David Cooper | January 3, 2023 | Updated on: January 8th, 2024
Video poker and slot machines will always hold a special spot at land-based and online casinos. These games use the same mechanics to work, though they’re markedly different to play.
So, if you’re interested in finding out “is video poker better than slots?” keep reading. We’ve broken down the key differences between the two gambling machines.
Video Poker Vs. Slots
So, what are the main differences between video poker and slots? Our experts have narrowed things down to these nine points:
1. Video Poker Requires More Strategy Than Slots
Whenever you play video poker, you need to know the payouts, rules, and how to move for a perfect strategy. Meanwhile, slots need no such maneuvering; you have to set your bets and spin.
2. Slots Have Larger Jackpots
Progressive jackpots are the most sought-after games at casinos, and only slot games can offer millions in prizes. Meanwhile, a royal flush in video poker rarely exceeds 10 000 coins.
3. Video Poker Has A Higher Payback Percentage
While you can’t get rich with one spin, you have better long-term gains from video poker games than playing slots. When you calculate the expected returns, you can win more than 100% back on lucky hands.
4. Slots Are Easier To Play
Unlike video poker players, slot players prefer a straightforward gaming session with easy wins. If you don’t care for video poker strategies or higher returns, slots are the relaxing choice.
5. Video Poker Payouts Are Easier To Figure Out
One aspect that slots fall short on is payouts and return-to-player (RTP) percentages. These are worked out on average and change. Meanwhile, video poker payouts are constant and unchanging.
6. Slots Have More Bonus Features & Comps
We all love free stuff, and that’s where slots shine when compared to table games and video poker. These games usually have multipliers, wilds, scatter symbols, and free spins built-in. But standard video pokers won’t have the same bonuses or chances of winning.
7. You Earn More Long Term Profits From Video Poker
While you get more compensation from slots, video pokers have better returns in the long run. Of course, the house edge puts a dampener on games like Deuces Wild and Jacks or Better. But those gains are worth it when you have a smaller bankroll.
8. Slots Pay Out More Online
Generally, slots pay a lot more when you’re online because the casino doesn’t have as many costs. Plus, there are more betting options with the same random number generators. On the other hand, video pokers pay the same no matter where you play them.
9. Video Poker Needs Max Bets For High Payouts
Unless you’re playing progressive jackpot slots, you don’t need to bet the max for large payouts. But video poker will only pay out the max on full houses and royal flushes if you bet five coins.
So, Is Video Poker Better Than Slots?
Put simply, it will be better for some and worse for others because no two players have the same tastes or goals. If you want simple gameplay, then we highly recommend slots with 96% or higher RTP. But if you prefer a challenge while casino gaming, you’ll prefer video poker machines.
