Best Online Slots for Real Money: Top Slot Games with High RTP July 2024

Top 5 online slot games

Please note that the bonuses mentioned are intended for US residents in states with legal casino markets.

Out of the 5 standout games listed, we have chosen the top five online slots with the highest RTPs. Even if these games may not be your usual preference, it’s worth giving them a try for their impressive return to player percentages.

9k Yeti: Best High Volatility Slot  

Adding a number to an online slot game was a strategic decision to increase visibility in a casino lobby, but 4ThePlayer had a different goal in mind when creating this game. The 9k figure is not arbitrary; it represents the game’s impressive maximum payout, even for a high volatility slot.

The game 9k Yeti is set on a 6×4 grid with 4096 ways to win, but what will truly appeal to U.S. slot players is the impressive 97% RTP rate.

The core gameplay of 9k Yeti may become monotonous over time, but it serves as a prelude to the exhilarating free spins round. With just three scatters, players receive eight free spins, but landing six scatters triggers a frenzy with 88 free spins. The excitement doesn’t stop there – a retrigger can grant an additional 50 free spins, allowing players to potentially amass up to an astounding 880 free spins!

The excitement intensifies during the bonus round of 9k Yeti when the ‘Snowstorm’ feature is activated, providing a fresh and exciting twist. When a wild symbol and a Yeti symbol appear at the same time, a snowstorm will sweep through the reels, mixing up the symbols. This innovative feature can transform a possible loss into a victory by ensuring a winning combination.

• Software provider: 4ThePlayer
• RTP: 97.0%
•  Max payout: 9,012x  
• Features: Snowstorm, free spins, wilds 
• Where you can play the game: Caesars Palace Online Casino

3 Secret Cities: Most Innovative Bonus Feature  

It is no coincidence that both of our top slots come from the innovative London-based studio, 4ThePlayer. Known for their visually stunning slots and feature-packed gameplay, they also offer high RTPs. This creativity is evident in the 3 Secret Cities slot, with an RTP starting at 96.5% in the base game and reaching an impressive 98% in the free spins rounds triggered by the bonus buy feature.

The setting of the game resembles scenes from an adventure novel, complete with dense jungles and mysterious ancient temples. The soundtrack is filled with the chirps and calls of the wild, creating an ideal backdrop for a treasure-hunting quest similar to Lara Croft’s. Not just any treasure, but BIG treasure – with prizes potentially reaching up to 50,000 times your bet.

By landing scatters on reels 1, 3, and 5, you can activate free spins. If you miss one, the BONUS↑UP feature will come to the rescue. This feature can reveal a prize up to 50x or provide a bonus boost, propelling you to a higher-tier city the next time you trigger free spins. For example, starting in Jungle City, you can receive up to 12 free spins with a 4x multiplier. Reach Gold City, the final city, and you’ll enjoy an impressive 50 free spins with a 15x multiplier.

During our race, we reached Lake City, the middle level, where we were rewarded with an impressive prize of 25 free spins accompanied by an 8x multiplier.

• Software provider: 4ThePlayer  
• RTP: 96.5% (98% using the Bonus Buy feature) 
• Max payout: 50,000x
• Features:  BONUS↑UP, multipliers, wilds, super stacked symbols 
• Where you can play the game: BetMGM Casino 

Apollo Pays: Best Megaways Slot 

Big Time Gaming takes a risk by exploring a common theme in Apollo Pays, but they execute it flawlessly. Known for their innovative Megaways mechanic, they bring their unique touch to this Greek-inspired slot. The stunning visuals provide a bird’s eye view of Mt. Olympus and intricately designed Greek architecture. The calming sound effects enhance the ambiance, creating a serene atmosphere for an otherworldly gaming experience.

The game utilizes the Megaways engine, providing players with 117,649 potential ways to win with each spin. However, this is just one of the many exciting features this game has to offer. One standout feature is the Win Exchange option, allowing players to exchange a significant win (100x or more) for immediate access to the free spins round.

