Back
Slot Volatility Guide: High vs Low Volatility Slots | LeoVegas

Slot Volatility Explained: How It Shapes Your Sessions

Slot volatility is one of the most important yet frequently overlooked aspects of playing slot games. It gives you insight into how a slot behaves over time and what kind of rhythm or payout pattern you might experience during a session.

Table of Contents:

This guide breaks down why volatility matters, how it affects different play styles, and what to expect from high, medium, and low volatility slots.

Fundamentals of Slot Volatility

Slot volatility, sometimes referred to as variance, describes how a slot machine behaves over time in terms of outcome patterns. Put simply, it reflects how often wins occur and how large or small those wins tend to be.

When you spin the reels, volatility offers a sense of the game’s general behaviour. Some slots deliver frequent but modest results, while others may have longer gaps between wins, with more dramatic changes when they occur. Some games play with a steady pace, while others shift their rhythm more abruptly.

It’s important to understand that volatility doesn’t predict specific results in a single session. Instead, it gives an overall idea of how consistently or unpredictably a game tends to play. It’s a helpful way to gauge pacing and win potential, but it’s not a guarantee of outcomes.

PLAY ONLINE SLOTS

The Effect of Volatility on Gameplay & Payouts

Volatility in online slots also influences gameplay and slot payouts, shaping the overall experience significantly! Since slot volatility refers to the level of risk associated with an online slot, players choosing a high volatility slot should prepare for a game session that may not payout frequently, but has the potential to payout big. On the low volatility scale, players should expect entertainment at its finest, with frequent, albeit smaller wins that keep the dream alive and your heart pumping!

High volatility slot games are characterized by infrequent but potentially significant payouts, which may not provide a balanced risk reward ratio . If your heart is pumping now, these may be the games for you! High volatility slot games are known for their "boom or bust" thrilling nature, as players often experience long periods without winning, followed by a sudden big payout.

It’s a crazy ride of adrenaline - and the ticket to climb aboard is often a substantial bankroll that can endure the length of a journey to jackpots! Plus, take note that the payouts are usually higher but so are the minimum buy-ins.

To play these games for extended sessions sometimes involves a slow and steady drain on your bankroll, and if you’re lucky, a dramatic boost when a huge win really hits. You’ll want to come equipped with a stomach that can handle the swings, and enjoy patience to wait out time between wins.

High Volatility Slots: Characteristics and Gameplay

High-volatility slots are known for their unpredictable pacing. These games often go through long stretches without significant outcomes, making them less consistent in how they play. When a feature or combination does land, it tends to stand out, though it happens infrequently.

The gameplay tends to move at a slow rhythm with more noticeable gaps between features or changes. Extended play without frequent activity is common, and it is normal to see swings in momentum rather than steady progression.

High-volatility slots typically include bonus rounds, multipliers, and other features that appear occasionally and can shift the pace when triggered. Because of this, the gameplay can vary widely from session to session.

Best High Volatility Slot Games at LeoVegas

Sweet Bonanza

sweet-bonanza

A delicious indulgence, Sweet Bonanza by Pragmatic Play is one of the most popular high volatility slots on the market today - and is an absolute treat to play. Playful and colourful features fill the 5x6 matrix that’s full of juicy delights and bountiful bonuses that can award up to 21,100x the bet.

It’s got all the bonus bells and whistles, including our favourite bonus, the Candy Bomb. This rainbow grenade can drop during Free spin rounds, awarding multipliers of 2x to 100x. Mix in the tumble feature and the rewards can keep dropping! It’s worth treating yourself to.

<button navigateTo="/game/sweet-bonanza>Play Sweet Bonanza

Wanted Dead or a Wild

Wanted Dead or a Wild

Fancy yourself a winning gunslinger? Take a seat and try your antics in the Wild West with Hacksaw Gaming’s Wanted Dead or a Wild. This movie-esque feature plays out on a 5x5 grid, with an impressive top prize that can fire 12,500x your bet your way.

