9 Insider Tips for Playing Slot Machines Without Losing
These helpful hints can help you win the infamously simple game of chance.
Out of all the games on the casino floor, the slot machine can feel like one of the easiest activities to slip into. All you need to do is sit in front of a brightly lit screen, press a button, and (hopefully) watch as the wheels spin in your favor to produce some major winnings.
Unlike card games, the slots seem like they require fewer skills and strategies to memorize. But, there are actually a few insider tips to keep in mind before you start playing for a jackpot. Read on for experts’ best tips for playing slot machines without losing your hard-earned cash—so you can saunter away as a big winner.
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1
Learn the payouts of each game.
It’s a common misconception that all slot machines run the same game. If you’re looking to walk away with more than you come to play with, you should study where you’re putting your money and how your risk is affected.
“If you’re in a casino with many slots, you’ll probably see that the games are always different,” says Leo Coleman, editor-in-chief at Gambling ‘N Go. “They’re designed to keep you off guard and not focused on the strategy. Because of this, the best plan of action is to always watch the payouts for each game and always know what the jackpot is.”
Walk the floor to see how the payouts are different, he suggests, then plan your night at one slot machine—or several—accordingly.
2
Pick a simple machine.
Slot machines have come a long way from the simple pull-to-play mechanical versions of decades ago. Today, casino floors are alight with towering slots complete with bright video screens, loud sounds, and quirky themes. However, experts warn that you could be wasting your funds on these eye-catching contraptions.
“Don’t play slot machines with many bells and whistles,” Coleman suggests. “These machines may look like they will make you a fortune, but they can actually take your money away with their fancy graphics. Instead, stick to the simpler machines that don’t have as many moving parts.”
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3
Forget misconceptions about how slot machines work.
There’s an old adage that staying put at the same machine will eventually make you a winner by their very design. But according to Jaime Bronstein, a licensed therapist and expert contributor at Casinos Analyzer, the machines are still designed to pay out at random—which can make holding out for that long-awaited jackpot expensive for nothing.
“There’s also a myth that if you almost win, you will definitely win soon, but this is just a trick to keep players interested,” she says.
Another common misconception? If you haven’t won in a while, you’re bound to get a jackpot. “This isn’t not true,” Bronstein says. “In fact, the odds are always the same.”
4
Bet on more than one reel.
At first glance, slot machines offer a relatively simple game with an easy premise. But anyone who’s spent time pulling the lever knows there’s more than one way to play them. That’s why experts say it’s important to ensure you’re using your money correctly.
“Always place your bets on the three reels, not on a single one,” suggests Coleman. “Then, decide how much you’re willing to bet on each spin.”
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5
Spread out your bets over time.
“The best strategy you can use in the slots machine is making smaller bets—such as $0.50 instead of $1.50—and a slower pace,” says Stefan Ateljevic, founder of BitcoinPlay.
“This may not sound like the most fun way to play in the world, but it’s the best way to not risk a crazy amount of money and not lose that much. Remember that you’re risking money on every spin, so think twice before playing in the more expensive machines or playing at a crazy speed.”
Other experts agree and suggest blocking your time into small chunks at the slots. “If you’ve set aside $100 for casino play that day, treat it like four $25 sessions,” says Alex Windsor, a gaming industry expert and CEO at Betting Tools.
“That way, a cold streak early on doesn’t wipe out your whole budget. And if you’re up, it’s always worth considering pocketing a portion of the winnings and playing with the rest, what some people call ‘locking in profit.'”
6
Set your limits.
Gambling of any kind can spike excitement and create a major rush. But, the best gamblers always know it’s more important to keep your wits about you every time you let the reels spin.
“It’s a common misconception that you will win big if you play the slots,” says Coleman. “In reality, the odds are always against you.”
“If you’re playing the slots with a group of friends, try to limit how much money each person can lose. If you’re playing alone, don’t put all your money on one slot machine—spread it out and keep an eye on how much you have left.”
7
Quit while you’re ahead.
“Have you ever been on a winning streak at the slots, only to get greedy and start playing more and more? Well, it’s not a good idea to keep playing when you are on a winning streak,” Coleman says. “The more you play, the more likely you’ll lose all your money.”
Instead, quit while you’re ahead and cash out. Or, consider taking a break and coming back a few hours later to switch up your game, he advises.
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8
Keep yourself in control.
No matter how many winnings you walk away with, playing slots should still be fun. That’s why Bornstein says it’s best to understand when you should—and shouldn’t—be hitting the slots.
“It’s best to avoid playing when you’re tired or nervous because it’s more difficult to control yourself,” she says.
If you’re having trouble walking away from mounting wins or losses, you can set a timer and stop playing when it rings, Bornstein suggests.
“Try to focus on the process of playing, not winning. This will help you enjoy the process without stress.”
9
Don’t get in over your head.
No one walks into a casino assuming they’re going to go broke with nothing to show for it. Unfortunately, the thrill of the chase can be a slippery slope for some people who may not realize they’re in over their heads.
Because of this, it’s best to come to the table with a number you know you can afford and stop once you reach it.
“Make sure you have a plan,” says Shane Cook, the gambling disorder program director for Gateway Foundation. “Treat it as a form of recreation and make sure you start a budget. Once you reach your budget, then you’re done.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, the National Problem Gambling Helpline is available 24/7 at 1‑800‑GAMBLER (1‑800‑426‑2537). It offers free, confidential support, referrals to local resources, and access to counseling—via phone, text, or online chat.
