The Best Low Variance Slots in the UK for 2024
UK players looking for a calmer online casino experience naturally gravitate to the best low variance slots. These slots are designed to offer a different value proposition for players and are perfect for those who want to have better control over the risk.
Top 10 Low Variance Slots for 2024
Following extensive research, our team of experts has selected the best low variance slots on the UK market. All aspects were taken into account, including the RTP of each slot, its bonus features, whether the gameplay was engaging, and, finally, its simplicity for non-expert players.
Check out the table below to see if your favourite slot is on the list, or to learn about some new titles that you might want to try if you prefer low volatility games. We believe they offer an excellent balance for both newcomers and seasoned pros.
| Low Volatility Slot | RTP | Online Slot Rating | Min. Bet Size | Max. Bet Size | Best UK Casino |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ⭐ Starburst | 96.09% | 5.0 out of 5.0 | 10p | £100 | Griffon Casino |
| ⭐ Vikings Go Wild | 96.30% | 5.0 out of 5.0 | 25p | £100 | Videoslots |
| ⭐ Aloha! Cluster Pays | 96.42% | 4.9 out of 5.0 | 10p | £200 | Dream Vegas |
| ⭐ Hot Cross Bunnies | 95.64% | 4.9 out of 5.0 | 25p | £250 | Ladbrokes Casino |
| ⭐ Jack Hammer | 96.96% | 4.9 out of 5.0 | 25p | £250 | Coral Casino |
| ⭐ Tomb Raider | 96.56% | 4.8 out of 5.0 | 10p | £100 | Duelz |
| ⭐ Game of Thrones 243 Ways | 94.86% | 4.8 out of 5.0 | 30p | £300 | Karamba |
| ⭐ Dragon Spin | 95.96% | 4.8 out of 5.0 | 30p | £120 | Grand Ivy |
| ⭐ 1429 Uncharted Seas | 98.50% | 4.7 out of 5.0 | 10p | £100 | 888Casino |
| ⭐ Wealth Inn | 96.64% | 4.7 out of 5.0 | 10p | £100 | Casimba |
On this page, we’ll identify some of the most popular low variance slots and help you understand what makes them different from ones with higher volatility. In the table below we explain some of the highlights of these types of slots, where to play them, and a clearer definition of the term.
Low Variance Slot Guide
Low Volatility Slot Summary
Low volatility slots are games which tend to pay out small wins more often and are considered an ideal slot for beginners on their first visit to an online casino.
Best Low Variance Slot Highlights
- More frequent, smaller payouts
- Quicker access to bonus rounds
- Generally simple slot mechanics
- Ideal for first-time players
Low Variance Slots Explained
In terms of online slots, variance refers to the frequency of payouts. The lower the variance the more individual payouts will be collected by a player. This does not mean the best low variance slots will pay out more money (its return to player (RTP) is the same as a high variance slot) it will just payout smaller but more frequent wins.
The term low volatility or variance is independent of RTP. RTP refers to the theoretical figure returned to players over a huge number of spins. The closer the RTP figure is to 100%, the more is returned to players. In the UK this figure must be displayed prominently on all real money online slot machines.
Almost all online slots in the UK will be labelled not only with their RTP but there will be a variance level quoted. Usually, this will say high, medium or low volatility slots. Choose low variance if you want low volatile slots. It’s worth noting that certain slots such as Megaways slots are generally not low volatility.
All online casinos will have a good mix of all variance levels. We have curated plenty of options on this page with details of each slot explaining the theme and a little more about its RTP. You will soon get the hang of how to find them and how to identify one from any long list of low variance slot machines.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Low Volatility Slots
Low variance slots are sometimes described as the slowest way of losing money at an online casino. This is especially true given that the best low volatility slots have an above average RTP. Playing them as a form of entertainment means you will have more chances to appreciate the features, gameplay, sounds and graphics.