Let’s talk features. This high volatility slot features a Duel at Dawn bonus that has two outlaws drawing their pistols in a shoot-out, firing multipliers at each other that reach 100x. In its morbid end, you’ll get the prize won by the last man standing. Then there’s Dead Man Hand, an engaging two-part bonus that will leave you with Wilds and multipliers to build wins. And finally, the Great Train Robbery is a heist that rewards free spins. Quite the storyline, loaded with engaging features and fun.

<button navigateTo="/game/wanted-dead-or-a-wild>Play Wanted Dead or a Wild

Leprechaun Goes Wild

Leprechaun Goes Wild-min.jpg

Luck is always with the Irish, including Play’n GO Leprechaun Goes Wild high volatility slot game. Follow this mini ginger across 5 reels and 20 paylines in search of a pot of gold that pays 10,000x your bet!

Two main features, free spins and the Luck of the Irish are intertwined. To launch these, you’ll need to track four leaf clovers, Scatters, Sticky symbols, and Wild Scatters to launch feisty free spins. Trust us, this cheery lad’s joy is quite contagious and you’re sure to be entertained.

<button navigateTo="/game/leprechaun-goes-wild>Play Leprechaun Goes Wild

Book of Dead

Book of Dead-min.jpg

Play’n GO launched Book of Dead that follows the tale of Rich Wilde, an adventurer who seeks great fortune in the form of wins that hit 5,000x your stake. Honestly, this online slot game, is a legend and stands as one of the most popular online casino games and the premier choice in the crowded space of Ancient Egyptian themed slots - and that’s saying a lot!

Flip open this 5x3 reeled, 10 payline book open for features that are rich and immersive, including free spins. Land three or more Scatters and the free spins feature will initiate, granting you 10 free spins to start. Before using these spins, a prize of 2X, 20X, or 200X the bet is awarded based on landing 3, 4, or 5 Scatter symbols respectively. Start packing, this is a good one.

<button navigateTo="/game/book-of-dead>Play Book Of Dead

Madame Destiny Megaways

Madame Destiny Megaways.jpg

Pragmatic Play’s portfolio of high volatility slots is vast, covering many genres including the unknown! Yes, the reels get magical with Madame Destiny MEGAWAYS. Look deep into the crystal ball to see 200,704 ways to win rewards that reach 5,000x the bet.

What sorcery do these special features hold? Scatters that can pay up to 100x and launch you into a new realm - that of the Wheel of Fortune. Filled with multipliers and free spins, there’s no telling what your future holds playing this slot, but hopefully it’s a jackpot win.

<button navigateTo="/game/madame-destiny-megaways>Play Madame Destiny MEGAWAYS

The Hand of Midas

The Hand of Midas.jpg

Pragmatic Play has a hand of gold, just like Midas, when it comes to engaging players in mythical realms. Take The Hand of Midas, and embark on a high volatility slot journey for wins that top 5,000x the bet.

A Royal Free Spins feature can award multipliers of up to 30x the bet, plus up to 15 free spins. This game also comes with a unique feature - the ante bet. Ante up and choose between 20x or 25x multipliers that doubles your shot at triggering free spins - at a cost, of course!

<button navigateTo="/game/the-hand-of-midas>Play The Hand of Midas

Gates of Olympus

Gates of Olympus.jpg

In Gates of Olympus, a high volatility slot by game developer Pragmatic Play, players are whisked away to Ancient Greece. With 6 reels and 5 rows, this game offers a unique winning setup. Instead of spins, symbols tumble onto the reels, continuing after wins for more payouts. There are no paylines; eight matching symbols trigger wins.

The vibrant reels showcase gems, a golden chalice, hourglass, and more. Discover extra rewards in the Gates of Olympus slot's bonus feature, potentially paying 5,000x your bet.

