Before we go any further, let us get something out of the way.
Unlike games like roulette or blackjack, there’s no way to reduce the house edge on slots. There’s nothing you can really do to win, but there are approaches you can take to maximise your chances of winning and making the most out of what these casino machines have to offer.
There’s no denying it. Slots are one of the most popular casino games among players. In some countries, slots are the most played casino game, in both land-based and online casinos.
People play for fun, but the ultimate goal is to win money on the slot machines. Therefore, questions such as “What is the best slots strategy?” or “How to win money at slots?” are inevitable. And we’re here to answer them!
So without further ado, here are some tips to help you win when playing slots.
Choosing the Right Slots and Managing Your Bankroll
Three-reel slots focus on big jackpots but pay out prizes less frequently, while video slots with pick’em bonuses tend to offer smaller but more frequent wins. You’ll go longer without a win on the former, but each win could be bigger. With the latter, you will win more often but have fewer chances to win big. In between both are Free Spins games, which generally have more balanced odds.
It’s up to you to decide which type of slots is the most fun for you.
Regardless, managing your bankroll is of utmost importance. It’s crucial that you play within your limits and be prepared to lower your bets or stop playing altogether if necessary. As a general rule, you should have a bankroll of at least 250 bets to give you a 90% chance of playing for 3 hours without losing all your gambling money.
For example, if you have $200, playing $1 slots could be risky, as a few quick losses could wipe out all your money.
Maximising Your Chances of Winning at Slots: Jackpots
One of the first things to consider when choosing a slot game is the payback percentage, which is higher on larger denomination machines. This means that, generally, $1 machines will pay more than $0.25 machines, and $0.25 machines will pay more than $0.01 machines. However, this doesn’t mean you should always play higher denomination slots.
Betting larger amounts increases risk, and your losses in monetary terms can be greater. For example, if you’re betting $3 on a $1 slot with a 95% return rate, your average losses will be more significant than betting 40 cents on a $0.01 slot with an 86% return rate. Therefore, it’s essential to balance potential returns with your risk tolerance, gaming goals, and bankroll.
If you’re playing progressive slots, be aware of the jackpot requirements. Some slots require you to wager the maximum amount to be eligible for a jackpot. If you don’t, you may win a smaller amount of money even if you hit the jackpot symbols.
On video slots, progressive jackpots are usually tiered, offering different prize levels such as mini, minor, major, and grand jackpots. Some of these games allow you to qualify for the jackpots regardless of your bet size, while others require a specific bet to make you eligible. Always check the rules before you play, and if you can’t afford the bets required for progressive jackpots, you may want to stick with non-progressive slots.
Understanding Slot Machine Myths
Some players base their playing solely on beliefs about slot machines that are far from the truth. If you're a regular at the casino, you have probably heard or seen a player say or do something that left you wondering. Let's debunk some of these myths.
Slots at the End of Rows Don’t Pay More
The idea behind this myth is that these machines are more visible to other players and therefore pay out more often, acting as a lure due to the noisy coin payouts, as was the case in the past.
While this may have been true years ago, modern slot machines are programmed the same way regardless of their location on the gaming floor. Nowadays, payouts are made using bar-coded tickets, so the location of the machines that pay out more often wouldn’t make a difference.
Hot and Cold Machines Are Not a Thing
Many slot players believe that if a machine has just paid out a large sum, it is more or less likely to pay out a large sum again soon. However, slot machines are random, and each spin is independent of the previous one. This idea of hot and cold machines is simply a myth.
Near Misses Don’t Indicate Future Wins
Some players believe that when the jackpot symbols almost line up, it’s a sign that a big win is imminent. But these near misses are just as random as any other outcome, and while they add excitement to the game, they have no predictive value.
Take Advantage of Online Bonuses and Promotions
Online slots offer a wide range of options for those looking for a change of pace. Games like NetEnt’s Starburst and Gonzo’s Quest are just a click away if you’re looking for something different.
But one of the perks of playing on an online casino is that many offer bonuses just for signing up or making a deposit. These bonuses can provide extra playing time and increase your chances of winning.
How to Win at Slots – Summary
Whether you’re in a land-based casino or playing online, these slots tips will help you manage your money effectively, make better decisions, and, most importantly, enjoy the slots gaming experience responsibly.
It’s important to remember that the credits on the screen represent real money. Be aware of your bankroll limits and avoid spending what you can’t afford to lose.
But, above everything else, have fun playing slots!