Additionally, there is the constant re-spin feature where if you hit a win, the winning symbols will lock in place while the remaining symbols spin again, providing another opportunity to win big.

The free bonus spins round in Apollo Pays may seem typical at first glance, but it includes a unique feature: a multiplier that increases exponentially. Beginning at 1x, the multiplier rises by one with each scatter symbol that lands on the reels. We were able to boost it to 10x, but the potential for how high it could go is anyone’s guess.

If you haven’t been impressed by those features, you’ll surely be amazed by the game’s massive payout potential of up to 116,030 times your stake. And no, that number is not a mistake.

• Software provider: Big Time Gaming 
• RTP: 96.51%
• Max payout: 116,030x
• Features: Megaways, sticky symbols, free spins, multipliers, Win Exchange 
• Where you can play the game: Betrivers Casino 

Ghostbusters Triple Slime: Best Free Spins Bonus Round 

Prepare yourself for a thrilling ghost-hunting experience with Ghostbusters Triple Slime from IGT. This exciting sequel continues the story from the original 2012 Ghostbusters slot game, inspired by the iconic 1984 supernatural film. With enhanced graphics and new in-game features, this game offers the same ghostly excitement with a fresh, modern twist. Get ready for a hauntingly good time as you chase ghosts and win big prizes in this exciting slot game.

Ghostbusters Triple Slime offers 720 ways to win on every spin thanks to the provider’s MultiWay Xtra feature. Players can create winning combinations from both sides of the quirky hexagonal reel layout.

As soon as we started playing Ghostbusters Triple Slime, we were greeted with a nostalgic Ghostbusters reference that took us back in time. The upbeat electronic disco music that followed perfectly set the tone for the ghost-hunting journey ahead. We were immediately immersed in the spooky streets of New York City, where all the supernatural excitement was happening.

The symbols in Ghostbusters Triple Slime pay a genuine tribute to the Ghostbusters universe, showcasing clear images of the three main parapsychologists, the Ecto-1A, the P.K.E. Meter, the Keymaster helmet, and the crucial proton pack.

Ghostbusters Triple Slime includes two exciting bonus rounds. The first is the Slimer Scatter bonus, activated by landing three Slime Scatter symbols. This bonus transforms into prize wheels offering generous coin multipliers. The more scatters you hit, the more wheels and larger multipliers you can win, with up to 3,850x coins up for grabs. The second bonus round is the Triple Slimer Scatter bonus, triggered by landing three or more bonus scatters. In this round, players choose from ghosts to earn pointers for three colorful prize wheels that award instant prizes and multipliers.

• Software provider: IGT 
• RTP: 96.08%  
• Max payout: 2,919x 
• Features:  Triple Slime, Slimer Scatter Bonus 
• Where you can play the game: FanDuel Casino 

Bloodsuckers: Highest RTP 

After a decade, NetEnt’s Bloodsuckers remains a popular choice in the online slot world. The key to its success? Its impressive 98% Return to Player (RTP) rate, one of the highest in the U.S. online slot market.

The game’s visuals still impress, even if they may not match up to the latest ultra-HD graphics in newer games. It perfectly captures a creepy and cool vampire atmosphere, featuring classic vampire elements like holy water, bibles, garlic, and the iconic figure of Vlad the Impaler, also known as Lord Dracula. Not only does he add to the spooky ambiance, but he also serves as the highest-paying symbol in the game, offering the chance for big wins.

Bloodsuckers offers a variety of exciting bonus features. One of these is the pick-and-click game, where players can open coffins to uncover hidden prizes, adding an interactive element to the gameplay. Additionally, landing three or more scatter symbols triggers the free spins round, where all winnings are tripled for an extra thrill.

Don’t pass up on Blood Suckers 2 if you enjoyed the original Bloodsuckers game. This sequel offers enhanced graphics and additional features to take your gaming experience to the next level. For a new twist, try the Bloodsuckers Megaways version brought to you by Red Tiger. This latest release introduces Megaways gameplay to the Bloodsucker series, giving players a whole new dimension to enjoy.

