RTP in Online Casinos: How to Pick Slots That Pay More

RTP, or Return to Player, is a key metric that shows the percentage of total bets that a slot or table game pays back to players over time. Many players consider RTP when choosing games, as it gives a rough idea of the casino’s advantage. While it can be helpful in planning strategies — especially for poker or other skill-based games — it is important to remember that RTP is a guideline, not a guarantee of winnings.

What is RTP?

RTP represents the average percentage of all bets returned to players as winnings in the long run. For example:

• A slot with a 95% return will pay back $950,000 on every $1,000,000 wagered, on average.
• A slot with a 90% return gives $900,000, and one with 99% returns $990,000.

It’s crucial to understand that this percentage is calculated over thousands or millions of spins, not per individual round or player. One person might win $300,000 from a $500,000 bet, while another could win $650,000 from the same amount, yet the overall return still averages 95%. This means that while the return ensures a long-term edge for online casinos, it does not guarantee a win or loss for any single player. Gambling outcomes are always about probabilities, not steady income.

The percentage is usually based on the base game only. Unless stated otherwise, it does not include bonus features, risk games, jackpots, or special offers such as the Revery Play bonus. This explains why slots with lower base returns can still be extremely popular—big bonus rounds, jackpots, and promotions like the Revery Play bonus make them attractive despite the base percentage.

How to find out the RTP of a slot?

Before playing with real money, it’s important to check a slot’s RTP. Here are several ways to do it:

• Check the game description – Many slots include the RTP in their rules or as a short note at the bottom of the page.
• Use the information section – Click on the ‘?’ or ‘i’ button within the game to see detailed stats, including RTP.
• Ask the casino support – Legal and licensed casinos usually provide RTP information if you contact customer service.
• Visit the provider’s website – Slot developers often publish RTPs for their licensed games. Keep in mind that casinos may adjust these values slightly within permitted limits.
• Search online – Type “slot name + RTP” into Google. Be cautious: online databases or catalogues can sometimes be outdated.

Red flag: If a casino hides the RTP and refuses to provide it even when asked, this is a warning sign. Always double-check the casino’s license before playing.

The best slots with high RTP

If you are looking for slots with the highest return to player (RTP), these titles consistently top the charts:

• Goblin’s Cave (Playtech) — 99.3%
This slot features a Multi-spin mechanic, allowing certain symbols to be held while spinning repeatedly. A bonus game on a separate screen lets players search for treasures in chests. The theme is fantasy, set in a goblin’s cave.
• Ugga Bugga (Playtech) — 99.1%
Similar to Goblin’s Cave, this slot also uses Multi-spin mechanics. Its tropical tribe theme and slightly adjusted random number generator make it unique while maintaining very high returns.
• Mega Joker (NetEnt) — 99%
The Supermeter feature allows players to risk their winnings for a chance to increase them. Mega Joker also includes a progressive jackpot that grows with player bets. The theme is classic fruit symbols, offering a nostalgic casino feel.
• Book of 99 (Relax Gaming) — 99%
Players fill a meter when books appear on the reels. Collect 99 books to trigger 10 free spins with multipliers and increased winnings. The slot’s theme draws inspiration from ancient Greek mythology.
• 1429 Uncharted Seas (Thunderkick) — 98.6%
Wild symbols in the shape of a ship expand to cover entire reels. Three scatter symbols (compasses) trigger 50 free spins and boost the slot’s overall return. The theme focuses on sea exploration and adventure.

What RTP is considered high in slots?

In online slots, a return to player (RTP) rate of over 97% is generally considered high, while 98% and above is regarded as very high. In 2026, more slots offer such high RTPs due to increased competition, but just five years ago, a 95% return was already seen as strong. Since RTP reflects the casino’s expected profit over time, different games can have widely varying return rates:

• Low RTP: below 94%
• Average RTP: 94–97%
• High RTP: 97–98%
• Very High RTP: above 98%

Many licensed casinos display the overall return rate on their websites. This information is useful for players who frequently switch games or like trying new titles. It’s usually shown at the bottom of the main page or in the game’s info section. It’s worth noting that the return rate can temporarily exceed 100%. This can happen when several players hit large wins in a short period. Slots with high return rates are often marked as “hot” in online casinos, but this does not guarantee continued wins — the figure reflects long-term averages, not short-term outcomes.

RTP and volatility of a slot machine

Volatility, also called dispersion, shows how winnings are distributed across spins or bets. It tells players whether wins are frequent but small, or rare but large. Volatility is usually classified as follows:

• Low variance: Frequent small wins. Ideal for beginners, as it helps control risk and prevents rapid bankroll loss even with an average RTP. The downside is that gameplay can feel less exciting, so many players eventually move on.
• Medium variance: Moderate wins at a moderate frequency. This is the most popular type worldwide. Losing streaks can alternate with significant wins, making discipline and emotional control important for success.
• High variance: Rare but large wins. Suitable for experienced players. High variance means a slot can deliver a big payout, but it may not happen during your session. It’s possible to spend your entire bankroll without hitting a major win.
• Very high (extreme) variance: Occasional huge wins. Typical of slots with medium or low RTP. Regular payouts are rare, and most returns come from bonus rounds or jackpots.

Volatility information can usually be found in official slot documentation, game descriptions, or by contacting casino support. Comparing volatility with the win rate helps you better understand the odds and manage your bankroll before placing real money bets. The RTP and volatility of a slot are set by the game providers — the developers who create the slots. Online casinos themselves cannot adjust these numbers, as doing so is prohibited by international regulations and most national laws, including in Australia.

However, providers can offer different RTP levels for the same game, such as 92%, 94%, 96%, 98%, or 99%. Casinos then choose which version to use, which allows them to:

• Adapt to local regulations: Some countries have minimum RTP requirements, often 90% or 95%.
• Differentiate from competitors: If one casino offers a lower RTP, another can choose a higher RTP and advertise it to attract players.
• Run promotions: During tournaments or special events, the casino may temporarily increase the RTP with the provider’s agreement.

Therefore, even if a slot is advertised as “high RTP,” always check the casino’s website to confirm the exact number. The actual RTP can vary by 2–5% depending on the operator’s choice.

Is RTP important when choosing a casino game?

Return to player (RTP) is one of the most important factors when choosing both a casino and individual games. For example, with a 98% return rate, a player can expect to lose, on average, only $20 for every $1,000 wagered—assuming consistent, even bets. However, it is important to remember that this figure is a statistical expectation, not a guarantee. It reflects long-term results across many players and spins, rather than the outcome of a single session. Return rates are also not the only consideration: many popular slots have lower percentages but remain favourites due to exciting bonus features, immersive themes, or unique gameplay mechanics.