Low Volatility Online Slot Games

When selecting slot games on online casinos, most players tend to look at the bonuses , themes, the jackpot size, and RTP (Return to Player). All these are crucial ways of boosting your winning chances playing video slots. But what about volatility? Although most players don't look at this concept, volatility plays a vital role in determining how much you can win in the long run. So, read on to uncover why low slot volatility means more wins.

What is slot volatility?

Slot volatility (variance) refers to a slot game's behavior regarding the payout amount, payout frequency, and risk level involved. Some slots can have long dry spells but with occasional big wins. These games can also have multiple big wins within short periods. These are what we call high volatility slots. For low volatility slots, you may win frequently, but the payouts are usually small. In short, budget players can always opt for low volatility slots.

How to calculate slot volatility?

Slot payouts can sometimes be frustrating and inconsistent. Luckily, you can avoid these scenarios by learning the game's volatility index. But how do you do that? Although most slots developers don't offer this piece of information, some display it on the paytable. For instance, a slot game can offer 4.6/5 volatility. Others might even go further to include the RTP rates.

A combination of these elements should be the most important thing to check when selecting a video slot. In particular, the RTP should give you a clear picture of your winning or losing odds on a specific slot. Most regulated online casinos offer slot RTP rates of between 89.1% to 99%. So, if you bet £100, the payout will be £89.1 to £99, with the other percentage going to the house edge. Note, however, that the RTP becomes less accurate with increased volatility.

Most importantly, playing the demo mode will help you determine the slot variance. If you land several low value wins, that's definitely a sign of a low variance slot. The reverse is true for high volatility slots. And don't forget to check the maximum bet. That's because high variance slots with possible big wins come with big maximum bets.

Most popular low volatility video slots

If you're not a risk-taker, then low variance slots are your best option. Below are some dominant names you can play with a limited bankroll:

• Starburst (NetEnt) – Starburst is arguably the most popular video slot ever. It's simple and elegant with ten fixed pay lines and seven symbols. Thanks to its beautiful and bright colors, Starburst remains a fan favorite among experienced and novice players. You're likely to find it on your welcome bonus and free spins.
• Cash of Kingdoms (Microgaming ) – Although still relatively new, the Cash of Kingdoms slot from Microgaming is an enjoyable low variance slot with a respectable fanbase. The fifteen pay lines pay both ways with additional free spins, wild symbols, and more. Interestingly, it has a maximum payout of £100,000.
• Thunderstruck II (Microgaming) – Thunderstruck II is an exciting sequel that surpasses its original in many ways. Released in 2010, this thrilling and captivating video slot has five reels with up to 243 winning ways. The average RTP rate is 96.1%, with bonus rounds featuring free spins.
• Gemix Slot (Play'n Go ) – Gemix Slot is a low variance slot game with seven reels and seven rows. Here, you can win by matching a minimum of five symbols anywhere on the screen. If you're lucky to match twenty symbols, you'll activate four bonus features. It's even possible to win 45,135 coins with a single spin on this low volatility slot.

Conclusion

Slot machines are random games. You can either win big in a session or lose an entire bankroll in a heartbeat. To avoid this heart-wrenching situation, always go for less volatile slot games. You can rest assured of more frequent payouts, although smaller than on high variance slots. Overall, they're perfect for beginners.