If you prefer having long losing streaks married to the (possible) occasional big win, then you may be happier with some of the high variance slots. Those who are happy with a bit of both should ideally look to play medium variance slots. Below is a table of the pros and cons of low volatility online slots:
| Advantages: | Disadvantages: |
|---|---|
| More Frequent Wins | Harder to Land Big Jackpot |
| Great for Beginners | More Losses Disguised as Wins |
| Quicker Route to Bonus Rounds | Less Bonus Features |
| Smaller Losing Streaks | Busier Experience Overall |
As you can see from the table above there are pros and cons of playing low variance slots. The principal advantage is you will win more often. Important note: this does not necessarily mean you are more likely to turn a profit, it means the game is programmed to pay out more regular small wins. The overall RTP remains the same.
Bonus rounds are likely to be triggered more easily on low volatility slots. Bonus rounds add a variety to gameplay and, to be honest, make most games a lot more enjoyable. Important to note once again: this will not necessarily lead to big profits.
It is this lack of a stronger chance to win big payouts which is the downside of low variance slots UK players will need to appreciate. With more of the payout going on smaller wins, the chance to win big does decrease. That is not to say players cannot hit a decent score, it just means the odds of it happening are not that high.
Best Low Variance Slots for British Players
Check out our rundown of the best low variance slot titles in detail below. You’ll find some well-known crowd favourites, as well as lesser-known games.
- 🥇 Starburst – Most Famous Online Slot
- 🥈 Dragon Spin – Popular UK Oriental Slot
- 🥉 Game of Thrones 243 Ways – Most Engaging Title
- 🏅 Hot Cross Bunnies – Lowest Variance UK Slot
- 🏅 Vikings Go Wild – Least Volatile UK Slot
- 🏅 Wealth Inn – #1 UK Beginner Title
- 🏅 Tomb Raider – British Favourite Variance Slot
- 🏅 Jack Hammer – Classic Slot with Low Volatility
- 🏅 1429 Uncharted Seas – High RTP, Low Volatile Slot
- 🏅 Aloha! Cluster Pays – Great Sounds and Graphics
Starburst by NetEnt – 96.09% RTP
NetEnt’s Starburst slot is the quintessential five-reel three-row slot in this genre. You would be hard-pressed to find any online casino that does not stock this title given its popularity and simple set up. Starburst has been a top online slot since its introduction in 2012 and boasts an appealing RTP of 96.09%.
| 🎰 Reels: | 5 |
|---|---|
| 🃏 Paylines: | 10 |
| 🎲 Rows: | 3 |
| 💲 RTP: | 96.09% |
| 💸 Jackpot: | No |
| ♾️ Autoplay: | Not in UK |
| 🤑 Gamble: | No |
| 💰 Bet Size: | 10p – £100 |
It is its simplicity that has played a huge part in why this NetEnt slot is one of the most easily recognisable games in the UK. There are no complicated bonus features, and its bright, punchy graphics seem to attract new and regular players alike.
Dragon Spin by Bally – 95.96% RTP
One of the best low volatility slots from software developer Bally is its Oriental-themed creation Dragon Spin. Perfect for those players looking for small, regular wins, the online slot has an RTP of 95.96% and comes to players in the classic five-reel three-row set up. First released in 2015, Dragon Spin has been wowing players ever since.
| 🎰 Reels: | 5 |
|---|---|
| 🃏 Paylines: | 30 |
| 🎲 Rows: | 3 |
| 💲 RTP: | 95.96% |
| 💸 Jackpot: | Yes |
| ♾️ Autoplay: | Not in UK |
| 🤑 Gamble: | No |
| 💰 Bet Size: | 30p – £120 |
It is a title which gets much more interesting once the bonus round kicks in where players can earn free spins to boost their winnings. Raining Wilds can boost the paylines from 30 to 90 opening up many more ways to win from this exciting Bally slot.
