Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, the decision to play high RTP or high volatility slots isn’t always simple. Both offer unique advantages, but their appeal depends on your personal preferences, risk tolerance, and bankroll size. In this blog, we will dive deep into both concepts, break down their core differences, and explore which type of slot may work best for you based on key statistics, facts, and insights.
What is RTP (Return to Player)?
Before we get into the differences between high RTP and high volatility slots, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what RTP actually means. RTP, or Return to Player, is a percentage that represents how much a slot game is expected to pay back to players over the long term. It’s a theoretical calculation based on millions of spins and refers to the proportion of total money wagered that will be returned to players as winnings.
For example, a slot with an RTP of 96% means that for every $100 wagered, the game is expected to pay back $96 to players, while the remaining $4 is kept by the casino. However, it’s important to note that RTP is a long-term average, and individual results on any given spin are always random and independent of previous outcomes.
How RTP Affects Your Gameplay
While RTP is not something you can control, it can help guide your decisions when choosing which slots to play. Games with a higher RTP offer a better theoretical return on your wagers over time. RTP values typically range from 92% to 98%, but there are games with even higher RTPs. It’s important to note that while the RTP percentage may seem appealing, it doesn’t guarantee a consistent payout per session or on every individual spin.
What is Volatility?
Volatility, also known as variance, is a term used to describe the level of risk associated with a particular slot game. Simply put, volatility dictates how often and how much you can expect to win from a slot game.
- High Volatility Slots: These slots offer larger payouts, but they are less frequent. The risk is higher because players can go for long stretches without winning, but when they do win, the payouts can be substantial. High volatility slots are ideal for players who have a larger bankroll and are seeking the potential for big wins, even if that means experiencing long losing streaks along the way.
- Low Volatility Slots: In contrast, low volatility slots provide more frequent wins, but the payouts are typically smaller. These slots are better suited for players who want steady action and prefer to experience a win more regularly, even if those wins aren’t as large as those in high volatility games.
How Volatility Affects Your Gameplay
High volatility slots may provide the possibility of huge payouts, such as progressive jackpots or large bonus rounds, but they also come with the risk of losing large amounts of your bankroll between wins. These types of slots often require patience, and players need to be prepared for the potential of a significant dry spell before landing a large payout.
Low volatility slots, on the other hand, tend to offer more consistent payouts, which can help extend your playtime. These games are ideal for players who prefer smaller wins spread out over a longer period, providing a less stressful gaming experience.
Key Differences Between High RTP and High Volatility Slots
Now that we’ve defined RTP and volatility, let’s explore the key differences between high RTP slots and high volatility slots, and help you decide which type of slot best suits your needs.
1. Risk vs. Reward
- High RTP Slots: High RTP slots generally offer a lower risk because they are designed to pay back more of your money over time, albeit in smaller amounts. You’re less likely to face long losing streaks, and although the wins may be smaller, they come more frequently.
- High Volatility Slots: High volatility slots offer the opposite—greater risk but higher rewards. You may go through many spins without landing a win, but when the wins do come, they are usually large. These slots are high-stakes, high-reward, and best suited for players who have a higher risk tolerance.
2. Gameplay Style and Duration
- High RTP Slots: These games tend to have more predictable outcomes, making them perfect for players who want a more stable and extended gaming experience. The smaller, more frequent wins help keep things exciting without draining your bankroll too quickly. High RTP slots are ideal for casual players, beginners, or those who prefer steady gameplay over volatility.
- High Volatility Slots: High volatility slots are designed for players who thrive on adrenaline and excitement. If you enjoy the thrill of potentially winning big and are prepared to face significant stretches of dry spells, then high volatility slots are the way to go. However, these games are usually not suited for players who want to play for long periods with a small bankroll, as the risk of depleting your funds before hitting a big win is higher.
3. Payout Frequency and Size
- High RTP Slots: The primary advantage of high RTP slots is their ability to provide more consistent payouts. While individual wins may be smaller, they tend to occur more often, which is ideal for players who prefer a regular, steady flow of rewards.
