Online Slots
One might consider slot machines to be America's gambling past time. Slots have been around since the late 1800s and have seen an array of changes to their make and model in the last century-plus. What was once a simple machine with an arm crank on the right side that was used to jumpstart three rotating wheels has turned into a digital extravaganza that lights up casino floors across the world. Slots are the most popular gambling method in casinos. Now that modern technology has taken over slot machines, gamblers are able to "crank that wheel" online as well.
How to Play Slots Online
Mostly known for their prevalence in physical casinos, slots have also been a staple in online casino offerings as well. Slots offer the most variation and simplicity for users in terms of playability, games and prizes. Online casinos offer hundreds of slot options, so you'll be able to try out different games as you go. The best part? Most online casinos are adding new online slot games constantly, meaning you'll never run out of new, fun options!
Understanding Online Slots
Unlike the traditional lever-pulling casino games, online casino slot games function with the push of a button (or a click of the mouse). In online casino slots, users spin the reel to win prizes by getting consecutive symbols along a pay line (column or row).
Additionally, users are able to wager per spin and their earnings depend on the value of the symbol and bet they placed. Furthermore, if the reels land on certain symbols, users may only qualify for a specific percentage of their earnings.
Online casino slots differ by the value of each symbol, the number of reels, total spins and game types. Some online casinos offer hundreds of different slot games to choose from on their sites and apps.
Users are encouraged to read the paytable before playing an online casino slot to familiarize themselves with the payouts, values and rules of each game. You may be surprised to find that some online slot games will pay significantly more than others, should you win.
Types of Slots Online
| Slot Type | Slot Details |
| Real Money | Real money slots require users to deposit their own money in return for winning real cash. |
| Free Play | Users can play free play slots for fun and practice, without the requirement of depositing real money or the potential to earn money. |
Common Slot Machine Game Variations
Here’s a list of the most recognizable online casino slots:
3, 5, 7, & 9 Reel Machines — Users choose between the classic 3-reel slots or opt for the more modern and riskier 5- and 7-reel slots, depending on their preference. The probability to win is higher if a user plays the classic 3-reel slots.
3D Slots — Modern 3D slots for users who seek enhanced graphics during play.
Penny Slots — As the name suggests, users pay a penny per play which allows them to enter many games.
Progressive Slots — Users place their bets to add them to the jackpot in classic or video game types.
TV Shows & Movies — Avid entertainment fans can play games that have the theme of their favorite shows or movies.
Video Slots — Users choose between 3- and 9-reel games that have additional features.
Common Slot Features (Real Money or Free Play)
Autoplay
The reels spin automatically for the user.
Bonus Games/Rounds
A feature that includes mini-games that give the user more chances to win or add to their earnings.
Free Spins
When free spins are earned, users have a chance to win in tandem with other slot features.
Hold
Reels can be held and spun at the user’s discretion.
Multipliers
Earnings are multiplied when a user wins. For example, if a user wins $20 with a 4x multiplier, they win $100.
Nudges
Reels are moved manually or automatically in order to increase the user’s chances of winning.
Scatter Symbols
Randomized symbols (depending on the game) that can earn the user bonuses.
Ways To Win & Win Both Ways
The number of combinations or directions in which users can win.
Wilds
Games that contain certain symbols that contribute to a user’s total payout. Users can find cascading, expanding, stacked and sticky wilds, which have specific features attached to them.
Real Money Slot Bonuses
When playing online real money slots, users are offered bonuses. Some common bonuses include:
- Comp Bonus: Users can earn comp bonuses based on how much they spend, which can be exchanged for cash back.
- Deposit Bonus: Online casinos offer users deposit bonuses that have playthrough requirements attached to them.
- Free Spins: Depending on the online casino, users can earn this bonus that can vary on the number of spins allowed, game type or potential earnings.
- No Deposit Bonus: Users can play without making a deposit but have to follow certain regulations regarding potential earnings.
- VIP Programs: Programs that are offered to incentivize users to continue playing for prizes based on their comp points.
Terms to Know for Online Real Money Casino Slots
Here are some terms to know when playing online real money casino slots.
Mobile Compatibility
Ensure that the slot chosen is mobile-friendly so users have a positive experience whilst playing.
Pay Table
Users can find information on rules and offerings depending on the slot they choose to play.
Return To Player Percentage (RTP)
This refers to the potential earnings players can win. Users are more likely to play slots that possess a high RTP because of the winning odds.
Volatility
The rate at which slot games spin and land on winning symbols. High variance slots pay more often and at a higher rate in comparison to low & medium variance games.
Where to Play Online Slots
There's absolutely no shortage of places to play online slots. Below are some of our experts' favorite online casinos with their associated promotional offerings to bankroll your slots adventures.
Online Casino Slots Options
Golden Nugget
Slots Offerings: 1,101
Bonus Offer: Deposit match up to $1,000 and 200 free spins. No promo code required.
BetMGM
Slots Offerings: 621
Bonus Offer: A 100% deposit match on up to $1,000 in addition to $25 free by entering promo code ACTIONCASINO.
FanDuel
Poker Game Offerings: 219
Bonus Offer: Up to $1,000 in no-sweat bets for the first day of gambling. No bonus code required.
Borgata
Slots Offerings: 621
Bonus Offer: $20 no deposit bonus + 100% first deposit match up to $1,000 using promo code ACTIONBCASINO.
SugarHouse
With one of the most generous sign-up bonuses, SugarHouse is a great online casino option for new and seasoned online casino players alike.
Slots Offerings: 481
Bonus Offer: 100% deposit match up to $250 plus $25 on the house using 250MATCH.
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DraftKings
Poker Game Offerings: 738
Bonus Offer: 100% deposit match up to $2,000 and a maximum $50 free credit. No bonus code required.
Caesars
Slots Offerings: 1,000+
Bonus Offer: Get up to a $2,000 Deposit Match + a $100 Gas Card with promo code ACTIONCAS.
Unibet
Slots Offerings: 835
Bonus Offer: New users get 100% first deposit match up to $500, plus a $10 free play bonus.
PointsBet
Slots Offerings: 76
Bonus Offer: No promo code is needed to earn 800 free spins and up to an $800 risk-free bet. Please note that the risk-free bet is for Michigan users only.
Online Slots Resources
While online slots may require more luck than skill, there's definitely strategy involved on behalf of a successful player. Check out the following resources to put your best foot forward the next time you want to play slots online.
- Best New Online Slots
- Most Popular Legal Online Slots
- Watch Live Slots Online
- Best Casino Free Spin Bonuses
- Online Slots Glossary
Online casino gaming is currently legal in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Connecticut and Delaware. For more legal information regarding your state, take a look at our online casino legalization tracker.