If you’ve ever spun the reels of an online slot game, you would know that the outcome is always random. There’s no pattern to predict how and when you will win. However, every machine has its own RTP or return to player, which tells you the percentage of all bets that the game is programmed to pay back over time.”

Based on this, you can understand how online slots pay out. In this article, we will tell you more about:

How slot payouts work
RTP and payouts
Slot game mechanics

What Are Online Slot Payouts?

“Payout” refers to the winnings you receive when a combination of symbols line up. For example, in Starburst, lining up three jewel symbols might trigger a payout, while three Bar symbols could give you the top prize. The exact reward is detailed in the game’s paytable.

Another example is Mega Moolah by Microgaming. Players have to match animal-themed symbols like lions and elephants. When three same symbols line up, you receive a payout. This also triggers a bonus round that can multiply your payout from anything between 2X to 20X.

Keep in mind, your payout differs based on your bet size. Each slot game will give you a paytable outlining the money you can win for different combos.

The Role of Paylines in Slot Payouts

While reels are the vertical columns, paylines line up horizontally (sometimes even zig-zag). Unlike traditional machines that usually have one payline, modern online slots offer multiple paylines – sometimes dozens or even hundreds – boosting your chances to win.

Here’s how slot machine payline payouts work:

Fixed Paylines vs. Adjustable Paylines

Fixed Paylines: A fixed payline covers all the available lines. For example, if a slot has 25 fixed paylines, your bet will automatically cover all 25 lines. Note that while this increases your chances of winning, you may be required to deposit a higher minimum wager.
Adjustable Paylines: Slots with adjustable paylines allow you to choose how many lines you want to activate. If you want to keep your bet low, you have the option to activate only a few paylines. However, this reduces the number of possible winning combinations.

For example, playing a slot with 10 paylines. If you bet £1 per payline and activate all 10, your total bet is £10. If you win on a payline with a payout of 5x, your payout will be £5 for that line. In an adjustable payline, you can choose to activate only the lines with multipliers.

How Slot Payouts Work: Understanding RTP (Return to Player)

RTP is a percentage that tells how much a slot game pays back to players over the long term. For example, a slot with an RTP of 96% means that the slot will return £96 for every £100 bet. This can be in a few or sometimes thousands of spins.

Important Points About RTP:

RTP will tell you about the house edge. If the RTP is 96%, the house edge is 4%.
RTP is just an indicator. This percentage will not guarantee individual results. Someone might win big on their very first spin while others may lose over hundreds of spins.

A slot with an RTP of 97%, it’s more favorable than one with 92%. That’s because the 97% slot pays more frequently. But remember this over time, and no one can predict when the jackpot will hit or who will win. In short sessions, luck plays a significant role.

For example, Gonzo’s Quest by NetEnt has an RTP of 95.97%. It’s slightly below the 96% industry benchmark. However, the game has engaging features like cascading reels and multipliers. So, while you may not win as frequently, it boosts your chances of higher returns.

When it comes to RTP and payouts, always choose a game with an RTP of 96% or higher. While it doesn’t promise a big win, these games will give you better odds in the long run.

How Random Number Generators (RNGs) Influence Online Slot Payouts

How the reels line up with every spin is decided by Random Number Generators or RNGs. this is a software that generates random results every time to keep the game fair. The RNG software generates thousands of outcomes every second (even when no one is playing). When someone hits the “spin” button, the RNG selects a random outcome. This determines where the reel stops.

Punters like to believe they’re on a “hot” or “cold” streak, meaning they are either on a winning or losing roll. This is simply not true as every result is generated by RNG. So, your luck could turn with practically any spin. The software removes bias and emotions.

This technology is regularly tested by independent organizations like eCOGRA to ensure fairness. So, when you play online slots, slot game mechanics like RNG give everyone an equal shot at hitting that jackpot.

Why RNGs Matter

RNGs ensure that previous spins or external factors do not influence slot outcomes. Each spin is independent, meaning you have the same chance of hitting the jackpot on every spin, regardless of what happened before.

