We give you a complete rundown on what casino house edge and RTP actually means, and how it can determine your chances of winning when playing at a casino.
We’ve ranked the top 10 casino games from the one with the highest house edge (lowest place) to the one which gives you the best chances to win (first place).
Overview of Casino House Edge, RTP, and Odds
Before we get started, here’s a quick summary of the key terms and their meanings.
House edge: This represents the casino’s average gross profit percentage from a game played by many players many times over. It tells you nothing about how much you could potentially lose on a single bet or play. To find house edge, express all card values and outcomes as decimals, then subtract the largest from 1. For example, Russian roulette has a house edge of 47.61%; American roulette has a house edge of 5%.
the best slots appRTP – Return to Player: This is a different way of expressing the same thing as house edge, but expressed as the average return to a player making the same wager over and over. To work it out, divide 100 by the house edge. For example, an American roulette wheel in a US casino has a published RTP of 94.64% which is 95% minus the 0.36% for the green zeros. In Europe, roulette has a house edge of 2.70%, or a RTP of 97.3%.
Odds: The probability of winning, usually expressed as a fraction (for and ) or as a decimal (for online betting). If the odds are 6/5, you will win back 1.2 times your stake. If the odds are -200, you have to wager your stake twice to win $100, plus your original stake. Many casinos also express the payout oddshair casino online games instead of RTP or house edge. For example, in video poker a full house will pay 9x your stake, while a royal flush pays 800x your stake.
Now that we got that out of the way, let’s see how various games stack up against each other.
Slingo – Up to 98% RTP
Slingo has become increasingly popular over recent years, especially among online casino players. This hybrid game combines elements of bingo and slot machines, creating an exciting and fast-paced gaming experience.
In Slingo, players aim to create matching numbers on a 5×5 grid by spinning a reel of numbers, which then reduces the numbers on the grid. If you manage to hit a winning line similar to slots, you’ll receive a payout based on your initial stake. Additionally, there are bonus games and multipliers available that can boost your winnings even further.
The potential returns make slingo a competitive choice compared to other games, offering an RTP range of 92% to 98%. While variations exist, the higher RTP versions include Slingo Sweet Bonanza and Slingo Starburst, both based on successful slot games. Lower RTP options include Slingo Monopoly (95%) and Slingo Who Wants to Be a Millionaire (94%).
When comparing this to other casino games, blackjack offers an average RTP of 99.41%, so Slingo just falls short here. However, the excitement and potential payouts of Slingo make it an attractive option for those seeking variety and entertainment in their casino gaming experience. Plus, it’s worth noting that house edge and RTP figures are calculated over millions of games, so your individual results may vary.
Keno – Up to 98% RTP
Keno is another unique game that straddles the lines between lottery and casino games. Similar to bingo, it involves picking numbers and waiting to see if they are drawn. But with more options and strategic elements, it offers a different twist on this style of play.
Here’s how it works: choose up to 15 numbers from 1 to 80 and place your bet. Then, 20 numbers are drawn at random, and if enough of your picks match, you win a payout depending on your initial stake. Different keno games offer varying RTP rates, with some reaching up to 98%.
So how does its RTP compare to other games? Well, Europer centages for most casino table games like roulette, baccarat, and blackjack typically range from 95% to 98%. However, progressive jackpot games such as Mega Fortune and Hall of Gods can dip as low as 83%. Poker tournaments vary widely, but generally have lower RTP than cash games. So Keno stacks up quite well in this comparison.
If we delve into specific titles, Spot Keno offers an excellent RTP of 98%, while Video Keno has a slightly lower rate of 96.2%. These numbers put keno among the top tier of casino games in terms of potential returns, making it an appealing option for players looking for decent odds.
Video Poker – 99.54% RTP
Video poker is a popular variant of five-card draw poker that is played on a machine. While it shares some similarities with slot machines in appearance, it offers better odds and is more akin to table games like blackjack and craps.
Here’s how it works: insert your money, choose your bet size, and select a type of poker (such as Jacks or Better). You’ll then be dealt five cards, and you can hold or discard any of them to create the best possible hand according to traditional poker rankings. Hitting a strong hand, such as a Royal Flush, can result in a huge payout relative to your stake. With careful strategy and optimal play, video poker can offer an impressive RTP of up to 99.54%.
inclave casino bonusFor example, All Aces Poker and Joker Poker both boast high RTP rates, surpassing 99%. Other variants like Deuces Wild and Double Bonus Poker also provide solid returns, ranging from 98-99% RTP. When compared to other popular casino games, video poker comes out ahead of most slot machines and scratch cards, which typically offer an average RTP of around 95%. It even beats some table games, making it a great pick for players looking for good value for money.
