How To Tell If A Casino Slot Machine Is Volatile

When selecting a slot machine, most players only look at the theme, the graphics, or the size of the jackpot.


A machine's variance tells you whether you are in for a smooth, steady ride or a wild, highly unpredictable rollercoaster.

Decoding High Risk vs. Low Risk Slots

Low variance games are perfect for players who want to relax and play for hours without losing their money quickly.


High variance games are incredibly risky; they will drain your budget rapidly, but offer the chance for life-changing payouts.

High volatility slots often feature incredibly complex bonus rounds that are very difficult to triggerLow volatility games are the absolute best choice if you are trying to clear a casino bonus wagering requirementMegaways slots are notoriously high variance, offering thousands of ways to win but long periods of 'dead spins'
Reading the Paytable to Determine Risk

The fastest way to determine a machine's behavior is to look at the maximum possible win multiplier.


If the top prize is only 500x your bet, the game is almost certainly a low-to-medium volatility machine.

IndicatorLow Variance GameHigh Variance GameMaximum Win PotentialUsually under 1000x stakeCan exceed 20,000x stakeBonus Round FrequencyTriggers relatively oftenExtremely hard to trigger

Matching the game's mathematical profile to your personal bankroll is the secret to a successful casino session.