If you want to get the most out of your casino gameplay—especially with slots—it pays to understand the paytable. The paytable is your roadmap to how a game works, what symbols pay the most, and what features and rules can impact your results. Whether you’re spinning reels or playing video poker, reading the paytable like a pro helps you make smarter, faster decisions and avoid costly mistakes.
Here’s how to break down a casino paytable and what to look for before placing a bet.
What Is a Paytable?
A paytable is a visual guide built into every casino game that shows:
- Symbol values and combinations
- Paylines or winning patterns
- Bonus features and trigger rules
- Wilds, scatters, and multipliers
- Game-specific mechanics (e.g., cascading reels, jackpots)
You can usually access it by clicking the “i” icon, menu button, or “help” section on the game screen. Understanding this information helps you know how the game pays and what to expect during play.
How to Read Slot Paytables
Slot paytables typically show symbol values from highest to lowest, with visuals to help you recognize each one. Here’s what to focus on:
- High-paying symbols: Usually themed characters or icons that deliver the biggest wins.
- Low-paying symbols: Typically playing cards (10–A) or simple shapes.
- Scatter symbols: Trigger free spins or bonus rounds—often pay from anywhere on the reels.
- Wild symbols: Substitute for other symbols to complete winning combinations.
- Multipliers: Boost the value of your wins (e.g., 2x, 3x).
Look at:
- How many matching symbols are needed to win
- If the game pays left-to-right only or both ways
- What combinations trigger features or jackpots
Pro tip: Some paytables are dynamic, changing values based on your current bet size.
Understanding Paylines and Ways to Win
A paytable also tells you how the game calculates wins:
- Fixed paylines: A set number of lines that can’t be adjusted.
- Adjustable paylines: You choose how many lines to activate.
- All-ways or Megaways™: Wins are based on adjacent symbols across reels, offering hundreds or thousands of ways to win.
Knowing the format helps you tailor your strategy—more paylines = more frequent wins, while fewer lines = higher volatility but bigger win potential per line.
Video Poker and Table Game Paytables
In video poker or games like Let It Ride, paytables show hand rankings and payout odds. For example:
- Jacks or Better: Pays starting from a pair of Jacks
- Full House, Flush, Straight: Each has a listed payout multiplier
Look for full-pay versions (like 9/6 Jacks or Better) for the best return.
In other table games like Three Card Poker or Ultimate Texas Hold’em, the paytable lists:
- Bonus payouts for strong hands
- Side bet payouts (e.g., Pair Plus)
- Maximum win limits
Always compare paytables between games—even the same game may have slightly different odds depending on the provider or casino.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Ignoring the rules for bonuses: Some symbols only trigger features on specific reels.
- Misunderstanding bet size impact: On some games, full jackpots or bonus triggers only apply at max bet.
- Overlooking RTP info: While not always in the paytable, look for an RTP (Return to Player) percentage—higher is better for long-term play.
The more you understand a paytable, the better your risk-reward analysis will be.
Final Thoughts: Know the Game Before You Play
Reading a paytable like a pro helps you understand the mechanics, maximize your value, and play with confidence. Whether you’re testing a new slot or settling in at a video poker machine, don’t skip the paytable. It’s your blueprint for the game—and your best friend for making informed choices.
Always read it before your first spin or deal. A few minutes of prep can lead to smarter play and, possibly, bigger wins.