Penny slots are among the most popular online casino games in the US, offering low minimum bets, fast gameplay, and the potential for significant payouts. While the name suggests you can play for just one cent, most penny slots feature multiple paylines, meaning the total cost per spin can vary depending on your bet size and settings.
In this guide, we break down how penny slots work, what to look for in terms of RTP (return to player) and volatility, and where to find the best penny slots at licensed US online casinos.
Best Penny Slots in 2026
Penny slots come in all styles, from classic low-volatility games to high-risk titles with massive jackpot potential. Below are some of the best penny slot games available at US online casinos right now, based on RTP, gameplay features, and overall popularity.
Top Penny Slot Games Compared
| Slot | RTP | Volatility | Provider | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starburst | 96.1% | Low | NetEnt | Expanding wilds |
| Gonzo’s Quest | 95.9% | Medium | NetEnt | Avalanche mechanic |
| Divine Fortune | 96.6% | Medium | NetEnt | Progressive jackpot |
| Wolf Gold | 96.0% | Medium | Pragmatic Play | Bonus spins + jackpots |
| Buffalo King Megaways | 96.5% | High | Pragmatic Play | Megaways system |
| Cleopatra | 95.0% | Medium | IGT | Classic bonus spins |
| Lightning Link | ~95.0% | High | Aristocrat | Hold & Spin jackpots |
| Book of Dead | 96.2% | High | Play’n GO | Expanding symbols |
| 88 Fortunes | 96.0% | Medium | Bally | Asian-themed bonuses |
| Mega Joker | 99.0% (Supermeter) | High | NetEnt | Extremely high RTP mode |
Slot Breakdowns
Starburst (NetEnt)
One of the most popular slots ever created, Starburst is known for its simple gameplay and frequent small wins. With low volatility and expanding wilds, it’s ideal for beginners or players looking for longer sessions.
Gonzo’s Quest (NetEnt)
Gonzo’s Quest introduced the avalanche mechanic, where symbols fall into place instead of spinning traditionally. Multipliers increase with consecutive wins, making it a strong option for medium-risk players.
Divine Fortune (NetEnt)
This is one of the most accessible progressive jackpot penny slots. It combines standard gameplay with the chance to trigger jackpots that can reach six or seven figures.
Wolf Gold (Pragmatic Play)
Wolf Gold blends bonus features with jackpot potential. The bonus round includes multipliers, and the game also features fixed jackpots that can be triggered randomly.
Buffalo King Megaways (Pragmatic Play)
A high-volatility slot using the Megaways system, offering thousands of ways to win. This game is better suited for players chasing larger payouts rather than consistent small wins.
Cleopatra (IGT)
A classic slot that has transitioned well into online casinos. Known for its bonus spins feature and simple structure, Cleopatra remains a solid mid-volatility option.
Lightning Link (Aristocrat)
A popular land-based slot adapted for online play. Its Hold & Spin feature can unlock jackpot prizes, making it a high-volatility choice with big upside potential.
Book of Dead (Play’n GO)
A fan-favorite high-volatility slot where expanding symbols during bonus spins can lead to significant payouts. It’s widely available across US-friendly platforms.
88 Fortunes (Bally)
A well-known slot with an Asian theme and multiple bonus features. Balanced volatility makes it suitable for a wide range of players.
Mega Joker (NetEnt)
One of the highest RTP penny slots available when played in Supermeter mode. It’s a high-risk, high-reward game that appeals to experienced players looking for maximum return potential.
Online Casinos – Where to best Play?
BetMGM Casino
BetMGM penny slots offer a fun and exciting way to gamble with a small amount of money. With a variety of penny slots to choose from, players can find a game that fits their interests and preferences. BetMGM offers a variety of penny slots with different themes and features. Some of their most popular penny slots include:
- Divine Fortune
- Gonzo’s Quest
- Starburst
- Wheel of Fortune Triple Extreme Spin
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US States Applicable T&C
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Other recommended casinos for a good selection of penny slots are:
| Casino | Bonus | Promo Code |
|---|---|---|
| BetMGM | $25 on Sign-up + 100% Deposit Match Up To $1000. | ATSPROMO1000 |
| Caesars | $10 No Deposit & 200% up to $200 | PAREWARDSLAUNCH |
| BetRivers | 100% Deposit Match up to $250 + 500 Bonus Spins |
What are Penny Slots?
Penny slots are slot machines that allow players to bet as little as one penny per line. These machines usually have multiple paylines, and players can bet on one or multiple paylines. The name “penny slots” can be misleading because while the minimum bet is one penny, players can still end up betting several dollars per spin if they choose to bet on multiple paylines.
