Free spins: how much is a "free" spin worth?
Free spins are the favourite promotion of slot players: no percentages, just a number of spins. But every spin has a value set by the operator and its winnings usually come with conditions. Amounts, percentages and deadlines are set by the operator and change; the current ones are in each promotion's terms. Guide by Mariela Briceño.
Go to the offerThree questions that set their value
- What is each spin worth? 50 spins at 0.1 units equal 5 units staked, not 50.
- Which game? They are usually tied to one title, with its own RTP and volatility.
- What happens to winnings? They may be credited as bonus balance with wagering and a cash-out cap.
Expected value of a spin package
If 50 spins at 0.1 units are played on a game with 96% RTP, the theoretical return is around 4.8 units. If those winnings carry wagering, part of that value is lost completing it. It is a rough sum, but it stops you overvaluing a spin package.
The assigned game's volatility
On a high-volatility game most spin packages return little and a few return a lot. On a low-volatility game the outcome is more predictable. Check the info panel of the assigned game before forming expectations.
Not the same as the in-game feature
Promotional free spins are not the free-spins feature inside a slot, which is triggered by symbols. That one is covered in our game guides, for example 4 Mine Carts.
Keep a simple log
Write down each spin package you receive: number of spins, value per spin, game, what it returned and whether the winnings carried wagering. After a few months you will know what these offers are actually worth to you, rather than what the headline number suggests.
Frequently asked questions
Are free spins free money?
Can I use them on any game?
Do free spins expire?
Do free spins count in tournaments?
Free spins in short
Check the value per spin, the assigned game, wagering on winnings and the deadline. Spins × value × RTP gives a rough idea of what the package is worth in theory.