If you play slots online or watch streamers playing them, then you have probably heard the term ‘RTP’ thrown around more than once. This is an important concept to understand, as it relates to how much you can win from a game over the long run. While many players don’t know what RTP means, this article will provide an overview of the concept and explain how it works with slot games.

There are two key aspects to consider when choosing a slot machine: RTP and volatility. The RTP is the theoretical amount paid back to players over a lifetime of plays, and it’s expressed as a percentage. It is calculated through countless simulated bets, often up to millions. The higher the RTP, the better your chances of winning.

Volatility, on the other hand, refers to the frequency of payouts. A low-volatility slot will pay out small amounts frequently, while a high-volatility slot may only pay out big wins very rarely. Ideally, you want to find a slot with a medium level of volatility, which will offer a balance between these two types of payouts.

One of the most common mistakes made by slot players is assuming that a slot’s advertised RTP will actually be met. In reality, this is not always the case. The UK Gambling Commission requires casinos to monitor their slots regularly to ensure that they’re paying out at least what they claim, and not significantly less than they should. This is done by taking a large sample of spins and comparing them to the programmed theoretical RTP.

It’s possible to track this data by visiting the site of a casino that publishes it. This is usually a part of the About Us or FAQ page, and it will contain information about how to access the RTP database. In most cases, you will need to register an account before you can access this database, and this is usually free.

You can also access this information from within the casino itself, although it will likely be different from that of an external website. Some casinos have their own RTP databases that they keep internally, and these are generally more accurate than those that are published publicly.

The best way to maximize your odds of winning is to choose slot games that advertise a high RTP and take into consideration their volatility rating. This will help you make informed decisions about how much to wager each time you play. You should also practice proper bankroll management, so that you can be ready for hot and cold streaks. This will allow you to avoid the temptation of betting more money than you can afford to lose and increase your chance of long-term success.

Bitcasino has a live RTP database that is updated every 10 minutes, so you can stay on top of the latest slot games with the highest percentages. It’s a great tool to have for any slot player, and it can help you avoid making costly mistakes that could cost you your winnings.