<button navigateTo="/game/gates-of-olympus> Play Gates of Olympus

Chaos Crew

chaos-crew

Let’s move on to a totally different theme and look. Chaos Crew by the creative folks at Hacksaw Gaming bring their A game to the graffiti underground world. Dark ambience, five reels, and 15 paylines are scattered with Cranky Cat Wilds and Sketchy Skulls.

The hipsters won’t know what hit them in this dark escapade, as you battle the reels for free spins that come loaded with up to x20 multipliers. You better hope these Crank Cats have nine lives so you can make it to the 10,000x top prize!

<button navigateTo="/game/chaos-crew>Play Chaos Crew

Low Volatility Slots: Characteristics and Gameplay

Low-volatility slots are designed to play at a much steadier pace with more frequent outcomes. These games tend to avoid large shifts in momentum, offering a more even and consistent flow throughout a session.

Low-volatility slots often include bonus features like small multipliers, free spins, or simple pick-and-win games. These features are usually designed to trigger more frequently, maintaining engagement without causing major swings.

This pacing can make such slots a good fit for longer sessions, lower stakes, or a more relaxed and laid-back style of play.

Miner Donkey Trouble

miner-donkey-trouble

Play’n GO has created a delightful, light hearted animated tale of a miner and his trusted sidekick donkey! This 5x7 matrix can award successful slot miners with wins of up to x10,000 the bet. While playing Miner Donkey Trouble on a quest for gold, you’ll encounter explosive bonus rounds with Dynamite triggering free spin packages, Golden Nuggets releasing multipliers of up to x10, and cascade clusters that can feed the expressive donkey and unleash rounds of Donkey Destruction! Watch out for those back kicks!

<button navigateTo="/game/miner-donkey-trouble>Play Miner Donkey Trouble

Holmes and the Stolen Stones

holmes-and-stolen-stones

Yggdrasil’s team is a creative lot when it comes to slot storytelling. Their low volatility slot game, Holmes and the Stolen Stones, follows the famous sleuth solving riddles across five reels and 20 paylines. You don’t have to be a seasoned detective to uncover three or more matching symbols to release bonus games and free spins.

Collect five shards from the Diamond collection and you’ll be well on your way to triggering 10 free spins. During these rounds, line wins are multiplied by x3 and matching five Diamond symbols of the same colour will release one of five progressive jackpots! This is a nail biting thriller, with a soundtrack that will have you spinning on the edge of your seat.

<button navigateTo="/game/holmes-the-stolen-stones>Play Holmes and the Stolen Stones

Agent Jane Blonde Returns

Agent Jane Blonde Returns

Microgaming offers a wide variety of low and high volatility slots, and Agent Jane Blonde Returns delivers a low volatility mission perfect for casual players. In fact, this 007 themed spy game can pay up to 1,500x your bet via a scenic 3x5 reel gamescape.

Landing only two Scatter symbols will clue you into a Respins mission, and it’s a bonus round that always kicks bonus game off with two Wilds in play. It’s within this bonus that you can claim the top 1,500x prize but there’s also a delightful payday up for grabs when matching three Agent Blonde symbols. Accept this mission and good luck!

<button navigateTo="/game/agent-jane-blonde-returns>Play Agent Jane Blonde Returns

Dragon Kingdom - Eyes of Fire

Dragon Kingdom - Eyes of Fire

Conquer the beast of storybooks and wins of up to 1,250x the bet and start playing one of the most enchanting slot games available, Pragmatic Play’s Dragon Kingdom - Eyes of Fire. Upon launching this epic adventure, you’ll be struck by a movie-esque soundtrack and three beautiful dragon eggs perched on the far right reel. Hang on, we’ll get to those beauties in a second.

This is a gaming adventure with a twist! The progressive feature adds a thrilling dimension – it counts non-winning spins. Let’s call them dead spins. Once you've witnessed four of these cheeky non-winners in a row, boom! The reel on the right with the eggs springs into action. Each dragon egg gets jazzed up with a multiplier. The more dead spins you round up, the heftier those multipliers grow, reaching up to 50x. You’ll be torn between cheering for winning spins or hoping to sit back and compile dead ones to increase payday potential!

