Understanding Volatility and Return-to-Player RTP Rates in Slots

But high volatility games are designed for risk takers, prepared to wait longer without a win for the potential of a big win. These games can also be thrilling, and they take patience … and a bigger budget. A high volatility slot, for example, is a progressive jackpot that increases with every spin right up until a lucky player hits a lucky win. When playing low-variance video slots, you’ll experience more frequent but smaller wins. The maximum payout for these machines is usually between 200 and 500 times the initial wager, which is significantly lower than the potential winnings of higher variance slots.

Risk-averse players should opt for low volatility games whilst more daring players should look at more volatile options. Slot providers set volatility levels to shape the playing experience. The same RTP (Return to Player) can apply to both a low and high volatility slot, but how that RTP plays out will feel very different.

⚖️ Medium Volatility Slots

In the world of physical and online slots, volatility means how often the game will hit a pay, and how much that pay will be worth. Explain how understanding a game’s volatility can help players decide how to approach betting strategies, such as adjusting their bet sizes based on the volatility of a game. A game’s paytable detailing the payouts for specific combinations is a direct indicator of its volatility.

Understanding the volatility of casino games like Plinko and how it compares to other gaming options is vital for any player aiming to enhance their strategy and enjoyment. While Plinko provides a unique combination of chance and strategy within a medium volatility framework, other games offer varying levels of risk and reward. By assessing your own risk tolerance and game preferences, you can select the casino games that best suit your play style.

This enables casinos to find the best option that will suit their players. Modern technology has allowed for greater creativity in designing game volatility. Features like dynamic paylines, cascading reels, and interactive bonuses add layers of complexity that keep players invested. Developers continually refine these elements to meet evolving player expectations. However, the Volatility Index (VI) only represents the average.

However, all developers employ third-party testing agencies, such as GLI or eCOGRA, to audit their games and prove their fairness. As part of the process, millions of spins are simulated to determine key statistics, such as the RTP and maximum potential payout. This time, your 100 spins produce a relatively even mixture of 52 losing spins, with 48 prizes of $2 each.

You’re not trying to win big or lose slow; you just want something that doesn’t feel boring or punishing. In the other, you get nothing for 40 spins, then one big payout that covers everything. Both are delivering the same theoretical return, but the way they do it is different. If you’re the type who tilts after a few empty runs, you’re going to have a much harder time with high-volatility slots. And if your reactions are driving your next bet instead of your plan, you’re going to get chewed up and spit out.

Practical Example: 2 Slot Games have a 96% RTP

• That keeps the session moving and makes it easier to stay level-headed.
• If you’re happy to play over a longer period of time, but don’t want to take financial risks with your money, low volatility games may work better.
• For every $100 wagered, the player can expect to receive $95 in winnings.
• But if you’re a low-budget slots player that wants to play as long as possible, low volatility games are worth seeking out.
• On the other hand, low-volatility games offer more frequent wins but, naturally, with smaller profits on those wins.

That mindset puts you squarely in high-volatility territory. You need both pieces to understand how a slot will behave over time. And more importantly, how it treats your bankroll from one session to the next. In any case, I recommend playing titles from reputable brands with visible RTP and volatility information.

You can expect a fairly steady flow of smaller prizes without enduring stressful dry spells. They still offer an entertaining experience with engaging themes, consistent payouts, and decent potential wins. Don’t be surprised if you endure the occasional dry streak, but hit rates are typically around 15% to 30%. Although both slots paid the same amount, the second produced a consistent string of smaller wins. Whether you want frequent small wins or to chase massive jackpots, understanding volatility is the key to smarter slot play. Our 2025 guide explains volatility (also called variance), how it shapes your slot experience, and how to pick games for your style and bankroll.

Medium volatility slots strike a balance between low and high volatility games. They offer a blend of moderate payouts and reasonably frequent wins. Players who enjoy a mix of excitement and a chance at more substantial rewards often find medium volatility slots most appealing. Casino game volatility is how a game can be said to be risky, and how that then affects payouts. Low volatility games have frequent smaller wins and tend to be steady, and are a good game for players who don’t want their bankroll to go up and down too much with big wins.

A low volatility game pays less on average – but more frequently. In relation to online slots, variance is basically the same as volatility – either low, medium, or high. Two games, both with an RTP of 95%, could have completely different volatility.

Where the slot falls on the Volatility Index (VI) is simply the average experience. The concept of volatility has a couple of sides to it, one of which is entirely down to the player. As much as a casino may wish to, they cannot control the size of a player’s bets. How much or how little a player decides to wager is entirely down stake to them. By simply having that choice, a player is in control of one of the key aspects of volatility.

When manufactures make an online slot then come with a volatility rating. It’s often referred to as a volatility index, but this is not a term that is coined by the whole industry, so the names vary. When it comes to slots, generally people link variance with volatility as the same thing.

These games are ideal for players seeking more extended playing sessions, steady wins, and reduced risk of significant losses. Low volatility slots are a popular choice for casual players and those exploring the world of online gambling for the first time. Volatility, often referred to as “variance”, reveals how slots pay their prizes. Low-volatility slot machines provide frequent payouts – up to 50% of spins – but prizes tend to be small.

But variance (or volatility) allows for you to potentially win multiple times within that 1,000-spin cycle, which is how you make money from slots. When you dig a little deeper into how slots function, one of the areas that you need to address is that of volatility. This is not always a buzz word that many slots will link to their games, nor will many players look or potentially even be aware of how it works.