When you dive into the world of online slots, you'll constantly see two terms: RTP and Volatility. While they both relate to how a slot pays out, they describe two very different aspects of the game. Understanding the difference is key to managing your bankroll and finding games that match your personal playstyle.

RTP: The Long-Term Payout

RTP stands for "Return to Player." It's a percentage that represents how much of all wagered money a slot is expected to pay back to players over the long term. For example, if a slot has an RTP of 96%, it means that for every $100 bet on the game over millions of spins, it will theoretically pay back $96.

Key takeaway: A higher RTP means a lower house edge, giving you a better statistical return over a very long period. It tells you how much the game pays back.

Volatility: The Payout Rollercoaster

Volatility (or Variance) describes the risk level of a slot. It tells you how a slot pays out its RTP. Does it give frequent, small wins, or rare, massive wins?

• Low Volatility: These games pay out often, but the wins are usually small. They're great for players with a smaller bankroll who want longer play sessions and less risk. You won't see many huge jackpots, but your balance will stay relatively stable.
• High Volatility: These games are the opposite. You might go through long dry spells with no significant wins, but you have the potential to hit a massive payout that can be hundreds or thousands of times your bet. These slots are for players with a larger bankroll who are chasing life-changing wins and can handle the risk.
• Medium Volatility: As you'd expect, these games offer a balance between the two extremes, with a mix of small and large wins at a moderate frequency.

Key takeaway: Volatility determines the size and frequency of the wins. It's all about risk versus reward.

Which is Right For You?

There's no "better" option; it's all about preference:

• Play it safe and enjoy long sessions? Look for a high RTP and low volatility.
• Chasing a massive jackpot and don't mind risk? A high volatility slot is your game, but be sure your bankroll can handle it.

Use our Slots Database to filter games by both RTP and volatility to find the perfect match for your style. Happy spinning!