Best Online Slots for 2024 - Online Slots Explained

Online slots are a great form of entertainment for anyone looking for an exciting, fast-paced way to win big from the comfort of their home. We've covered everything from 3-reel games to the latest slot games in Canada!

Online slots are a great form of entertainment for anyone looking for an exciting, fast-paced way to win big from the comfort of ...

Written By: Max Dernaker Checked By: Thomas Berg Last Updated

Key Features

  • Online slots in Canada are fair and use RNG
  • The best Canadian slots sites offer both free online slots and real money slots
  • There are several types of online slots including jackpot slots, mobile slots and slots with extraordinary functions

Top Slot Sites in Canada: March, 2024

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Online Slots Explained

Online slots are online casino games that offer players the chance to spin reels and line up symbols to win cash prizes.

It is a virtual take on the classic bandits seen in land-based casinos. However, today most online slots are like bandits on steroids. They are pumped with all types of exciting functions, which takes them to the next level.

Every slot game has its rules, which may require players to match symbols in a certain way to win cash. But usually, a winning combination consists of at least 3 symbols along a pay line. Some games require players to match symbols from left to right on a pay line to win.

To increase the chances of winning, extra features like wilds and scatter symbols are usually available in slots.

Bet Size and Coins

When playing online slots, you will need to decide on the size of your bet. You can choose how many coins you want to use in the game. You can choose from small amounts up to bigger amounts, and this will determine how much you win or lose when you play.

  • The size of the bet is decided by how many coins are bet on each pay line and how many paylines are active.

Most online slots also feature a maximum bet button, which allows you to quickly select the highest amount of coins and spin away with the maximum possible bet.

Paylines

Paylines are the lines matching symbols that must land for you to win cash prizes in online slots. Traditional slot machines featured just one pay line, straight across the middle of the reels.

However, modern video slots can have dozens or even thousands of pay lines and may also feature different patterns other than straight lines.

Paylines usually run from left to right, with the first symbol of a combination placed on the first wheel. Some games also allow winning combinations to start from right to left. The more pay lines a game has, the more chances you have to win!

However, keep in mind that you’ll usually have to place a bet on each pay line to activate it, meaning that the cost of playing can quickly add up.

Symbols

Symbols are the images that are displayed on the reels of online slots. They come in many different shapes and sizes and vary between games. While traditional slot machines used to consist of generic symbols such as fruits or bars, modern video slots offer various symbols, including characters, numbers, and even popular franchises like TV shows or movies.

The specific symbols used in a game often have different values, meaning that some symbols are worth more than others. Some games also feature special symbols that have unique functions.

For example, a wild symbol can substitute for any other symbol on the reels, increasing your chances of completing a winning combination. Scatter symbols, conversely, can trigger bonus features or free spins rounds when a certain number of them appear on the reels during the same spin.

Paytables are available in each game to explain how much each symbol is worth and what combinations you need to land in order to win. They may also explain the features of different symbols, such as Wilds and Scatters, and how to trigger them.

Online Slot Machines and Luck

casino slots in Canada

Playing at the best slot sites will undoubtedly increase your chances of a great gambling experience. But when it comes to online casino slots, there isn’t much you can do to up your chances of winning.

Online slot machines are powered by a Random Number Generator (RNG), a computer program that produces numbers randomly. When playing real money online slots, the game will automatically generate hundreds of different combinations of potential payouts.

The RNG ensures that no two games will ever be the same, giving players a fair chance every time they spin the reels. Every reel spin is unpredictable and independent from previous spins, so players never know what to expect when playing an online slot machine.

The RNG also guarantees that each spin has precisely the same chance of winning as any other spin, and all wins are entirely random.

Any game offered at a Canadian casino online will have a random number generator, or it won’t be allowed. This is why it is important to choose licensed gambling sites when playing real money slots.

Top 3 Slot Sites in Canada Right Now

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Types of Slot Games

When you play online slots, you’ll quickly realize they aren’t identical. The fact is that there are several types of online slot games with their very own characteristics. Let’s get through them together so that you can easier spot your favourite in the future!

