Slot Machine Odds
Slots Odds
Before slot machines were designed with computer chips, it was easy to calculate slots odds for hitting a jackpot. It was a matter of multiplying the number of symbols on each reel by a factor of the number of reels.
Suppose, for example, you’re playing a single-payline slot which has 3 reels and 20 symbols on each reel.
The slots odds for hitting the jackpot would be 1 in 8,000 (or, 20 X 20 X 20). If that same machine had 5 reels instead of only 3, the slots odds for the jackpot would have been 1 in 3,200,000 (or, 20 X 20 X 20 X 20 X 20).
Slot games – both land-based and online – are now designed with random number generators (RNGs) and programmed payout percentages.
As a result, it’s nearly impossible for the average player to reliably calculate slots odds. That said, we’re going to explore how betting denominations and RNGs influence the odds.
We’ll also clarify a few common fallacies that players have about slots odds.
Why Betting Denominations Matter in Slots
Common betting denominations for slots range from $.01 to over $5.
In most cases, slot machines that require more money to play offer better odds. The reason is due to higher cash flow turnover.
Remember, casinos make money by keeping a small sliver of each player’s bet.
A betting denomination of $.01 does not allow a casino to make enough profit to justify the machine. On the other hand, a denomination of $1 translates into a higher volume of money washing through the slot.
Casinos can offer better slots odds because it takes fewer bets to make a profit.
Payout Percentages, RNGs, And Slots Odds
Slots are controlled by computer programs which dictate a particular game’s payout percentage.
For example, a slot game might boast a 97% payout.
That means players can expect $97 to be returned for every $100 bet.
It’s important to realize that the payout percentage represents the return over the slot machine’s lifespan. The amount returned to players during any given hour may not be consistent with the payout percentage, though it will be over the long haul.
Random number generators are used to control the stop positions of a slot’s reels.
You’ll recall our example above in which calculating slots odds was a simple matter of arithmetic. RNGs complicate the matter.
They generate random values between 1 and billions. The slot’s computer program uses those values to determine the reels’ stop positions.
As a result, the only reliable barometer of slots machine odds is each machine’s published payout percentage.
Common Fallacies About Slots Odds
A lot of players have misconceptions about slots odds.
Some fallacies are due to misinformation published online while others are due to poor assumptions.
For example, many people think slots odds are consistent for the same game. In truth, the same slot game at different land-based and online casinos can have wildly varying odds.
Keep in mind that it is no longer a matter of the number of reels or symbols on each reel.
Slots odds are now based upon payout percentages dictated by computer programs. So, two casinos might offer Lucky 7′s; one casino might pay out at 97% while the other casino pays out at 83%.
Same slot, different payout percentages. The key is to read and understand the slot pay table available on any and all slot games before playing.
Another misunderstanding that players have is the more they play, the better their odds of hitting the jackpot.
Slots odds do not change from one turn to the next. The RNG randomizes the stop positions of the reels. That precludes a slot becoming “due” with each unsuccessful turn.
Online Casinos With Good Slots Odds
Slots odds and payout percentages aren’t the only factors to consider when you’re looking for a high-quality online casino.
Customer support, robust software, sign-up bonuses, and easy wagering requirements can make the difference between a mediocre experience and one that you look forward to enjoying.
One of our favorite online casinos with good slots odds is SuperSlots.
SuperSlots is offering a 100% match bonus up to $300. You’ll find dozens of exciting slot games and be able to participate in daily freeroll slots tournaments.
Visit SuperSlots today. Open your free account and claim their generous sign-up bonuses. Within minutes, you can start enjoying great casino games with competitive slots odds.
