How to Save Your Cash and Still Play Slots
For anyone wanting to play slots but still save, there are ways of making it happen. First of all, you should play the machines with the lowest denominations possible. Sure these machines can be less attractive because of their lowered odds, but you lose less money overall. They are a great way to have fun playing, but not lose your entire wallet. For example, a 90% 5-coin nickel machine loses $18.75/hr. on average, while a 98% 2-coin dollar machine loses $30/hr.
Another good tip is to play machines that are advertised with the biggest payback over a high percentage. Some casinos will be precise with how much their slots pay out, and others won’t. For example, the Stratosphere and Riviera have a 98% dollar slots while Circus Circus has 97.4% dollar slots. Fitzgeralds in Reno has a section of about 50 dollar slots whose average payback is 97.4%. If you’re playing dollar slots, I recommend that you play only at these casinos, or other casinos which advertise a high payback.
You also want to be aware of ‘wording.’ Just like on the cans of food that say “fat free” but scientists have proven aren’t really fat free, you have to watch what casinos advertise. Terms like “loosest slots” or “high paybacks” mean nothing– remember that it is all relative with advertising. If a casino says “Up to 98% of our slots players walk away with a win!” All that means is that less than 98% of people win– that could mean only 90%, 80% or even 1%– watch the wording!
Another tip is to limit your play on progressive slots. Sure these are the machines that traditionally pay out a lot more, but they also require a higher initial bet throughout the game. Typically pay out 2-7% less than standard machines, so you should play them sparingly, if at all. If you must play them, remember to play a two-coin machine instead of a three-coin machine, and look for a $0.05 or $0.25 machine instead of a $1.00 machine. Limit your bet any way you can. When playing slots to save money, avoid video reels. These machines typically pay back a percentage point or two less than their mechanical counterparts. Also, the ability to play five coins on each of nine lines ($1.45/spin) could seduce you into betting a lot more than you should.
Lastly, to save money at a slot parlor, remember to join the VIP or bonus program. Most online and land-based casinos have these today. You can find out about them right away and start accruing points to add to your wagers and to your payback. It’s not hard to keep your cash when playing slots, but you have to be wise. Remember these tips for a fun time without losing your entire bankroll.
