What Is A Good RTP For Slots – Guide to the Best RTP Slots Values at Casinos
One of the most frequent questions that come up is what is a good RTP for slots. If you are a fan of online slots, you have probably heard of the term RTP or return to player. But what does RTP mean in slots, and why is it so important?
Understanding RTP can help you maximise your slot experience and have more fun, whether you are a slot beginner or a seasoned casino player. In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about RTP slots, including what is good RTP for slots, how it is calculated, how it affects your winnings, and how to choose the best RTP games for your gaming style and budget.
Table of Contents
- Understanding RTP
- The Role of RTP in Slot Selection
- What Constitutes a Good RTP?
- The Significance of Variance
- Finding Slots with the Best RTP
- Myths and Misconceptions
- Maximising Your Slot Experience with RTP
- Conclusion
Understanding RTP & RTP Slots
Let’s start by clarifying the term first. RTP stands for return to player, and the RTP percentage shows how much of the money wagered on a slot game pays back to you over a longer period. The RTP and house edge go hand in hand, and knowing the one will give you idea for the other term.
For example, if a slot game has an RTP of 96%, it means that, for this theoretical RTP, for every £100 bet on the game, £96 returns to you on average. The remaining 4% is the house edge, the casino’s profit from the game.
How does RTP work in slot machines?
The software powering the slot determines the RTP. It uses a random number generator (RNG) to produce the outcomes of each spin. The RNG ensures that every spin you make is independent and unpredictable and that the casino game is fair and random.
The RTP is calculated by considering the probability and payout of each possible combination of symbols on the reels and how often they occur. The RTP is typically fixed, and players or the casino cannot change it, although some games may have variable RTP depending on the game mode or feature.
The difference between RTP and volatility
You should not mix the RTP with the game volatility. Volatility is another separate important factor affecting slot machines’ gameplay and winnings. Volatility, also known as variance, refers to how often and how much a slot game pays out.
A high volatility slot game can have fewer but larger payouts, while a low volatility slot game may offer more frequent but smaller payouts. Volatility affects the level of risk and reward involved in playing a slot and the level of excitement and thrill.
Generally, high volatility slots are more suitable for players with a large bankroll and who are willing to take more risks for higher rewards. In contrast, low volatility slots are more suitable for players with smaller bankrolls who prefer consistent and steadier wins.
The Role of High RTP in Slot Selection
Many wonder why RTP matters to players. It matters as it shows how much you can expect to win or lose on a specific slot game over a long time.
The higher the RTP, the more favourable the chance of winning for the player, as you have a higher chance of getting back more of your money. However, RTP is not a guarantee of winning because it does not consider short-term variance and randomness of each spin.
Therefore, you should never rely only on the RTP when choosing a slot game. You should also consider other factors such as volatility, hit frequency, bonus features, and jackpot size.
How can RTP affect your winnings over time?
RTP affects your winnings by determining the slot’s average payout rate. The payout rate is the ratio of the total amount paid back to the total amount of money wagered.
For example, if a classic slot game has paid out £1,000 to players and has received £1,200 in bets, the payout rate is £1,000 / £1,200 = 0.8333 or 83.33%. The payout rate is directly related to the RTP, as the RTP is the theoretical payout rate of a slot game over an infinite number of spins.
However, the actual payout rate of a slot game can vary from the RTP due to the random fluctuations of each spin. Therefore, your winnings over time can be higher or lower than the RTP, depending on your luck and the number of spins you play.
The connection between RTP and casino profitability
RTP and casino profitability are inversely related, as the RTP represents the percentage of money that the casino pays back to players. In contrast, casino profitability represents the percentage of money the casino keeps as profit.
The casino profitability is also known as the house edge, which is the difference between the RTP and 100%. For example, in a slot game with an RTP of 95%, the house edge is 100% – 95% = 5%. That means the casino expects to keep 5% of the money wagered on the game as profit.
The house edge is the primary source of income for the casino, ensuring that the casino always has an advantage over the players in the long run. However, the house edge does not affect the outcome of an individual spin, as the RNG makes each spin independent and unpredictable. Therefore, the casino profitability is only an average and does not reflect the short-term results of each game session.
What Constitutes the Best RTP Slots?
Before exploring what is good RTP for slots, we must check the average RTP rates for online slots. Online slots have varying RTP depending on the developer, the casino, and the type of game.
