Costly Online Slot Mistakes and How To Avoid Them

min read
Three different online slot games next to each other.
BetMGM Nov 10, 2023, 5:08 AM

Online slots are the easiest games to play at online casinos. It’s easy to think you can’t make any mistakes because of the luck-based nature of the game. Even though you don’t need to spend hours mastering slot strategy, there are a few mistakes you might be making that are depleting your bankroll and limiting your wins. Keep reading to see the common slot errors people make when they play at a casino online and how you can fix them. 

How Do Online Slot Machines Work?

Thanks to innovative developers and advancing technology, modern slots have incredible graphics, exciting bonus features, and a wide range of imaginative themes. The immersive storytelling capabilities of online slot machines have propelled the casino and online betting industry forward. Games range from classic fruit machines to 3D animated jackpot slots that offer millions in possible prizes.

One of the key reasons why people make costly mistakes playing slots is that they don’t understand how slots actually work. From the player’s point of view, an online slot features spinning reels that stop to reveal a combination of symbols when they click a button. In the background, online slots use random number generators (RNGs) that constantly produce random independent numbers. When you stop the reels, the RNG presents numbers that become the symbols on the reels. Due to the independent nature of the results produced by an RNG, you can’t predict or control what will happen. 

The 7 Biggest Slot Mistakes and How To Avoid Them

You can have fun playing online casino games and slots without destroying your bankroll or your chances of success. Here are some mistakes to avoid while you learn how to play slots or get started with slot tournaments. 

Mistake 1: Only playing one type of game

It’s normal to play a game more when you’re enjoying it. But if you’re constantly playing one kind of slot, you aren’t reaping the benefits of other games. For example, progressive slots may be popular, but in the long run, they pay out less than non-progressive video slots. If you’re scared of blowing your bankroll trying out new games, then don’t worry. One of the benefits of playing free slots is you can try a game without spending any money. Developers are constantly releasing new titles with exciting new themes, so you’re missing out if you’re playing just one. 

The fix: You don’t have to change games constantly, but you should regularly try different slot games. New games may have innovative bonus features and rounds that give players even more ways to win. 

Mistake 2: Randomly selecting slots

There are hundreds of slots with many immersive themes; think movie-inspired slots, Egyptian slots or Greek mythology slots. With thousands of options on platforms like BetMGM, it’s tempting to simplify things and choose randomly. But this might leave you playing a game with a low return to player (RTP) and limited bonus features. 

The fix: To significantly improve your chances of winning when you play, choose the slots with the lowest house edge and a high RTP. Check the minimum and maximum bets of the game before you play to see if they work for your budget and your playing style. 

Mistake 3: Ignoring the info or help section

Slots are straightforward to play. This is why many players immediately hit the spin button without looking at the info section, the paytable or the terms and conditions of a game. Ignoring this vital information can lead to misunderstandings regarding bonus features, jackpots, and prizes.

The fix: Always check the paytable and terms of conditions of games to avoid missing out on any features or jackpots. You might not qualify for a jackpot win without placing a max bet. The only way to know this is to read the instructions and terms beforehand. Info pages can also show you how to activate lucrative bonus rounds. 

Mistake 4: Believing popular slot machine myths

Now that you know that slots use random number generators to produce random and independent results, you’ll know that there’s no such thing as a hot or cold slot. Winning big on a slot doesn’t mean you’ll win again soon. Betting based on casino myths and rituals can give you the confidence to place large bets when the odds are unchanged. 

The fix: Embrace the random nature of slot machines and always remind yourself that results are independent of each other. Don’t keep playing because you believe you have to win soon after losing many rounds. Your chances of winning or losing remain unchanged. Instead, try to activate bonus rounds. In most games, special symbols have a higher chance of appearing during a bonus round.

Mistake 5: Ignoring bonuses

Most online casinos today offer welcome offers or promotions in the form of deposit matches, free spins, slot bonuses, bonus money, or free bets. Sometimes, these offers can seem so generous that wary players avoid them. However, if you read the terms and conditions carefully, bonuses can double your bankroll and give you more time to try new games or play your favorites. 

The fix: Once you’ve found a reputable online casino, take advantage of the bonuses and promotions. Make sure you check the fine print and learn about the wagering requirements first. These offers are not always too good to be true. Reputable casinos use them as an incentive to encourage more players to use their platform. 

Mistake 6: Not having an exit strategy

Slots are so easy to play that you could probably play them with your eyes closed. When muscle memory takes over, and you find yourself absent-mindedly spinning the reels for hours, you’re on your way to problem gambling. After a victory, or once you’ve reached your goal, have an exit strategy to stop playing before you lose all your winnings. Conversely, if you lose a big amount, use this exit strategy to leave the game instead of trying to win your money back. 

The fix: Slots are fun, but they can be addictive. Always approach the casino knowing the maximum amount you want to spend. Use game budget limits and time limits to make sure you know when it’s time to stop. If you automate your spins, you should set loss and win limits. Sometimes, a timer with an alarm sound can take you out of the trance and let you know when it’s time to take a break. 

Mistake 7: Choosing the wrong casino

Licensed casinos are regulated to ensure their platform is secure and their games are fair. At BetMGM, our RNGs are tested to make sure that the house edge isn’t inflated and that the disclosed RTP is accurate. Even when you’ve chosen the best online slot, it won’t matter if your casino can’t be trusted. 

The fix: Bet with the King of Casinos and bet with BetMGM. 

Play the Best Online Slots for Real Money With BetMGM

The BetMGM online casino is a slot lover’s paradise. We have thousands of slots from the best developers in the industry. Play a dark romance-themed slot featuring mysterious vampires or a slot inspired by your favorite TV show. Or play bingo and slots in one game with a game of Slingo. Whatever story you want to immerse yourself in, BetMGM has a mobile-optimized slot to play. Register with us to explore our slot catalog or to play table games in our live dealer online casino.

Actress Vanessa Hudgens flipping casino chips next to the text "The King of Casinos"
About the Author

BetMGM

Read More

Our BetMGM editors and authors are sports experts with a wealth of knowledge of the sports industry at all levels. Their coverage includes sports news, previews and predictions, fun facts, and betting.

Our BetMGM editors and authors are sports experts with a wealth of knowledge of the sports industry at all levels. Their coverage includes sports news, previews and predictions, fun facts, and betting.