<button navigateTo="/game/dragon-kingdom-eyes-of-fire>Play Dragon Kingdom - Eyes of Fire

Star Joker

star-joker

Play’n GO’s Joker is a jolly good fellow indeed. This low volatility retro slot machine, Star Joker, is filled with Wilds and free spin rewards across nostalgically packaged 5 reels playing slots and 10 paylines. But, there’s nothing retro about wins that can hit 500,000 coins!

While Star Joker is simple, it’s full of juicy pleasures. The Joker is a transforming Scatter that can help you win big and he’ll even trigger a free spins bonus. What a guy! And for those with a little risk in their nature, this game’s gamble feature gives you a shot at a jackpot feature doubling or even quadrupling your winnings by guessing the colour and suit of a covered card. Sounds simple enough, right?!

<button navigateTo="/game/star-joker>Play Star Joker

Thunderstruck II

Thunderstruck II

Nothing to do with ACDC, Thunderstruck II by Microgaming is a low volatility game based on the usual crew of Nords. This Viking gang of Thor, Odin, Loki, and Valkyrie will take you on a few adventures, if you’re lucky enough to unleash a bonus! If you do, suit up for adventure!

Landing three Thor Hammers gets you invited into the Great Hall of Spins for 10-25 free spins of different levels with rolling reels and multipliers in the mix. Or, you could release a Wildstorm for up to five reels of stacked Wilds! Overall, you’re looking at a chilly 243-ways to find victory before heading to Valhalla with an astonishing 2,400,000 coins!

<button navigateTo="/game/thunderstruck-ii> Play Thunderstruck II

Wild Scarabs

wild-scarabs

Microgaming’s low volatility online slot portfolio brings us another beautiful Egyptian discovery in Wild Scarabs. Featuring 243 ways to win across five reels, it offers bountiful paydays of up to $260,000!

As you may have guessed, Wilds play a key role in this adventure with Wild Deal™ playing prominently - in fact, any non winning spin with a Wild on reel 3 will see Wild Deal™ add Wilds for a guaranteed win! Wild Scarabs also have bonus features - Stashed Wilds™ that help create even more guaranteed wins! And of course, Scatters are in play, so if you see three across the reels, you’re in for a treat of 10 free spins. Crazy Wild, indeed.

<button navigateTo="/game/wild-scarabs> Play Wild Scarabs

Medium Volatility Slots: Characteristics and Gameplay

Medium-volatility slots are designed to offer a balance between the slower pace of high-volatility games and the frequent activity of low-volatility ones that cater to different risk tolerance level . Outcomes (aka wins) are usually spaced more evenly, with sessions that mix steady sequences and occasional shifts in momentum.

These games maintain a varied pace without the extended dry spells that are common in high-volatility slots. Sessions typically offer enough variation to avoid feeling repetitive, while still keeping the gameplay controlled and manageable. Medium-volatility slots blend elements of consistency with occasional bursts of activity, creating a style of play that falls between the two extremes.

Many medium-volatility slots also feature bonus rounds and multipliers, which help to break up the base gameplay. Such slots are also popular for their versatility, often being included in tournaments or promotional events due to their balanced pacing and favourable outcome frequency.

Comparing High, Low, and Medium-Volatility Slots: Key Differences

As we now know, high, low, and medium-volatility slots offer very different styles (and intensities) of play. Knowing how they compare can help you choose games that better match your pacing preferences and budget approach.

Payout Frequency vs Payout Size

High-volatility slots tend to produce fewer notable outcomes across many spins, with occasional shifts that stand out. It’s not unusual to go through dozens of spins with minimal change, followed by a feature or result that alters the pace, often with higher payout potential when it happens.

Low-volatility slots work differently, following a more active and consistent pace. The potential payouts are generally smaller in scale but happen more frequently, helping to maintain momentum and allowing bankrolls to last longer sessions.