Game of Thrones 243 Ways by Microgaming – 94.86% RTP
What Game of Thrones 243 Ways lacks in RTP (a little under 95%) it makes up for in all-round entertainment and, of course, is a very low variance slot playable at many UK online casinos. The number in the title refers to the paylines in this Microgaming title. Game of Thrones 243 Ways has been thrilling fans of the eponymous TV show since its launch in 2015.
| 🎰 Reels: | 5 |
|---|---|
| 🃏 Paylines: | 243 |
| 🎲 Rows: | 3 |
| 💲 RTP: | 94.86% |
| 💸 Jackpot: | No |
| ♾️ Autoplay: | Not in UK |
| 🤑 Gamble: | Yes |
| 💰 Bet Size: | 30p – £300 |
While this is not a progressive jackpot slot, Microgaming has created a 50/50 gamble feature. On entering, you must choose on which side Jaqen H’ghar’s coin will fall – heads or tails. Take your pick and hopefully, the Many-Faced God will be on your side!
Hot Cross Bunnies by Realistic Games – 95.64% RTP
Realistic Games set down a marker for titles in this category when releasing its Hot Cross Bunnies slot in 2013. The title is deceptively simple at first glance with just the classic three rows and three reels. The fun really starts when Hot Cross Bunnies players enter the feature round and those baby rabbits sure do get mad in one of the best low volatility slots around.
| 🎰 Reels: | 3 |
|---|---|
| 🃏 Paylines: | 1 |
| 🎲 Rows: | 3 |
| 💲 RTP: | 95.64% |
| 💸 Jackpot: | No |
| ♾️ Autoplay: | Not in UK |
| 🤑 Gamble: | No |
| 💰 Bet Size: | 25p – £250 |
If you like slots with nudges then you will love the set up by the developers Realistic Games in which players have a chance to move the symbols up or down to create a winning payline. Watch out for the Bunny Money win series and the Super Spin feature for more excitement.
Vikings Go Wild by Yggdrasil – 96.30% RTP
Players need not go too wild when spinning Yggdrasil’s Vikings Go Wild given it’s another slot which will regularly pay out small wins (though is officially described as a low-medium variance slot). There is plenty of fun to be had with the five-reel, four-row Vikings Go Wild. It has quickly become a fan favourite around the world.
| 🎰 Reels: | 5 |
|---|---|
| 🃏 Paylines: | 25 |
| 🎲 Rows: | 4 |
| 💲 RTP: | 96.30% |
| 💸 Jackpot: | No |
| ♾️ Autoplay: | Not in UK |
| 🤑 Gamble: | No |
| 💰 Bet Size: | 25p – £100 |
With an impressive 25 paylines, players are kept interested with free spins within the main game before getting the chance to enter the potentially higher-paying bonus round. Here, Yggdrasil has created a treasure chest which offers a mystery win and a chance to trigger even more free spins.
Wealth Inn by Habanero – 96.64% RTP
If you are looking for a gorgeous slot to play with low volatility then look no further than Wealth Inn by casino software developer Habanero. By its nature, this slot will not make you wealthy but you will be welcomed into a visually stunning experience when playing Wealth Inn online.
| 🎰 Reels: | 3 |
|---|---|
| 🃏 Paylines: | 8 |
| 🎲 Rows: | 3 |
| 💲 RTP: | 96.64% |
| 💸 Jackpot: | No |
| ♾️ Autoplay: | Not in UK |
| 🤑 Gamble: | No |
| 💰 Bet Size: | 10p – £100 |
With an RTP of 96.64%, this 3×3 slot has just 8 paylines but it is its simplicity which makes this an enchanting Oriental-themed game to play. Players will want to see the Cai Shen symbol as much as possible as this is the expanding wild feature which initiates extra winning spins.
Jack Hammer by NetEnt – 96.96% RTP
NetEnt’s Jack Hammer online slot has been delighting players who enjoy low variance slot games for many years. While not the easiest title for beginners to play, the gameplay is fairly self-evident once you give the game a few spins. Jack Hammer has an RTP of 96.96% in the classic five-reel, three-row structure.
| 🎰 Reels: | 5 |
|---|---|
| 🃏 Paylines: | 25 |
| 🎲 Rows: | 3 |
| 💲 RTP: | 96.96% |
| 💸 Jackpot: | Yes |
| ♾️ Autoplay: | Not in UK |
| 🤑 Gamble: | No |
| 💰 Bet Size: | 25p – £250 |
The slot game offers a fixed jackpot of 250,000 coins. To win it you need to hit five Jack Hammers. The Sticky Win is activated after hitting three scatters or after landing a winning combination. It has proved to be one of the most popular games over the years by NetEnt.