However, a general rule of thumb is that most online slots have an RTP of around 95% to 97%, which is higher than most land-based slots that usually have an RTP of around 90% to 92%. Some online slots can have an RTP of over 98%, while some can have an RTP of below 90%.
Comparing low-RTP and high-RTP games
Low-RTP games are those that have an RTP of below 95%, while high-RTP games are those that have an RTP of above 97%. The main difference between low-RTP and high-RTP games is the amount of money the casino keeps as profit from the game.
For instance, if you wager £100 on a low RTP game with an RTP of 92%, the casino expects to keep £8 as profit, while if you wager £100 on a high RTP slot with an RTP of 98%, the casino expects to keep only £2 as profit.
However, this does not mean that you will always lose more money on low-RTP games or win more money on high-RTP games, as the RTP is only an average and does not reflect the short-term outcomes of spins.
Besides that, some low-RTP games may offer higher payouts or more exciting features, such as progressive jackpots or bonus rounds, that can attract players looking for bigger wins or more fun.
Industry standards for good RTP
There is no definitive answer to what makes a good RTP, as all players have different preferences and expectations.
However, some industry standards can help determine whether a slot game has a good RTP. Generally, an RTP of 96% or above is good because it points out that the game has a low house edge and a high payout rate.
An RTP of 94% or below is poor, meaning the game has a high house edge and a low payout rate. An RTP of 95% is average, meaning the game has a moderate house edge and a moderate payout rate.
Of course, these standards are not absolute, and you may find some games with a lower or higher RTP than the average but still offer a great gaming experience.
The Significance of Variance in High RTP Slot Casino Sites
You may have heard the term variance before. Especially when reading slot reviews or game details, you will find this term in the game description. So, how does the variance relate to the RTP?
Variance, also known as volatility, refers to how often and how much a slot game pays out. A high-variance slot game has fewer but larger payouts, while a low-variance slot game has more frequent but smaller payouts. Variance affects the level of risk and reward involved in playing a specific slot and the level of excitement and thrill.
Generally, high-variance games are more suitable for players with a large bankroll and who are willing to take more risks for higher rewards. In contrast, low-variance games are more suitable for players with smaller bankrolls and prefer more consistent and steady wins.
How variance affects gameplay and winnings
Variance affects gameplay and winnings by determining the frequency and size of the payouts you can expect from a slot game. For example, if you play a high-variance slot game, you may experience long, dry spells. You might spin longer without winning anything or winning very little, followed by short bursts of big wins, where you hit a large payout or trigger a bonus feature.
On the other hand, if you play a low-variance slot game, you may experience more regular and consistent wins, but they will be smaller and less exciting. Therefore, variance can affect the amount of money you can win or lose within a game session and the satisfaction and enjoyment you can get from playing another slot game.
Balancing RTP and variance for the best gaming experience
Balancing RTP and variance for the best gaming experience depends on personal preference and gaming goals. Some players prefer high-RTP and high-variance games, offering the most potential returns and thrilling gameplay. However, these games also require a higher level of risk tolerance and a larger bankroll, as they can be very unpredictable and volatile.
Other players may prefer to play low-RTP and low-variance games, as they offer the lowest level of risk and the most stable gameplay. However, these games also offer the lowest potential returns and the least exciting gameplay, as they can be predictable and boring. Therefore, the best balance for you depends on your budget, appetite for risk, and expectations for fun.
Finding Slots with the Best RTP at Best Online Casino Sites
Finding slot games with high RTP rate is challenging, as not all casinos and developers disclose the RTP values of their games. However, some tips can help you find the best online casino games:
- Check the game information. Some games have the RTP value displayed in the game information, which you can access by clicking the relevant button or icon on the game screen. That is the most reliable way to find out the RTP of a slot, as it comes directly from the developer.
- Use online resources and tools. You have many online resources and tools available that can help you research the RTP values of different slot games, such as review sites, forums, blogs, and databases. One of the best resources is the highest RTP slots page on SlotsWise, where you can find valuable information about slot RTP. You can also find detailed reviews, ratings, and recommendations for games with the highest RTP rates on the page.
- Choose reputable developers and casinos. Another way to find high RTP slot games is to choose reputable developers and casinos that offer high-quality and fair games.