Medium-volatility slots sit between the two, offering a balance where moderate potential payouts appear more steadily, along with occasional larger swings that break up the pacing.

Player Experience: Thrill vs Consistency

High-volatility slots often include long stretches of minimal activity, punctuated by sudden bursts that dramatically shift the tone of the session.

Low-volatility slots, in contrast, offer a steadier and more predictable style of play. The pacing is smoother, with fewer sharp swings, making it easier to manage longer sessions.

Medium-volatility slots land in the middle. They offer a mix of consistency and variation, helping to prevent gameplay from feeling too repetitive or too unpredictable.

Bankroll Considerations: High Risk vs Low Risk Play

High-volatility slots, unsurprisingly, come with more financial swings. Longer stretches without notable outcomes are common, so it is important to plan for greater fluctuations and manage your budget carefully to handle the unpredictable nature of these games.

Low-volatility slots tend to put less strain on your bankroll during extended play, thanks to their more consistent pacing and frequent activity.

While medium-volatility slots still require some flexibility, they usually offer a more manageable pace. The financial shifts are less extreme than in high-volatility games, which can make budgeting easier across multiple sessions.

How to Identify Slot Volatility Before Playing

Choosing between high, low, and medium volatility slots is a lot like deciding whether you want a scenic stroll, a rollercoaster ride, or something that combines a little of both.

Understanding a slot’s volatility can make it easier to select games that match how you like to play. Fortunately, there are simple ways to get a sense of a game’s volatility before you commit any real money.

Checking Slot Game Paytables and RTP

Start by reviewing the slot’s paytable. It often provides a clear indication of the game’s volatility. If the top symbols offer large payouts while the rest return significantly less, that usually signals higher volatility. In contrast, a paytable with more evenly distributed payouts typically reflects lower volatility. Some games also display a volatility or variance rating directly in the information section, alongside the return-to-player (RTP) rate.

Observing Max Win Potential and Bonus Features

Slots that advertise very high maximum payouts, such as 5,000x or 10,000x your stake, are generally linked to higher volatility. These games may include features like free spins, multipliers, or expanding symbols, but it's the infrequency of significant wins, rather than the features themselves, that best reflects their volatility.

By contrast, games with more modest maximum payouts, typically in the range of 500x to 1,000x, tend to trigger bonus features more often. These are usually tied to lower volatility and provide a more consistent and steady style of play.

Using Demo Play to Test Volatility

Most online casinos allow you to try slots in demo mode, making it easy to see how a game behaves before committing real money. At this point, you should have a good idea of what to watch for when assessing volatility.

If you notice long gaps between wins followed by occasional large payouts, you're likely playing a high-volatility game. If smaller wins appear regularly, it's probably a low-volatility slot.

The Role of RTP in Slot Volatility

RTP stands for Return to Player, and it’s a percentage that shows how much a slot game is programmed to pay back over time. For example, if a slot has an RTP of 96%, that means it’s expected to return $96 for every $100 wagered over the long run.

The Connection Between RTP and Volatility

While RTP and volatility are both important terms in slot gaming, they describe two completely different aspects of how a game behaves. They both relate to outcomes over time, but they work in different ways.

So what’s the connection? Surprisingly, not much. A slot can have a high RTP and still be low volatility, or it could be of higher volatility. RTP simply reflects the average return rate over a large number of spins, but it does not explain how that return is distributed. Two slots with the same RTP can feel completely different based on volatility. One might produce smaller, frequent outcomes, while another could involve long, quiet stretches followed by larger shifts in pace.

High RTP vs Low RTP Slots: Does It Matter?

RTP gives you a general idea of how much a game returns over time, and higher values are usually preferred. But on its own, RTP won’t tell you much about what the session will actually feel like. A slot with a high RTP might still drain your balance quickly if it’s highly volatile, while a lower-RTP game could still feel manageable if outcomes are spaced more evenly. That’s why RTP works best as a reference point. It becomes more meaningful when viewed in the context of volatility and how you approach your sessions.

