The Difference Between Classic, Video, and Progressive Slots

Slot machines bring in more than 70% of global casino income, so they are the top casino games to play online. There are millions of daily users of both original and contemporary styles of slot machines. 

Over the years, slots have advanced from their first appearance in the early 1900s. What started as mechanical machines has become digital gaming and winning large online jackpots. This guide reveals the differences between classic, video and progressive slots. Knowing how each type operates helps you select games that match your gambling style and winning goals. It also enables you to avoid wasting cash on games that you won’t like.

What Are Classic Slots?

Classic slots for real money are based on old-school slot machines. They usually have 3 reels and one or a few paylines. Gameplay is straight and easy to remember. 

You get the reels turning and land some symbols and you’ll win if they form a winning pattern. Plenty of online slots for real money operate in the same familiar style. Fruits, bars, bells, and lucky sevens are the symbols fans will see in these games. You can find slots for real money often at online casinos.

One reason classic slots are liked is because they are so easy to play. Rules and features won’t be something you need to learn. People often pick these stages because they feel at ease or reminded of good times. 

People will discover that classic video games often have low volatility, simple features like re-spins, wilds and not too many paylines. If you want a game with nothing added, it’s clear that this is your best option. Here are the most popular classic slot offerings:

• Mega Joker (99.00% RTP);
• Break Da Bank (96.58% RTP);
• Double Diamond (95.44% RTP);
• 777 Strike (95.80% RTP);
• Ultra Hot Deluxe (95.17% RTP);
• Classic Fruits (96.30% RTP);
• Sevens and Stripes (97.50% RTP).

What Are Video Slots?

Video slots are digital games with 5 or more reels. You’ll find them in almost every online casino. They are especially popular in crypto casinos because players like faster gameplay and more advanced features. Spinning these hi-tech reels is one of the best uses for cryptocurrency in modern gambling. They provide flashy graphics, full-on animations and soundtracks that make it feel like a modern video game.

Many video slots come with between 20 and 50 paylines. Some of the extras they look at include free spins, multipliers or additional bonus rounds. Themes from these genres: movies, fantasy or sci-fi are popular among them. The games have different features that prolong a player’s enjoyment. Take these top games within the category as an example:

• Gonzo’s Quest (95.97% RTP);
• Bonanza (96.00% RTP);
• Book of Dead (96.21% RTP);
• Reactoonz (96.51% RTP);
• Starburst (96.09% RTP);
• Sugar Rush (96.50% RTP);
• Money Train 4 (96.10% RTP).

What Are Progressive Slots?

When you or another person plays a progressive slot, the jackpot grows larger. This is the major difference of this slot type. A few jackpots can be as large as €500,000 or even €2 million. For example, over €18 million was won playing Mega Moolah at one point. A progressive jackpot can be added to both classic and video slots. The main thing is the jackpot feature. It’s hard to win, but cashing out can make you wealthy instantly. Have a look at some of the most-played progressive titles:

• Mega Moolah (88.12% RTP);
• Divine Fortune (96.59% RTP);
• Jackpot Giant (94.22% RTP);
• Hall of Gods (95.30% RTP);
• Major Millions (89.37% RTP);
• Arabian Nights (95.60% RTP);
• Age of the Gods (95.02% RTP).

Classic vs Video vs Progressive Slots: Compare Side-By-Side

All slots offer different bonuses to their players. Some bring in millions, some deliver an exciting gameplay. A brief explanation of each type and their main specs is provided below:

• Classic. The majority of these games use 3 reels, less than 10 paylines and simple fruit or bar symbols. Playing is easy and steady, with few chances to win big and few special bonuses;
• Video. Each game comes with 5 or more reels, top-quality visuals and up to 50-70 paylines. You’ll get bonus rounds, multipliers and themes based on pop culture or fantasy;
• Progressive. This type of slot is linked to jackpots that grow with every spin. You’ll find both classic and video versions.

In order to compare them even cleaner, check out the table below. It reveals how each slot type looks in detail.

Feature	Classic	Video	Progressive
Number of Reels	3	5 or more	3 or 5+
Paylines	1–5	10–50+	Varies
Graphics & Sound	Basic	Detailed, immersive	Basic or advanced
Bonus Features	Rare or none	Free spins, mini-games, more	Often jackpot bonus rounds
Jackpot Type	Fixed	Fixed	Progressive, grows over time
Volatility	Low to medium	Medium to high	High
Ideal For	Beginners, purists	Those who like extra features, casual users	Jackpot lovers

Which Type of Slot Should You Choose?

The tactics you use will affect which enemy you attack. When you want action but don’t want to risk much, classic slots are your best bet. When you play video slots, you can enjoy more active experiences and last longer at the game. In order to aim for major payouts, you should pick progressive. Keep your funds in mind as well. Never place big bets on games where winning is not easy.