Table Games vs. Slots – Main Differences Compared

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Last Updated: March 22, 2024

Written by: Alex Zlatanovic

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Most casino games can be divided into two broad classifications: table games and slots. While both are very popular among players, these two groups come with distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different types of players.

In this article, we’ll discuss the main differences between table games and slots and how they affect and shape the player’s experience. Understanding these dissimilarities will help you pick the type that suits you the best. With that in mind, let’s dive into this slot vs. table game comparison!

Game Selection

There’s no question that the overall selection of slots games is much greater than the option of table games. This is perfectly understandable, as slots are significantly more prevalent in both land-based and online casinos and are the go-to option for many players.

Table games aren’t lacking in diversity by any means, but they simply can’t match slots on this front. For instance, you can classify table games into specific games like roulette, blackjack, baccarat, and so on. You can then find different variations of each of these genres. However, many of these types of table games only have several variations.

When it comes to slots, the variety is much greater, especially online. Gambling sites often offer thousands of slot games. These titles come in all kinds of different themes, unique bonus or mini-game elements, interesting designs, and other standout features.

House Edge and RTP

If you want to maximize the money you win over time when playing casino games, it’s crucial to consider a game’s house edge. This percentage marks the amount of your money that the casino takes over time. The higher the percentage, the more money you will leave to the house. This percentage is the direct opposite of the RTP, which marks how much in winnings you can expect to get back

Considering this, the average house edge for slot games can be anywhere from a couple of percent to over ten percent, depending on the game. For land-based slots, the house edge is typically a bit higher, but for online slots, the average house edge is between 4% and 6%.

While this isn’t too high of a house edge, slots generally have a higher house edge than what you can find with most table games. For instance, with a basic blackjack strategy, you can play with a house edge of under 1%. Similarly, craps and baccarat have a house edge of just over 1% if you pick the right bets. While the house edge in roulette is a bit higher, it’s still 2.70% on the European version, meaning it’s more favorable than what you get with slots.

Social Element

If you’re playing slots or table games in a brick-and-mortar casino, one of the most significant differences will also be the social element you can experience when enjoying these games.

More specifically, when playing slots, there is no social aspect to your session. You will be playing solo on a machine and won’t have to interact with any other players or the casino staff. Some players relish this type of experience, as they’re not looking to socialize when gambling. That said, if you want the full casino experience, the social atmosphere is an intricate part.

In contrast, the atmosphere at casino tables is generally much more lively and sociable. You interact with the dealers and often socialize with other players at the table. This also means you need to know certain etiquette, such as how to act when it’s your turn or when other players are playing. When everyone is behaving properly at the table, the experience is even better for all participants.

Of course, if you’re playing any of these games online, the social element isn’t such a big part of the experience. Nevertheless, even in online casinos, you can play live casino table games and chat with dealers and other players, which you can’t do in slots.

Winning Possibilities

Lastly, another very important aspect we should account for is the overall winning possibility you have when playing slots and table games. In this regard, slot games do have a significant advantage, especially if you focus on high-paying slots. For instance, you can find progressive jackpot slots, which can provide payouts that go into the millions, sometimes even tens of millions of dollars.

In comparison, payouts in table games are typically much lower, especially on bets that have a reasonable house edge and a realistic winning probability. Sure, you can repeatedly place a straight-up bet in roulette and potentially win 35:1. But, you’d have just a 2.7% winning chance every spin.

With this in mind, if you’re primarily chasing a life-chasing win, it’s better to play slot games than table games, as they can pay out significantly more for the same amount you put in. Of course, just make sure to consider all other factors and always play responsibly, no matter what games you choose to gamble on.