- High Volatility Slots: High volatility slots are known for larger, but rarer payouts. When you win, the rewards are typically higher, but the longer periods without wins can be discouraging. Players can experience significant stretches without landing a payout, which can be tough on your bankroll if you’re not prepared.
4. Bankroll Management
- High RTP Slots: These slots are easier on your bankroll because the frequency of payouts helps you sustain your balance over a longer period. Players with a smaller bankroll or those who want to maximize their gaming time should consider high RTP slots as they offer a steadier pace with lower risk.
- High Volatility Slots: Playing high volatility slots requires careful bankroll management because these games can burn through your balance quickly during dry spells. Players who opt for high volatility slots should have a larger bankroll or be comfortable with the risk of a big loss in exchange for the potential of a massive payout.
Which Slots Should You Play?
Play High RTP Slots If:
- You prefer consistent payouts and a more predictable experience.
- You’re working with a smaller bankroll and want to extend your playtime.
- You don’t mind smaller wins and are content with moderate rewards spread out over time.
- You prefer low-risk strategies and want to minimize the potential for large losses.
Play High Volatility Slots If:
- You have a larger bankroll and can afford to take bigger risks.
- You enjoy the thrill of chasing life-changing wins, even if that means enduring long dry spells.
- You’re comfortable with the possibility of depleting your bankroll without a win.
- You’re looking for big jackpots or high-stakes gameplay that can deliver major rewards.
Key Statistics and Facts About RTP and Volatility
- RTP Averages: Most online slots have RTPs between 92% and 97%, with the most player-friendly slots offering RTPs above 96%. For example, NetEnt’s Blood Suckers slot has an RTP of 98%, making it one of the highest in the industry.
- High Volatility Games: While RTP is not always disclosed for high volatility games, many of them have slightly lower RTPs, typically around 94% to 95%, reflecting the greater variance in payouts. Some of the most popular high volatility slots include Dead or Alive II, Bonanza, and Book of Dead.
- Progressive Jackpots: High volatility slots are often home to progressive jackpots, where the payout continues to grow until someone wins. The odds of winning these jackpots are extremely low, often around 1 in 10 million or more, but the potential rewards can be life-changing.
FAQ: High RTP vs. High Volatility Slots
1. What is the difference between RTP and volatility? RTP represents the theoretical percentage of wagers a game will return to players over time, while volatility refers to how often a slot pays out and the size of those payouts. High RTP games offer consistent, smaller wins, while high volatility games offer larger but less frequent payouts.
2. Which type of slot has the best odds of winning? High RTP slots generally offer better odds of winning because they provide more consistent payouts. However, high volatility slots can still offer large payouts, but these wins are less frequent and come with more risk.
3. Should I always choose high RTP slots? It depends on your playing style. If you want steady payouts and a more predictable experience, high RTP slots are a good choice. However, if you’re looking for big wins and are comfortable with higher risk, high volatility slots might be more exciting.
4. Can high volatility slots ever have better odds? While high volatility slots typically have lower RTP percentages, the odds of hitting a big win can sometimes feel better because the payouts are much larger when they do occur.
5. How should I manage my bankroll when playing high volatility slots? Players should ensure they have a larger bankroll to withstand long stretches of losing spins in high volatility games. Set limits on how much you’re willing to bet, and always play within your means.
6. Are there any slots that offer both high RTP and low volatility? Yes, some slots offer both high RTP and low volatility, making them ideal for players who want a consistent, steady stream of small wins. Examples include Starburst and Rainbow Riches.
Conclusion
Whether you opt for high RTP or high volatility slots, the key is to understand how each of these factors influences your gameplay. High RTP slots offer a steadier, more consistent experience, making them ideal for players with smaller bankrolls or those who prefer lower risk. On the other hand, high volatility slots appeal to players looking for larger payouts and a more thrilling, high-risk, high-reward adventure.
By understanding the differences between these two types of slots, you can make a more informed decision based on your preferences, goals, and risk tolerance. Ultimately, the choice is yours—but no matter which route you take, always remember to play responsibly and enjoy the excitement that online slots have to offer!