History of Penny Slots
The history of penny slots can be traced back to the early days of slot machines. In the early 20th century, slot machines were primarily played by the wealthy. The machines were expensive, and the minimum bet was often too high for the average person to afford. In the 1960s, a company called Bally Manufacturing introduced a new type of slot machine that allowed players to bet as little as one penny. These machines were an instant hit and became popular among low-stakes players.
How Penny Slots Work
Penny slots work in the same way as other slot machines. The player inserts a coin or token into the machine and presses a button or pulls a lever to spin the reels. When the reels stop spinning, the player is paid out based on the symbols that appear on the payline. Penny slots usually have multiple paylines, and players can choose how many paylines they want to bet on.
Types of Penny Slots
There are several types of penny slots, including classic slots, video slots, and progressive slots. Classic penny slots are traditional slot machines that have three reels and one payline. Video penny slots, on the other hand, have multiple reels and paylines, and often feature bonus rounds and special features. Progressive penny slots are machines that are linked together, and a portion of each bet goes towards a progressive jackpot.
Pros and Cons of Penny Slots
One of the biggest advantages of penny slots is that they allow players to gamble with a small amount of money. This makes them ideal for low-stakes players or those who are just starting out. Another advantage is that penny slots often have high payout percentages, meaning players have a better chance of winning. However, penny slots can also be addictive, and players can end up losing more money than they intended.
What States Can I Play Penny Slots Online?
Online casino gambling is now available in four US states with more hopefully on the way. Heres where you can play penny slots online in the US:
New Jersey
New Jersey, the East coast hub of online gambling and home to Atlantic City, has one of the US’s largest collections of retail casinos outside of Las Vegas Nevada. In 2013, the Garden state legalized online gambling with fourteen options to choose from Penny slot players in New Jersey have an unprecedented number of options to play at home or anywhere within the states borders.
Michigan
Michigan has 15 online casino sites to choose from penny slot players have their pick of safe and secure casino apps to choose from. With so many legal Michigan online casinos, it’s important to have all the information you need to decide which app will provide the best penny slots. For a deep dive into read on here to find the best welcome bonuses and rewards programs.
Pennslyvania
In October 2017, Pennsylvania legalized online betting statewide. Since then, over 12 Pennsylvania casinos have expanded to launch sites to offer their full suite of games in an online setting, including some of the best Penny slots available today.
West Virginia
The West Virginia Lottery, Interactive Wagering Act, legalized online casino gaming on March 27, 2019, with the first WV online casinos launching in the summer of 2019.
Tips for Playing Penny Slots
- Look for penny slots with high payout percentages
- Bet on multiple paylines to increase your chances of winning
- Set a budget before you start playing and stick to it
- Take advantage of any bonuses or promotions offered by the casino
- Don’t chase your losses
Common Myths About Penny Slots
- Myth: Penny slots are rigged and don’t pay out.
- Reality: Penny slots are regulated by government agencies to ensure fairness and are subject to regular inspections.
- Myth: The more you bet, the higher your chances of winning.
- Reality: Your chances of winning are based on the game’s payout percentage, which is determined by the game’s manufacturer.
- Myth: Penny slots are for low-stakes players only.
- Reality: Many penny slots offer high payouts and can be played by players of all skill levels.
Penny Slots vs Other Slot Games
Penny slots offer a unique gaming experience that is different from other slot games. Unlike high-stakes slot games, penny slots allow players to gamble with a small amount of money. They also often have higher payout percentages than other slot games.
Penny Slots Strategies
There are several strategies that players can use when playing penny slots. One strategy is to bet on multiple paylines to increase their chances of winning. Another strategy is to look for penny slots with high payout percentages. Players should also set a budget before they start playing and stick to it to avoid overspending. It’s also important to take advantage of any bonuses or promotions offered by the casino to maximize winnings.
Penny Slots Jackpots
Penny slots often have jackpots that can reach into the thousands or even millions of dollars. Progressive penny slots are linked together, and a portion of each bet goes towards a progressive jackpot that continues to grow until someone wins it. Some penny slots also have local jackpots, which are jackpots that are specific to one machine or one casino.
Responsible Gambling on Penny Slots
While penny slots can be a fun way to gamble, it’s important to gamble responsibly. Players should set a budget before they start playing and stick to it. It’s also important to take breaks and not spend too much time or money on penny slots. If gambling becomes a problem, players should seek help from a professional.
Conclusion
Penny slots offer a unique and exciting way to gamble with a small amount of money. They often have high payout percentages and can offer jackpots that can reach into the millions of dollars. However, players should gamble responsibly and set a budget before they start playing. By following these tips, players can enjoy penny slots without overspending or becoming addicted.
FAQ
The minimum bet is usually one penny per line, up to as many as 40 lines per game play
Yes, penny slots are regulated by state gaming enforcement agencies to ensure fairness.
Yes, penny slots can have jackpots that reach into the thousands or even millions of dollars.
No, many penny slots offer high payouts and can be played by players of all skill levels.