While the potential returns of video poker make it shine, it’s important to note that your success ultimately depends on your skill level and ability to make smart decisions throughout the game.
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Deuces Wild Video Poker Strategy
- Always try to maximize your bet when you have a good hand, especially if you have a chance at a royal flush or a high paying four of a kind. This will help you get the most value out of your good hands.
- Know when to hold and when to fold. In Deuces Wild, this is especially important because deuces can act as wild cards, giving you more opportunities to make a strong hand. However, if your hand is weak, it may be better to fold and try again on the next hand.
- Take advantage of deuces to go for high-paying four of a kinds. These can give you some of the biggest payouts in the game, so look for opportunities to chase them if you have the funds and the right cards.
- Don't get too attached to low pairs. While they may seem like a good start, they're not always worth holding onto. Instead, consider whether you might be able to make a stronger hand by chasing a higher pair or going for a flush or straight.
- Practice makes perfect! Like most things, getting good at Deuces Wild takes practice. Try playing free games online to get the hang of it before you start betting real money.
Classic Blackjack – 99.41% RTP
Blackjack, also known as twenty-one, needs little introduction as it remains one of the world’s most beloved and iconic casino games. Often called the ‘Vegas standard’, classic blackjack offers some of the best odds in the casino, with an average RTP of 99.41%.
This classic card game pits you against the dealer, with the aim being to get closer to 21 without going over, all while beating the dealer’s hand. Using strategy and skill to make decisions about hitting, standing, splitting, and doubling down can greatly impact your chances of success. By following basic strategy, you can reduce the house edge even further and increase your potential returns.
Compared to other games, blackjack stands out with its exceptional RTP. Even with poor strategy, it still outperforms most slot machines and many other table games. It’s even been mathematically proven to be the best gamble in town, as popularized in the book Bringing Down the House and the movie 21.
Many blackjack variants maintain a high RTP, sometimes exceeding 99.5%. For instance, French Blackjack and Blackjack Switch both have exceptionally low house edges, resulting in impressive returns for players.
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How to Play Online Blackjack
Before you start playing online blackjack, finding a reputable and trustworthy online casino is essential. One highly recommended casino is , which provides a wide selection of blackjack games and generous bonuses. Here is a simple guide to get you started:
- Sign up and log in: Visit the Videoslots website and click ‘Play Now’ to create an account. Enter your personal details and claim your welcome bonus. Log in to access the casino lobby.
- Browse the game selection: Videoslots offers a variety of blackjack games. Use the search bar to look for ‘blackjack’ or browse the table games section. Prefer live dealers? Check out the Live Casino tab.
- Try for free or play for real money: Most games allow you to try the demo version first. Once you’re comfortable, switch to real money mode by selecting your preferred bet size and using deposited funds. Check the paytable for details on how wins are determined and paid out.
- Place your bet: Select your chip value and place your bet on the table. You typically need to click the chip symbol at the bottom of the screen to change chips or increase the amount wagered.
- Play the hand: You’ll be dealt two cards, and you can either Hit (click the button with two cards) to request another card, Stand (click the button with a tick within a box) to keep your current hand, or use other available options like Split or Double Down if eligible.
- Aim for 21 or beat the dealer: The aim of the game is to get closer to 21 than the dealer without busting. If you go over 21, you lose. Keep receiving cards until you’re happy with your hand or you think it has a good chance of winning.
- Get paid and try again: If you beat the dealer, you’ll receive a payout equal to your bet. Some hands, like Blackjack (an Ace and a 10-value card in the same hand), have additional payouts. Collect your winnings and decide whether to play again or try a different game.
Remember, while blackjack offers excellent odds, it still involves an element of luck. Set limits on your time and money, and only play with money you can afford to lose. Have fun and enjoy this timeless casino classic!
Baccarat – 98.94% RTP (Online) / 98.04% RTP (Casino)
Baccarat has gained immense popularity in recent years, thanks in part to its prominence in James Bond movies and the availability of online versions. This elegant card game has long been associated with glamour and sophistication, but it’s not just a pretty face – it also offers respectable odds.
The objective of baccarat is to bet on the hand that will add up closest to nine. Cards from 2 to 9 count as their face value, tens and face cards are worth zero, and aces are one point. A two-card hand totalling more than nine will carry over, meaning that if you hold a 6 and a 7, you would score a 3.
