What is volatility in slots and who are low volatility slots suitable for?
The terms “volatility” and “variance” usually mean the same thing in casino games; they refer to the risk involved in betting on a particular game.
Especially with slots, the variance shows how often players are paid out. In addition, the variance provides a certain amount of information about the approximate scope of revenue to be expected.
The best way to see the difference is to play low-volatility and high-variance slots. Low-volatility slots bring relatively frequent returns, but the amounts won are usually low to medium-high.
The counterpart to low variance slots is, of course, high variance slots. These give you wins much less frequently, but if you are successful, the amount won tends to be all the larger. High-volatility games are inherently riskier, as you generally have to invest quite a lot of money before the cash register finally starts ringing loudly.
As a result, we recommend beginners go for low-variance slots. These are ideal for quick wins and a small budget, which are usually important for beginners. Low-volatility slots are also ideal for a quick game, for example, during the lunch break, between two appointments, or in the waiting room. You can earn a few dollars here promptly and don’t have to work towards it for a long time.
You don’t need a larger budget buffer for slots with low variance because you hardly have to bridge any major dry spells before there is cash in the casino account again. Slots with low variance are very well suited for spontaneous fun games. But you can win massively in many such titles.
Of course, you shouldn’t expect a million jackpot here. If luck is on your side, some low-volatility slots, such as Starburst or Aloha, can generate proceeds of several hundred thousand dollars!
Play slots with low volatility in the following cases
Since payouts are smaller and more frequent, patience is crucial. Play to enjoy the game rather than win big. This approach will help you manage your game budget better and enjoy the game.
- If you have a limited bankroll
With a small bankroll, there is not much point in playing slots with high volatility. In most cases, this will end with an emptying of the balance. Low volatility lets you spin for a long time, even with a modest deposit. Short periods of empty spins and frequent wins allow you to maximize the fun. - If you just want to have fun
Not everyone plays for money. And for such players, the process, not the result, comes first. Therefore, what’s the point in playing Dead or Alive or 300 Shields when there are much better slots for those occasions? Why waste money when you can play for fun, risking non-critical amounts? - If you don’t like waiting
You can expect generous bonuses in slots with high volatility for hundreds or even thousands of spins. Low volatility gives wins much more often. The player cannot get bored and does not have to expect anything. Well, except for the bonus game. But it will also bring a maximum of x400 (extremely rare), so the amount as a whole does not affect anything.
How to determine low-volatility slots?
Of course, slots are primarily intended to be fun, and the slot’s theme, animations, music, bonus features, etc., often play the first fiddle. Nevertheless, it is quite clever and, last but not least, crucial for fun because it is relevant to profit to know exactly what kind of slot you have in front of you.
If chosen incorrectly, an appealing game may not provide good winning potential, making it less fun. For example, if you play a slot with a high variance quickly during your breakfast break, the likelihood of a significant win or any win is low.
The situation is similar if you are a slot beginner. If you accidentally choose a slot with high volatility, you may not enjoy it very much because you will not see any revenue for a long time. This can have a lasting negative effect on your overall desire to play. Since not all online casinos always state whether it is a slot with low volatility or one with high variance, it is highly appropriate to be able to make a corresponding distinction independently.
Even slot developers rarely provide direct information on the variances of their products. Some big players, such as Greentube (Novomatic), are quite transparent here, but others only provide us with such facts after several direct inquiries.
Fortunately, you only need a little experience, time and the right online casino tips from us to recognize volatility!
- 1st tip
Of course, you can easily find out the variance of a slot by using the game for a long time. Of course, you don’t play with real money right away, but in demo mode. The faster you win here, the lower the variance. - 2nd tip
We recommend that players who want to know more directly look at the paytable of the slot of their choice. Finding relatively large proceeds indicates that it is not a low-variance slot. This is only logical because high profits can only be paid out relatively rarely; otherwise, game developers, especially new online casinos, would lose money. - 3rd tip
The variance can be recognized even more precisely and quickly by looking at the theoretical proceeds from 4 identical symbols on a payline within the payout table of the respective game and then comparing this with the possible payout of 5 winning icons. If the difference is 5x to 10x, it is most likely not a low-variance slot but a high-volatility slot.
