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Volatility and RTP: Understanding Slot Odds

Volatility and RTP: Understanding Slot Odds

Have you ever hit a dry spell on a slots with excellent payouts and wondered, “Is this even fair?” Or perhaps you scored a massive win in just a few spins and thought, “Was that just luck or something more?

In this guide, you’ll learn:

  • What Return to Player (RTP) and volatility actually mean and how they affect your wins
  • The differences between low and high volatility slot games
  • How to match your playing style with the right type of game

Behind every spin lies a carefully crafted blend of volatility and RTP—two key elements that shape your entire slot experience. Whether you're playing for fun or aiming for that big jackpot, understanding how these two factors work can make your choices smarter and your gameplay more satisfying.

Let’s break down the odds so you can better understand what shapes your slot experience.

RTP and Volatility Explained

Two key terms you’ll often see when exploring online slots are RTP and volatility. While they’re closely linked to how slot games work, they represent different aspects of gameplay. Here’s what every player should know before spinning the reels.

What is RTP in Online Slots?

RTP (Return to Player) is a percentage that tells you how much, on average, a slot game pays back to players over time. For example, an RTP of 96% means that for every £100 wagered, £96 is returned in winnings—over a large number of spins.

But here’s the catch: RTP is calculated over millions of spins. You could hit big within ten spins—or nothing after a hundred. It’s a long-term statistic, not a short-term promise.

Industry standard RTP for online slot machines typically ranges from 94% to 97%.  

In the UK, all licensed online casinos must display RTP data clearly under UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) regulations. This ensures players know what to expect before placing a bet, adding another layer of fairness and transparency to online gaming.

Pro Tip: RTP gives you a general idea of value, but it's volatility that shapes your real-time experience.

What is Slot Volatility?

Volatility, also called variance, measures the risk level of a slot game. It defines how often—and how much—you’re likely to win in the short term.

  • Low volatility slots: Frequent but smaller wins; great for relaxed, longer sessions.
  • High volatility slots: Rare but big wins; more intense but riskier.

Think of it like this:

  • Low volatility = a steady stream of modest wins
  • High volatility = a dry spell… followed by a potential jackpot

Slots like Starburst are famously low-volatility, ideal for mobile users or new players. In contrast, Dead or Alive is a high-volatility legend, loved by risk-takers chasing huge multipliers.

Can’t spot the volatility straight away? Here are a few signs:

  • Low volatility slots often have simple bonus features, lower jackpots, and smaller max win limits.
  • High volatility slots tend to feature bonus rounds, free spins, multipliers, and headline-grabbing jackpot potential.

Prime Casino Insight: Our most-played mobile slots include a balanced mix of volatility levels—so you can find your rhythm, whether you're in it for the thrill or the chill.

slot machine with multiple lines

Why It Matters: Choosing the Right Slot Game for You

Understanding RTP and volatility isn’t just about numbers—it’s about tailoring your gaming experience.

Match the Game to Your Playstyle

Whether you’re in it for quick wins or big risks, different games suit different moods:

  • Casual players and beginners → Low volatility, higher RTP
  • Seasoned players or high rollers → High volatility, higher potential reward

Example:

Game Title

RTP

Volatility

Best For

Starburst

92.05%

Low

Beginners, mobile players

Book of Dead

91.00%

High

Thrill-seekers, experienced players

Gonzo's Quest

96.00%

Medium

Balanced experience

Important Note: RTP values shown here reflect the rates listed on Prime Casino’s game pages at the time of writing. RTP can vary slightly between online casinos, so it’s always best to check the specific game page for the most up-to-date information before you play.

Prime Casino game page with RTP

Gonzo’s Quest Slot Detail Overview in Prime Casino (Note: Bet and RTP may be updated)

Volatility Trends in the Casino Industry

With the rise of mobile gaming and digital casino innovations, providers are now offering customisable volatility levels. Some newer slot games allow players to choose between volatility modes, offering a more personal, strategic experience.

Wazdan leads this trend with its Volatility Levels™ feature, seen in titles like 9 Lions and Larry the Leprechaun. Players can toggle between low, medium, or high volatility for a more tailored experience.

BGaming also offers volatility choice in Diamond of the Jungle, where players select between low or medium volatility before spinning.

According to Statista, mobile slots have become the most dominant form of slot play in the UK, with over 60% of users opting for mobile-first platforms. This shift is driving a demand for more transparent volatility and RTP data, empowering players to make informed choices on the go.

Industry experts predict that volatility settings will become a key feature in future slot releases, giving players even more control over their gameplay experience.

Recap: Empower Your Slot Experience

Whether you're new to slots or a seasoned spinner, knowing how RTP and volatility affect your odds gives you a major edge. Here’s a quick summary to guide your next game choice:

  • RTP shows the long-term return potential of a game (look for 96%+)
  • Volatility shapes your short-term experience—risk level, win frequency, and payout size.
  • Match your game to your playing style—relaxing sessions or adrenaline-pumping chases.
  • Use casino tools like game filters to sort by RTP or volatility.

Want to learn more about how RTP and volatility affect your game selection? Prime Casino is a UKGC-licensed platform where players can explore regulated mobile slots with transparent payout data and filter tools to support informed choices.

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