Myths and Misconceptions About Slot Volatility

To give you a better picture, here are some common myths about slot volatility:

“High Volatility Means Higher RTP”

As we’ve just covered, volatility and RTP are two different aspects of how a slot operates. Volatility describes how often and how much a slot gives you a win, while RTP is the percentage of all bets that a slot is designed to return over time. You can have a high-volatility slot with an average RTP, or a low-volatility slot with a high RTP.

“You Can Control Slot Outcomes”

Many players believe that pressing the spin button at just the right time or using certain patterns will affect the outcome. The harsh truth? You can’t control the results. Slots use something called an RNG (Random Number Generator) to determine every spin. This ensures that each result is random and independent of past spins. So, no strategy, timing, or “lucky streak” can change 'what's going to happen'.

“Low Volatility Slots Are Only for Beginners”

It’s often assumed that low-volatility slots are designed just for new or casual players. In reality, these games are structured to deliver steadier pacing and more frequent activity, making them suited for longer sessions and more controlled gameplay, regardless of who is playing.

Practical Tips for Playing Slots (Regardless of Volatility)

Regardless of whether you’re playing a high, medium, or low-volatility slot, below are a few practical tips that can help you relish your sessions more and manage your bankroll wisely.

  • Set a Budget and Stick to It: Decide how much you’re comfortable spending before you start, and avoid chasing losses once that limit is reached.
  • Check the Game Information First: Always review the paytable, volatility rating (if available), and return-to-player (RTP) rate. Understanding a game’s structure helps set realistic expectations.
  • Adjust Bet Sizes to Match Session Goals: Smaller bets can extend your session, while larger bets carry more risk and create bigger swings.
  • Use Bonuses Carefully: If you’re playing with a bonus, check the wagering requirements and any restrictions tied to slot play.
  • Play for Entertainment First: Slots are designed for entertainment. Since outcomes are random, keeping a fun-first mindset helps you get the most out of your session.
  • Keep Track of Session Time: It’s easy to lose track of time while playing. Setting a timer or taking regular breaks can help you stay mindful and prevent overextending your sessions.
  • Avoid Chasing Bonus Rounds: Some slots have attractive bonus games, but chasing specific features can lead to overspending. It’s better to treat these moments as a part of the session rather than the main goal.

What Level of Volatility Should I Go For?

So now that you have a better understanding of what Volatility means, you may be wondering - what type of Volatility gives the best return and which slots should you be playing moving forward? The truth of the matter is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer!

All the High Volatility and Low Volatility slot games mentioned above have approximately the same RTP. This means that whether you go for Low Volatility or High Volatility should all boil down to: the time available to you, your bankroll, and best of all - your expectations!

If you’re looking for a slot that will guarantee a fun time in your busy schedule and that won’t break the bank, then Low Volatility slots may be best suited for you. These types of slots will treat you to the entertainment you’re looking for within a couple of spins and will most likely allow you to break even.

On the other hand, if you don’t care much for smaller wins, and have the time and money to invest, then you’re better off playing a High Volatility slot! These games require patience but ultimately pay off in the most thrilling sensations and enviable wins!

So whether you want to dip your toes in Low Volatility slots or grip on to the edge of your seat with our High Volatility games, our online casino has got the lion’s share of casino titles! Simply click the button below to take your pick of the bunch with LeoVegas Casino!

PLAY ONLINE SLOTS

Slots Volatility FAQ

How do you know if a slot machine is volatile?

Slot volatility is usually mentioned in the game description.

How do you tell if a slot machine is high or low volatility?

Paytable: High volatility slots typically have a larger payout for the highest combination, while low volatility slots have smaller payouts for each combination.

Maximum win: high max win is usually more common in higher volatility and higher variance slots, while low and medium volatility slots have lower max win amounts.

What does volatility mean in slot games?