• Software provider: IGT 
• RTP: 98%  
• Max payout: 1,014x 
• Features:  Free spins, click & reveal 
• Where you can play the game: bet365 Casino

How to choose the best online slots

Selecting the perfect online slot game is a matter of personal preference, but understanding all the relevant information is essential to making an informed choice. Let’s examine some key factors to consider when choosing an online slot game:

Software Provider  

Before diving in, make sure to research the creator of the game. Every game developer has a unique style. For example, NetEnt is known for their crisp animations and intricate bonus features. Big Time Gaming is the top choice for slots with the potential for huge payouts. IGT’s slots may have lower return-to-player percentages, but they offer hefty progressive jackpots. If you prefer high RTPs, Habanero is the way to go, often exceeding 97%. The key is to find a provider that aligns with your gaming preferences.

Jackpot Availability  

If you’re aiming to win big money, consider playing jackpot slots. However, it’s important to remember a few things about jackpot slots. Firstly, they typically have a lower RTP compared to regular slots in exchange for the opportunity to win a massive prize. Additionally, jackpot slots are available in various types.

There are two types of slot machines: fixed jackpot slots with prizes in the thousands and progressive jackpot slots like Siberian Storm and Mega Moolah, which offer the chance to win millions.

In-Game Features 

Slot games today are a vast improvement from the traditional one-armed bandits of the past. Contemporary slots are filled with a multitude of in-game features. Nearly every game provider has introduced their own distinctive game mechanic, surpassing the typical extras.

There are various in-game features such as Hyper Hold, Power Bet, Power Reels, and Hold the Jackpot, with new innovative mechanics being added regularly. If you enjoy these added bonuses, there is a wide variety of slot games for you to try out. However, traditional fruit slots are still available for those who prefer simpler gameplay. It is worth noting that even these classic slots may come with some additional enhancements.

RTP 

The hype surrounding Return to Player (RTP) and the focus on selecting slots with high RTP rates may be exaggerated at times. It is crucial to keep in mind that RTP is a measure over the long term. In the short term, your results can fluctuate significantly – you could win a majority of your bets on a game with a 96% RTP, for instance. Nevertheless, this does not imply that RTP should be disregarded entirely. The more you play, the more accurately it represents your anticipated returns. If you intend to engage in an extended gaming session, RTP should be taken into consideration when choosing a slot.

Maximum Payout  

When it comes to maximum payout, the slot game you select is crucial. Low volatility slots allow for longer gameplay due to their frequent wins. On the other hand, high volatility slots attract players with the potential for large payouts. While these games may have periods of few wins, the payout can be substantial when the stars align. For instance, Apollo Pays is a popular high volatility slot game known for its massive maximum payout of 116,030x.

Types of slot games

The wide range of slot games currently on the market is truly impressive. Every month, numerous new slots are released, pushing the boundaries beyond the traditional distinctions of 3D or classic slots. These games can be categorized into several distinct groups, though there is some overlap among them. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of slot games available.

• Five-reel slots: A step up in complexity, these slots allow for more paylines, increasing the chances of winning. They often come with more engaging themes and additional bonus features. 
• Three-reel slots: The traditionalists’ choice, these slots mimic the vintage feel of early slot machines, offering a straightforward and nostalgic gaming experience without too many frills.
• Video slots: These are all about rich graphics and storylines. Video slots provide a more immersive experience with detailed themes, often including bonus rounds and free spins. 
• 3D slots: These slots stand out with their impressive graphics and animations, bringing a cinematic quality to the gaming experience and often incorporating engaging storylines. 
• New mechanics slots: Deserving a category of their own, these include innovations like Megaways, Bonus Buys, and Cluster Pays. They shake up traditional slot play with fresh ways to play and win. 
• Jackpot slots: For those chasing big wins (and who isn’t?). These slots offer large jackpots, including fixed and progressive types, with potentially life-changing payouts. 
• Slots with basic bonus elements: These include classic features like wilds, multipliers, and free spins. They add an extra layer of excitement to the game without being too complex. 
• Slots with unique math models: These games offer a twist on the traditional reel format with hexagonal or 7×7 grids.
• Slots with advanced bonus elements: Featuring tiered bonus games, bonus upgrades, and more., these slots are for players who love an extra challenge and intricate gameplay. 