Tomb Raider by Microgaming – 96.56% RTP
Built on the back of a successful game and movie franchise, Microgaming’s Tomb Raider slot had plenty to live up to when introduced to UK players way back in 2004. With a generous RTP of 96.56%, low volatility and fascinating gameplay it was no wonder Tomb Raider was an instant hit and still retains cult popularity.
| 🎰 Reels: | 5 |
|---|---|
| 🃏 Paylines: | 15 |
| 🎲 Rows: | 3 |
| 💲 RTP: | 96.56% |
| 💸 Jackpot: | No |
| ♾️ Autoplay: | Not in UK |
| 🤑 Gamble: | No |
| 💰 Bet Size: | 10p – £100 |
The title will be found at the best Microgaming online casinos where players will enjoy the simple but possibly rewarding bonus features of this Lara Croft classic game. Three scatter symbols will give players up to 10 free spins. Watch out for the Golden Idol symbols, if three land on a payline the Tomb Bonus is activated.
1429 Uncharted Seas by Thunderkick – 98.50% RTP
1429 Uncharted Seas is everpresent on any list of low variance slot machines. It is the double whammy of low volatility and a high RTP which has attracted so many players to this Thunderkick creation. Not only is the title cost-effective to play, but it also has pleasing graphics and backstory elements. 1429 Uncharted Seas is a rare breed of slot.
| 🎰 Reels: | 5 |
|---|---|
| 🃏 Paylines: | 10 |
| 🎲 Rows: | 1 |
| 💲 RTP: | 98.50% |
| 💸 Jackpot: | No |
| ♾️ Autoplay: | Not in UK |
| 🤑 Gamble: | No |
| 💰 Bet Size: | 10p – £100 |
There is nothing too fancy about the gameplay but the bonus round allows players to unlock free spins on this five-reel three-row game. Developer Thunderkick has employed a pleasing soundtrack to enhance the fun and it is certainly worth a spin on this swashbuckling slot.
Aloha! Cluster Pays by NetEnt – 96.42% RTP
Another NetEnt creation which has been top of the list of the best low variance slots for a long while is Aloha! Cluster Pays. The Cluster Pays in the title refers to a specific game mechanic which clusters winning symbols to increase the propensity of small wins. Aloha! Cluster Pays borrows from the Hawaiian culture with cute imagery and a relaxing soundtrack.
| 🎰 Reels: | 6 |
|---|---|
| 🃏 Paylines: | 9+ |
| 🎲 Rows: | 5 |
| 💲 RTP: | 96.42% |
| 💸 Jackpot: | No |
| ♾️ Autoplay: | Not in UK |
| 🤑 Gamble: | No |
| 💰 Bet Size: | 10p – £200 |
What it lacks in special features, it more than makes up for in its format where players are seemingly regularly rewarded with cluster wins. Players can earn free spins when entering the bonus round and continue to receive spins until a winning payline is revealed. This is a great low volatility title to get started with and is among the best NetEnt slots given its simplicity and relaxing vibes.
Best Low Variance Slots Casinos for British players
If you have been seeking out the best low volatility slots online then you may be by nature a little risk-averse. Therefore, you will need to make sure you find a casino which is safe and secure and ultimately risk-free in terms of security.
