Online slot games come in all different shapes and sizes these days. While the core gameplay generally remains the same, spinning reels to match winning symbols, one key characteristic that varies widely between slots is the variance. Also known as volatility, variance refers to how often and how big the payouts on a slot tend to be. Some slots payout frequently but in smaller amounts, while high variance slots may go long stretches without paying but offer much larger prizes when they do hit. Many players naturally gravitate toward low-variance slots, seeing frequent payouts as a sign of better winning potential.
These types of games feature higher hit frequencies – meaning winning combinations appear more regularly on the reels – but lower payouts overall. Each spin may only offer a small chance for a big jackpot prize. Low variance slots are lower risk but also lower reward. Meanwhile, high variance slots have fewer but bigger payouts. You may go dozens or hundreds of spins with no wins, then suddenly hit a huge jackpot prize. The wins don’t come as frequently but they can be very large. These games have higher risks and higher rewards.
Maximizing return to player
One key reason why higher variance slots can potentially be more profitable is due to a slot’s return to player (RTP) percentage. It refers to the programmed payback percentage for a slot game over the long run. A typical online slot may have an RTP of 95%-97%. Now with low variance slots, you’ll likely hit the game’s RTP percentage faster, because you’re hitting more frequent albeit smaller wins along the way. You’ll reach the average return sooner. But with high-variance games, it takes longer to reach the RTP average, since you’re waiting for those less frequent but bigger payouts. It means you have more potential upside profit.
Bankroll considerations
The reasons above, high variance best online casino in new zealand offer bigger profit possibilities – but also require a larger bankroll to play properly. If you try to play a high-volatility slot with a bankroll suited for a low-variance game, you run the risk of busting out before a big win ever comes. The larger gaps between payouts require patience and a big enough budget to endure the dry spells. Low variance slots lend themselves better to smaller bankrolls. To maximize your ROI, your slot bankroll size should fit the variance you intend to play.
Bet sizing and strategy
The betting strategies also need to adapt based on a slot’s variance. On low-volatility games, smaller bets spread over more spins may be optimal, since you’re hitting more frequent small wins this way. But to take advantage of high variance slots, larger bet sizing is key. You want to be betting big when those infrequent monster jackpots hit. Progressives and accumulated prize pools also incentivize betting high on high-variance games. Max betting is often necessary to have a shot at the biggest prizes. Understanding these strategic implications is key.