Live online baccarat has an enviable RTP of 98.94%, placing it amongst the best casino games in terms of potential returns. Compared to its brick-and-mortar counterpart, where distractions and longer game cycles can affect player behavior, the virtual version offers a more consistent experience with a healthy RTP of 98.04%.
One vital aspect to remember when playing baccarat is that the banker hand has a statistically higher chance of winning, with an RTP of 98.95% for online versions and 98.06% for physical tables. However, players are often superstitious or hesitant to put their money behind the banker hand due to the infamous 5% commission fee on wins.
Despite this, data shows that consistently backing the banker is the most profitable strategy in the long run. Of course, past performance doesn’t guarantee future success, and baccarat is still a form of gambling where luck plays a role.
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Craps – 98.64% RTP
Craps has a reputation for being a complex and intimidating game, but at its core, it’s relatively straightforward. Players take turns rolling two dice, and a variety of bets can be placed on the outcome.
One of the main attractions of craps is the opportunity for high payouts, thanks to a range of unique and thrilling bets. Pass Line and Don’t Pass bets have an excellent RTP of 98.64%, making them popular choices for those seeking a balance between excitement and fair odds.
However, some bets should be approached with caution due to their lower RTP ratings. The infamous Any 7 bet, where you wager that the next roll will yield a seven regardless of die configuration, has a meagre RTP of 90.67%. This house favourite shouldn’t be your favourite.
But overall, craps is a game that can be kind to the player’s pocket, with several wagers providing solid returns.
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Blood Suckers – 98.00% RTP (When Using High Roller Free Spins)
Now, I know what you’re thinking: how can I find the best casino games by looking at house edge and RTP? Isn’t that just for boring old table games? Allow me to introduce you to one of the best slot games out there – .
With a captivating vampire theme, this horror-themed slot quickly became a fan favorite when it was launched in 2013, and for good reason. Not only does it offer engaging gameplay and sharp graphics, but it also packs a punch when it comes to potential payouts.
But how does it measure up in terms of RTP? Get ready for this: NetEnt, the game’s developer, has given it an impressive published RTP of 98%. Independent testing laboratories also agree, with eCOGRA certifying a high 97.35% RTP for Royal Vegas Casino.
To unlock the game’s maximum RTP, it’s crucial to utilize the High Roller Free Spins feature. This mode increases your chances of triggering the bonus round, which can lead to massive rewards. Remember that while Blood Suckers boasts a high RTP in the long run, individual sessions might produce different outcomes due to the nature of random number generators.
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European Roulette – 97.35% RTP
is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts and imaginations of gamblers for centuries. Unlike the American version, which features an extra green diamond that significantly impacts its house edge, European roulette wheels only have a single green spot for 0. As a result, the game offers better odds with a lower house edge of 2.70%, which equates to a strong RTP of 97.35%.
To play, simply place your chips on a number, a group of numbers, or other bet types like odds or evens, red or black, and watch as the spinning ball drops into a randomly selected pocket. If your prediction is correct, you’ll receive a payout based on the implied probability of your wager.
Compared to other games, roulette shines with its combination of simplicity, strategic potential, and enticing odds. Its RTP is comparable to that of classic blackjack and places it ahead of many other popular casino games, including baccarat, craps, and most slot machines.
European roulette is also a favorite among fans of low house edge games, edging out alternatives like straight up wagers on baccarat and the Big Win Baccarat side bet. It’s a true legend for a reason and can be enjoyed at one of the top roulette sites, .
European Roulette Tips & Strategy
Though roulette is largely a game of chance, there are strategies and tips that can enhance your experience and potentially improve your results over the long term. Here are some helpful pointers to keep in mind when playing European roulette:
- Understand Betting Options: Familiarize yourself with the different types of bets, such as split bets, street bets, and corner bets, and learn how they affect your odds and payouts.
- Set a Budget: Before you start playing, decide how much you are willing to spend and stick to it. Never gamble more than you can afford to lose.
- Take Advantage of French Rules: If you come across a French roulette table, take notice – these tables offer slightly improved odds due to certain rules, such as returning half of even money bets to the player when the ball lands on zero.
- Consider Short-Term Strategy: Systems like the Martingale (doubling wagers after losses) or D’Alembert (adjusting bets based on wins and losses) can provide short-term excitement and help you chase previous losses to some extent, although they don’t guaranteee success.
- Enjoy the Ride: Roulette is not just about winning; it’s also about the thrill of the spin and the possibility of hitting it big. Relax, enjoy the game, and remember that every round is a new chance to test your skills and strategies.
