Low vs High RTP Slots: Which Games Give You Better Returns?

Most of us are drawn to slots by flashy graphics, big win pop-ups, and themes that jump off the screen. If you’re newer to online casinos, you’ve probably picked games based on what looked fun or exciting, not based on stats or percentages. But here’s the thing: one small number, the RTP, can quietly shape how long your bankroll lasts. Once you understand how it works, it completely changes how you choose which online slot to spin. In this guide, I’ll walk you through what RTP is, how it works, and whether low or high RTP slots are actually better for South African players.

What Is RTP?

RTP stands for Return to Player. It’s the percentage of all the money wagered on a slot that the game is designed to pay back to players over the long term. For example, if a game has an RTP of 96%, that means that on average it will pay back R96 for every R100 wagered. But here’s the catch: it doesn’t mean you personally will get R96 back. RTP is based on millions of spins across all players. Some sessions might see you winning big, others could see you bust your bankroll. It’s all about the long-term trend, not the outcome of a single session. So while RTP gives you an idea of how fair a slot is, it’s not a guarantee, it just tilts the odds ever so slightly more in your favour the higher it is.

What’s Considered High or Low RTP?

Generally speaking, RTP slots fall into three main ranges. High RTP games usually offer 97% or more, which means they have a relatively low house edge and tend to give you more value over time. Medium RTP sits around 95% to 96%, which is where you’ll find the bulk of popular slots; these strike a balance between fair returns and engaging gameplay. Low RTP slots drop below 94%, and while that might seem stingy, they often make up for it with thrilling features or massive jackpot potential.

It’s not unusual to find games with flashy themes, branded content, or high volatility mechanics offering lower RTPs. These extras cost something, usually a small chunk of your expected returns. So if you’re drawn to games with Hollywood tie-ins or elaborate bonus rounds, double-check the RTP before diving in. But some go much lower, especially high volatility slots or branded titles with expensive licenses.

High RTP Slots: The Pros and Cons

I’m a fan of high RTP slots, especially when I want my budget to stretch. They give me more consistent small wins, which means more playtime. Some of my favourites include:

• Blood Suckers (98%): developed by NetEnt, it's not the flashiest game but offers consistently high payouts

• Mega Joker (99%): a classic fruit slot by NetEnt, great if you can handle the old-school vibe and a high-risk gameplay

• Ugga Bugga (99.07%): one of Playtech’s top RTP slots, strange name aside, it delivers some of the best long-term returns around

Low RTP Slots: Why Do People Play Them?

Why would anyone choose a game that pays back less? Well, it’s usually because these games offer something else, massive jackpots, bonus-packed gameplay, or killer themes. Games like:

• Dead or Alive (94%):  developed by NetEnt, it's high volatility but those wins hit hard

• Book of Dead (94.25%): a Play’n GO classic with a cult following despite its lower RTP

• Bonanza Megaways (96%, but some versions drop to 92%): by Big Time Gaming, a fan favourite with tons of ways to win

Volatility vs RTP: Don’t Mix Them Up

A lot of players confuse RTP with volatility. They’re related, but not the same.

• RTP is the long-term return.

• Volatility is how often and how big the wins are.

You can have a high RTP slot that barely pays out (because it’s high volatility) or a low RTP game that gives you tiny wins every other spin. I advise you to both before I play. If I want a chilled session with lots of action, I go for medium RTP + low volatility. If I feel like swinging for the fences, I go high volatility, just not with my rent money.

Which One’s Better?

If we’re going by maths alone, high RTP slots are the better pick. They give you more value per rand over time. But that doesn’t mean they’re more fun. And let’s be honest, most of us play for entertainment, not spreadsheets. So it really comes down to your goals:

• Want longer sessions and better odds? Go high RTP.

• Chasing big jackpots or bonus rounds? Low RTP might be your thing.

My Go-To Strategy

Here’s what works for me:

• I use high RTP slots (96%+) for casual play and bonus wagering.

• I try low RTP games when there’s a good promo or I’ve got a bit extra to burn.

• I always check volatility to match my mood, high when I’m chasing thrills, low when I just want to spin and chill.

And I keep track. I’ve got a little spreadsheet where I log game names, RTP, volatility, and how I did. It sounds nerdy, but it helps me spot patterns and avoid money pits.

Where to Find RTP Info

Good casinos will show RTP info right on the game page or in the help section. If they don’t? Big red flag.

You can also Google the game name + RTP. Some providers, like Play’n GO or NetEnt, even list it on their official sites. And if you’re ever in doubt, skip the game. There are too many good options out there to waste time on mystery math.

Final Thoughts

Low RTP or high RTP? it’s not about picking the "right" one. It’s about knowing what you’re in for. High RTP slots give you better long-term value, while low RTP games are often more thrilling and unpredictable.

The best move? Mix and match. Play high RTP slots when you want to be cautious, and try low RTP titles when you’re feeling lucky.

At the end of the day, slots are meant to be fun. Learn the numbers, trust your gut, and always, always play responsibly. Because whether you’re chasing jackpots or just spinning for fun, the only return that really matters is having a good time.