What is slot volatility and why does it matter?

Cartoon coin character sitting on a pile of coins beside a slot reel displaying a winning 777
2 min read

Slot volatility describes how often a slot pays out and the size of those payouts. In simple terms, low volatility slots deliver frequent but smaller wins, while high volatility titles pay out less often but with the chance of much bigger prizes.

Understanding volatility helps players choose games that fit their risk level and play style:

  • Low volatility slots: Steady gameplay with smaller, more regular returns. You won’t have to wait too many spins to land a win. Great for casual players or anyone wanting to stretch a smaller bankroll.
  • High volatility slots: These are riskier as it’s possible to go long stretches without winning. However, when those wins do land, there’s a good chance they will be bigger than average. This is better suited to larger bankrolls and players who prefer taking more risk. 
  • Medium volatility slots: This is a balance between the two, meaning moderate risk and average-sized wins.

It is not always easy to determine a slot’s volatility. While some state this on their ‘info’ screen, others do not. The casino may let you know the volatility of titles, but aside from that, the best place to look is online slot reviews. 

Check out our bankroll management guide to learn how to choose slots that match your strategy.

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