Slot machine volatility refers to how often and how much a slot pays out. High volatility slots have bigger wins less often, while low volatility slots offer smaller wins more frequently. So, which type of slot should you play for the best chance of success? This article examines the key differences between volatile and less volatile slots available at LuckyHunter and other online platforms to help you decide.
What Is Slot Volatility?
All slot games have a built-in payback percentage or RTP – this is the amount the game pays back over an extended period of play. Slot volatility refers to how this RTP is distributed in wins.
High volatility slots pay out less often, but the wins tend to be bigger when they land. Low volatility slots pay out frequently, but the amounts are generally smaller. Medium volatility slots strike a balance between the two extremes.
Understanding volatility enables you to better pick slots aligned with your gameplay preferences and bankroll.
Key Differences Between High and Low Volatility Slots
There are some major differences between high-variance and low-variance slot games:
- Frequency of payouts – Low volatility slots provide a steady stream of small wins. Highly volatile slots can go many spins without paying, interspersed with occasional large payouts.
- Risk and bankroll needs – Low volatility slots pose less risk to your bankroll as the payouts are smaller and more regular. Highly volatile games can rapidly deplete a small bankroll during dry spells without wins.
- Jackpots – Progressive and fixed jackpot slot games tend to have higher volatility, as part of the appeal is the chance for life-changing wins. Lower volatility slots rarely offer huge jackpots.
- Bonus features – Highly volatile slots generally have more elaborate bonus rounds with free spins, pick-me bonuses, and special wild features. Less volatile games tend to have simpler bonus events.
- Entertainment value – Higher volatility brings anticipation and excitement, as any spin could result in a huge win. Lower variance slots provide a steadier playing experience.
Assessing Your Playing Style
Deciding whether high or low-volatility slots suit you better depends significantly on your risk tolerance and bankroll.
If you are playing purely for entertainment and want plenty of excitement, chasing big wins on highly volatile games may appeal more. But if you are playing with a limited bankroll and want to ensure it lasts, lower variance slots pose less risk.
Here are some playing style factors to consider:
| Factor | Details |
| Bankroll | Highly volatile games can rapidly deplete a small slot bankroll. Lower variance enables smaller bankrolls to last longer |
| Risk appetite | Volatile slots provide thrill-seeking players with big jackpots to chase, but have a higher chance of losing sessions. Lower variance reduces risk |
| Patience | High volatility slots can experience long dry spells without payouts. Patience is required in waiting for that one big win |
| Bonuses | If you want more elaborate bonus features and free spin rounds, pick a high-variance slot |
| Session length | Lower volatility slots provide more consistent entertainment over long sessions. High variance can get frustrating with extended losing streaks |
Ultimately, both high and low-volatility slots have pros and cons. It comes down to aligning volatility with your budget, preferences, and playing style.
Tips for Playing Volatile Slots
If you decide high volatility slots are for you, here are some tips to get the best experience:
- Check the RTP – This tells you the payback percentage. Volatile games need a 96%+ RTP for a fair chance at big wins.
- Fix a loss limit – Quit if you lose a certain amount, as volatile slots can quickly deplete a bankroll with a run of losses.
- Use free spins – Volatility poses a higher risk to your cash balance, so use free spin bonuses when available.
- Try demo mode – Get a feel for the slot volatility in practice mode before betting real cash.
- Play max bet – Jackpots and bonus rounds usually require betting max, so volatile games demand larger bets.
- Seek jackpots – Games with big progressive jackpots tend to be more volatile, offering life-changing wins.
While volatile slots provide heart-stopping excitement, manage your bankroll carefully, as spins can rapidly deplete your balance. But with some big wins along the way!
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