Bonus buy slots let you skip the waiting game. Instead of spinning endlessly hoping to trigger a free spins round, you pay a set price to jump straight into the action. It’s a direct path to the most exciting part of any slot—and yes, it can be a smarter way to play if you know what you’re doing.
We’ve tested dozens of these games over the years. Some are absolute gems, others are traps for the impatient. Here’s our step-by-step guide to buying bonuses the right way, so you get more value and fewer regrets.
Step 1: Check the RTP Before You Buy
Every bonus buy slot has two RTP numbers: the base game RTP and the bonus buy RTP. The bonus buy RTP is almost always higher because you’re paying a premium to skip the grind. But not all games are equal.
Look for slots where the bonus buy RTP is 96% or more. Some top-tier titles hit 97% or even 98% when you buy the feature. Games like Dead or Alive 2 or Mental are famous for this—their bonus buys are mathematically superior to regular spins. Skip games with bonus buy RTP below 95%. You’re just burning cash.
You can find the RTP details in the game’s paytable or info screen. Don’t skip this step. One quick check can save you from bad bets.
Step 2: Calculate the Buy-In Cost vs. Your Bankroll
Bonus buy costs vary wildly. Some slots charge 50x your bet, others hit 200x or more. A game like White Rabbit might ask for 500x your stake for its mega bonus. That’s real money.
Before you buy, divide your total bankroll by the buy-in cost. If you have £200 and the bonus costs £100, you’re risking half your bankroll on a single spin. Smart players keep buy-ins under 20% of their total balance. Stick to slots where the buy-in is between 30x and 80x your regular stake—that sweet spot balances potential and risk.
- High volatility slots: buy-in often 100x-500x, big wins but rare
- Medium volatility: buy-in 50x-100x, balanced for most bankrolls
- Low volatility: rarely offer bonus buy, stick to medium-high
- Always check the max win potential before buying
- Set a loss limit for your session—no chasing losses
- Test the game in demo mode first if you’re unsure
Step 3: Choose the Right Bonus Type
Many slots offer multiple bonus buy options. A basic free spins round with fewer spins and lower multipliers is cheaper. The super or mega version costs more but packs higher potential. Which one should you pick?
We always go for the middle option if available. The cheapest buy-in often delivers disappointing returns. The most expensive can drain your bankroll after just one or two buys. The medium bonus gives you a fair shot at a decent win without going all-in on a hail mary. Games like Book of the Dead and Fruit Party 2 let you choose wisely.
One exception: if a slot has a guaranteed win feature in its top-tier bonus, like Gates of Olympus, the super version can be worth it. Read the rules carefully.
Step 4: Time Your Bonuses Right
Buying a bonus on a cold slot isn’t the best idea. Some players track recent win history on a slot. If the game hasn’t paid out big in the last 100 spins, it might be due for a hot streak. This isn’t a guarantee—slots use RNGs—but it’s a common strategy among seasoned players.
Also, avoid buying bonuses during peak hours when the casino’s RTP adjustments might be less favorable. Late night or early morning sessions often feel looser. It’s anecdotal, but we’ve seen patterns after years of play.
For platforms that offer a wide selection of bonus buy games, sites such as https://thekingarthur.co.uk/ provide great opportunities to explore different titles. They list RTP details and volatility ratings, making it easier to pick your next target.
Step 5: Know When to Walk Away
You hit a 500x win on your bonus buy. Great—now stop. Don’t reinvest it into another buy immediately. Walk away for a few minutes. Let the win settle. Many players lose their profits by buying another bonus on impulse.
Set a target multiplier before you start. For example, if you buy a bonus for 80x, only play if the payout is at least 150x. Anything less is a loss. Cash out and try another session later. Discipline separates pros from casuals in bonus buy slots.
Remember, you’re buying a shortcut to potential wins, not a guaranteed jackpot. Treat each buy as a separate bet, not a chain of bets.
FAQ
Q: Are bonus buy slots legal in the UK?
A: Yes, they’re legal as long as the casino holds a UK Gambling Commission license. Some countries restrict them, but UK players can access them freely. Always play at licensed sites for safety.
Q: Can I lose more money with bonus buys than regular spins?
A: Definitely. Bonus buys cost a fixed amount per purchase, so you can burn through your bankroll faster if you’re unlucky. Stick to a budget and never chase losses. The higher RTP helps, but it’s not a magic bullet.
Q: Which bonus buy slot has the highest RTP?
A: Dead or Alive 2 leads the pack with a 96.82% RTP on its bonus buy. White Rabbit and Mental also hover around 97%. Always check the game’s settings for exact numbers as they vary by casino.
Q: Should I only buy bonuses on high volatility slots?
A: Not always. Medium volatility slots with bonus buy features offer more frequent wins at lower multipliers. They’re better for smaller bankrolls. High volatility is for players comfortable with longer dry spells between big hits. Pick based on your style and