All the slot casinos selected on this page are fully licenced to operate in the UK. All have passed our stringent checks to make sure UK players can play with the maximum amount of reassurance that their money is safe for deposits and withdrawals. Here are the best low variance slots casino sites:
| Ranking | Low Variance Slot Site | Casino Rating | All Slots | Low Variance Slots | UK Player Bonus | Secure British Link | Full Casino Review | Bonus Terms |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Griffon Casino | ⭐ Griffin Casino | 1,600+ | 135 | Up to 200 Bonus Spins | Play Here | Casino Review | Full T&Cs Apply. 18+. Welcome bonus: new UK depositing players only. 200 spins require 3 deposits of min. £20 each and are issued as follows: 50 on 1st deposit, 50 on 2nd deposit and 100 on 3rd deposit. Spins are issued on selected games. Winnings from spins are bonus with wagering requirements 35x. Spins expire after 24 hours. Bonus expires after 21 days. Gambling can be addictive, please play responsibly, www.gambleaware.org. | |
| 2. Ladbrokes Casino | ⭐ Ladbrokes Casino | 1,500+ | 132 | Bet £10 Get £30 | Play Here | Casino Review | Full T&Cs Apply. 18+. New Casino players only. Deposit required. Play £10+ on qualifying games. 40x wager reqs (Bonus only) on selected games. Accept Bonus within 14 days. Bonus valid for 30 days. Certain deposit types excluded. Player restrictions apply. | |
| 3. Dream Vegas | ⭐ Dream Vegas | 2,000+ | 176 | Up to £300 + 150 Spins | Play Here | Casino Review | Full T&Cs Apply. 18+. New players only. One offer per player. Max bonus bet £5. Offer: 100% bonus match on 1st deposit + bonus spins. Value of bonus & number of spins depend on deposit amount: £20-£100: max £100 bonus + 50 spins on selected games; £101-£200: max £200 bonus + 100 spins on selected games; or £200+: max £300 bonus + 150 spins on eligible NetEnt Games. Winnings from spins credited as bonus and capped at £100. Bonus funds are separate to Cash funds, and are subject to 35x wagering the total bonus & cash. Only bonus funds contribute to wagering requirement. Bonus funds expire within 30 days; bonus spins within 72hrs. Affordability checks apply. GambleAware.org. | |
| 4. Coral Casino | ⭐ Coral Casino | 1,400+ | 111 | Bet £10, Play with £50 | Play Here | Casino Review | Full T&Cs Apply. 18+. New Casino players only. Deposit req (certain types excluded). Bet £10+ on qualifying games to get a £50 Bonus (selected games, 40x wag req, accept within 14 days, valid for 30 days). | |
| 5. Duelz | ⭐ Duelz | 1,100+ | 109 | 100% up to £100 + 100 Spins | Play Here | Casino Review | Full T&Cs Apply. 18+ new players only. Minimum deposit: £20. Maximum £100 bonus. Max bet with an active bonus: £2. Wagering requirement 100% match bonus: 30 times sum of deposit + bonus. Max redeemable from welcome bonus: £500. 100 Free Spins are given out 20 per day on Book of Dead for 5 days in a row, log in each day is required. Max Free Spins winnings: £100. Winnings from Free Spins are credited as bonus money with a wagering requirement of 45 times. Free Spins expire after 3 days. Some games may not be played with a bonus. Games may contribute differently when wagering a bonus. Play Responsibly! www.gambleaware.org. | |
| 6. Karamba | ⭐ Karamba | 1,900+ | 169 | 100% up to £50 + 100 Spins | Play Here | Casino Review | Full T&Cs Apply. 18+. Welcome bonus: New players only. Min first deposit: €10. Max bonus €200. 100 spins require 3 deposits. 100% bonus and 20 spins on 1st deposit. 40 spins on 2nd deposit (min €20), and 40 spins on 3rd deposit (min €20). Spins issued on selected games. Spins and bonus wagering requirement: 35x, spins expire after 24 hours. Gambling can be addictive. Play responsibly, www.gambleaware.org. | |
| 7. 32Red | ⭐ 32Red | 2,100+ | 180 | 150% up to £100 | Play Here | Casino Review | Full T&Cs Apply. 18+ gambleaware.org. New accounts only. Min. deposit required. Debit card deposit only. 50x wagering, game contributions vary. Max stake applies. 7 day expiry. | |
| 8. Videoslots | ⭐ Videoslots | 5,300+ | 439 | 100% up to £200 | Play Here | Casino Review | Full T&Cs Apply. 18+. New Customers only. £10 minimum deposit required, 35 x wagering in order to receive the maximum of £ 200 bonus. Contributions to wagering vary by game. Bonus within thirty (30) calendar days under the 'My Bonuses’ section of your account (found under 'My Profile'). The 100% bonus up to £ 200 will be paid out in 10% increments to your Main Account balance. Max bet per spin is 50% of your deposit up to £20. | |