Recommended resources and tools for researching RTP values
To find out the RTP values of different slot games, you should use some online resources and tools to help you with your research. Here are some of the most useful ones:
- Game paytable. The easiest way to find the RTP of a game is to check the paytable. The informational page of the slot will tell you the RTP value of the game and other information, such as its volatility, hit frequency, extra features, or whether the game is a progressive jackpot slot. However, not all games have the RTP value displayed in the game information or paytable, so you may need other resources and tools.
- Online databases and directories. Many online databases and directories contain information about thousands of slot games from hundreds of developers. You can use these databases and directories to filter and sort the games by various criteria, such as RTP, volatility, theme, features, etc. You can also read reviews, ratings, and statistics for each game and find the best casinos where you can play them. However, not all databases and directories are updated and accurate, so you may need to verify the information with other sources.
- Online forums and communities. There are many websites online where you can interact with other slot players and enthusiasts and get tips, advice, and recommendations for the best RTP games. You can also ask questions, share gaming experiences, and learn from others.
The importance of trustworthy developers and casinos
Choosing trustworthy developers and casinos that offer high-quality and fair games is essential when looking for slot games with high RTP. Trustworthy game providers and casinos have a good reputation, a valid license, a certified RNG, and a transparent and secure gaming environment.
Trustworthy developers and online gambling websites ensure that the RTP values of their games are accurate and consistent and that the games are tested and audited by independent third-party agencies, such as eCOGRA, iTech Labs, and GLI.
Reliable developers and casinos also offer a variety of payment methods, customer support, and responsible gambling tools to ensure a safe and pleasant experience for their players.
Myths and Misconceptions about Slot Games and RTP Rate
Now, we will debunk some common myths about RTP. These things should clarify what’s true and what’s not so you will not fall into something that may affect your gaming experience.
RTP is NOT a Guarantee.
RTP is only an average and does not reflect the short-term outcomes of individual spins. RTP does not guarantee that you will win or lose a certain amount of money because every spin is independent and unpredictable. You can win or lose more or less than the specific RTP, depending on your luck and the number of spins you play.
The casino or the player can NOT change the slot’s RTP.
A software that powers the slot determines the RTP, so the return to player percentage is fixed. That means neither you as a player nor the casino can change it. However, some games may have variable RTP depending on the game mode or feature, such as progressive jackpots, bonus rounds, or skill-based elements. The RTP may increase or decrease in these cases depending on the game conditions and your choices.
RTP is NOT the only factor affecting your winning chances.
Factors like game volatility, hit frequency, bonus features, and jackpot size also play a role. For example, a high-RTP slot may have a low hit frequency, which means that it pays out less often but more generously, while a low-RTP slot may have a high hit frequency, which means that it pays out more frequently but less generously. Therefore, you should consider all these factors when choosing a slot game and not rely solely on RTP.
Maximising Your Slot Experience with Good RTP for Slots
Playing video slots with high RTP can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. However, playing slots with high RTP also requires some strategies and tips to make the most of it. Here are some of them:
- Choose a suitable game for your gaming goals. Not all high-RTP games are ideal for every player, as they may have different hit frequencies, levels of volatility, bonus features, and jackpots. Therefore, pick a game that matches your budget and gaming goals, whether looking for bigger wins, more fun, or more extended playtime.
- Manage your bankroll wisely. Playing video slots with high RTP does not mean you can bet recklessly and expect to win every time. Remember that the RTP is only an average and does not reflect the short-term outcomes. That is why you should manage your bankroll wisely and limit your spending on each game session.
Bankroll management and RTP
Bankroll management and RTP are closely related, affecting how much money you can win or lose on slot games. Bankroll management is planning and controlling your gambling budget, while RTP is the percentage of money that pays back to you over a long time.
The following things can help you better manage your bankroll and increase the entertainment value of your playing sessions.
- Establish a budget before choosing a game. Knowing your bankroll and the RTP of the game can help you pick a game that matches your budget and gaming goals, whether you are looking for bigger wins, more fun, or more extended playtime. For example, if you have a small bankroll and want to play for a long time, you may choose a game with a high RTP and low volatility, as it will pay out more frequently but less generously. On the other hand, if you have a large bankroll and want to play for a short time, choose a game with a low RTP and high volatility, as it will pay out less often but more generously.
