Understanding RTP
RTP (Return to Player) shows how much a game pays back over time. For example, a 95% RTP means you can expect $95 back for every $100 wagered. Knowing RTP helps you pick games that give you better odds.
How Do Game Providers Calculate RTP?
They simulate millions of spins and average the total payouts against wagers. Actual returns can vary short term due to luck and variance.
Theoretical RTP vs Actual Results
Theoretical RTP is long-term expected value. Your short-term play might differ. With more spins, actual RTP aligns closer to theoretical values.
Blackjack RTP: Land-Based vs Online
Vegas Blackjack RTP (99.5%-99.7%)
Vegas blackjack offers some of the highest RTPs when played with optimal strategy. Look for 3:2 payout ratios and rules like the dealer standing on soft 17.
Online Blackjack RTP
Online games mimic Vegas odds but can vary by software provider. Rule changes impact RTP significantly.
1. RTG Blackjack
RTG Blackjack ranges from 99.5%–99.7%. Single or double deck setups, plus favorable rules like standing on soft 17, make this a solid option.
2. Betsoft Blackjack
Ranges between 99.4% and 99.6%. Multi-deck games slightly lower RTP. Avoid rules where the dealer hits soft 17.
Best odds in the market at up to 99.7%. Look for single-deck games with late surrender options and favorable dealer rules.
| Provider |
Typical RTP |
Deck Count |
Rules |
Unique Features |
| Betsoft |
99.4% – 99.6% |
4 to 8 decks |
Dealer hits soft 17, Double any 2 cards |
3D graphics, split up to 3 hands |
| RTG |
99.5% – 99.7% |
Single to 6 decks |
Dealer stands soft 17, Double 10/11 |
Classic UI, flexible settings |
| IGT |
Up to 99.7% |
1 to 8 decks |
Dealer stands soft 17, Double any 2 |
Enhanced UI, side bets |
Sweepstakes Casinos
Sweepstakes casinos use virtual coins instead of real cash. As a result, the RTP (Return to Player) tends to be lower—between 92% and 95%—geared more toward casual fun than long-term returns.
These casinos suit casual players who enjoy games without real-money risk. They often feature American Roulette with a typical RTP of 94.74%, which is lower than what’s found in standard online casinos.
Though European Roulette versions exist at sweepstakes casinos, they’re less common. If you’re aiming for better odds, stick with RTG or IGT titles at licensed online casinos.
Roulette RTP: A Closer Look
Roulette RTP varies based on the version. American Roulette has 38 pockets—including a double zero—which increases the house edge and brings the RTP down to 94.74%.
By contrast, European Roulette features 37 pockets with just a single zero, offering a much better RTP of 97.3%. That 2.56% difference matters over extended play sessions.
Vegas Land-Based Casino Roulette RTP
Most Vegas casinos offer American Roulette. The double zero increases the house edge, making it the less favorable option. However, high-limit rooms or luxury casinos sometimes feature European Roulette for serious players.
Note that European tables often come with higher minimum bets—balancing out their improved RTP.
Online Roulette: Variant Comparison
For better odds online, I recommend European or French Roulette. French Roulette offers the highest RTP of 98.65% thanks to rules like La Partage and En Prison.
When zero hits, these rules return half your bet on even-money wagers. That’s a big edge. Always verify game rules because some “European” tables sneak in American-style odds.
Tip: Avoid online American Roulette unless a bonus makes it worth the risk. Stick to labeled variants and check RTP in the info section.
Strategies to Maximize RTP in Table Games
I use a strategy chart in Single Deck Blackjack and double down on 11 against any dealer upcard except an Ace. In Multi-Deck Blackjack, I double when the dealer shows 4, 5, or 6. If surrender is allowed, I surrender 16 vs. 10—it protects my bankroll.
Even-money bets in European or French Roulette are reliable. I prefer Red/Black or Odd/Even. French Roulette’s La Partage rule refunds half your bet if the ball lands on zero—further improving RTP.
