AskGenie: What Does Volatility Mean in Slots?

AskGenie: What Does Volatility Mean in Slots?
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Genie Answers:

The term volatility refers to the size of a slot's jackpot and the frequency with which it may be won. This information can be used to help players decide which slot is suited to their skill level, budget, and experience expectations. In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at what volatility is, and the different types of volatility ratings used in slot machines. 

Volatility Vs Variance 

While the terms volatility and variance are sometimes used interchangeably, there is a difference between the two. The variance of a set of numbers is the distance between each number and the mean, as well as each other number in the set. The term "variance" was first used in poker and then eventually spread to slot machines. Variance, as the name implies, shows how a game deviates or differs from what is expected, or what is known as the Return-to-Player (RTP). 

Most players assess their chances of winning solely by looking at the Return-to-Player, oblivious to the fact that the outcome at the end of the game could differ. So, variance is a phrase used to describe how much the outcome of a gaming session might change in a short period of time.

Volatility, on the other hand, does not refer to the degree to which the outcome may fluctuate; rather, it refers to the size of a slot's jackpot and the frequency with which it may be won.

Types of Volatility

Every online slots game has a different level of volatility. This is usually found in the details/information portion of the game description; or on online slot review sites, the varying levels of volatility are as follows:

High Volatility

High volatility slots are those that come with a high level of risk, meaning it's extremely tough to hit winning combinations. These are the slots where you could play them a hundred times and never hit a winning combination. It is critical to properly prepare your cash when playing the highest volatility slots. This is necessary so that you have a limit and do not strive to play indefinitely with the hope of winning.

The upside to these extremely erratic slots is that they provide extremely big payouts. So the few occasions you land winning combinations in them, you know you're in for a big victory. You can play these slots if you're a high roller with a substantial bankroll.

Medium-High Volatility

You've probably encountered medium volatility slots at least once, despite the fact that they're not that prevalent. Due to the frequency of wins and the quantity of reward, these slots cannot be classified as high or medium, but they are geared toward individuals with large bankrolls.

Winning slots in this category are less difficult than winning slots in the high-volatility category. Med-high slots are known to have high Return-to-Player rates, which can be as high as or greater than slots with high variances.

Medium Volatility

Slots with a medium level of volatility are the most common and provide you the chance to win fairly frequently.

Medium volatility slots are ideal if you want to spread your bets out rather than risking your entire bankroll all at once. The nature of the slots allows you to obtain bonuses, relatively large wins, and to play for extended periods of time. The wins aren't as large as those from extremely volatile slots, but they're better than what low volatility slots have to offer. In conclusion, the risk associated with these slots is higher than that associated with extremely volatile slots but lower than that associated with low volatility slots.

Low-Medium Volatility

You earn winning combos more frequently when playing low-medium volatility slot games than when playing medium volatility slot games; nevertheless, as you might expect, the payouts are minimal.

If you want to have a bankroll that isn't so small or average, and you want to win average amounts, then these slots are for you. You'll be able to spread out a wager while still making a profit on a regular basis. If you only want to play for fun, this is a good volatility rating for you.

Low Volatility

Low volatility slots have the fewest risks, so you win frequently; nevertheless, the stakes are so small that some slot players may not find them worthwhile.

Low volatility slots will please you if your bankroll is limited and you're only looking for a few small wins or simply want to have some fun. Also, if you're new to online slot games, you'll enjoy the slots in this category. This is because your winnings are added to your bankroll, allowing you to play for longer and gain a better understanding of how a game or an online casino operates.

How to determine slot volatility?

Probably the easiest way to determine slot volatility is to check out the slots’ information on your chosen website or check out various slot machine reviews or information directly from the slots developer. However, if you want to make your own assessment you can consider factors such as the paytable, bet levels, bonus features, as well as testing out the game in demo/free play mode. 

Sign up and Play at Spin Genie

At Spin Genie we have over 1500 games in a range of volatility ratings. From jackpot slots to fun fruities, there’s a little something for everyone. Sign up and play today.

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