RTP is a good starting point when comparing slots, but it doesn't tell you everything about how a game plays. You also want to look at volatility, max payout and the slot's features when making your pick.
Volatility gives you an idea of how much a slot's payouts can vary. It's useful when comparing high RTP slots because two games with similar RTP can still play very differently.
- High volatility: Even the best RTP slots with high volatility can go through long dry spells. Wins can be less frequent, with the potential for bigger payouts when they do land. They suit players who don't mind waiting longer for the chance of a bigger win.
- Medium volatility: Medium-volatility slots offer a mix of smaller and larger payouts. They are a good choice if you want a balance between the two.
- Low volatility: Low volatility slots usually offer smaller wins more frequently. They suit players who prefer more regular wins rather than cashing the biggest payouts.
You can see the volatility for every game in our tables above. Most slot paytables will tell you how volatile a game is too. If not, check our online slot reviews – we include RTP and volatility where available.
Max Payout
Max payout is the most a slot can pay from a single bet. For example, a 5,000x max payout means a £1 bet could theoretically return up to £5,000. The figures vary hugely between slots, so this is where you'll see some of the biggest differences between the games in my list.
Popular Slot Mechanics
RTP isn't the only reason to pick a slot – you have to enjoy playing it too. The mechanics can make a big difference, from the constantly changing number of ways to win in Megaways slots to cascading reels that can trigger several wins from one spin. Hold and respin features add another bit of suspense by locking symbols in place and giving you another chance to land more.