Slot Games RTPs at Casinos
Slot RTP in Vegas
In Vegas, slot RTPs typically range from 85% to 92%. Strip casinos often offer lower RTPs due to high foot traffic, while off-strip or locals’ casinos tend to provide better odds for players.
Online Slots: RTP Ranges from 90% to 98%
Online slots offer higher RTPs due to lower operating costs. I aim for games with at least 96% RTP for stronger returns over time.
- RTG Slots: 94% to 97%. Example: Achilles Deluxe (~96.5%).
- Betsoft Slots: 95% to 97%. Example: Safari Sam 2 (~96.3%).
- IGT Slots: 92% to 98%. Example: Cleopatra (~95.7%).
Slot RTP in Sweepstakes Casinos
Sweepstakes casinos usually offer lower RTPs between 90% and 94%. They’re designed more for casual fun than optimizing return.
RTP for Video Poker in Vegas
Top video poker games like Jacks or Better and Deuces Wild offer the best RTP—when you find the right paytable.
Jacks or Better (9/6): 99.54% RTP with optimal strategy. The “8/5” version drops to 97.3%.
Full Pay Deuces Wild: 100.76% RTP (very rare). NSUD (Not So Ugly Deuces) offers a strong 99.73%.
Downtown Vegas casinos often have better paytables than large strip resorts.
Online Video Poker RTP by Game Variant
- RTG: Aces and Eights – 99.78% RTP
- Betsoft: Double Bonus Poker – up to 99.11% (site-dependent)
- IGT: Jacks or Better – 99.54% (full-pay), Triple Double Bonus – ~98.15%
Online casinos typically offer more consistent paytables than land-based venues, and often publish their RTPs for transparency.
How Paytables Affect RTP
Strategy matters. In Jacks or Better, hold pairs over chasing straights. In Deuces Wild, avoid chasing unless odds improve.
Progressive games may offer slightly lower base RTPs but compensate with large jackpots. I prefer multi-hand or progressive play for added excitement.
Sweepstakes Video Poker RTP
Sweepstakes versions usually have RTP between 94% and 97%, but the paytables are rarely optimized. While gameplay mimics real poker, payout structures are adjusted to protect the operator’s margins.
Even if the game name is familiar, expect less favorable returns compared to licensed online casinos or Vegas.
Factors That Influence RTP
Regulation matters. Licensed jurisdictions like the UK or New Jersey enforce minimum RTP levels—typically 85%+ for slots and higher for table games.
Offshore casinos in Curacao or Panama may offer lower RTPs due to limited oversight. Always choose platforms audited by reputable third parties.
RTP Tips for Players
- Slots: Look for RTPs above 96%. Check the info screen before playing.
- Blackjack: Choose single-deck or European versions with 99.5%+ RTP.
- Roulette: Pick European (97.3%) or French (98.65%) games for better odds.
- Video Poker: Play 9/6 Jacks or Better or Full Pay Deuces Wild for peak RTP.
- Check Certification: eCOGRA or iTech Labs seals mean games are independently audited.
- Stick to Trusted Providers: Betsoft, IGT, and RTG have strong RTP records and reliable game mechanics.
Conclusion
Online casinos generally offer better RTPs compared to Vegas casinos. Slot games often have RTPs up to 98%, while Vegas slots can dip as low as 85%.
In table games, online European Roulette has a 97.3% RTP. That’s better than the 94.74% of American Roulette in Vegas.
Online video poker offers full-pay versions like 9/6 Jacks or Better (99.54% RTP), a rarity in land-based casinos.
Lodging in Vegas can drain your bankroll before you even hit the tables. Even budget hotels near the Strip can cost a small fortune, especially during weekends or events.
Once you’re inside the casino, the odds aren’t much better. Most slot machines on the Strip offer RTPs as low as 85% to 92%. That’s significantly worse than those at reputable online casinos.
Table games aren’t much of a reprieve either. Blackjack tables that used to offer 3:2 payouts now often give 6:5, dropping the RTP. Vegas might have the hype, but the reality doesn’t always match up.
