Casino

What Does Volatility Mean in Slot Machines?

Slot machines are by far the most popular activities people engage in at land-based and online casinos. Today’s video slots are more engaging than the original mechanical versions. So many versions of slot games exist that players have a wide variety to choose from which selecting one to play, including multipliers, multi-pay line slots, mega slots, and progressive slots.

Part of a player’s selection process should be an examination of a slot machine’s volatility. What is it, and how should it affect a gambler’s choice?

Understanding volatility

Gamblers approach all games by evaluating their volatility, a way of assessing the risk of losing. When it comes to real money slots, this includes an examination of the frequency at which a player should expect to win and the size of the payout.

Slot machine volatility falls into one of three levels: low, medium, and high. Online casinos offer slot games falling within each category, and players should familiarize themselves with these concepts before engaging in any games. Doing so involves examining the RTP (return to player rate) and payout statistics. A lower RTP rate makes a slot machine more volatile. 

High-volatility slot machines

According to professional gambling advice, high-volatility slot games are ideal for players hoping to win a jackpot of millions. Each spin costs more than other games, and the machines rarely pay out. However, when they do, the amounts are staggering. A player can win between 3,000 and 10,000 times their initial spin value. These games are ideal for players with a substantial bankroll and enough money to wait it out until striking a jackpot. Many use their winnings to invest in cryptocurrency and earn a sizeable fortune by trading it.

Medium volatility slot machines

These machines offer a compromise between high and low-volatility slot games, featuring multiple bonus features to keep players engaged. They are ideal for gamblers who like the idea of playing for fun but still expect a substantial payout if they win.

Low volatility slot machines

Recreational gamblers prefer low-volatility slot games, offering a greater chance of winning, although the jackpots are smaller. They deliver steadier payout, making them appealing to players who do not want to spend hours playing a slot machine without any payout or reward. Players prefer low-volatility slots because they can spend more time online due to lower spin prices and only stand to lose minimal amounts of money.