How to Win on Slot Machines – RTP, Volatility & Bonus Tips

If it were only that easy – to be sure of a win on slot machines every time you played. The truth is that there is a lot of complicated math behind every single slot game, and wins are never guaranteed. However, let’s give you simple slot game strategies that may help you over time.

How to Win on Slot Machines?

There is no tried-and-trusted slot machine strategy you can rely on to consistently provide you with profits. The idea behind slot machines is that they are random and therefore down to pure luck. 

That said, a good understanding of the mechanics of slot machines and the numbers associated with them should give you a good idea of which slots may provide you with the best chance of coming out on top. 

Interpret RTP & Slot Volatility  

In the absence of any slots strategy that’s the secret to how to win at slot machines, it’s worth understanding that no two slots are the same when it comes to your chances of winning on them and how those wins are likely to come about. The two concepts can be broken down into: slot RTP and slot volatility. 

RTP in Slots

RTP stands for Return to Player. The RTP is the typical amount paid out to a player(s) if they played that slot for an infinite amount of time, which is approximately equivalent to an investment of $ 100. 

If a slot has an RTP of 96%, then typically playing $100 on that slot would, over time, be expected to return $96 to the player, with the $4 being the house edge. 

The first point to make, and a good casino tip, is that the best slots to play at casinos are those with the highest RTP. 

If you have to choose between an RTP of 93% and another of 97%, then it should be a no-brainer which one to play. Then again, a slot’s RTP is calculated based on thousands of spins. Therefore, it’s possible that you could secure a bigger profit on a slot with a lower RTP if you secure a nice early win and quit while you’re ahead. 

Slots Volatility

A slot’s volatility refers to how risky or unpredictable it is. Some slots were made to have low volatility, meaning you’ll secure plenty of small, base game wins that may give the impression that you’re winning. 

However, because they rarely yield significant returns, you’re unlikely to walk away with substantial profits, so low-volatility slots will likely appeal to the more casual slots player who is mostly there for the experience and enjoys playing. Low-volatility slots are therefore unlikely to result in huge wins, but players are unlikely to lose their money too quickly.  

At the other end of the scale is a slot like the infamous Dead or Alive by NetEnt, which was deliberately designed to be as volatile as possible. 

That means you could go for long periods with little or no wins, but if you activate the free spins round, a huge win could be just around the corner. This means highly volatile slots are for the more patient high-roller, prepared to take far greater risks. 

Use Free Spins & Wilds to Help Boost Your Slot Wins

Free spins are the most common type of bonus feature at casino slot machines. You’re given 10/15/20 free spins, often played on a different screen, where prizes tend to be much bigger than in the base game, often with the chance of re-triggering the free spins. These free spins are a bonus game within the slot and aren’t to be confused with free spins awarded by the casino to players as a promotional offer.  

Re-spins, like those found on Starburst, usually involve the symbols from the previous spin staying in place for a bonus spin, which often results in a decent win. 

Walking Wilds, as featured in Jack and the Beanstalk, see Wild symbols move from left to right across the reels with each spin until they disappear from the reels. However, for each spin they’re present, your chances of a big win are significantly increased.  

Follow Basic Slot Machine Strategy

It’s worth repeating that no slot machine strategy will guarantee you wins. You’re either going to get lucky or you’re not. But that’s not to say that slot strategy doesn’t exist. Here are a few examples: 

Play slots with high RTPs 

Playing a slot with an RTP of 98% all day should produce far better results than playing one with an RTP of just 95%. That’s just simple maths. 

Use free spins and other bonuses 

Why risk your own money when you can use the casino’s? Take advantage of any free spins or other bonuses that come your way to minimize your risk and avoid using your own money.

Read online slots reviews

Like all experts, slot reviewers know what they’re talking about after playing hundreds of different ones for hours. They understand the mechanics of the game, including RTPs, slot volatility, graphics, and how the various bonus features work, as well as everything else. 

After all, it’s their job to know everything and explain it to you in minute detail. It’s also their job to be honest and transparent about the slot’s merits, so players trust reviewers and value their opinion. 

Try different types of slots

In addition to varying RTPs and levels of volatility, slots also feature diverse themes, including sports, fruits, Jokers, and special characters like Gonzo, as seen in Gonzo’s Quest. 

Different slots also have wildly varying minimum and maximum bet amounts, as well as maximum wins. Whereas a run-of-the-mill slot may only have a maximum prize of $10,000, Progressive Jackpot slots like Mega Moolah or Mega Fortune can have jackpots that regularly surpass the $ 20 million mark. 

With numerous software providers, there’s also a significant variety from one slot to another in terms of graphics, sound effects, and bonus features.

Play responsibly

Playing sports or casino games on a strict budget in a controlled manner, knowing there are no guarantees of winning, is fine and how most bettors approach it. 

However, for some, things can escalate and become a significant issue, with severe financial, professional, and emotional consequences for those who fail to gamble responsibly. 

Find the Ideal Casino for Online Slots  

Some casinos are better than others when it comes to playing slots. For a good all-around experience with plenty of slots covering different themes and types, Casino Beats is undoubtedly a good starting point. But how do you choose among the online casinos offering slot games? Here are some crucial factors.

💎 The casino should be fully licensed and regulated, so everything is above board. 

🎰 The casino should offer a diverse selection of slots from various software providers, featuring diverse features and catering to all budgets. 

🎁 There should be a welcome offer, such as free spins, plus a good supply of ongoing promos such as leaderboards, more free spins, and reload bonuses. 

💳 Withdrawals should be quick and uncomplicated via various payment options, ensuring you receive your winnings as soon as possible. 

📱 The website and app should be well-designed, easy to use, and feature slots that don’t get stuck or suffer from other technical issues.  

Conclusion

It’s easy to see why slots remain the go-to game for most casino players. They’re fun, fast, highly entertaining, and when played smartly and strategically, they can offer a tidy payout. It’s the mix of luck and anticipation that keeps players coming back. Just remember: enjoy the spin, but always play within your limits.

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