What Does Volatility Mean In Online Slots?


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Ever spun the reels on an online slot and wondered why some games feel like a rollercoaster while others are more like a gentle stroll? Well, that’s where volatility comes in. In this article, we will discuss what volatility means in slots and how it affects your gaming experience. Whether you are a newbie or a pro, getting a hang of what volatility means in slots can help you pick games that match your mood.
Let’s dive into what it means, the different types it comes in, how it relates to RTP (Return-To-Player), and how to figure out which type fits you best.
Understanding What Does Volatility Mean in Slots?
Volatility sounds fancy, but is really just about risk and unpredictability. It is a measure of how wild a ride you are signing up for. In slots, it is all about how often a slot pays out and how big those wins are. Picture this: high volatility is like waiting ages for a bus, but when it arrives, it’s a double-decker potentially loaded with cash. Low volatility? More like a steady stream of little wins to keep you smiling.
Stick around as we’ll break down the different types next.
Slots Volatility: How Many Types Exist?
Volatility comes in three main types: high, medium, and low. Each one has its own characteristics, and they are all about balancing risk with reward. Let’s discuss them below and check out some slots that bring each one to life.
High Volatility
High volatility slots are for the adrenaline junkies out there. They can be stingy with the number of wins sometimes, but when they hit, it might feel like it was well worth the wait. You will need some patience (and maybe a decent chunk of change) to hang in there.
High Volatility Slots to Try:
- Bonanza - This one is a wild ride with its Megaways madness.
- Dead or Alive II - Saddle up to try and strike big wins in this cowboy classic.
- Book of Dead - An adventure slot that can pay off - if you’re lucky.
Medium volatility
Medium volatility slots are the chill middle ground. They won’t drain your wallet as fast as high volatility slots, and will toss you some nice wins every now and then. These are better if you like a bit of excitement without going all-in.
Medium Volatility Slots to Try:
- Starburst - This slot is classic, vibrant and fun.
- Gonzo’s Quest - You can try out Gonzo for a treasure hunt with solid payouts.
- Thunderstruck II - Norse gods bring the thunder and decent rewards in this slot.
Low Volatility
Low volatility slots are your laid-back buddies. They dish out smaller wins much more often, so you can kick back and enjoy the ride without necessarily spending as much.
Low Volatility Slots to Try:
- Blood Suckers - A vampire theme taht remains one of the most popular slots.
- Jack Hammer - This comic book style slot offers a different kind of theme.
- Aloha! Cluster Pays - This slot takes players on a tropical escape.

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Are Volatility and RTP (Return-To-Player) Related?
You might be wondering if volatility in slots has anything to do with RTP, the percentage that tells you how much a slot pays back over time (like 96%, meaning $96 back for every $100 you bet). No, they are not the same thing. RTP is the big-picture “how much,” while volatility is the “how often and how big” are your wins.
Think of it like this: a high volatility slot with a 96% RTP might keep you waiting forever it seems but gets you a much bigger payout, while a low volatility slot with the same RTP keeps tossing you smaller wins more often. This is exactly what determines how your slot session will feel like.
For more information about RTP, read our dedicated article and find out What Does RTP Mean in Online Slots?
How to Choose Which is Best For Me?
Picking the right volatility is like choosing your perfect coffee order. It all depends on what you are in the mood for. Here’s the scoop:
- High Volatility: If you are the type who would rather chase that one massive win and don’t mind a number of quiet spins, this is your jam. Bring a bigger budget and some grit.
- Medium Volatility: For those who want a buzz without too much drama, this may be your vibe.
- Low Volatility: If you are just looking to unwind, stretch your cash, and enjoy the ride, go low. It’s chill, steady fun.
Ask yourself if you are after a big thrill or a relaxing spin and how much you can afford to spend. Match that to your vibe, and you’ve got your winner.
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Tim Mirroman
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As a seasoned content writer and copywriter specialising in iGaming, Tim Mirroman brings over 8 years of expertise in crafting high-quality, engaging content that resonates with diverse audiences. With a strong passion for the iGaming industry, he has developed a unique understanding of the sector's nuances and trends. Tim worked with numerous iGaming brands and platforms, creating content that drives player acquisition, retention, and conversion.