Understanding the House Edge
Every casino game has a built-in mathematical advantage for the house, known as the house edge. This is the percentage of each bet that the casino expects to keep over the long run.
The house edge varies dramatically between different types of games, and even between different variants of the same game. Games that require skill and strategy tend to have lower house edges than pure games of chance.
Pokies (Online Slots): The Numbers
Online pokies typically have RTPs (Return to Player) ranging from 92% to 98%, meaning the house edge ranges from 2% to 8%. The average online pokie has an RTP of approximately 96%, giving the house a 4% edge.
However, it is important to understand that RTP is calculated over millions of spins. In any given session, your results will vary wildly due to the high volatility inherent in most pokies.
Table Games: The Numbers
Table games generally offer significantly better odds than pokies. Blackjack, when played with optimal basic strategy, can have a house edge as low as 0.5%. Baccarat offers a house edge of 1.06% on banker bets. European roulette has a house edge of 2.7%.
The key advantage of table games is that many of them involve an element of skill or strategy. In blackjack, your decisions directly impact the house edge.
So Which Should You Play?
From a pure mathematics perspective, table games offer better odds. If your primary goal is to maximise your playing time and minimise your expected losses, table games like blackjack, baccarat, and craps are the better choice.
However, pokies offer the possibility of life-changing wins from a small bet. Progressive jackpot pokies can pay out millions from a single spin, which is simply not possible at most table games.
Ultimately, the best game to play is the one you enjoy most. The entertainment value of gambling should always be the primary consideration.
