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

Top 5 online slot games

Editor's Note: Bonuses mentioned are for US residents with legal casino markets only.

From this list of 5 standout games, we’ve picked out the top five online slots. Even if they don't initially seem like your jam, consider giving them a spin purely for their high RTPs.  

9k Yeti: Best High Volatility Slot  

Slapping a number onto an online slot game was a slick move to get the game up front in a casino lobby, but that wasn't what 4ThePlayer was banking on to be the main draw when they put this game together. That 9k isn't just a random figure — it hints at the game's max payout, which is pretty impressive, even for a high volatility slot. 

9k Yeti plays on a 6x4 grid with 4096 ways to win. But what's really going to hit home for U.S. slot players is that stellar 97% RTP rate. 

The base game of 9k Yeti gets repetitive after a while, but it's just a warm-up for the free spins round. Landing three scatters gets you eight free spins, but if you hit six scatters, things get wild — you snag 88 free spins! And here's the kicker: a single retrigger adds another 50 free spins, with the potential to rack up to a whopping 880 free spins!

The action ramps up in 9k Yeti's bonus round when the ‘Snowstorm’ feature kicks in, offering a unique twist. If you simultaneously land a wild and a Yeti symbol, a snowstorm sweeps across the reels, reshuffling the symbols. This cool mechanic turns a potential loss into a win by guaranteeing 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's no fluke that our top two slots both come from the same nifty London-based studio. 4ThePlayer have a flair for making slots that dazzle your eyes and pack a punch with features, not to mention high RTPs. This flair is in full swing with the 3 Secret Cities slot. The RTP in this game starts at 96.5% in the base game and soars to an impressive 98% in free spins rounds activated through the bonus buy feature. 

The game's setting could be ripped right out of an adventure novel with dense jungles and mysterious ancient temples. The soundtrack buzzes with chirps and calls of the wild, setting a perfect stage for a Lara Croft-style quest for treasure. And we're talking BIG treasure — you've got a shot at prizes going all the way up to 50,000x. 

You can trigger free spins by landing scatters on reels 1, 3, and 5. If you miss one, the BONUS↑UP feature saves the day. You'll uncover a prize up to 50x or get a bonus boost, catapulting you to a higher-tier city the next time you activate free spins. To give you an idea, starting in the first city (Jungle City), you get up to 12 free spins with a 4x multiplier. But make it to the final city (Gold City), and you're looking at a whopping 50 free spins with a 15x multiplier. 

In our run, we made it to Lake City, the middle tier, and the prizes were impressive — 25 free spins with an 8x multiplier attached. 

• 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 

Taking on an overused theme is always a gamble, but Big Time Gaming pulls it off brilliantly with Apollo Pays. They're the brains behind the Megaways mechanic, and they've woven their magic into this Greek-themed slot. The artwork is a visual feast offering an aerial view of Mt. Olympus and exquisitely crafted Greek structures. The tranquil sound effects complement this scene perfectly, setting the stage for some ethereal spinning action. 

The game harnesses the Megaways engine, presenting 117,649 ways to win on each spin. But that’s just a glimpse of the extras this game has to offer. A highlight for us is the Win Exchange option, which lets players trade a big win (100x or more) straight up for entry into the free spins round.  

Then there's the always-on re-spin feature: hit a win, and those winning symbols lock while the others take another whirl, giving you another shot at striking it big. 

The free bonus spins round in Apollo Pays might look like your usual fare, but there's a twist: an exponentially increasing multiplier. It starts at 1x and increases by one each time a scatter appears on the reels. We managed to ramp it up to 10x, but anyone's guess is how high it will go. 

If those features haven't wowed you yet, the game's monster payout potential of up to 116,030x your stake surely will. And no, that's not a typo. 

• 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 

Gear up for some spectral action with Ghostbusters Triple Slime by IGT. This sequel picks up where the original 2012 Ghostbusters slot left off, drawing its spooky charm from the classic '84 poltergeist movie. The follow-up comes with sharper graphics, and a few in-game features are thrown into the mix. It's the ghost-chasing thrill you know and love, reimagined with a modern twist. 