By keeping these tips in mind and finding what works best for you, you can enhance your European roulette experience and maybe even improve your odds of success. Happy spinning!
Slot Games – 95% to 98% RTP (When Using High Payline Bet)
Slot machines are arguably the most popular game in the casino, known for their vibrant visuals, immersive themes, and potential for big wins. And while some people may write off slots as being purely luck-based and lacking the strategy of table games, the truth is that choosing the right machine can actually make a difference to your return rates.
The house edge, which is the opposite of RTP, can vary significantly within the slot category. Low limit machines with entertaining extras and small payouts often have higher house edges, sometimes exceeding 15%. On the other hand, modern video slots with adjustable paylines provide better odds if you play wisely.
2023's Guide - Which Casino Games Have the Best Odds of Winning?To maximize your RTP, it’s crucial to understand how paylines work. Contrary to popular belief, sliding the number up isn’t necessarily linked to your betting amount – rather, it determines the number of ways to win on each spin. Aim for games with adjustable paylines and play with the maximum number of lines to access all available winning combinations.
Furthermore, different games fall into distinct groups based on their RTP ranges:
- 98%+: Some video slots boast excellent RTP ratings, putting them on par with legendary titles like Blood Suckers and senior citizen SHARK (a NetEnt creation).
- 96%-97%: Classics like Gonzo’s Quest, Jack and the Beanstalk, and family members of SHARK, fall into this category.
- 95%-96%: Many popular slots, including Immortal Romance, Falling Wild Respin, and Wonder Woman, reside here.
Of course, individual games can vary widely, so it pays to do your research before diving in.
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Pai Gow Poker – 97.34% RTP
Pai Gow Poker is a lesser-known gem in the casino scene, yet it deserves a spotlight for its charming ancestry and surprisingly good odds. Based on an ancient Chinese domino game, it made the leap to poker in the 19th century and landed smoothly in casinos worldwide.
At its core, Pai Gow Poker is about creating the best 2-card and 5-card hand possible from seven cards on the table. Winning according to standard poker rankings provides excellent odds, with a solid RTP rating of 97.34%.
Compared to other games, Pai Gow Poker holds its own against some of the best. It rivals classic blackjack and European roulette, leaving popular slot machines and cryptologic keno far behind.
If you enjoy the strategic element found in card games, Pai Gow Poker is definitely worth a try. Its roots in Pai Gow – a game celebrated by ancient Chinese scholars – give it a refined flavour. Combine this with the flexibility to win two ways per hand and the opportunity to declare and bluff, and you have a unique experience that goes beyond simple luck.
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Caribbean Stud Poker – 97.23% RTP (When Using Optimal Strategy)
Caribbean Stud Poker is a cheerful take on five-card stud, adding a dash of luck and a splash of the Caribbean to the classic game. Created in the 1980s, it rapidly spread through casinos and caught the attention of players who appreciated its clear rules and exciting optional bets.
But what really sets it apart is the potential for stellar RTP when you apply optimal strategy. Essentially, this means acting on each deal with the mathematically best decision, minimizing the house edge and maximizing your returns.
By following an intricate set of guidelines for raising, folding, and comparing hands, you can boost the RTP to an impressive 97.23%. This puts it above other favorable options like video poker and pales in comparison to the absurdly complicated strategy required for blackjack.
Like other poker-based games, Caribbean Stud Poker allows you to exercise your card senses. Although it can’t compare to the RTP of its forefather, it provides a fun alternative for those who appreciate strategy and want to test their poker acumen within a structured framework.
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Although luck plays a significant role in Caribbean Stud Poker, employing an optimal strategy can make a substantial difference to your theoretical RTP. Here are some practical tips for improving your game:
- Raise With Aged Hand: If you’re dealt A-K or higher, along with two more strong cards, raise! This creates tension and can lead to juicy payouts if you beat the dealer’s hand.
- Fold Weak Hands: If your initial hand looks lackluster, it’s usually wise to fold and try again with a new bet. Holding on to mediocre cards merely raises your total bet for the round.
- Raise for Top Hand: If no one else has raised and you have a top hand, elevate your bet to contend for the progressive jackpot. Just remember that you still need to beat the dealer to win both payouts.
- Don’t Draw Without a Pair: Typically, holding on to only a high card (-97.23% RTP) or a pair (93.75% RTP) is not ideal. It’s generally best to fold rather than pay the extra bet to see if you can improve your hand.