- Adjust your bets to your bankroll and the game’s volatility. By knowing your bankroll and the game’s volatility, you can modify your bet sizing according to your bankroll and the game’s volatility and avoid betting too much or too little. If you have a small bankroll and play a high-volatility game, you may want to bet smaller amounts, as you may experience long, winless spells. On the other hand, if you have a large bankroll and play a low-volatility game, you may want to bet more significant amounts, as you may experience more regular and consistent wins, but they will be smaller and less thrilling.
- Avoid chasing your losses or getting carried away by your wins. If you have a losing streak, you may be tempted to increase your bet size or switch to a lower RTP game, hoping to recover your losses. However, this can be risky and costly, as you may lose more money than you can afford. On the other hand, if you have a winning streak, you may be tempted to increase your bet size or switch to slots with higher RTPs, hoping to win more money. However, this can also be risky and costly, as you may lose your winnings or exceed your budget.
How to incorporate RTP into your overall gaming strategy
Before incorporating RTP into your overall gaming strategy, you should determine your gaming goals and preferences.
Are you looking for bigger wins, more fun, or more extended playtime? Are you willing to take more risks for higher rewards or prefer more consistent and steady wins? Are you interested in the game’s theme, features, and design, or do you care more about the payout rate and potential returns? Answering these questions allows you to narrow your choices and find the best slot games for your needs.
Next, compare the RTP and other factors of the slot games you are interested in. Find out the RTP values of different slot games, read reviews, check ratings, and see recommendations for each game. You can also use the game information or paytable to learn more about a specific live casino game. By comparing these factors, you can find the best balance between RTP and other factors that suit your gaming style and budget.
Finally, do not only play the slots with the highest RTP. Also, consider other factors and apply some strategies to maximize your slot experience. You should manage your bankroll wisely and limit how much you will spend and lose on each game session.
You can also take advantage of bonuses and offers available at online casinos, as they can give you extra money, free spins, or other rewards that can grow your bankroll and extend your playtime. However, always read the terms and conditions of the bonuses and offers and ensure they suit the best slots online you want to play.
Conclusion
We hope that this guide has helped you understand everything you need to know about RTP slots and that you have learned how to find a slot’s RTP and play the best RTP games online.
Remember that RTP is only an average, and it is not a guarantee that you will win or lose a certain amount of money. Many other factors, such as volatility, hit frequency, extra features, and jackpot size, also play a role.
Therefore, you should always play responsibly, have fun, and enjoy playing slot games online. Good luck, and have fun!
Written by Kosta Kostadinov
Kosta is an experienced writer who enjoys testing and reviewing online slot games. He understands how they work and how to include the most relevant aspects in his reviews. Contact Kosta @ kosta@slotswise.com
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FAQs
What does 96% RTP mean?
A 96% RTP means the slot pays back 96% of the bets placed on it over a long period. For example, if you wager £100 on a 96% RTP slot, in theory, you can expect back £96 on average. However, this does not mean that you will win or lose precisely that amount every time you play, as RTP is calculated over millions of spins and is subject to random fluctuations.
What is the average RTP for online slots?
The average RTP for online slots varies depending on the game developer, the casino, and the type of slot. However, a general rule of thumb is that most online slots have an RTP of around 95% to 97%, which is higher than most land-based slots, which usually have an RTP of around 90% to 92%. Some RTP online slot game to play can have an RTP of over 98%, and some can have an RTP of below 90%.
How to calculate RTP?
RTP is determined by dividing the total amount paid back to players by the total amount wagered by players over a long period. For example, if a slot game has paid out £10,000 to players and has received £12,000 in bets over a certain period, the RTP is £10,000 / £12,000 = 0.8333 or 83.33%.
Does RTP matter in slots?
RTP matters because it indicates how much of your money you can expect to get back from playing a specific game over a long time. The higher the RTP, the lower the house edge, meaning the casino has a smaller advantage over players. However, other factors besides RTP also affect your winning chances, such as the game’s hit frequency, variance, bonus features, and jackpot size.
Is higher or lower RTP better?
A higher RTP can be better than a lower RTP because you have a higher probability of returning more of your money over a long period. However, a higher RTP does not guarantee winning more often or more money. It is only an average and does not reflect the short-term outcomes of each spin.