Do Online Slots Pay More At Night?

At the best online casinos in Ireland, superstitions and myths abound.


Some players believe specific clothing brings luck, while others think nighttime play increases jackpot chances. Las Vegas, renowned for its casinos, thrives at night, enhancing the gaming atmosphere. This belief extends to online slots, with some claiming higher payouts at night.


However, this theory applies only to slots, neglecting other games like Video Poker and Bingo. We will explore whether time of day affects slot machine payouts, considering factors like machine choice, RTP and game volatility.

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This page is written by
Seánie O'Brien
Seánie O'BrienCasino Adviser
Fact Checked By
Rebecca Mackay
Rebecca MackayHead of Content
According to our Editorial Guide

Online slots are popular at all hours, but people think payouts vary, especially at night.

Our video investigates this belief, explaining slot mechanics and offering winning strategies applicable regardless of time.

Quick Summary

Here's a quick summary of what you'll find in this article:

  1. Gamblers theorize higher payouts for online slots at night, attributing it to extended gameplay.

  2. Increased nighttime player numbers may lead to more spins and higher payouts.

  3. However, casinos cannot manipulate slot odds, as they operate on RNG.

  4. Strategies to increase payouts include understanding RTP, using free spins, and considering game volatility.

Why Are Slot Machines So Popular? 

Slot machines are popular due to their simplicity compared to skill-based games like Poker or Blackjack. They rely more on luck than strategy, requiring consideration of factors like volatility, budget, RTP, reviews and house edge.

Additionally, slots offer bonuses to enhance the gaming experience.

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How Does The Slot Machine Work?

Slot machines operate using a random number generator (RNG) to determine outcomes.

The RNG generates numbers continuously and independently of external factors like time or day. Casino regulatory boards verify RNG formulas to ensure fairness and prevent cheating.

The Best Time To Go To A Casino

The most popular slot machine shifts are typically from 12 am to 4 am, but it's essential to check local gambling regulations.

It's advisable to visit the casino when you have more to spend for maximum bets and potential big wins. Playing when there are more online players, usually on weekends, increases the likelihood of jackpot payouts.

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Do Slots Pay More At Night?

Where the Idea Came From

William F. Red Blume's 1945 book, The Slot Machine Handbook, was the first to discuss better results from casino slots at night. He argued that longer gameplay increases winning probabilities.

While some agree, others propose alternative strategies for winning at slots.

Other Beliefs

This belief arises from increased nighttime player numbers in casinos. It suggests that more players lead to more spins, prompting casinos to lower the house edge and increase RTP to attract and compensate players.

However, some argue that casinos don't change winning probabilities but simply adjust payouts based on player activity.

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Assessing the Claim

While more people are at casinos at night, slot machine mechanisms remain unchanged throughout the day.

Altering games is considered cheating and is prohibited in many countries. Jackpot payouts are determined by the number of players, not the time of day, as each machine has a fixed payout rate.

Therefore, time is not a factor in slot gameplay, but players can increase their payout percentage through other strategies.

How to Increase Your Chances of Winning

Consider 3 following things to increase your chances of winning the game.

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RTP and House Edge

RTP or return to player percentage is crucial in slot games, representing the probability of winning.


A higher RTP indicates better odds of winning, so it's advisable to choose games with an RTP of at least 96%. Many casino sites provide RTP information for games, but if not, players can search online or play for coins to determine it themselves.


Some slot games with high RTP include: Ugga Bugga (99.07%), Rainbow Riches Pick n Mix (98%), Mega Joker (99%), Ooh Aah Dracula (99%) and 1429 Uncharted Seas (98.6%).

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Volatility

Another factor to consider is slot volatility. Volatility does not shape the probability of winning- it shapes the size and frequency of your winnings. Volatility has 3 types: high, medium and low. High-volatility games are those with high risk and reward, but the frequency of wins is lower.


Examples of this type of games are: Dead or Alive, Book of Dead, Immortal Romance, Marching Legions and White Rabbit Megaways.


Medium volatility slots slope towards high variance slots. Winnings are decently sized and frequent enough. Examples of this type of games are: Jumanji, North Storm, Thunderstruck 2, Lady Pirate and Polar Paws.


Low volatility slots have a low risk and a low rewards ratio. You can win small but frequent payouts from the game. Examples of this type of games are: Starburst, Big Bad Wolf, Blood Suckers 2, Machine Gun Unicorn and Enchanted Garden.


If you want to win frequently, you should play a low-volatility game. 

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Free Spins

Casinos often offer free spins as slots game promotions. With free spins, there's no risk involved- players keep any winnings without investing anything initially.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do slots pay more at night?

No, they don't. This is a myth. This is because slot machines are operated by machinery that cannot be tampered with at random. In addition, messing with the probability of players winning or losing their games is considered illegal.

How do slot machines work?

Slot machines are operated with a random number generator. When you press the button, the generator captures one of the billion possibilities it could have thrown out, and the number is compared to the game’s programming. If it matches, you win. If it doesn't, you lose.

Which game should I choose to win more often?

You can choose any game with low volatility. You will win small payouts, but you will win them frequently.

What is the best time of day to play slots?

There is no best time of day to play slots. Probability of earning payout remain the same no matter the time you play.

Do slots pay more at the end of the month?

This is a false believing. They are based purely on luck.

Casino Mentor

Seánie has plenty of experience in the casino world and enjoys sharing this accumulated knowledge. He offers great tips and tricks for players to enjoy casinos safely.

Expert on:

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FactCheckIcon Fact Checked By Rebecca Mackay