Free slots vs. real money slots

The popularity of online gaming has given players a unique advantage that traditional casinos cannot offer: the ability to play for free. Nowadays, it is easy to find free slots at almost all online casinos in the U.S. Many of these casinos allow players to test their slot games in demo mode before wagering real money. This feature is perfect for players who are not yet comfortable betting real cash, or for those who want to familiarize themselves with a game before making a financial commitment. Playing for free is an excellent way to learn the game mechanics, understand bonus features, and get comfortable with gameplay without any risk.

Sweepstakes casinos also offer free slots, but they operate differently from real money online casinos. These slots are provided by different companies and use virtual currency instead of actual cash, creating a unique gaming experience.

Ultimately, real money slots are the primary draw for the majority of players. It’s worth noting that many online casinos that offer real money games also provide free spins bonuses or no deposit bonuses specifically for slots.

When comparing free slots to real money slots, here are some factors to keep in mind:

States with real money slots

As of now, only a few states in the U.S. have legalized and regulated online slots and casino games, which is a stark difference from the nearly thirty states that have legalized sports betting in some form. The following states currently allow you to play real money slots:

• Connecticut online caisnos
• Delaware online casinos
• Michigan online casinos
• New Jersey online casinos
• Pennsylvania online casinos
• West Virginia online casinos

Top 7 online slots casinos and bonuses

Now that you have a good understanding of online slots, you may be interested in trying them out. Check out our list of the top U.S. online casinos where you can enjoy playing these games.

Real money online slots quick facts

How we rate & review online slots casinos

Discovering the ideal slot game is one task, while selecting the appropriate casino to play at is a separate challenge. Opting for a slot that doesn’t quite suit your preferences is not a major issue, as it may just result in a less enjoyable experience. However, if you make the wrong choice in selecting a casino, you could potentially encounter more serious consequences such as negative experiences or even being scammed.

Below are some tips to help you find the perfect casino website for playing online slots:

1. Bonuses

Certain online casinos provide free spins as part of their welcome bonuses, while others offer them as ongoing promotions. However, even if you do not receive free spins, any bonus money is still beneficial. This is because you can utilize these bonuses on slot games, which have a 100% contribution to wagering requirements. Therefore, playing slots with bonus money is recommended as it allows you to maximize the value of your bonus while spinning the reels.

2. Online Slots Games

Explore the wide range of options available. Certain casinos stand out with an extensive selection of slot games from various providers, including exclusive titles not found elsewhere. Interested in progressive jackpots? Check to see if they offer them. It’s important to find a casino that aligns with your preferences, whether you’re looking for a certain style, theme, or the excitement of pursuing large jackpots. Be sure to choose a casino with a slot collection that meets your criteria.

3. Licensing and Certification

Players should avoid taking risks by sticking to real money online casinos that are fully licensed and regulated in the U.S. It is important to have a safety net for complaints, but it is also crucial for fair play. Regulated real money casinos are subject to thorough checks, particularly on their random number generator (RNG) software, guaranteeing that US players can rely on the fairness and randomness of the slots. Choosing to play at licensed online casinos provides additional security and peace of mind.

4. Mobile Slots App Experience

What is your opinion on the casino’s mobile app? If it is glitchy or slow, it might be worth trying out a different casino. If there is no app available, make sure to check if the website is mobile-friendly. Ensure that the games can be played smoothly in both portrait and landscape modes for an optimal mobile gaming experience.

