When participating in slot games, you may hear the two terms “variance” and “volatility”. These are two technical factors that directly affect the experience as well as the results when playing. So what are variance and volatility in slots? How to understand and apply them to a reasonable playing strategy? The following article by In 999 will help you clearly decode each concept and provide practical, easy-to-apply advice.
1. What are Variance and Volatility in Slots?
Variance and volatility both refer to the risk level and payout frequency of a slot machine. These two terms are often used interchangeably in the gambling industry, but technically they have slight differences.
Variance:
This is a measure of the volatility in the outcome of a slot game over time. Slots with low variance will pay out frequently but the payouts are small. Slots with high variance will pay out rarely, but each time they win, they win big.
Volatility:
Volatility also describes the level of risk associated with the outcome of the game. Slots with low volatility have low risk, regular payouts. Slots with high volatility have high risk, but the chance of winning a jackpot or a big prize is also higher.
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2. Classify slots by variance and volatility
Depending on each slot game, the publisher will design according to one of three main levels:
- Low variance/volatility slot:
Suitable for new players, with little capital, who want to play for a long time. Win rate is frequent, but the bonus is small.
- Medium variance/volatility slot:
Balance between risk and reward. Players with little experience can start with this type.
- High variance/volatility slot:
Often favored by experts. Low win rate but if you win, the reward is very large.
3. Why do you need to understand variance and volatility when playing slots?
Knowing which type of volatility the slot game you are playing belongs to will help you:
- Manage your capital better:
You will know how much money you need to prepare and whether this game is suitable for your budget.
- Build a reasonable playing strategy:
For example, if your capital is only 200,000 VND, you should not choose a high-variance slot because you can “burn your pocket” quickly.
- Be proactive:
Don’t be disappointed if you are playing a high-variance slot and haven’t won in 20 rounds.
4. How to determine the variance and volatility of a slot
Not all publishers make this information public, but you can identify it in the following ways:
- See the game description:
Some slots will clearly state the volatility level right from the introduction.
- Try playing the demo:
After 50 – 100 spins, you can identify whether the slot pays out regularly.
- Read reviews from the player community:
Forums, Facebook groups or Reddit are places with many practical and reliable shares.
5. How to play slots appropriately according to each variance/volatility level
Here are suggested strategies for each type:
- Low volatility slots:
Bet small but regularly.
Suitable for entertainment, stress relief.
Don’t expect too much from the jackpot.
- Medium volatility slots:
Slowly increase bets if you are “on a winning streak”.
Play for an average time, for example 30 – 60 minutes per session.
Choose slots with free spins or bonus rounds to increase profits.
- High volatility slots:
Prepare large capital, for example 200 – 300 times the minimum bet.
Limit playing time and set a maximum profit/loss before starting.
Should play when there are promotions or free spins from the house.
6. Important notes when choosing slots according to volatility
- Not all big wins are good:
High volatility slots can make you lose hours without winning anything, which is very discouraging.
- Know when to stop:
No matter which slot you play, you need to determine when to stop, both when you win and when you lose, to avoid losing control.
- Try first – play for real later:
Always play the demo if possible, before using real money.
- Always check the RTP (Return to Player):
Choose slots with an RTP of 95% or higher to ensure a reasonable return value in the long run.
7. Suggested popular slots according to volatility
- Low volatility slots:
Starburst (NetEnt)
Blood Suckers (NetEnt)
- Medium volatility slots:
Gonzo’s Quest (NetEnt)
Thunderstruck II (Microgaming)
- High volatility slots:
Dead or Alive II (NetEnt)
Book of Dead (Play’n GO)
Understanding variance and volatility in slots not only helps you optimize your chances of winning but also avoid unnecessary risks. Choose a slot game that suits your budget, playing goals and risk tolerance. Although slots may seem simple, to play effectively, you need a clear strategy and a controlled playing attitude.