- Follow the Flow: As with any poker variant, paying attention to the other players and the cards on the table can give you clues and help you fine-tune your strategy over time. Enjoy the rhythm of the game and let your instincts bloom.
Adopting these tips won’t turn you into a Caribbean Stud pro overnight, but they can certainly aid in your quest for optimal RTP. May your raisings be right, your folds be fruitful, and your progressives flow like rum on the island.
Video Poker – 99.54% RTP (When Using Perfect Strategy)
Video poker is a game loved by players around the world for its strategic depth, nostalgia factor, and potential for serious returns. At its heart lies five-card draw poker, enclosed in a screen reminiscent of classic slot machines.
The beauty of video poker lies in its ability to offer an RTP close to 100% with precise play. Known as ‘full pay’ machines, these gems pay back almost everything you put in if you use perfect strategy, resulting in a remarkable payout of 99.54%.
But achieving this level of excellence requires focus and dedication. Every decision matters, from holding the right cards to strategizing when to keep or cash out. Luck still plays a part, but with expertise on your side, the odds tilt heavily in your favour.
Compared to other games, video poker absolutely shines when it comes to RTP. It leaves behind even the best slots and approaches the boundary of a positive house edge. No other casino game comes close to video poker’s potential for a perfectly played machine, making it a cherished icon in the world of gambling.
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Video Poker Tips & Strategy
Conquerning the throne of video poker requires patience, focus, and a dash of poker flair. Though a perfect strategy is a challenging feat, it can unlock the full potential of ‘full pay’ machines and boost your RTP. Here are some pointers to help you channel your inner Dan Excel at Marathon Man:
- Memorize Poker Hand Rankings: Solid video poker play begins with understanding traditional poker hand strengths. A firm grasp on what beats what is essential for making the right decisions.
- Hold Qualified Cards: What cards should you keep after a initial deal? This depends on the specific video poker variant you’re playing. Look up a qualification chart to guide your holds and maximize your chances of forming a strong hand.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Train your brain by playing free video poker games online. Simulate different scenarios and hold patterns, strengthening your ability to make optimal decisions under pressure.
- Use a Chart: Depending on the video poker variant you’re playing, a ‘hold’ or ‘qualification’ chart can be a valuable tool, guiding your card selections based on the initial deal. Study the chart carefully and refer to it when needed.
- Stay Focused: Video poker moves fast, especially in tournament modes. Stay alert, assess your hand quickly, and trust your training. Remember, every second counts – slow is smooth, smooth is slow, and perfection is king.
Embrace these tactics and feel the rush of adrenaline as you draw, hold, and pray for that Royal Flush. Let your fingers dance over the buttons, channel your inner poker champ, and conquer the screen – one video poker session at a time.
American Roulette – 94.65% RTP (When Using Even Money Bet)
American roulette differs from its sophisticated cousin, European roulette, in one key way: the addition of an extra green space labelled as 0 and 00. This seemingly small change has a significant impact on the house edge, causing it to nearly double from European roulette at 2.70% to a less friendly 5.26%.
As a result, the published RTP for American roulette sits at 94.65%, which means for every $100 wagered, you can expect to receive $94.65 in theory, excluding any thrill of win factors. This puts it towards the lower end of casino game returns.
While avid roulette enthusiasts may be tempted to look past the additional zero and stick with their favourite wheel, statistics show that the law of large numbers catches up with everyone eventually. Furthermore, the absence of a 0 in European roulette extends the possibilities of en prison and la partage, delivering a lower house edge of 1.35% and an enhanced RTP of 97.30%.
Even money bets, which cover almost half of the possible outcomes in European roulette, still encounter the single 0 on their journey to paying out. Although rare, the green space exists, and its impact is felt in the long run.
So, if maximum RTP is your goal, European roulette emerges as the superior choice, offering a significant 3.95 percentage point advantage in terms of theoretical return.
Final Thoughts – What Is the Best Casino Game in Terms of House Edge and RTP?
Which is the best casino game when it comes to house edge and RTP? The answer might surprise you – it’s not one game but many. Each title has its own niche where it truly shines, providing better odds than others in its category.
Sit back, relax, and let’s review our league table:
- Best Overall Performance: Taking the crown is none other than…blood! with an impressive published RTp of 98% when high payline bets are used. It outperforms classic games like blackjack and European roulette, leaving slot machines and keno in the dust.
- Blackjack Runner-Up: You can’t beat blackjack when seeking reliability and versatility. Its low house edge of 0.27% excels in a category of