Classic Slot Games/3-Reel Slots

Classic Slot Games3-Reel Slots

Classic online slots, also known as 3-reel slots, are a simple and nostalgic form of slot game that feature three reels, usually displaying traditional symbols such as fruit, bars, and bells.

They are designed to mimic the original mechanical slot machines of the 20th century, with simple gameplay and rules.

Classic online slots typically feature just one pay line which runs straight across the middle of the reels, making them relatively easy to understand and play. These games offer a low variance of winnings due to the reduced number of symbols in the reels.

Because these slots have fewer pay lines, the number of symbols is limited, so the winning combinations possible are lower than with more complex slots, but their simplicity is part of their charm.

Video slots/5-Reel Slots

Video slots5-Reel Slots

Video slots/5-reel slots are the most popular type of online slot games. They are called “video slots” because they feature advanced graphics, animations and sound effects that are akin to a video game.

They typically feature five reels, though some may have more, and multiple pay lines, ranging from a handful thousand. In addition, video slots offer a wider range of bonus features than classic slots.

Video slots also offer a plethora of exciting features such as wild symbols, scatter symbols, multipliers, bonus games and free spins rounds.

The many pay lines in video slots add an extra level of excitement to the gameplay. Players can adjust their bet size and sometimes even the number of active pay lines to fit their bankroll.

Video slots are available in various themes and offer players endless choices, whether they fancy music, sports or ancient history. With advanced graphics and exciting gameplay, video slots are perfect for players looking for a more immersive online casino experience.

Progressive Jackpot slots

Progressive Jackpot slots

Progressive jackpots are a type of slot game in which the jackpot increases every time a player makes a bet without hitting the jackpot. The idea behind progressive jackpots is that a percentage of each player’s wager goes toward the prize pool, which grows until somebody wins.

Progressive jackpot slots can either be standalone – meaning the jackpot builds up only in one game – or networked, where the jackpot builds up across multiple games from different casinos.

Networked jackpots, also known as ‘linked’ jackpots, generally lead to higher jackpots due to the widespread reach and contribution from multiple players across numerous casinos and platforms, leading to faster growth and massive payouts.

To win the progressive jackpot, players need to land the specific winning combination or activate the bonus round, where they will have a chance to spin for the jackpot.

The value of the jackpot can range from a few thousand to millions of dollars, and the biggest ever payouts have been in the tens of millions range.

Progressive jackpot slots typically have lower payout rates for normal wins than others because a large portion of each bet goes toward the jackpot pool.

They offer players the chance to win enormous sums of money; however, you’ll need to have your fair share of luck in order to win the jackpot.

Mobile Slots Games

Mobile Slots Games

Mobile slot games are online slot games optimized for play on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.

These games are designed to be compatible with smaller screens and touchscreens, with gameplay and graphics optimized to work seamlessly on mobile devices.

Almost all games offered on online casinos today are optimized for mobile gaming. Modern online casinos prioritize mobile compatibility as almost all players tend to use mobile devices, so most games can now be played seamlessly across desktop, laptop, and mobile devices using web-based casino interfaces or native Apps on App stores.

Besides Mobile Responsive websites, Some online casinos offer Native mobile apps available for download from App stores so players can access their favourite games quickly and enjoy high-quality streaming and immersive gameplay. You can find those on our mobile casino page.

Functions Found in Online Slot Games canda leaf

While classic slots usually don’t contain an abundance of extras, video slots usually do. Some of the extras that are commonly found in casino slots include:

Progressive Jackpots

As mentioned above progressive jackpot is a type of jackpot in which a small percentage of each player’s bet is added to the overall jackpot, causing its value to grow over time.

The jackpot continues to increase until a player hits it, at which point it resets to its base value and begins growing again. Progressive jackpots can grow to enormous amounts and offer players the opportunity to win life-changing sums of money with a single spin.

Bonus Features/Rounds

A bonus feature is a special feature in a slot game that allows players to win additional prizes or free spins. Bonus features can take many forms and vary between games, but they are usually triggered by landing a specific combination of symbols on the reels.

For example, a bonus feature may take the form of a pick-and-click game in which the player selects different objects to reveal cash prizes. Another possibility is a wheel of fortune-style bonus game where you spin a wheel to determine the prize awarded.