With the provider's MultiWay Xtra mechanics in play, Ghostbusters Triple Slime offers 720 ways to win on each spin, and you can form winning combos from either side. What’s more, the game plays on a quirky hexagonal reel configuration. 

The moment we fired up Ghostbusters Triple Slime, the unmistakable Ghostbusters shoutout hit us, so it was a blast from the past. This was quickly followed by a catchy electronic disco beat that just nails the mood for the ghost-busting adventure ahead. We found ourselves drawn into the dark, eerie streets of New York City, the heart of all the spectral action.  

The symbols in Ghostbusters Triple Slime pay a true homage to the Ghostbusters universe, featuring crisp stills of the three main parapsychologists, the Ecto-1A, the P.K.E. Meter, the Keymaster helmet, and the ever-important proton pack. 

Ghostbusters Triple Slime features a pair of bonus rounds. The Slimer Scatter bonus kicks off when you land three Slime Scatter symbols, transforming into prize wheels that offer big coin multipliers. The more scatters you hit, the more wheels and bigger multipliers appear, with up to 3,850x coins at stake. Then there's the Triple Slimer Scatter bonus, where landing three or more bonus scatters lets you pick from ghosts to earn pointers for three colorful prize wheels that spin out 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 

Ten years out, NetEnt's Bloodsuckers is still a hit in the online slot scene. What's keeping it on top? That massive 98% RTP is one of the highest you'll find among U.S. online slots today. 

The game's look holds up well, too. Sure, it can't compete with newer games and their ultra-HD graphics, but it's got that creepy, cool vampire vibe down pat. The game's full of eerie, classic vampire items — you've got your holy water, bibles, garlic, and the big guy, Vlad the Impaler, a.k.a. Lord Dracula. He's not just there for spooks; he's the key to the big bucks as the highest-paying symbol in the game. 

Bloodsuckers boasts a combo of neat bonus features. You've got the pick-and-click, where you crack open coffins to reveal hidden prizes — a fun, hands-on part of the game. And when you hit three or more scatters, you're in for the free spins round. Here's the cool part about that feature: all winnings you rack up in the free spins will get tripled. 

If Bloodsuckers sounds like something you might be interested in, don't miss out on Blood Suckers 2. The sequel takes everything up a notch with crisper graphics and loads more features. And for something fresh, give the Bloodsuckers Megaways version a spin. Brought to you by Red Tiger, this new release adds a whole new dimension to the Bloodsucker series with Megaways gameplay. 

• 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

Picking the best online slots for you is about personal preference, but here's the catch: you can only really know what you like once you're up to speed with all the facts. So, let's break down some critical criteria tied to online slots:.  

🚨 Software Provider  

First thing first, check out who's created the game. Each game developer has a signature style. NetEnt, for instance, is all about razor-sharp animations and deep bonus rounds. Big Time Gaming is your go-to for slots with the chance of massive payouts. IGT’s slots might have lower RTPs, but they pack a punch with big progressive jackpots. And if you're after high RTPs, Habanero’s your bet, often hitting over 97%. It's all about finding a provider whose vibe matches your gaming taste. 

🚨 Jackpot Availability  

If you're gunning for the big bucks, jackpot slots might be the ticket. But keep in mind a couple of things about jackpot slots. First, they usually have a lower RTP than regular slots as a trade-off for the chance at that colossal prize. Also, jackpot slots come in different types.  

You've got your fixed jackpot slots, offering prizes of a few thousand bucks, and then there are the big guns — the progressive jackpot slots. Games like Siberian Storm or Microgaming's Mega Moolah offer progressive jackpots that can skyrocket into the millions. 

🚨 In-Game Features 

Slot games today are a far cry from the basic one-armed bandits of old. Modern slots are packed with a variety of in-game features. Almost every game provider seems to have rolled out its own unique game mechanic, a notch above the regular extras.  

