Spot the Winners: How To Identify High RTP Slots
Love a good spin on the slots? Then you must already know that not all machines are made equal. One number can tell you a lot – it’s called RTP (return to player). I used to ignore it. But once I started checking, I stopped wasting time on dud games. Now it’s the first thing I look for – read on to learn why.
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What’s Considered a “High” RTP Slot?
First things first — what’s “high”?
For me, any game with a payout rate of 96% or more is worth a look. 97%+ is great. Below 95%? I usually skip it.
Here are a few well-known slots that tend to pay out fairly:
- Blood Suckers – 98%
- Big Bass Bonanza – around 96.7%
- Starburst – close to 96.1%
When I stick to games in this range, I notice I last longer and get more play for my money.
How To Check a Slot’s RTP Before You Play
Now let’s get to the part that matters – finding the payout potential. Here’s how I do it:
Check the Game Info Panel
Most slots have an “Info” or “Help” section. Click that and scroll through. You’ll often see the payout rate listed as a % value.
It’s not always in bold. Sometimes it’s buried near terms or paytable info. But it’s there on most legit games.
Look It Up on the Casino or Provider’s Site
If I can’t find it in the game, I check the casino site or the game provider’s page. Big providers like NetEnt, Play’n GO, and Pragmatic Play usually list this info.
When I test new casinos, I also check trusted slot directories – these usually show real payout figures.
Ask Support (If Needed)
When in doubt, I ask the site’s chat support. I just type: “What is the RTP of [game name]?”
If they answer clearly, that’s a good sign. If they dodge or won’t say, I leave. No point in playing blind.
Tricks and Traps: RTP Versions You Should Watch Out For
Here’s where things get sneaky. Not every payout figure is the same. Some things to watch:
Adjustable RTP Versions
Many new slots have several RTP “versions.” A casino can choose to run the low, mid, or high version of a game.
I once saw the same slot listed at 96.5% on one site, and 88% on another! Same graphics, same gameplay, but a huge difference in your chances.
This is why I double-check on provider sites, not just the casino’s page.
Different RTP in Bonus Buys
Some games change the payout rate if you use the Bonus Buy feature.
One game I played had 96% base RTP but dropped to 94% when buying a bonus. Now, I always check the paytable or rules when I buy.
Fake RTP Claims
On shady sites, sometimes the payout rates they list aren’t true.
I caught one listing “97% RTP” for a slot I knew was capped at 95%. How did I spot it? I compared it with NetEnt’s official info. Always trust provider sources first.
Other Signs of Good Value Beyond RTP
Beyond payout potential, there are two more things I check:
Volatility
This feature gives you a hint about the win frequency.
- High volatility = bigger wins, but less often.
- Low volatility = smaller wins, more often.
Some days I want steady play. That’s when I go for lower volatility slots, even if the payout rate is a touch lower.
Hit Rate
This tells you how often a game lands any win. It’s an average figure showing the payout potential over thousands of spins.
If hit rate info is available, I use it to set my expectations.
My “Three-Second Test”
I do a quick test: run 20 spins in demo mode. If the game feels dead – like no hits, no fun – I move on. No math is needed. My “Three-Second Test” works well across all game types – even when checking out Free Video Poker Slots – Play 107+ Slot Machine Games Online, where strategy plays a bigger role than pure RTP.
My Personal Checklist Before I Spin
I’ve been through this process so many times that it’s second nature now. Here’s what I do (takes less than a minute):
- View the payout figures. Look in the game’s info panel or provider site.
- Check for Adjustable RTP. See if the slot has multiple versions. Stick to sites offering the highest.
- Figure Out Bonus Buy RTP (if using it). Know if buying the bonus lowers your chances.
- Do a Quick Demo Test. 20 spins in demo mode – fun or not? Worth continuing?
I run this quick checklist every time I try a new slot. It saves me headaches later.
Spotting Highest-Paying Slots Gets Easy Fast
Once you practice my approach, you’ll start spotting good games fast. And your wallet will notice the difference!
One last tip? Trust but verify. Just because a site says “high RTP” doesn’t make it so. Take one minute to check and give yourself the best shot at a good session.