The requirements for triggering a bonus feature vary between games and may require players to land scatter symbols or bonus symbols on specified pay lines.

Free Spins

Free spins are a common type of bonus feature found in online slot games that give players a set number of free spins without the need for additional wagers.

Players can win more free spins within the feature by landing a specific combination of symbols on the reels.

Typically, free spins are triggered by landing a specific number of Scatter symbols or Bonus symbols on the reels. Once activated, the player is awarded several free spins during which they can win real money prizes without risking their own bankroll.

During the free spins round, the game’s paylines, symbols, and bet size usually remain the same from the base game, although some games may tweak the odds to boost the chances for landing winning paylines.

Megaways

Megaways is a game mechanic that was developed by Big Time Gaming, which allows for an exceptionally high number of pay lines in online slot games.

It is based on a random reel modifier system, which means that each spin can produce a different number of symbols on the reels. This results in a varying number of paylines, which can range from just a few hundred to as many as 117,649 in some games.

Avalanche

Avalanche, also known as Cascading Reels, is a popular feature in online slot games that offers players the chance to win multiple times on a single spin.

When a winning combination appears on the reels, the symbols involved in the win will disappear, causing the symbols above them to fall into their place.

This creates an “avalanche” effect, whereby new symbols fill in the gaps, and the player has the opportunity to win again without having to pay for an additional spin.

Avalanche slots often come with increasing multipliers, meaning that every successive win in the same sequence will come with a higher payout than the previous one.

Gambling Feature

The Gambling Feature is a popular option seen in many online slot games that allow players to take a chance on their winnings and potentially double or quadruple the amount they have won.

This feature can be accessed after any winning spin and is typically triggered by clicking a ‘Gamble’ button next to the reels.

RTP and volatility in Slot Machines

Return To Player (RTP) rate and volatility are two common factors that determine how an online slot game plays. RTP is the percentage of money a player can expect to receive back from a game over time, while volatility refers to how often a game pays out and the size of those payouts.

The RTP of slot machines is usually found in the info section. Slots games usually have an RTP of 95% and more. Some of them go all the way up to 99%.

Low-volatility slots tend to pay out more frequently but in smaller amounts, whereas high-volatility slots generally pay out less often but offer bigger prizes. Understanding the RTP and volatility of different slots can help players decide which ones suit their playing style best.

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Popular Slots Software Providers

Online casinos in Canada will usually offer players a great selection of casino games. However, the best online casinos will not only have a large selection of online slots but also include the most popular games and software providers.

Microgaming

Microgaming

Microgaming is one of the leading game developers in the online gambling industry. With over 20 years of experience, they have developed hundreds of casino games including slots, table games, video poker, and progressive jackpot games. Their portfolio includes some of the most well-loved titles in the industry such as Thunderstruck II, Immortal Romance, and Mega Moolah.

Netent

Netent

NetEnt is a leading game developer in the online gambling industry and has been at the forefront of innovation since its inception in 1996. They offer an extensive portfolio of premium casino games, ranging from slots, table games, and video poker. NetEnt’s games are renowned for their exceptional graphics, theme-based gameplay, and thrilling bonus features.

During their active years they have created several of the most popular slot games on the market including Gonzo’s Quest, Starburst, and progressive slots like Mega Fortune and Hall of Gods.

Quickspin

Quickspin

Quickspin is a relatively young game developer in the online gambling industry. Despite their youth, they have quickly established themselves as one of the top providers with an impressive portfolio of slots and table games.

Quickspin’s games are known for their creative bonus features and captivating themes that transport players to other worlds. They are especially well-known for their casino slots with fairytale-theme, such as Big Bad Wolf.

Playtech

Playtech

Playtech is a veteran game developer in the online gambling industry, having been in business since 1999. Over the years, they have created hundreds of premium casino games, covering virtually all genres, including slots, table games, and video poker.

Playtech’s titles are renowned for their top-notch visuals, engaging bonus features, and a wide variety of themes. In addition to casino slots, they provide a comprehensive range of real money gaming products, including virtual sports betting, poker rooms, live dealer casinos and more.

