Low vs High Voltality Online Slots

Understanding slot volatility is essential for choosing the best online slots for your playing style. Do you prefer the steady wins of low volatility games or high volatility slots with bigger potential payouts? Our gaming analysts have compared the best options at trusted Canadian casinos to help you make an informed decision.

Why Does Slot Volatility Matter in Online Gambling?

First things first – you need to understand the difference between RTP (Return to Player Rate) and volatility. The former refers to the percentage of money that a player can expect to win back from a game over time. Volatility, on the other hand, refers to the frequency and size of the wins they can expect. Another common word for this is ‘variance’.

High volatility: Online slot games with high variance are more likely to pay out in larger increments – but on a less frequent basis. This kind of game is ideal for players who enjoy the thrill of chasing big wins, and don’t mind going for extended periods without winning.
Low volatility: Conversely, online slots that pay out frequently, but in smaller increments, are said to have low variance. These slots will appeal to players who prefer a bit more consistency and steadiness to their gameplay, these are a safer, less-risky option

High volatility vs low volatility

High Volatility	Low Volatility
Bigger payouts but higher risk	Smaller payouts but lower risk
Longer dry spells without a win	More frequent wins
Requires a bit more patience and a bigger bankroll	Great for longer gaming sessions and managing smaller budgets

How slot volatility affects your gameplay and payouts

You may wonder why volatility matters in the world of online slots, but understanding even the basics can help you align your gaming experience with your expectations – be it to chase big wins or to enjoy longer sessions with smaller stakes. Slot variance can impact everything from the length of your gaming sessions to the way you manage your bankroll.

High Volatility Slots Explained

Player’s top high volatility slots

Dead or Alive 2

This Wild West-themed online slot from NetEnt is known for its massive payout potential of up to 100,000x your stake, and is ideal for those who are prepared to wait a while for a big win.

Book of Dead

Set in Ancient Egypt, this alluring online slot has been a hit for ages thanks to its rewarding yet straightforward gameplay, played across 5 reels and 10 paylines.

Gonzo’s Quest Megaways

The original was popular already, but getting reimagined with Red Tiger’s Megaways feature has taken this slot to the next level. Expect multiple features and rewards up to 21,000x your stake! With its Avalanche and Free Falls features, this adventure-themed slot was entertaining enough to keep me spinning until that big win finally came around!

Bonanza

One of the first games to incorporate the Megaways feature, Bonanza offers unlimited multiplier potential during free spins, which makes its high variance well worth enduring.

Tips for playing riskier, high volatility slots

To get the most out of high volatility slot games, here are a few tips and tricks you can try:

Start with smaller bets

Stretch your bankroll and survive dry spells by betting more conservatively at first.

Go for bonus-heavy games

Play slot games known for big payouts in bonus rounds becausethe base game wins will be less frequent.

Track your session limits

High variance games can swing wildly, so limit your play more than for low volatility slots. Also, try not to make bigger bets out of frustration – play safely and take breaks regularly if you find yourself getting frustrated.

Set a budget and stick to it

Your bankroll matters. So, remember, whatever the slot’s volatility, to gamble responsibly and always play within your means.

Compare slot sites with high volatility games

Plenty of online slot sites in Canada have a big selection of both low and high variance slot games for you to spin, but here are some sites you simply can’t afford to miss!

	Top Pick
	Visit Site	Visit Site	Visit Site	Visit Site
Welcome Bonus	$750 + 200 Free Spins	100% up to $750 + 200 free spins	Up To $5200 + 150 Free Spins	100% up to $750 + 200 Free Spins
Number of L/V Games	1,500+	+7000	2,000+	1,000+
Top Provider of L/V Slots	Play’n GO	Pragmatic Play	Yggdrasil	Big Time Gaming
Why This Casino?	High volatility slots with varied themes	Plenty of slot games for riskier players	Wide selection of high volatility slot providers	High variance Bonus Buy slots available
Overall Rating	4.5/5	4.8/5	4.4/5	4.6/5

Everything you Need to Know about Low Volatility Slots

Expert top slots for low volatility and why

Choosing the best low volatility slots, just like those with high variance, boil down to personal choice – and there are so many out there to choose from. Here are our top recommendations in Canada.

Player Picks: Top Low Volatility Slots and Why They Shine

Jackpot 6000

Inspired by old-school fruit machines, this low variance slot is perfect for those who love a vintage look and feel. Plus, with its simple layout and Supermeter Mode, you can also enjoy some modern slot mechanics.

Cornelius

With a cute and quirky cat mascot, this food-themed slot features free spins and Cash Drops, and its low variance is sure to see your casino account balance stay in good shape. Not a game for big wins, Cornelius is more just about unwinding with playful graphics and a memorable cat with a human name.

Wild Scarabs

With a cute and quirky cat mascot, this food-themed slot features free spins and Cash Drops, and its low variance is sure to see your casino account balance stay in good shape.

