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Volatility in slots is a hot topic (excuse the pun!). But it might not be one that you're 100% up to speed with.

You've probably heard about return to player and house edge. But volatility is definitely as important. So let's break it down.

In simple terms, volatility refers to the level of risk in an online game. It indicates how often you might win and the potential size of those wins. Slots come in three main volatility categories and we're going to talk you through each one.

Low volatility

Low volatility slots usually offer up more frequent wins. Which is great, right? Well, the one catch is that those wins tend to be smaller. Think of it as a safer bet. You're less likely to spend a whole session without winning anything. But having said that, the chances of hitting a massive jackpot are less likely.

Medium volatility slots

Now here's where we get a little bit more of a balance. Typically, medium volatility slots tend to cough up a blend of small and large wins. Your balance might see ups and downs and there could be the odd dry spell or winning streak. But nothing too controversial here. Think of this as a bit of a mixed bag of outcomes.

High volatility slots

There are lots of online casino players out there who are real thrill seekers. And high volatility slots are often their game of choice. Wins are rarer, sure. But when they come, they can be pretty significant. If you're playing a high volatility slot, you've got to prepare yourself for long periods without a win. However, the chance of netting a big one tends to keep players coming back.

How does it impact your strategy?

Your choice of slot volatility really does affect your playing strategy. For low volatility slots, steady and consistent betting is the key. Here your aim is to stretch your bankroll and enjoy longer sessions. Meanwhile, if you're a high volatility slot player, you need patience. You might see yourself shovelling a lot of dosh in without seeing a whole lot of return. This is why having a good gambling budget is so important.

But remember, if you're looking to see what returns you can expect over the long term, volatility won't give you that info. Instead, you should pay attention to return to player percentages, which reflect what percentage of cash paid into a game is spat back out in prizes over the long term, regardless of its volatility.

Why should I care about it?

Understanding volatility helps you to pick the right game. It aligns your gaming experience with your risk appetite and helps you to manage your expectations. If you're a more casual player who just wants to get lost in the world of slots, usually a low volatility option is the one to go for. Meanwhile, adventurous types are drawn to the high-risk nature of high volatility slots. It's a good way to know roughly what you're up against when you sit down for a slots session.

Where can I find slots with a range of volatilities online?

If you're looking to experiment with low, medium and high risk games, you're going to find a great range over at bet365. Along with a variety of popular themes and great promotions, you'll also be thrilled to find out new players can use this bet365 bonus code when they sign up.