How to choose a slot
Four decisions, in order. Each one narrows the field.
By Ryan Jessop. Last checked .
Key takeaways
- Volatility first: how should it feel?
- RTP second: what does it cost?
- Stake third: how many spins?
- Feature last: what are you waiting for?
Short answer: Pick the volatility that suits your budget, check the RTP in the help screen, set a stake that buys at least 200 spins, then read how the feature triggers.
1. Volatility
| You want | Choose | Example |
|---|---|---|
| A long, steady session | Low | Starburst |
| Something between | Medium to high | Fishin' Frenzy |
| A chance at a large multiple | High | Gates of Olympus |
2. RTP
Among slots of the volatility you want, prefer the higher return, and check the version your casino runs. Slots by RTP.
3. Stake
Divide your budget by the spins you want. Two hundred is a sensible minimum on a high volatility game. The spin calculator does the sum.
4. Feature
Know what triggers it and what it does. Slots with free spins features sets six side by side.
Quick picks
| Situation | Slot |
|---|---|
| First ever slot | Starburst |
| Best default RTP | Big Bass Bonanza |
| Highest ceiling | Sweet Bonanza |
| One tense feature | Book of Dead |
| Multipliers on any spin | Gates of Olympus |
What not to choose on
- A streamer's big win.
- Whether a game feels 'due'.
- The size of the jackpot banner.
- Theme alone.
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Two worked examples
| Step | Player A | Player B |
|---|---|---|
| Budget and aim | £10, wants half an hour of play | £50, wants a shot at a big multiple |
| 1. Volatility | Low | High |
| 2. RTP | Starburst, 96.09% default; check the version | Big Bass Bonanza 96.71% or Gates of Olympus 96.50% |
| 3. Stake | 5p to 10p for 100 to 200 spins | 20p to 25p for 200 to 250 spins |
| 4. Feature | Expanding wild re-spins | Free spins from scatters; expect to wait |
Neither player is right or wrong. They want different evenings, and the method gives each a slot and a stake to match.
A thirty-second check before any new slot
- Open the help screen.
- Find the RTP.
- Find the volatility, if stated.
- Read how the main feature triggers.
Slot figures are developers' published defaults, each confirmed against two sources; your casino may run a lower RTP. Offer terms dated 5 October 2026. How we check. 18+. Free help: 0808 8020 133 or safer gambling.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose a slot?
Volatility, RTP, stake, then feature.
What matters most?
Volatility, for how the session feels.
Does theme matter?
Only for enjoyment.
How many spins should I plan for?
At least 200 on high volatility games.