
