You've got in-game elements like Hyper Hold, Power Bet, Power Reels, and Hold the Jackpot, and the list of these innovative mechanics keeps growing. If you're into these extra features, there's a world of slots to explore. But classic fruit slots are still around if you prefer something more straightforward. Keep in mind, though, that even these might come with a few extra boosts.  

🚨 RTP 

The buzz around Return to Player and the emphasis on choosing high RTP slots can sometimes be overhyped. It's important to remember that RTP is a long-term measure. In the short term, your experience can vary widely — you might win 60% of your bets on a game with a 96% RTP, for example. However, this doesn't mean you should ignore RTP altogether. The more you play, the more accurately it reflects your expected payback. If you plan to play a more extended session, RTP should factor in your slot selection. 

🚨 Maximum Payout  

Regarding maximum payout, the type of slot you choose plays a significant role. Low volatility slots let you play longer, thanks to their high hit frequency. But the high volatility slots draw in most players with their promise of massive payouts. You might face some long dry spells with these games, but when things line up just right, the payout can be huge, making the wait worthwhile. Take Apollo Pays, for example, one of the top picks in slots. It's a perfect case of high volatility paying off, offering a maximum payout of a whopping 116,030x.

Types of slot games

The variety of slot games available today is astonishing. With hundreds of new slots each month, the landscape has evolved far beyond the traditional categories like 3D or classic slots. We can bucket these into several distinct groups, albeit with some overlap. Here's a closer look at various slot game types: 

• 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 7x7 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 rise of online gaming has created an advantage that land-based casinos can't match: the option to play for free. These days, finding free slots is a breeze. Almost every real money online casino bonuses in the U.S. lets you test drive their slot games in demo mode. This setup works wonders for players not ready to bet real cash or those wanting to get the hang of a game before putting down money. It's an ideal way to grasp the game mechanics, figure out the bonus features, and ease into the gameplay without risking a penny. 

Free slots are offered at sweepstakes casinos, too, but that's another ballgame. These slots feature different providers compared to real money online casinos. Plus, they use virtual currency, not actual cash, which changes the whole dynamic. 

When it comes down to it, real money slots are the main attraction for most players. Remember also that many real money online casinos offer free spins bonuses (or no deposit bonuses you can use for slots).

If you're weighing free slots against real money slots, here's a quick rundown of what to consider: 

Top 5 online slots casinos and bonuses

Now that you're up to speed on online slots, you might be ready to give them a whirl. Take a look at our round-up of the best U.S. online casinos where you can playing these games:.  

Real money online slots quick facts

How we rate & review online slots casinos

Finding the perfect slot game is one thing, but choosing the right casino to play at is a different story. If you pick a slot that's not quite your style, no biggie — you just might not have as much fun. But if you choose the wrong casino, you could end up with more than just a dull moment — think bad experiences or, worse, getting ripped off. 

Here's some guidance on finding the ideal casino site for online slots:.  

1. Bonuses 

Some online casinos include free spins as part of their welcome bonuses, while others offer them through ongoing promotions. But even if you don't come across free spins, any bonus money is a good catch. Why? Because you can use these bonuses on slots. It's even recommended to play slots with bonus money, as they have a 100% contribution to wagering requirements. So, you're getting the full value out of your bonus when you spin those reels. 

2. Online Slots Games 

Check out the variety on offer. Some casinos pack a punch with tons of slots, a mix of different game providers, and even some exclusive titles you won't find anywhere else. Curious about progressive jackpots? See if they've got them. It's all about aligning with your preferences. Whether you're after a specific style, theme, or the thrill of chasing big jackpots, make sure the casino's slot collection ticks your boxes. 

3. Licensing and Certification 

This is where players shouldn't don't take chances. Stick to real money online casinos that are fully licensed and regulated in the U.S. It's not just about having a safety net for complaints; it's about fair play. Regulated real money casinos undergo rigorous checks, especially on their random number generator (RNG) software. This ensures US players can trust that the slots are genuinely fair and random. Playing at licensed online casinos gives you that extra security and peace of mind. 