Here is a small example:
| Feature | Starburst | Book of Dead |
|---|---|---|
| Volatility | Low | High |
| Symbol | BAR | Researcher |
| Win 4x | 200 coins | 1,000 coins |
| Win 5x | 250 coins | 5,000 coins |
| Difference | The win at 5x BAR icons is only 1.25 times of 4x BAR | The win for 5x Researcher icons is 5 times of 4x Researcher |
Top 10 low-volatility slots
If blinking pay lines get your heart pumping, low-volatility slots are perfect. Although there is not a large selection of slots here, we have compiled the top 10 for you.
- Starburst
- Blood Suckers
- Thunderstruck II
- Divine Fortune
- Butterfly Staxx
- Mega Moolah the Witch’s Moon
- Lucky Riches
- The Hive
- Legion
- Chicken Chase
Starburst by NetEnt
Starburst remains one of the most iconic low-volatility slots, beloved for its vibrant cosmic theme and engaging gameplay. This slot is known for its simplicity and the exciting Starburst Wild feature, which can expand to give re-spins and more chances to win.
- Minimum bet: $0.10
- Maximum bet: $100
- RTP: 96.09%
- Max win: 500x stake
- Paylines: 10
- Features: Expanding Wilds, Re-Spins
Blood Suckers by NetEnt
Dive into the eerie world of vampires with Blood Suckers, a game appreciated for its high RTP and low volatility. This slot is perfect for those who prefer a slower pace and steady wins, with a chilling theme and engaging bonus features.
- Minimum bet: $0.25
- Maximum bet: $50
- RTP: 98%
- Max win: 900x stake
- Paylines: 25
- Features: Free Spins, Wilds, Scatter Symbols, Bonus Game
Thunderstruck II by Microgaming
This mythological-themed slot is a sequel to the popular Thunderstruck game and is known for its low volatility and engaging multi-level Free Spins bonus. Players enjoy a journey through Norse mythology with lucrative outcomes.
- Minimum bet: $0.30
- Maximum bet: $15
- RTP: 96.65%
- Max win: 8,000x stake
- Paylines: 243 ways to win
- Features: Wildstorm Feature, 4 different Free Spins bonuses, Multipliers, Wilds
Divine Fortune by NetEnt
Set in the rich world of ancient Greek mythology, Divine Fortune offers players a chance at mythical riches. With its falling wilds re-spins and a jackpot bonus game, it’s a low-volatility slot that doesn’t skimp on excitement.
- Minimum bet: $0.20
- Maximum bet: $100
- RTP: 96.59%
- Max win: Progressive Jackpot
- Paylines: 20
- Features: Falling Wilds Re-Spins, Wild on Wild, Free Spins, Jackpot Bonus Game
These slots are designed to deliver more frequent wins, making them ideal for players who enjoy extended sessions or are new to online slots.
Butterfly Staxx by NetEnt
Butterfly Staxx offers a tranquil garden theme where colorful butterflies unlock the biggest rewards. This low-volatility slot is popular among players who prefer a relaxing gaming experience with consistent, albeit smaller, payouts.
- Minimum bet: $0.20
- Maximum bet: $400
- RTP: 96.80%
- Max win: 840x stake
- Paylines: 40
- Features: Re-Spins, Butterfly Spins, Wilds, Scatters
This slot’s enchanting visuals and soothing gameplay and features like Butterfly Spins, where cocoons transform into butterflies, provide a unique and rewarding player experience.
Mega Moolah the Witch’s Moon by Microgaming
A world of magic awaits your discovery in Mega Moolah the Witch’s Moon. In an enchanted forest, you search for profits, and fans of magic, especially, get their money’s worth here.
This slot belongs to the “Mega Moolah” series but also offers the possibility of a jackpot. Here, more than 15 million dollars have already made the players happy. But in addition to the jackpot, many small prizes await you.
