Winning at slots is mostly about luck. But you can boost your chances by choosing games with high RTP (Return to Player), setting a budget, and knowing when to walk away.

While the gameplay and rules of slots are pretty easy, you need to learn how to play slots before placing your bets. Once you know the basics and understand that the outcome of the game is based on chance, it is time to learn practical tips to win at slots. Here are the proven tips to help you win more. 

1. Understand RTP & Variance

RTP (Return to Player) refers to the theoretical average amount of money that a slot machine pays out over a very long time. It does not guarantee a win for individual sessions. For instance, a slot with a 98% RTP means it will give you $98 for every $100 you wager after hundreds of spins. While it is a theoretical number, it can tell you a lot about the slot machine.

Make sure to choose machines with the highest RTP rates (To understand slot terminology, check out our cheat sheet). Avoid slots with an RTP of less than 94%. 

Variance, or volatility, on the other hand, refers to the frequency with which winning patterns hit and a slot machine pays out. It also refers to the amount of payout the machine gives out on every hit. Slot machines come in three different volatility levels:

Volatility Frequency of Payouts Amount of Payouts

Finding the volatility level for older slot machines can be difficult, as game providers often do not disclose the volatility levels of their machines. However, thanks to the fair play practices implemented by online casino operators, you can easily find the volatility level of online slot machines in the game info or description, even before starting the game. 

As a general rule of thumb, beginners and those on tight budgets are recommended to stick to low- and medium-variance slots. However, the choice is entirely up to you. If you prefer less frequent wins but bigger prizes, go for high-volatility machines. If you want smaller, frequent wins, low variance is the best. Remember, the higher the variance, the higher the minimum betting limit per spin would be. 

2. Play Higher Denomination Slots

Denomination in slot machines refers to the value assigned to a single credit used for betting. For instance, in classic penny slot machines, each credit is worth one cent, while in a dollar machine, each credit is worth one dollar. 

Typical denominations in slots start from 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, 25 cents, and $1 and go up to $5 or even $100. 

Higher denomination slots have higher minimum betting limits. In other words, you should bet more per spin compared to lower denomination machines. For example, if you choose a $1 denomination slot with a minimum bet of 50 credits, you must bet $50 per spin. 

So, the higher denominations promise higher payouts. While it is recommended to play the higher-denomination machines, you should always bet within your bankroll range and never gamble more than you can afford. 

3. Take Advantage of Free Spins

Free spins offered as part of online casino welcome bonuses and no deposit bonuses are the best way to try different machines and find the best slot games to play. The free spins can be offered as part of the welcome bonus package, for example, a $1000 bonus + 215 free spins. Or, as a new player, you can be rewarded with a few free spins without the need for a real money deposit. 

While you should take advantage of such offers, remember that each bonus comes with its specific terms and conditions that you should be aware of before claiming the offer. For example, most free spins are only available on select slot machines, not the entire slot library. Also, some slot machines may not contribute toward meeting the bonus wagering requirements. 

4. Limit Your Playtime & Budget

Never start playing until you set a budget for your gaming session. You must set a budget and stick to it responsibly. Because slot machines are pretty exciting to play, you can easily lose track of time and your money. Limiting your time on each machine can also help manage your bankroll effectively and find machines with better features and payouts. Many experienced players suggest playing around 20 spins on a machine before deciding to move on if you're not hitting any decent payouts. 

5. Play The Max

Playing max or betting the maximum refers to betting the maximum limit allowed to be wagered on a slot machine. Most progressive jackpots only pay out when you bet the maximum. So, most professional casino gamblers advise players always to bet the maximum. This way, you ensure that all available paylines and features are activated, which may increase your chances of winning.

6. Stick To The Simple Games

This is primarily a beginner slot tip. Beginners should focus on popular and easy slots that offer better payout opportunities. Overly complicated slot games with numerous features and complex winning patterns often have lower winning odds. So, stick to the safe options until you are confident enough in your slot game skills. 

7. Always Play Free Slot Games

Never underestimate the power of free play. Luckily, top real-money online casinos allow players to play video slots for free in demo or free-play mode. This is the best way to try the games and choose the one that best suits your gambling style and needs before making your first real money deposit. 

Fact or Fiction: Slot Myths That Make You Broke!

When it comes to winning casino games, especially those that involve a lot of luck, like slots, people often believe myths rather than facts. Here are the top 4 myths about winning at slot machines that you should avoid if you do not want to go broke!

Slots Are Made To Pay Out

If a slot machine hasn't paid out in a while, it doesn't mean it's due for a win. The use of RNGs makes every single spin independent from the previous and subsequent spins. So, next time someone says slots are due for a win, you know that it is not true.

Winning Patterns

There is no such thing as winning patterns when it comes to slot machines. In other words, if you lose three times in a row, this does not guarantee a win on the fourth spin. The best way to control how much you lose is by effectively managing your bankroll. 

Online Slots Are Rigged

Many novice players start to believe online slots are rigged against players after they lose a couple of spins. However, reputable online casinos use verified random number generators (RNGs) and are regularly audited by independent gaming authorities to ensure fair play practices. Licensed online casinos cannot cheat because the licensor would revoke their license. 

Timing Is The Key

Some players believe that playing at certain times of the day guarantees a win. It is just a misbelief. The odds of winning every slot game depend on the RNG, the machine's volatility, and the RTP rates. So, winning a slot game does not rely on the time or day. 

Final Thoughts

While slot machines are heavily dependent on luck, learning the basics like odds, RTP, and variance can help you choose the right machine and increase your likelihood of winning. The slot-winning tips covered in this article ensure you minimize your possible loss. Make sure to stay away from slot myths, set a budget, and gamble responsibly. 

FAQs

What is slot RTP?

The theoretical percentage of money wagered that a slot machine will pay back to players over a long time.

What's the best way to play slots?

Set a budget, play within your means, and enjoy the game.

Can I increase my chances of winning slots?

While you can't directly control the outcome, you can choose games with higher Return to Player (RTP) percentages.

Is there a sure-win formula to win all slot games?

No. The use of RNGs makes the outcome quite random. No slot strategy can guarantee a win, while it may improve the chances of winning.