| 9. Grand Ivy | ⭐ Grand Ivy | 1,900+ | 176 | 100% up to £300 + 25 Spins | Play Here | Casino Review | Full T&Cs Apply. 18+. New players only. Min. deposit £20. Max. bonus bet is £5. Bonus spins on selected games only and must be used within 72 hours. Winnings from Bonus spins credited as bonus funds and capped at £100. Bonus funds expire in 30 days, unused bonus funds will be removed. Welcome Offer is 100% match up to £300 + 25 bonus spins on your 1st deposit. Bonus funds are separate to Cash funds, and are subject to 35x wagering the total bonus & cash. Only bonus funds count towards wagering contribution. Affordability checks apply. Terms apply. GambleAware.org. | |
| 10. NetBet | ⭐ NetBet | 1,800+ | 177 | Up to 500 Free Spins on First Deposit | Play Here | Casino Review | Full T&Cs Apply. 18+ New players, £10+ deposit, no e-wallets/prepaid cards, up to 500 Free Spins, 40x wagering on Free Spins winnings, £5 max bonus stake. GambleAware |
After checking the safety, we consider a number of other factors. We make sure each casino has a varied slot library (with, of course, plenty of low variance games) but also a wide variety of other casino games. We check for the best online casino payout percentages. Finally, we assess the bonuses to make sure they are fair and obtainable.
Low Volatility Slot Site Types
To help your decision we have further broken down our top ten list into individual categories. In this way, you can pinpoint the exact casino for your needs and be confident you have made the right decision. We recommend all the safe online casinos highlighted on this page but the ones below are our favourites for playing low variance slots.
Top 5 Low Variance Slot Sites for UK Players
- 🎲 Best Low Variance Slot Casino ▶️ Griffon Casino
- ✨ Top Casino for Beginners ▶️ Ladbrokes Casino
- 🤑 Best Casino Payout Rates ▶️ Videoslots
- 🎰 Top Low Volatility Game Offer ▶️ Duelz
- 🏆 Best Low Variance UK Operator ▶️ Grand Ivy Casino
As well as picking our overall top selection we added recommendations for beginners, looked at the casino with the best payout rates and have chosen the casino we believe has the #1 selection of low variance online slots.
Popular Questions About Low Volatility Slots
As low variance online slots are popular with new casino players, it is possible you may have more questions. Look at our FAQ section below where we try and answer some of the most popular questions on this subject with some jump links back to the most relevant content for your convenience.
1️⃣ Which are the top low variance slots in the United Kingdom?
We have carefully selected our list of the best low variance slots for players from the United Kingdom choosing not just the fun and visually pleasing titles but also those most suitable for beginners.
2️⃣ Which is the best low variance slot for UK players?
UK players have a fantastic choice of low volatile slots to play online. We selected the Starburst slot as our top selection based on ease of play and the overall RTP.
3️⃣ Where to play low volatility slots in the UK?
We have compiled a list based on safety and choice of titles to offer you the best low variance casinos in the UK. All are secure venues and hold the correct gambling licence.
4️⃣ How to play low volatility slots?
You play these slots like any other – purely as a form of entertainment. For other nuances to playing this type of game read our section on low volatile slots explained.
5️⃣ What are the advantages of low volatility slot machines?
This type of slot game is perfect for beginners. For a detailed appraisal look at the pros and cons of low volatility online slots where the main advantage you will see is a greater frequency of smaller wins (though not necessarily a greater profit).
6️⃣ What does variance on slots mean?
Variance loosely relates to the frequency of payouts. Low volatility games will pay out small wins more often while high variance slots tend to see longer periods between any payout. Neither type of variance affects the overall RTP of any slot.