In the world of slot machines, slots volatility refers, quite simply, to the frequency and size of wins. High volatility slots have infrequent but large payouts, while low volatility slots offer frequent but smaller wins. If you’re looking for a balance between the two, that’s where medium and lower volatility slots lie. Volatility is a useful term to understand, since it can keep your winning expectations in check, check your risk comfort, and help you manage your bankroll accordingly.

What volatility is best for slots?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Ultimately, the choice between high and low volatility slots depends on personal preferences and bankroll management.

If you have a limited bankroll, you might prefer low volatility slots because they are lower risk.

However, if you are looking for a chance to win big, you might prefer high volatility slots.

Are high volatility slots suitable for all players?

For anyone thinking about playing a high volatility slot game, consider that they are the riskiest of all slots. While the payouts will be the largest in many cases, you may end up losing your bankroll before the big one comes in!

Can I increase my chances of winning on high volatility slots?

Playing high volatility slot machines doesn’t necessarily increase your chances of winning, but they do increase your chances of winning big. Keep in mind players need a fairly large bankroll to play such games. Also, always check the minimum bet requirements online slot machines that put you in the running for the biggest jackpots, if that’s what you’re after.

How do I find high volatility slots at online casinos?

Look for slot machines with a lower RTP (Return to Player). If a slot machine is stating a lower RTP, it’s telling you that the percentage of wagers going back to players is small, which indicates less frequent wins.

Are high volatility slots more profitable than low volatility slots?

Let’s recap - high volatility slot machines feature less frequent wins, but when one finally is delivered, it’s usually quite a substantial one. Here’s something to consider. In high volatility slots, bet wagers can often start higher, meaning the paytable for winning combinations starts high as well.

When you sit down at a high-limit slot machine, you have a better chance of walking away with bigger winnings based on the minimum bet you can place. But of course, you’ve also got to have a bankroll that can sustain long periods of play without wins.

What is a high volatility slot machine?

A high volatility slot machine is one that rewards players quite infrequently, but when it does doll out big wins out, these infrequent wins will often be large. They are riskier slots for the most part, but the risk reward for many players factors in big payout potential!

What does high volatility mean in slots?

High variance or volatility of a slot slots refers to a game’s tendency to offer less frequent, but larger payouts. From a player’s perspective, it’s a game of long win-less stretches but if their bankroll can sustain sticking it out, they may be in for a treat as when payouts do hit, rewards are often substantial.

It's a more adventurous and potentially higher-risk style of play, with the allure of big moments and exhilarating wins!

What is the difference between volatility and RTP?

Volatility and RTP (Return to Player) are different concepts in gaming, but they are interrelated. Volatility is about how often you win and how much, while RTP (Return to Player) is about the average amount you get back. Low volatility video slots usually have higher RTP percentages, featuring frequent wins and decent overall returns. On the other hand, high volatility slots might have lower RTP percentages since big, rare wins are part of their payout plan.

Can low volatility slots still provide big wins?

While low volatility slots are defined by producing frequent, smaller wins, they can occasionally yield big returns usually aided by triggering special features in bonus rounds or hitting a jackpot. So you don’t want to rule out a big win entirely - just know it’s the exception and not the rule!

How can I identify a low volatility slot?

Low volatility slots can be identified by checking the game's paytable and doing a little research on the specific game. You’ll want to take a look at the RTP listed. Games with low variance and a high RTP are usually equated with low volatility games.

Are low volatility slots suitable for all types of gamblers?

Low volatility slots cater to a diverse audience of gamblers, offering a gaming experience that appeals to both casual players seeking consistent wins and prolonged entertainment, as well as risk-averse players who prefer to minimize the potential for significant bankroll swings while still enjoying the thrill of the game.

If you’re choosing to play low volatility slots, go with a conservative bankroll strategy. This will allow you to engage longer in your session, focusing on smaller bets for extended gaming and entertainment.

Read more about slot mechanics in our guides: