Differences Between Online Slots and Land-Based Machines
By Rhett Lighthall // September 17, 2020
the Convenience of at home slot machines

Without a doubt, slot machines are one of the most popular forms of casino betting enjoyed by players from different parts of the world.
For decades, slots have gained massive popularity amongst punters as they offer quick and straightforward gameplay, unlike other longer drawn out casino games like poker.
Thanks to evolving technology, like all other forms of casino games, slot machines have moved online, a transformation that made the games even more popular. Land-based slot machine favorites such as the White Orchid slot machine are now accessible online right at home. You no longer have to leave your house to enjoy these captivating titles.
However, even with the advent of online casino gaming and the benefits that it presents, there are some hardcore fans of brick and mortar gaming who still insist that online games can’t beat the physical machines.
Well, today, rather than leaning on one side of the conversation, let’s discuss the differences between the online and land-based games, and after that, be the judge of which is better, or more preferable. Let’s dig in.
How Do Slots Work?
Land-based slot games are offered in brick-and-mortar casinos, hotels, bars, restaurants, or any other public place licensed to operate betting machines. Usually, these games involve pulling a simple lever after you insert a coin in a tiny slit and the reels will start spinning.
Online slots, on the other hand, work just like their land-based casino counterparts. The only real difference, which has earned them their massive popularity, is that you can play them wherever and whenever you feel. Then with online slots games, instead of using coins to make bets, you’ll have to load your online casino account with real money from your bank account.
Gaming Ambiance
As gamers, we’re normally attracted to the party mood of flashing lights and the hype casino atmosphere where everyone is having a good time around us. It’s no wonder why most casinos come across as fancy – it’s usually all about creating the right atmosphere to keep you on the floor.
When playing slots at a land-based casino, you’ll experience that vibe; whether at a local pub, hotel, or restaurant. You’ll enjoy the physicality of having machines around you, the atmosphere of people enjoying drinks and meals, plus the massive fanfare when you hit the slots jackpot.
When you go online to play slots, you won’t enjoy the same ambience. You’ll miss the social aspect while playing from home or on the go. However, the technology used to mimic that pompous atmosphere through immersive soundtracks and graphics.
Convenience
While playing online slots, one of the biggest benefits you get to enjoy is convenience. With online slots, you won’t have to dress up, you won’t have to travel, and there’s no timetable to abide by.
You only kick back and sign into your online casino account once you’re set to play. On top of that, there’s the time aspect. Online slots will save you time and money as you won’t have to travel to a local casino to play your preferred slot.
Slots Variety
Variety is where online slots truly shine. Irrespective of the slot types you prefer playing, you’ll find loads of games available at your disposal online. For the land-based counterparts, the range of games you can enjoy will rely on where you’re playing the games.
If it’s at a local pub or restaurant, you might only have two or three machines to pick from, while a bigger casino will offer a wider variety. Moreover, with land-based machines, you might have to wait longer to start playing or move on to a different slot if your preferred machine is taken, this is something you won’t experience online. Nothing is off the table!
Besides, online slot games have advanced from the classic three-reel slots to five-reel machines and, in certain instances, even six or seven reels having over 50 paylines.
Better yet, to make things even more exciting with some software providers are already moving their newest releases from standard reels to cascading mechanics, also known as tumbling reels. And instead of paylines, some modern slots come thousands of winning ways! As such players with loads of betting options and a better chance of winning. Such options are hardly ever available on land-based platforms.
Playing Slots for Free
Unlike on a brick and mortar gaming facility, you can play slots online for free. All top online casinos will offer punters the free demo versions of all their slot games. The free-play slots allow you to learn how to play and get to understand the ins and outs of the title before you start playing for real money. Still, you can just play for fun if you’re not interested in spending your money on the go.
Parting Shot
While the biggest merit for playing on a land-based gaming facility is the vibe, and thrill of being in a hype setting, online slots come with much better control, convenience, and diversity. In the end, even if the two differ in various ways, their benefits will depend on your preference. Which direction tickles your fancy?