Slot Volatility vs. RTP: The Differences Explained

When you're exploring online slots at Virgin Games, you'll often come across two key terms in the game details: volatility and RTP (Return to Player). Both play a big part in how a slot machine feels to play, but they describe different aspects of the game. 

You may have already read our guide to slot volatility (link to be added as soon as the volatility blog is published), but in this article, we'll go a step further and explain how volatility compares to RTP. Here's what you need to know.

Volatility: How Wins Are Spread Out 

Understanding slot volatility means understanding the pattern of payouts you can expect. It's a measure of how often slot machine wins tend to land, and how big those wins are when they do. 

• Low volatility slots: Wins pop up fairly often, but they're usually on the smaller side. 
• High volatility slots: Wins can take longer to appear, but there's potential for much bigger prizes. 
• Medium volatility slots: Somewhere in the middle, with a balance of win frequency and size. 

Essentially, volatility shapes the rhythm of the slot game. Some players enjoy a steady stream of smaller prizes to keep the slot reels spinning. Others are happy to ride out dry spells for a shot at a big payout. 

One important thing to remember: volatility doesn’t actually change how much the game is programmed to pay back over time. That's what RTP measures, and it's a separate figure.

RTP: The Long-Term Percentage 

RTP stands for Return to Player, and it's expressed as a percentage. This figure shows the average amount a slot pays back to players over a huge number of spins. 

For example, a slot with a 96% RTP is designed to return around £96 for every £100 wagered on average, over thousands or even millions of spins. 

RTP is a long-term statistical measure. It doesn't mean you'll see exactly 96% back every session, because each slot spin is random, thanks to RNGs (Random Number Generators). One player might hit big early on, while another sees a longer losing streak; both outcomes are possible. 

So, while volatility describes how the wins feel in the short term, RTP tells you the slot game's expected payout over the long term.

Volatility vs. RTP: Why Both Matter When You Choose a Slot 

Volatility and RTP complement each other, giving you a fuller picture of what an online slot offers. 

Two games could have the same RTP but feel completely different to play. For example: 

• A low volatility slot with 96% RTP might deliver lots of modest wins to keep your balance ticking over. 
• A high volatility slot with the same RTP could mean long, quiet stretches punctuated by occasional big wins. 

Knowing both figures helps you decide what kind of experience you're looking for: 

• Want something steady and budget-friendly? Look for a lower volatility slot with a competitive RTP. 
• Prefer a higher-risk, high-reward feel? A high volatility slot with solid RTP might suit you better. 

Neither approach is better or worse; it depends on your gaming style and what you find entertaining.

How to Spot Volatility and RTP 

You’ll usually find RTP displayed in the game's info or paytable screen. Most modern slots sit somewhere between 94% and 97%, although there are exceptions. 

Volatility is less likely to be labelled outright, but you can pick up clues by checking: 

• The paytable: Games with very large top prizes and fewer mid-tier payouts often lean towards high volatility. 
• Game features and theme: Simple, classic-style slots tend to have lower volatility. Feature-packed games with multipliers, jackpots, or bonus rounds are more often higher volatility. 
• Guides and reviews: Our volatility guide includes examples of popular games and their volatility ratings. 

If you're not sure, it can be worth trying a few spins on different games to see what kind of payout pattern you prefer.

Examples of How Different Slot Games Play Out 

To put it all into context, here are some well-known slots and how volatility and RTP combine to create different styles of play: 

• Starburst - Low volatility with regular, smaller wins gives it a smooth, easy-going feel. Great for a smooth gaming experience. 
• Buffalo Blitz - Medium volatility, offering a balanced choice, with occasional bigger hits alongside consistent mid-sized wins. 
• Age of the Gods: Age of the Gods - High volatility, where jackpots and high-top prizes create a thrilling, high-stakes ride. 

All these aim to offer a fair return in line with industry expectations, but the volatility determines how your session feels spin by spin.

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Focus On?

Both volatility and RTP are worth keeping in mind when choosing a slot, but they tell you different things. 

RTP is about long-term expectations; how much of your stake the game is designed to return over time. Volatility is about the journey, whether you prefer lots of small wins or the possibility of something much bigger. 

At Virgin Games, you'll find plenty of slots to suit every kind of player, from low volatility classics to high volatility jackpot slots. Take a look at our guide to online slots with the highest payout if you'd like more help finding games with strong payout potential and exciting features. 

Whatever your preference, understanding both RTP and volatility can help you choose the right game for your style.

Ready to start playing slots online? Join Virgin Games today and discover online slot games with a range of volatility and payout patterns, so you can play your way.

 All offers mentioned correct at the time of writing but may be subject to change.