Slots & Gaming Machines
Slots spin
A slots spin is a single game cycle in a slot machine or online slot, initiated by the player and resolved by a random outcome.
- Also called
- Spin, game cycle.
- Minimum spin time (UK online)
- 2.5 seconds per spin.
- Max stake per spin (UK, ages 18–24)
- £2.
- Max stake per spin (UK, ages 25+)
- £5.
Key points
- Each spin is independent; the result is determined by random numbers and not influenced by previous spins.5
- In the UK, online slots must not spin faster than once every 2.5 seconds.2
- UK online slots have a maximum stake per game cycle: £2 for players aged 18–24 and £5 for those aged 25+.4
- A spin ends when the game cycle resolves and the next cycle can begin.3
- The term is used in regulation around the speed of play and stake limits for online slots.1
How a spin works
- The player presses the start button or takes an equivalent action to begin a round.5
- The machine generates a random outcome, independent of all previous spins.5
- The spin ends when the game cycle resolves and the next cycle can begin.3
Where this term is used
Not the same as
- Casino slots — the broader category of slot machines, not a single round of play.
Related terms
Slots
RTP slots
Explains the return-to-player percentage for slot games.
Slots
Casino slots
Covers the general category of slot machines found in casinos.
Slots
Bingo slots
Explains slot games that incorporate bingo-style mechanics.
Slots
Gambling slots
Discusses slot machines as a form of gambling.
Slots
Megaways slots
Describes slot games using the Megaways mechanic with variable paylines.
Slots
Progressive jackpot slots
Progressive jackpot slots are slot games where the top prize grows as players make bets
Sources
- Online games design and reverse withdrawals gamblingcommission.gov.uk Defines a slots spin as a game cycle and applies to online slots regulation.
- Gambling Commission announces package of changes ... gamblingcommission.gov.uk Provides the 2.5-second minimum spin speed and stake limits for UK online slots.
- Regulatory decisions: Procedures and guidance for ... gamblingcommission.gov.uk Explains the start and end of a game cycle.
- Online slots stake limit guidance gamblingcommission.gov.uk Details the online slots stake limit guidance for different age groups.
- Slot Machines wizardofodds.com Confirms that each spin is independent and determined by random numbers.
Sources are drawn from regulators, universities and published research, and each one is labelled with what it actually is — a preprint is not called a paper. Bookmaker and affiliate pages are never cited here, because a page that sells betting is not a neutral authority on it.