Play'N GO

Play'N GO

Play’N GO is a cutting-edge game developer in the online gambling industry. Throughout the years they have created an impressive range of premium slots that can be found on many of the best Canadian online casino sites.

Play’N GO’s titles stand out for their engaging in-game bonuses and innovative features such as re-spins, extra wilds and expanding symbols.

Relax Gaming

Relax Gaming

Relax Gaming is a rapidly growing game developer in the online gambling industry. Established later than most popular game developers, the company has quickly made a name for itself with an impressive range of slots, table games and other casino titles.

Relax Gaming’s games are known for their intuitive design and engaging features, such as stacked wilds, expanded reels, and bonus games. Their games are available both on desktop and mobile devices, making them accessible to players from all over the world.

Slots Terminology

Payout:

The amount of money won from a game.

Reels:

The spinning wheels that feature different symbols on online slots.

RTP (Return to Player):

A percentage number representing the money players can expect to receive back from a slot game over time.

Volatility:

An indication of how often a slot game pays out and the size of those payouts.

Wild symbol:

A symbol, usually represented by a special icon, that substitutes for other symbols on the reels to form winning combinations.

Scatter symbol:

A special type of symbol that triggers bonuses or free spins when it lands in certain positions on the reels.

Multiplier:

A bonus feature in a slot game that multiplies any winnings by a certain number or multiple numbers.

Free spins:

Bonus rounds in which players can make free spins on the reels without having to risk their own money.

Bonus round:

A special type of bonus game featured in certain slot games.

Payline:

The line along which symbols have to fall when reels spin in order for a winning combination to be created.

Autoplay:

A feature available on many slot games that allows players to set the reels spinning automatically, without having to do so manually each time.

Hit frequency:

A measure of how often a slot pays out in relation to a player’s total bets over time.

Progressive jackpot:

An ever-increasing prize pool built up from a percentage of all bets placed on the game by participating players.

Maximum bet:

The highest number of coins or currency units that can be wagered on each spin.

Coins:

The virtual currency used to purchase bets in certain slot games.

Coin size:

The value of each coin or currency unit that is wagered on each spin.

Bonus game:

A special game linked to a particular slot and triggered by specific combinations that appears on the reels or other conditions.

Paytable:

A display showing details of potential winning combinations and the prizes they are worth.

Random number generator (RNG):

An algorithm used to ensure complete chance and unpredictability when playing online slots.

Bet Max:

A button on certain slot games that allows players to bet the maximum number of coins or currency units on each spin.Re-spin: A feature allowing players to re-spin one or more reels in a game after their initial spin, with the option of paying an extra fee.

Expanding wilds:

A feature in which a wild symbol expands to cover the entire reel or more than one reel, giving players extra chances to land winning combinations.

Wild:

A type of wild symbol that appears as a stack on a single reel and helps create multiple winning combinations. No matter what type of slot game.

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How to Play Slots Online Successfully

You need to be aware of the risk of losing money when gambling on slots and casino games in online casinos. If you choose to play with real money and not on free slots, you risk losing everything you bet.

As mentioned, online casino games, especially slots online, are games of chance. Which means only luck decides if you will win or lose. However, there are ways to play online slots games smartly and successfully. Here are our best advices:

Consider RTP and Volatility

When choosing a slot game, make sure you read up on the Return to Player (RTP) percentage and volatility. The RTP indicates how much money the game will pay out over time, and the volatility tells you how often a win is likely to occur.

Higher RTP slots tend to have more frequent wins but lower payouts. Low volatility slots, on the other hand, have bigger jackpots but less frequent wins.

Choose Your Stakes

When playing online slots, you need to consider your stakes carefully. If you have a smaller budget, it can be wise to play with low stakes, as it will give you more game rounds and chances to win.

Make Use of Slots Bonuses and Welcome Bonuses

Most online Canadian casinos will offer generous bonuses and promotions, such as free spins or deposit bonuses. Keep an eye out for these, and ensure you take full advantage when registering with a new casino.

Play in Demo Mode

If you are unsure of a slot game, it can be wise to try it in demo mode/free slots before you decide to try it with real money. This will help you familiarize yourself with the rules and features and get an idea of how often wins occur.

