Progressive slots dominate most online and land-based casinos thanks to their ability to offer life-altering jackpots from a single spin. While the chance to win millions with one lucky spin provides much of the allure, all progressives are not created equal. Understanding variance at Casino Spin is key to determining which progressive machines best fit your bankroll and preferences.
What Is Variance in Slots?
Variance indicates how often a slot pays out and the size of the payouts. Slots are programmed with different variance levels that greatly impact gameplay and jackpot potential. There are three main types of variant progressive slots:
Low Variance Progressives
These slots pay out frequently, but the wins are usually small. Playing sessions last longer because the frequent payouts refresh your bankroll. Jackpots tend to be modest compared to medium and high variance games.
Low variance progressives appeal to players with smaller bankrolls. More frequent payouts mean you get more play for your money, even if the jackpot isn’t astronomical.
Medium Variance Progressives
As the name suggests, medium variance slots fall in between low and high variance machines. Payouts occur less frequently than low variance games but more often than high variance slots. Winnings are larger than low variance games but smaller than high variance jackpots.
Medium variance progressive slots provide a balance between jackpot potential and bankroll management. You still have a shot at a life-changing score while getting more play out of your session.
High Variance Progressives
These slots have the biggest progressive jackpots but the lowest frequency of payouts. Sessions end more quickly because you spin through your bankroll faster. However, each spin has the potential for that massive jackpot.
High variance progressive slots hold the most appeal for thrill-seekers and players who frequent casinos with their winnings. The volatility means you need a big budget to endure the dry spells between payouts.
Tips for Playing Progressive Slots
- Check the Jackpot Meter – The jackpot meter shows the running total for the top prize. Look for progressives with jackpots in line with your budget.
- Establish a Walk-Away Point – Determine when you’ll stop playing if you don’t score a reasonable payout. Chasing losses leads to overspending.
- Review the Paytable First – The paytable provides volatility and RTP data so you know your odds of winning.
- Play Max Bet – Most progressives require betting max lines and credits to qualify for the jackpot.
- Try Low Variance Games First – Low volatility progressives allow you to get more play as you learn the game.
Key Takeaways on Progressive Slot Variance
While chasing that mega jackpot provides much of the thrill, variance determines how often you’ll realistically win and the size of the payouts. Keep these tips in mind when picking your next progressive slot game:
- Low variance slots provide frequent small payouts. These games work best for casual players and bankrolls under $100.
- Medium variance strikes a balance between jackpot size and frequency of payouts. Bankrolls between $100 and $500 fit best.
- High variance slots deliver the biggest jackpots but the least frequent payouts. These games match nicely with large budgets over $500.
- Check the jackpot meter and paytable before playing to ensure the volatility and top prize align with your budget.
- Establish a walk-away point if your wins don’t cover a reasonable percentage of your total spins.
The next time those progressive slots call your name, remember variance plays a key role in managing your bankroll and winning potential. Pick games that match your budget and preferences for the best chance to win.