How to Tell if a Casino Slot Machine is Volatile

When selecting a slot machine, most players only look at the theme, the graphics, or the size of the jackpot.

Understanding a game's volatility is the absolute key to choosing a machine that matches your budget and your expectations.

Decoding High Risk vs. Low Risk Slots

If a machine constantly gives you back half your bet or small profits every few spins, it is a low volatility game.

These extremely volatile machines are designed for thrill-seekers who have a large bankroll and endless patience.

• High volatility slots often feature incredibly complex bonus rounds that are very difficult to trigger
• Low volatility games are the absolute best choice if you are trying to clear a casino bonus wagering requirement
• Megaways slots are notoriously high variance, offering thousands of ways to win but long periods of 'dead spins'

Spotting the Signs of High Variance

You can become an expert at spotting high-risk games simply by looking at the payout structure before you spin.

If the top prize is only 500x your bet, the game is almost certainly a low-to-medium volatility machine.

Matching the game's mathematical profile to your personal bankroll is the secret to a successful casino session.