Video Poker or Slots? Which One Suits You?
Having played both slots and video poker for years, I wanted to understand which game offers more fun. Which one is better suited for the newbies? Which one has better odds, etc.? There are many interesting aspects to consider, believe me. Below, I’m going to go through the basics, point out a few differences, and then, I’m going to help you figure out which one is better.
Established platforms like Unibet showcase both game categories effectively, offering comprehensive video poker variants alongside extensive slot collections with progressive jackpots, live tournaments, and competitive RTP rates typically ranging from 96-98% across their premium gaming portfolio.
Video Poker: Rules and Gameplay
Video poker online mirrors its land-based cousin. You place a bet and are dealt 5 cards face-up. You choose which cards to “hold” and which to discard. Clicking “Draw” replaces the discarded cards. Payouts are determined by the last five cards in your hand according to the game’s paytable.
From 2 Jacks or better all the way up to a Royal Flush, you may win with any of these hands. The key to success is being aware of your hand. You need to realize which cards to hold for the highest potential winning hand based on probability and the paytable. It’s a blend of poker knowledge and a slot-like interface.
Slot Machines: Basics
Online slots operate using Random Number Generator (RNG) software. This is used to determine that each spin’s outcome is entirely random and independent. You select your bet per spin (coin value, number of paylines if applicable) and press “Spin.” The RNG determines the symbols stopping on the reels (virtual columns).
Wins occur when matching symbols land on active paylines (specific patterns across the reels). Payouts are triggered in accordance with the paytable found in the game. Wilds, scatters, free spins, and bonus rounds are further functions that increase the game’s complexity and reward potential. Classic titles like cleopatra demo perfectly illustrate these traditional slot mechanics with their straightforward payline structure and bonus features. Cluster payouts and Megaways are two alternatives to regular paylines. They are used frequently by modern slots. Essentially, with slots, it’s all down to luck.
Parallels Between Video Poker and Slots
There are some similarities between the two. I feel like these are important to underline so you can have a better idea of what to expect:
| Feature | Video Poker / Slots |
| Platform | Both primarily single-player on a screen |
| Core Interaction | Button pressing (Hold/Draw or Spin) |
| RNG Foundation | Outcomes determined by certified RNG |
| Payout Structure | Wins determined by pre-defined paytables |
| Bet Flexibility | Allow choosing coin size/number of coins |
| Instant Results | Hand outcome or spin result is immediate. |
| Variety on Offer | ● Poker: Many variants (Jacks, Deuces, Bonus Poker);
● Slots: Countless themes, features, mechanics. |
Fighting for Greater Odds
More money-oriented players consider house edge to be the most important value when choosing games. Here is what you’ll be dealing with:
- Video Poker. Generally offers a significantly lower house edge than slots (especially with optimal play on full-pay variants). Skill directly influences the edge.
- Example Calculation. 9/6 Jacks or Better (Full-Pay) has a theoretical return of 54% (House Edge = 0.46%) with perfect strategy. A $100 bankroll, theoretically, loses only about $0.46 per $100 wagered long-term.
- House edge (Return to Player – RTP) is fixed and typically ranges from 2% to 10% or higher, averaging around 94-96%. Player skill cannot alter this inherent edge.
- Example Calculation. A slot with 95% RTP has a House Edge of 5%. The same $100 bankroll theoretically loses about $5 per $100 wagered long-term. High volatility increases the risk of bankroll depletion faster.
Skill vs. Chance
Now that I mentioned skill and chance, it’s better to give you a more detailed breakdown for each. Here’s what these games require:
Video Poker
- Requires significant knowledge and application of optimal strategy. Knowing which cards to hold for the highest expected value based on the dealt hand and the specific paytable is crucial.
- The initial deal and the replacement cards drawn are entirely random (RNG-driven). You can’t control what cards you get.
Slots
- Minimal to none. Choosing games with higher RTP or volatility based on preference/bankroll is the main “skill.”
- Outcomes are 100% determined by RNG. Player actions (bet size, spin button) have no influence on the result of any individual spin. It’s pure luck.
Concluding Thoughts: Which Game Fits Your Style? (My Personal Checklist)
Which game aligns with your preferences? Check the boxes that resonate most:
Choose Video Poker If You…
- Enjoy games where skill and strategy impact results.
- Like understanding probabilities and making calculated decisions.
- Prefer games with a lower theoretical house edge.
- Find satisfaction in mastering complex paytables and optimal play.
- Don’t mind a slower pace focused on decision-making per hand.
Choose Slots If You…
- Wish for pure, simple entertainment with minimal thinking required.
- Love immersive themes, graphics, animations, and soundtracks.
- Enjoy the thrill of big, unpredictable jackpots (especially progressives).
- Prefer faster-paced action and instant results with every spin.
- Are drawn to diverse bonus features (free spins, pick’ems, cascading reels).
Count your checks! Whichever section has more checks likely suits your current gaming style best. Remember, you can always enjoy both!
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