Stick to Your Budget

When playing online slots, it is important to set a budget and stick to it. It can be easy to get carried away when you are winning, but don’t forget that the house always has better odds in the long run. Make sure you never bet more than you can afford.

Don’t Try to Cover Losses

If you are having a bad day, don’t try to chase losses or make up for them with bigger bets. Instead, take a break and come back another day. Gambling is supposed to be fun, and if it stops being so, then it’s time to quit or keep to free slots.

Are Casino Games Fair to Play with Real Money?

Casino games are regulated and monitored to ensure fairness. All online casinos must adhere to strict rules and regulations that guarantee game fairness.

Online casinos make use of cutting-edge technology, such as Random Number Generators (RNGs), in order to provide players with a safe, secure and random gaming experience. The RNGs used by online casinos are constantly monitored by independent third-party organizations such as eCOGRA, ensuring that the games are fair and random.

Advantages of Playing Casino Online Slots

There are many reasons why online slots and online casino are better choices than land-based casinos. You can read more about some of them here:

Greater Casino Game Selection

Greater Casino Game Selection

At online casinos, you will find a much greater selection of games than in land-based casinos. It is simply not possible for land-based casinos to storage such a large amount of slots games. At an online casino you can choose from thousands of different slots, table games, and even live dealer games.

Casino Bonuses and Promotions

Casino Bonuses and Promotions

Online casinos offer a huge selection of bonuses and promotions, such as welcome bonuses or free spins. Land-based casinos are not able to compete with online casinos in these areas.

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Convenience

Convenience

The convenience factor is one of the biggest advantages of playing at an online casino. You can play from the comfort of your own home, at any time of the day or night. You don’t need to worry about travelling anywhere, waiting for a table to be available, or dress codes.

Free Slot Games

Free Slot Games

Most online casinos offer free slot games. This essentially means that you can try all your favourite slot games in demo mode, without risking any real money. This can be a great way to get started and practice your skills before you decide to play real money slots.

More Payment Methods

More Payment Methods

When playing online slots in Canada, you will have access to a much wider variety of payment methods than in a land-based casino. Many online casinos accept a range of different payments from credit cards to eWallets and cryptocurrencies.

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Gambling Limits for Responsible Gambling

Gambling Limits for Responsible Gambling

When playing at an online casino, you can set deposit limits that will help to keep you within your budget even when playing on real money online slots. You can also take a break from gambling if needed. These features are not available in land-based casinos.

Conclusion

Online slots are an exciting and entertaining way to pass the time. With endless slots of games to choose from, you can find something that suits your tastes at any online casino. Just remember to always gamble responsibly and stick to your budget when playing on real money slots.

FAQ: Online Slots

Yes, you can play slots for real money online. Most online casinos offer a range of payment methods for making deposits and withdrawals. It is important to make sure that your chosen casino is secure and regulated before playing with real money.

The best online slots are the ones that fit your personal taste. The most popular online slots right now include games from providers such as Microgaming, NetEnt, and Play’n Go, such as Reactoonz, Book of Dead and Bonanza.

Yes, most online casinos offer free slots so you can try out the games before playing with real money. This is a great way to get familiar with different slot games and find out which ones cater to your needs and preferences.

The most trusted online casinos in Canada are those that have been regulated and licensed by the relevant authorities. Make sure to check for a valid license, as well as any safety measures taken by the casino before signing up and playing real money slots. Another option is to choose to play on slots sites recommended by us.

Online slots in Canada use RNGs (Random Number Generators) which make it impossible to predict the outcome of a spin. This means that it is impossible to beat online slots, however there are a few tips and strategies you can use to improve your chances of winning.

Progressive slots are a type of slots game where a fraction of each bet placed by players goes towards a central jackpot. These are usually referred to as progressive jackpot slots rather than progressive slots.

Yes, online slots are legal in Canada. However, it is important to make sure that the slot sites you are playing at is licensed by the relevant authorities in your region.

Written By:

Max Deranker
Max Deranker
Hey I'm Max, founder and Editor in Chief of Topnoaccountcasinos. I've been in the online casino industry for over 13 years and happy share my expertise in the field with fellow players.