5. Reliable Customer Support

Customer support that is both effective and responsive is essential. It’s important to make sure that the online casino offers reliable support services to help with any problems or questions you may encounter while gaming. Additionally, the operator should have a self-exclusion feature for players who want to take a break.

Real money slots mobile apps vs desktop

The world of mobile casino gaming is always changing. No longer are Flash-powered, browser-friendly versions considered cutting edge for playing on-the-go. Today, it’s rare to find a casino that doesn’t offer native mobile apps for both iOS and Android devices.

Slot providers are fully embracing this trend by developing their games in HTML5 to ensure seamless performance on both desktop and mobile devices. Some are going above and beyond, such as 4ThePlayer with their innovative Big Reel Portrait Mode feature, expanding the possibilities of screen usage in portrait mode.

Highest RTP online slot payouts

Return to Player (RTP) is a measure of the expected return you can receive when playing real money slot games. It is represented as a percentage, with higher RTP indicating a greater likelihood of winning over time. Consider it as the opposite of the house edge, with RTP and house edge always totaling 100%.

The majority of online slots typically have a 96% RTP, making anything higher than this considered a high-paying game. However, it’s important to note that when players discuss the profitability of a slot, they are usually referring to its maximum payout potential, not just the RTP.

It is important to keep in mind that RTP is calculated based on an infinite number of spins. While it does not guarantee specific outcomes for each session, your winnings may vary from the RTP estimate. Fluctuations in wins are normal when playing online slots.

Let’s take a look at the online slots with the best payback rates available at U.S. online casinos.

Some game providers offer various RTP variations for the same real money slot games, allowing online casinos to choose which version to provide. For instance, the mentioned Habanero slots have multiple RTP options, with differences that can exceed 5%. It is advisable to check the pay table for the specific RTP of the game at your selected online casino before beginning to play. This simple research can greatly impact your gaming experience.

Best real money online slots developers

In the world of online real money slot games, there is a distinct group of game providers who are renowned for their exceptional quality and cutting-edge designs. While new competitors continue to emerge, these five companies have solidified their positions as the leaders in the United States:

IGT: A renowned provider that established itself in the brick-and-mortar industry. Famous for its collection of classic real money slot games such as Da Vinci Diamonds and Cleopatra, IGT has a reputation for creating some of the most beloved online slots on the market.

Light & Wonder (formerly SG Gaming) is a collective of various smaller providers such as Barcrest, WMS, and Bally, offering popular games like Rainbow Riches and Cash Eruption.

Play’n GO, the creators of the iconic Book of Dead, one of the most beloved slots of all time. Another fan-favorite from them is Reactoonz, which has also gained immense popularity among slot enthusiasts.

NetEnt is renowned as the most innovative slot manufacturer among players, consistently releasing one hit game after another. Some of their top titles include Starburst, Gonzo’s Quest, Divine Fortune, and Dead or Alive.

High 5 Games is renowned for their diverse and captivating slot games, with flagship titles including Secrets of the Forest, 1000 Pearls, and A Night of Mystery. Their games are distinguished by their artistic design and cutting-edge features. The company has also launched the High5 Casino sweepstakes app, showcasing their top games.

Where are real money online slots legal in the US?

Sweepstakes Casinos

When it comes to online slots, sweepstakes casinos are top contenders. They are a staple in sweepstakes game libraries, often being the main focus for many operators. Here are some of the top legal sweepstakes casinos in the U.S., each available in at least 42 states.

Canada Casinos

Top slot games

The phrase “too many choices, difficult decision” is frequently used in the world of iGaming, particularly when it comes to online slot games. Many online casinos offer an extensive selection of thousands of slot games, and this is not an exaggeration. The challenge becomes even greater when considering that everyone has their own preferred slot game. What one player considers a hit may be a disappointment for another.

In order to determine the top real money slots in the U.S., I compared different factors such as high RTP, popularity, bonus features, betting range, and personal preference. The list below includes real money online slots that excel in all of these categories.