Games of chance: Volatility vs RTP

There’s always a lot of noise surrounding the volatility vs RTP topic, and which of these two is the more important spec. We find them both critical to understanding how slots and casino games work and what to expect from a game with a specific combination of volatility and RTP.

In this guide, we define what volatility is and how it affects you. We do the same for the RTP and then compare the most common combinations of volatility and RTP on slots. Keep reading to come a step closer to being a slots and casino game pro.

Volatility vs RTP – A Quick Comparison Table

Before we go into analysing these two technical specifications individually, let’s do a quick comparison table for those who don’t want to go into detail. The table below shows the impact of each and covers a few key points related to the gameplay and budget.

Two Games With Identical RTPs and Different Volatility – What to Expect?

Next, we want to give a practical example of how the volatility vs RTP topic goes if we place them head-to-head.

For the purposes of explaining things in a simpler way, let’s say that we have two slots with the same RTP of 96%, but different volatility. Slot 1 has low volatility, and Slot 2 has high volatility. Despite the identical RTP, these two slots should theoretically give you different gameplay because of their different volatility.

• Slot 1 should pay often, but the wins should be modest.
• Slot 2 should pay rarely, but the wins should be big.

Of course, we’re saying “should” because nothing is guaranteed in these games of chance. Yet, the technical specifications are setting these expectations, at least when it comes to the frequency of the wins.

If the situation were the opposite and we had identical volatility and different RTP, the gameplay would’ve been more similar. Again, any spec that affects the short-term gameplay (volatility) is more likely to impact you directly compared to an average showing long-term expectations (RTP).

What Is Volatility and How Does It Affect You?

Volatility is an online slot specification that tells you how often the game pays and what size those payouts are expected to be. Typically, more wins go together with smaller payouts and vice versa; fewer wins signal bigger payouts.

The three main volatility levels are Low, Medium, and High. We’ve seen some providers also introducing levels in between these, so it’s possible to find a slot with medium-low or medium-high volatility, too. We’ve also noticed some titles with Very High (BGaming) or Extreme Volatility (Nolimit City).

As for how the volatility affects you, well, it gives you an idea of the sessions ahead and the budget necessary to play for a decent amount of time. A high volatility slot with fewer wins can mean a long dry spell that small budgets can’t support.

What Is RTP, and How Does It Affect You?

Return to Player percentage shows the game’s overall returns paid to players. This number is calculated based on millions of rounds, so it doesn’t directly impact your gaming sessions. It remains a smart choice to focus on high-RTP slots because they are more generous.

To explain it, we can say that an RTP of 96% signals that the game pays back to players €96 of every €100 wagered on it. Of course, given it’s a percentage of the overall game’s returns, this doesn’t mean that if you wager €100, you’d get €96 back. It’s possible to get back 150% of your wagered money during a single session, just as it’s possible to lose everything.

Based on thorough research and analysis of all online slots, we can say that the average RTP found online is 95%. Slots with RTPs of 96% and higher are classified as high-RTP slots, and those with payouts under 94% aren’t ideal.

It’s good to note that table games, and especially blackjack, have higher RTPs on average than slots and instant wins. Their average payouts often move around 98% and may even go over 99%.

Where Does the House Edge Fit?

The house edge is closely related to the RTP, and it’s the exact opposite of it. If the RTP is 94%, then the house edge is the remaining 6% necessary to hit those 100% return of the game. The house edge is what the house, the casino in this case, keeps as profit. So, it’s good for the house edge to be as close to 0% as possible, while we want the RTP as close to 100% as possible.

The house edge and the volatility aren’t directly related to each other. Everything we’ve shared here about volatility vs RTP can apply to comparing volatility vs house edge.

Which One to Focus On?

We can’t say that you should prioritise one of these specifications and ignore the other one. Both are affecting the gameplay, one in the short-term (volatility) and another in the long term (RTP).

Even in this case, there are unique situations, considering that every round played is unrelated to the rounds before and after. It’s possible to have a dry spell on a low volatility slot, and it’s possible to win big on a low-RTP slot.

It’s smart to understand both concepts and consider some of the combos and insights we share on this page. However, we don’t recommend obsessing over finding the perfect slot with the perfect specifications. Such a thing doesn’t exist, and everything is, in the end of the day, completely random.

Busting Some Myths About Volatility vs RTP

We’ve noticed many myths and misconceptions related to the volatility and RTP of online slots and other casino games.

Here are some facts and truths you should know about.

• Playing high-RTP games doesn’t guarantee that you will win more compared to playing a low-RTP slot.
• Hitting 10 consecutive losses on a high-volatility slot doesn’t mean that you will hit a big win soon.
• Online casinos aren’t changing or manipulating the RTP as it suits them, and in real time.
• Volatility and RTP are independent specifications, and neither of them affects the other one.
• It is possible to win good prizes on low volatility slots, but you should check the paytable to set your expectations straight.
• The game’s special features and bonus rounds affect the gameplay as much as the volatility and the RTP.

Some Volatility & RTP Combos

With several volatility levels and two main RTP levels, we can create several basic combinations of slots. What option among these works for you is up to you to decide. We’ve listed and explained them below, so next time you want to play, try a slot with that specific combo to see how you like it.

Low Volatility and High RTP for Wagering Bonuses

This combo is the best one for beginners who expect frequent wins, and they also have the best long-term chances with the high RTP. Low volatility and high RTP are also a smart choice for clearing bonus funds.

High Volatility and High RTP for High-Risk & High-Reward Gameplay

As high volatility is all about big wins, it makes the gameplay high-risk, but possibly epic if you hit it big. High rollers and risk-takers tend to prefer this combination of volatility and average payout.

Low RTP and High Volatility for the Progressive Jackpot Fans

Low RTP in combination with high volatility sounds like the worst possible combo, and it is because it offers dry spells and a bad theoretical return. However, that’s the usual combination you’ll see on those popular progressive jackpot slots, promising main prizes of millions of euros. If you’re a hopeful or experienced player, games with low volatility and low RTP can be for you.

Medium Volatility for Casual Gameplay

Those of you unsure about volatility vs RTP and their impact on the gameplay can always go for an average slot. In this case, an average slot would be one with medium volatility and an average RTP of about 95-96%. This approach can result in decent payouts, and it should avoid the long losing streaks associated with high volatility.

Responsible Gambling Considerations

We want to remind you always to gamble responsibly and within your means. No comparison of volatility versus RTP and no combination of these two is enough to help you “crack” the casino game you’re playing. All these games and slots are based on luck, and the technical specifications give you some insights, but they don’t guarantee anything.

Always set a playing budget and stick to it. Never chase losses or expect to hit it big after a losing streak just because you’re playing a high-volatility slot. Playing casino games should be a fun experience, and any wins that come along the way are just extra treats rather than the main goal.

Volatility vs RTP – Conclusion and Bottom Line

Volatility reveals the size and frequency of the possible wins on casino games, while the RTP percentage shows the long-term generosity. These two work hand in hand to create unique gameplay experiences on slots and games that could otherwise be similar.

Both are important in their own way to you as the player. It’s good to know how each affects your gameplay and what possibilities it brings to the table.

At the end of the day, playing online slots, roulette, or crash games should always be about having fun. It’s not even necessary to obsess over these technical specifications if everything you want is to play your favourite pick and enjoy its action.