Starburst

One of NetEnt’s most raved-about titles, Starburst endures thanks to its iconic gem theme and Expanding Wilds feature – which certainly helps contribute to its frequent payouts.

Tips for playing low volatility slots

To get the most out of high volatility slot games, here are a few tips and tricks you can try:

Risk a little more

Low variance slots pay out more often, but in smaller amounts. So, slightly increasing your bet can boost your potential winnings.

Enjoy longer sessions

Slots with low volatility are ideal for extended play since your bankroll is less likely to deplete quickly. Don’t be afraid to stick around for a bit.

Focus on games with smaller jackpots

Slots with low variance often feature frequent smaller wins, so avoid chasing massive payouts.

Set realistic goals

Don’t expect massive payouts, rather just enjoy the steady wins these games can offer. Who knows, you might still hit a big one?

Set win and session limits

Even with more frequent payouts, keep track of your time and budget to avoid spending more than you can afford to. Remember, you are here to have fun – not chase losses!

Compare slots sites with low volatility slots

	Top Pick
	Visit Site	Visit Site	Visit Site	Visit Site
Welcome Bonus	$750 + 200 Free Spins	250% up to $3,750 + 250 Free Spins	200% Up to $15,450 + 100 Free Spins	100% Match Bonus of up to $750 + 200 Free Spins
Number of L/V Games	2000+	1500+	10,000+	6000+
Top Provider of L/V Slots	NetEnt	Quickspin	Microgaming	Betsoft
Why This Casino?	Low variance slots with huge jackpots	Adventure themed high-risk slots	New low volatility slots added weekly	Poker games for when you need a break from slots
Overall Rating	4.9/5	4.7/5	4.6/5	4.7/5

High or Low Volatility Slots: Find the Right Games for Your Gambling Style

Deciding the best slot volatility for your gaming needs boils down to personal preference and play style. Slots with high variance are better for those seeking bigger thrills and payouts, and who don’t mind waiting a while between wins. On the other hand, low volatility slots, are suited to players who prefer longer gaming sessions, with more frequent, smaller wins along the way.

Maple Casino Tip:

Whether you enjoy low or high volatility slots, always play within your means and remember that gambling should first and foremost be for fun and entertainment.

Tips, tools and strategies

Although online slot games make use of Random Number Generator (RNG) technology to ensure that outcomes are completely arbitrary, there are a few ways to make the most out of whichever variance level you prefer.

Volatility indicators – reading casino game reviews will reveal a game’s variance
Try slot demos – this is a great way to feel a game out before depositing real money
Check RTP – Look up a slot’s payout rate and weigh this against its volatility

What’s the difference between volatility and RTP?

We mentioned in the beginning that RTP is different from volatility, but for a clearer explanation to help your understanding, take a look at the table below.

RTP (Return to Player) Percentage	Volatility
Refers to the percentage of total wagers won by players over time.	Refers to the risk level of a game, balancing the frequency and size of wins.
Stays consistent, regardless of outcomes.	Tends to fluctuate.
Gives an overview of long-term potential returns.	Affects the gaming experience in the short term.
Focuses on potential win value over time.	Suitable for players who want to enjoy varying levels of excitement and thrill.
Can affect the perception of fairness of a game.	Focussed on varying degrees of emotional highs and lows while playing.
Remains static between spins, doesn’t vary.	Impacts the pattern of payouts of individual spins.
Reflects statistical reliability over thousands of spins.	Reflects how unpredictable each individual gaming session may feel.

More Advanced Casino Guides for Seasoned Players

Our experts have crafted these casino guides to help you make smarter choices.

Glossary of Casino Terms

How to Play Slots

RTP vs House Edge

How to Win at Slots

Casino Loyalty Points

Expertise Behind This Content

Stephen Abiola

Casino and Games Specialist

Stephen Abiola is an experienced Canadian iGaming writer with over 10 years dedicated to covering the best in online casinos. To date, he has written more than 5,000 articles, and has no plans to slow down. Always exploring new betting techniques; Stephen ensures readers get the most up-to-date insights. He’s also a strong advocate of responsible gambling, reminding players that knowing where to play is just as important as knowing when to stop.

FAQ

Slot volatility refers to how frequently a game pays out. Games with high variance pay out less frequently but in larger increments, while low volatility games pay out more often but in smaller amounts.

For high volatility games, it’s important to budget responsibly and be prepared for longer dry spells. Consider lowering your bet size to extend your playtime, and always set win/loss limits on your account to ensure you stay within your limits. Practicing responsible gambling helps maintain a fun and safe experience while enjoying these exciting games.

This depends entirely on your personal preferences. If you like taking risks and don’t mind extended periods between wins, high variance games may suit you better. If you’re looking to enjoy a more relaxed gaming experience, try slots with low variance.

Generally speaking, yes – because of their multiple payways and dynamic reels, Megaways slots function with high variance. But of course, every game is different, so always look up its variance online.

Low vs. High Volatility Slots: Which Is Best for Your Online Gambling Style?