- The minimum bet is $0.25
- The maximum bet is $6.25
- RTP: 89%
- Max win: 1920 x stake
- Paylines: 25
- Features: Bonus, Free Spins, Jackpot, Scatter, Wild Symbol
Lucky Riches by Microgaming
Fancy a classic among the slots? Lucky Riches inspires with a stylish design and a good chance of winning. While Microgaming hasn’t come up with anything major with Lucky Riches, a five-reel slot, you will surely have a lot of fun here.
Feel like in a real casino in Las Vegas and look forward to well-known symbols and Hyperspins.
- The minimum bet is $0.25
- The maximum bet is $125
- RTP: 97%
- Maximum prize: $60,000
- Paylines: 243
- Features: respins, wild symbol, scatter
The Hive by Betsoft
The Hive is from Betsoft and is in our top 5 low-volatility slots. Become a busy bee and enjoy a new theme and modern symbols. Get free spins, wilds and multipliers and enjoy lots of small wins with them.
This online slot is especially the right choice if you have little experience.
- The minimum bet is $0.10
- The maximum bet is $90
- RTP: 97%
- Maximum prize $34,020
- Paylines: 30
- Features: wild symbol, free spins, multiplier
Legion by Yggdrasil
Enjoy an exciting journey to ancient Rome with Legion Hot 1 by Yggdrasil. The men fought for their lives here, and you are right in the middle. No wonder the legionnaires are in a bad mood. This makes it even more important to collect as many shields as possible. This is exactly how you can earn bonus rounds.
Even if the slot’s volatility is low, you are offered some challenges here. For you to get a high RTP, it is important to achieve a comprehensive cycle. If you then make it into the bonus rounds, you can earn additional winnings so that, with luck, your account will gradually fill up.
- The minimum bet is $0.30
- The maximum bet is $90
- RTP: 96%
- Max win: 2525 x stake
- Paylines: 10
- Features: wild symbol, bonus, scatter, free spins, multiplier
Chicken Chase by Pragmatic Play
Chicken Chase is new to the market and has only been available to play since 2022. Here, everything revolves around the animals on the farm. They are in a big panic because the “big bad” wolf is always looking for the next snack. The hens have little time to hide from him.
The secret of this slot lies in the “Spin & Hold.” Although it has low volatility, fun is the top priority here, and it is by no means neglected. Pragmatic Play, the provider, surprised numerous players with this slot. The slot is recommended, especially for beginners.
- The minimum bet is $0.10
- The maximum bet is $50
- RTP: 96%
- Max win: 210 x stake
- Paylines: 10
- Features: Wild Symbol, Bonus, Respins, Scatter
Play low-volatility slots for free
Exploring low-volatility slots without financial commitment is a perfect way for players to enjoy gaming without the risk. Our website offers a comprehensive collection of low-volatility slots available in demo mode. This allows you to try different themes and features without any deposits or registrations. It’s an excellent way to understand the game mechanics and enjoy extended play sessions without worrying about significant losses. Free play is ideal for strategizing and getting comfortable with the slots before considering real money play.
Play low-volatility slots for real money
When you’re ready to take the excitement up a notch, playing low-volatility slots for real money is the next step. Our platform guides you to trusted online casinos where you can play these slots. Each casino is thoroughly vetted for security, fair play, and quality of service. These casinos often offer enticing bonuses and promotions that can extend your gameplay and enhance your chances of winning. Playing low-volatility slots at these recommended casinos allows you to enjoy frequent payouts and a lower risk of losing significant amounts, making it a preferred choice for cautious players looking for steady entertainment.
Best online casinos with low-volatility slots
- Wager: 40x
- Min Dep: €5
- Win Rate: 94.22%
- Wager: 40x
- Min Dep: €10
- Win Rate: 96.18%
- Wager: 40x
- Min Dep: €5
- Win Rate: 95.92%
Final thoughts on low volatility slots
If you want to maximize your online casino winning chances, you have to deal with variance or volatility! This is the only way to find the right slot for every situation and always play under the best conditions.
At first glance, the relationships between the volatility in slots appear very complex to many beginners. It’s not all that difficult. If you understand the volatility, you will play much more carefully and thus more profitably. We, therefore, recommend that you internalize the information listed here as well as other slot tips.
