Bankroll Calculator
How much to bring for this game’s volatility.
How big a slot bankroll do you need
A bankroll is the money you set aside for slots, separate from everyday spending. The bankroll calculator helps you size it against your stake and a game’s volatility, so a few cold spins do not end your session in minutes.
The formula
The calculator uses a simple rule of thumb: stake × a multiplier set by volatility.
- Low volatility: 100 × your stake.
- Medium volatility: 200 × your stake.
- High volatility: 400 × your stake.
Higher volatility needs a bigger cushion because wins arrive less often, and the gaps between them can be long.
Worked examples
- £1 stake on a low-volatility slot: £1 × 100 = £100.
- £1 stake on a medium-volatility slot: £1 × 200 = £200.
- £0.50 stake on a high-volatility slot: £0.50 × 400 = £200.
- £2 stake on a medium-volatility slot: £2 × 200 = £400.
If the number is bigger than you want to risk, you do not need to find more money. Lower the stake, or pick a calmer game. Halving the stake halves the bankroll target.
What a bankroll can and cannot do
A bigger bankroll lasts longer and smooths the ride, but it does not change the average cost of play. Over time, the house edge still applies to what you stake. Only use money you can afford to lose, never funds meant for bills, and decide your limit before you begin. Keep your bankroll separate from everyday spending so it is easy to see when it is gone.
To find games that suit a smaller budget, browse small-bankroll slots or low-stakes slots, and for a different feel try high-roller slots. The session calculator shows how long a budget lasts, and the responsible gambling page explains deposit limits. 18+ only.
Questions people ask
How much money do I need for slots?
A common guide is 100× your stake for low volatility, 200× for medium and 400× for high. At £1 a spin on a medium-volatility game, that is £200. Only use money you can afford to lose, and lower the stake if that feels too much.
What is a slot bankroll?
It is the amount you set aside for slot play, kept apart from bills and savings. Setting it in advance, and stopping when it is gone, is one of the most useful habits for keeping play within your means.
Why does volatility change the bankroll I need?
High-volatility slots pay less often, so you need more spins to see a bonus or big win. A larger cushion keeps you playing through those gaps. Learn more on our high volatility page. Low-volatility games need less cushion, which is why the calculator uses 100×, 200× and 400× as a guide.
How do I make a small bankroll last longer?
Lower your stake, choose lower volatility games, and play shorter sessions. Use the session calculator to see how long a budget lasts at different stakes. See also small-bankroll slots. Smaller stakes are the single biggest factor, and taking regular breaks also helps keep spending under control.
Can a bigger bankroll help me win?
No. It gives you more time and smoother swings, but the average cost of play stays the same. It is a way to manage entertainment, not a way to beat the house edge. Only play with an amount you are comfortable losing, and stop when you reach your limit.