Types of Payouts in Online Slots

Online slots offer two types of payouts:

Fixed Payouts

Fixed payouts are predetermined by the game’s paytable. However, the outcome can vary based on the symbols you land, their quantity, and their arrangement on active paylines. For example, a payline of three diamonds pays 20x your bet in a game. You make a £1 wager and these symbols line up on the reel. Your active payline will pay out £20. You may also become eligible for a bonus symbol or free spin.

Progressive Jackpots

Progressive jackpots pool the prize funds kept aside for the online slot payouts. For example, you bet £10 on a reel but lost. The house may keep £5 and add the remaining £5 to the jackpot. With every loss, a small portion of the wager is added to the pool. The fund gets compounded and keeps growing until a lucky punter hits the jackpot.

Mega Moolah is the most famous progressive jackpot slot. Its pool can reach millions of dollars. Note that players need to bet the maximum amount in this game to qualify for the jackpot round.

Volatility and Its Impact on Payout Frequency

While RTP gives you a potential percentage you can expect to win, slot volatility will tell you how regularly a game pays out. It is also known as “variance”. In simple terms, variance looks at the deviation from the average. It shows how your payout might differ from the average results. If you want to calculate your chance of winning at a slot machine, look at its volatility or variance, which determines the frequency and size of wins.

There are three types of volatilities in slot games:

Low Volatility Slots

Games like Starburst are low-volatility slots. They pay out more frequently but the rewards are often small. These are best for casual players and those with a small budget.

Medium Volatility Slots

Gonzo’s Quest is a medium-volatility game. It pays out moderate amount at a slightly less frequency compared to low volatility slots. You can also expect to win big payouts occasionally in these slots.

High Volatility Slots

High volatility slots like Dead or Alive 2 have a significant jackpot potential. They pay out larger amounts but less frequently. Note that the minimum wager is also high in such slots, so beginners should play high volatility slots with caution. Never wager more than 1% of your bankroll in every game.

How Do Online Slots Pay Out: Payment Processing

Online slots transfer the winnings to your casino account. Make sure to play at only licensed and trustworthy online casinos. Read up and do some research before committing your time and money to a casino. Go for online casinos that have positive reviews, use advanced encryption, are certified by the UK Gambling Commission, and have a history of fair play. Be wary of new casinos or ones that offer tempting returns for small wagers.

At 7bet, we process your withdrawal request promptly, usually within 24-48 hours, depending on the payment method.

Understanding Online Slot Payouts with Confidence

Slots are primarily a form of entertainment and should be approached as such. Start your game with a fixed bankroll and wager only small amounts that you are comfortable losing. Always read up on a game’s RTP and volatility before you start playing. If you’re exploring different betting tactics, understanding handicap betting strategies can also be beneficial, especially when transitioning between sports betting and casino games. Lastly, for those new to the world of online gaming, a classic casino games online guide can help navigate popular options like blackjack, roulette, and poker. Remember to approach these games with a positive mindset and acknowledge that winning and losing is all part of the fun.

Ready to play slots? Explore 7bet’s extensive collection of online slots and find the perfect game for you today!

FAQs

What are paylines, and how do they affect payouts?

When three (or more depending on the game) symbols line up after a spin, it is called a payline because it’s a winning line. Paylines line up horizontally. However, in some games like Gonzo’s Quest, the symbols can appear anywhere on the screen. Also, the more paylines a game offers, the higher your chances of winning. However, you should note these games often require a higher wager.

What does RTP mean in online slots?

RTP, or Return to Player is calculated as the percentage of total bets a slot machine is programmed to return to players over time. An RTP of 97% means the game will pay back £96 for every £100 bet. It is calculated on the long-term performance of the game.

Can I predict or influence slot payouts?

No, it’s impossible to predict or influence slot payouts because of a software called RNG. RNGs or random number generators produce unique outcomes with each spin. This makes every spin independent of previous outcomes.

How are payouts processed after I win?

The payout is calculated based on the paytable and bet size. After that, the winnings are credited instantly to your casino balance. 7bet gives you several options to withdraw your winnings to your bank account or online payment methods such as Google Pay and Apple Pay.

Betting is only available to participants above 18 years. Please bet responsibly. BeGambleAware.org

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How Do Online Slots Pay Out? Understanding the Process