RTP Reality Check

See what you should realistically expect from your gambling session

Session Details

Check game info or paytable (typical: 94-97%)
Or use session length below
Assumes 600 spins/hour

Expected Session Results

Total Wagered
$0
Expected Return
$0
Expected Loss
$0
Final Bankroll (Expected)
$0

Understanding RTP & Variance

What is RTP?

RTP (Return to Player) is the percentage of all wagered money a slot machine pays back to players over millions of spins. A 96% RTP means the house edge is 4%.

Important: RTP is calculated over millions of spins. Your session will vary!

RTP Examples

98%
High RTP

Lose $2 per $100 wagered (on average)

96%
Average RTP

Lose $4 per $100 wagered (on average)

92%
Low RTP

Lose $8 per $100 wagered (on average)

Variance Explained

  • Low Variance: Frequent small wins, rare big wins. Results close to RTP in short sessions. Lower swings.
  • Medium Variance: Balanced mix. Moderate swings. Most common.
  • High Variance: Rare but large wins. Long losing streaks common. Massive swings possible. Need bigger bankroll.

What to Expect

Short Sessions (100-500 spins):

  • Results can vary wildly from RTP
  • You might win big or lose everything
  • Variance dominates RTP in short term

Medium Sessions (1,000-5,000 spins):

  • Results start approaching RTP
  • Still significant variance possible
  • More predictable outcomes

Long Sessions (10,000+ spins):

  • Results very close to theoretical RTP
  • House edge becomes apparent
  • Variance smoothed out over time

The Bottom Line

Due to the house edge (100% - RTP), you will lose money over time. The longer you play, the more certain this becomes. RTP is not a promise of what YOU will get - it's a long-term average over millions of players and spins.

Key Takeaways:

  • Short-term: Anything can happen (variance)
  • Long-term: House always wins (RTP)
  • Set loss limits and stick to them
  • View gambling as entertainment, not income