4. Mobile Slots App Experience 

How's the casino's mobile app? If it's buggy or laggy, consider going to a different casino. If there is no app, ensure the site is optimized for mobile. Make sure the games run smoothly in both portrait and landscape modes for the best mobile experience. 

5. Reliable Customer Support 

Effective and responsive customer support is vital. Ensure the online casino provides competent support services to address any issues or concerns you might have while playing. The operator should also have a self-exclusion function for those looking to take a break.

Real money slots mobile apps vs desktop

Mobile casino gaming is constantly evolving. Gone are the days when Flash-powered, browser-compatible mobile versions were the height of innovation in on-the-go casino gaming. Nowadays, it's almost unheard of for a casino not to have native mobile apps for both iOS and Android.  

Slot providers are all in on this trend, crafting their games in HTML5 to make sure they run smoothly, whether you're on a desktop or tapping away on your phone. Some are even stepping up their game — like 4ThePlayer with their Big Reel Portrait Mode, a functionality that pushes screen usage in portrait mode far beyond the usual limits. 

Highest RTP online slot payouts

RTP, short for Return to Player, is a snapshot of what you can expect to get back while playing real money slot games. It's expressed in percentages — the higher the RTP, the more likely you win over time. Think of it as the flip side of the house edge. Together, RTP and house edge always add up to 100%. 

Most online slots hover around a 96% RTP, so anything that beats this is considered a high payer. But remember, when players talk about how lucrative a slot is, they're often referring to its max payout potential, not just the RTP. 

Remembering that RTP is calculated for an infinite number of spins is vital. RTP does not precisely predict what you'll win or lose in any given session. Your experience will vary — sometimes you might win more, sometimes less than the RTP suggests. These fluctuations are just part of playing online slots. 

Now, let's check out the online slots offering the highest payback rates at U.S. online casinos. 

It's worth noting that some game providers create different RTP variations for the same real money slot games, giving online casinos the choice of which version to offer. For example, the two Habanero slots mentioned above come with several RTP options, and the difference between these can be significant — sometimes over 5%. So, it's a good idea to peek at the pay table for the specific RTP of the game at your chosen online slot casino before you start playing. This little homework can make a big difference in your gaming experience. 

Best real money online slots developers

The online real money slot games scene has a clear upper echelon of game providers known for their long-standing excellence and innovative creations. The competition is fierce, with new names popping up, but these five stand out as the top dogs in the U.S.: 

● IGT: A legendary provider that made a name for itself in the land-based sector. Known for a wide range of iconic real money slot games like Da Vinci Diamonds and Cleopatra, IGT has a legacy of crafting some of the most popular online slots around. 

● Light & Wonder (formerly SG Gaming): This group brings together several smaller providers like Barcrest, WMS, and Bally under one roof. Their big-time titles include Rainbow Riches and Cash Eruption. 

● Play'n GO: The creators of the legendary Book of Dead," one of the most popular slots ever. Reactoonz is another hit that's made waves among slot fans. 

● NetEnt: NetEnt is the most creative slot manufacturer for many players. They’ve dropped one blockbuster after another. Their top games include Starburst, Gonzo's Quest, Divine Fortune, and Dead or Alive. 

● High 5 Games: Known for their unique wide range and engaging slots, High 5 Games' flagship titles are Secrets of the Forest, 1000 Pearls, and A Night of Mystery. Their games often stand out for their artistic style and innovative features. They’ve also rolled out a sweepstakes app, High5 Casino, featuring all their best titles.

Where are real money online slots legal in the US?

Canada Casinos

Top slot games

The line “so many options, hard to choose” is often tossed around in iGaming. Online slot games are the best example of this. Some online casinos are loaded with thousands of different slot games, and that’s no hyperbole. And here's where it gets even trickier: everyone has their idea of the best slot. What's a smash hit for one player might just be a miss for another. 

To nail down the best real money slots in the U.S., I cross-referenced various factors: high RTP, popularity, bonus features, betting range, and personal preference. The list below comprises real money online slots that nail it across the board.