The difference between low and high volatility slots may seem subtle to many players but this is an important distinction that can help them decide which game to play. The volatility of slot games can significantly affect the frequency and size of payouts. Understanding the differences between the two can help players make smarter decisions about which slot game to play, and how much risk they are willing to take on.
What does Volatility Mean in Slots?
Volatility in slot games is a term that refers to the likelihood that the player will win a large amount during a session. It is also a term that denotes the magnitude of the average payout, which can be a good indicator of how much a player will win in the long run. The higher the volatility of a slot game, the more likely it is to pay out huge amounts less frequently.
However, it is important to understand that the volatility of a slot machine does not necessarily reflect the probability of hitting the jackpot, as this can be influenced by other factors, such as the frequency of smaller wins. In fact, most casinos do not disclose the volatility of their slot machines, so it is up to players to find out this information before they start playing them.
The easiest way to determine the volatility of a slot machine is to look at its paytable. The paytable will usually provide a breakdown of the various winning combinations and their respective payouts. The best place to start is by looking at the gap between payouts for four equal symbols and five equal symbols. If the gap is significant, then the slot will be a high volatility game.
Players can also look for the maximum win amount on the paytable. If a slot has a jackpot that is worth over 100,000 times the stake, this will indicate that it has a high volatility. This is because the potential for such a big win can quickly wipe out a player’s entire bankroll.
While high volatility slots do not pay out as regularly as their low volatility counterparts, they can still be fun to play. This is because the prospect of hitting the jackpot can often spark moments in which the player hopes that a dizzying amount of money will be won.
On the other hand, there are also those who prefer the thrill of regular small wins and will not be as satisfied with games that only pay out infrequently but in large sums. The low volatility slots are better suited for such players, and can be enjoyable even without the prospect of huge wins.