Slots are the most popular online casino games, thanks to their variety of themes and mechanics. You can play them for free without using real money, and I’ll explain how in this guide.
The easiest way to play free online slots is through demo mode. This option is available at many US casino sites, and my top brands are Caesars, BetMGM, FanDuel, and Fanatics. Keep reading to learn more.
Quick facts about free casino slots
- US casino sites offer free slots in demo mode.
- Demo mode is for practice only, with no real payouts.
- You can also play free slots with no deposit bonuses.
- Winnings from no deposit bonuses are withdrawable if you meet playthrough requirements.
Overview of free online slots
Free slots are available in two ways: demo mode and using no deposit bonuses. The former is quite common, while the latter is rare.
In demo mode, you spin the reels using virtual credits and not actual money. We’ve found this option at many of the best online casinos in the US, although it’s not supported for every game. All plays in demo mode are just for fun, so you can’t cash out any winnings.
On the other hand, using no deposit bonuses counts as real money play. These rewards often come in small amounts, like $10 or less. After playing with them, you can withdraw potential winnings, but it’s usually subject to a playthrough requirement. Also, most no deposit offers have a maximum winning cap.
Top US casinos for free online slot machines
I tested multiple US casino apps with free online slots for over a week. From my findings, these are the top options to consider:
Caesars – Best for progressive jackpots
On the Caesars Casino app, I found several progressive jackpots with growing prize pools. Some offer demo mode, letting you play for fun even without real payouts. I enjoyed Rick and Morty Strike Back and Divine Fortune while making this review.
If you join Caesars Casino, the exact welcome bonus will depend on your state. However, the most popular offer is 100% match up to $1,000 plus 2,500 Reward Credits. I claimed it with a low $10 minimum deposit. Interestingly, Caesars Casino also gave me a free $10 sign-up bonus after registration.
BetMGM – Best for exclusive slots
I believe BetMGM needs no introduction, as the gambling brand is widely popular in the US. During my review, I saw a broad selection of exclusive slots you won’t find on other apps. My favorite is BetMGM Gold, which comes with four jackpots. Another interesting pick is BetMGM Millions, a thrilling All Ways slot.
BetMGM allows demo mode once you register and log in to your account. When you deposit at least $10, you’ll get a 100% match up to $1,000 plus $25 casino bonus. I also rate BetMGM as one of the best online casino apps for free slots, thanks to its premium yet friendly interface.
FanDuel – Best for availability
FanDuel is available in five states, including MI, PA, NJ, WV, and CT. It’ll be hard to find many casinos in the US that support more games than FanDuel. I had access to demo mode for many FanDuel titles, and the brand still offers a $10 no deposit welcome bonus.
With 1,000+ slots, selecting what to play at FanDuel Casino can be tricky. However, from my sessions, some fun picks are 3 Wild Aliens, Mega Mystery Mine, and Huff N’ Lots of Puff. You can try these titles via the FanDuel site or app. The FanDuel welcome bonus in most states gives you free spins, so you can play more slot sessions.
Fanatics – Best for rakeback rewards
Fanatics has a FanCash rewards system that offers rakeback for every casino bet. So, each time I spin a slot reel, I get a percentage back of my money back in FanCash. These bonuses added up over time, and I redeemed them for Casino Credits at no additional cost.
The FanCash rewards are like no-deposit bonuses, so they let you play slots for free. With my Casino Credits, I played Magic Spins, Cash Eruption, and Fire Blitz Hotstepper, among other titles. Fanatics also features interesting welcome bonuses for new players, starting with $1,000 back in Casino Credits for losses on your first day.
Why play free online casino games
As experts, I always advise players to first try slots for free before using real money. The approach has some notable benefits, and these are the top five:
1. Learn the rules without pressure
If you come across a new online casino slot, you’ll need some time to get used to how it works. This fact is especially true if it includes mechanics like cascading reels, expanding wilds, multipliers, and other bonus features. Playing for free gives you the space to explore the game without wasting any of your actual money.
For instance, when I first tested Big Bass Bonanza by Pragmatic Play, I launched the title in demo mode. That way, I learnt how the fisherman symbol collects fish prizes during the bonus rounds. Sometimes, you won’t fully grasp an innovative slot mechanic until you see it in action.
2. Test betting strategies
Casino slot results are always based on chance because of the random number generator (RNG). Therefore, spinning reels for free and observing patterns isn’t really ideal. Instead, when I play in demo mode, I test betting strategies and see how far my funds can hold up.
For us, proper bankroll management is essential while playing casino slots. When I spin for free, I can experiment safely and develop discipline before switching to real money. In most cases, I stick to just 1% of the virtual credit bankroll.
3. Observe volatility levels
Volatility or variance tells you how often a slot pays and the potential size of the wins. Here’s a rundown of the different levels:
| Volatility rating | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Low | Pays smaller wins frequently |
| Medium | Keeps win frequency and payout size balanced |
| High | Pays higher wins but less often |
In free online slots, these ratings also apply. So, I sometimes play in demo mode to observe the variance and see if it suits my strategy. For instance, low volatility is my go-to for longer sessions. Meanwhile, I switch to high-volatility slots for short rounds that can result in potentially high rewards.
4. Compare games across casinos
Not every US online casino offers the same features in online slots. Some sites brand the titles, others adjust the RTP and volatility, and a few even offer in-game prizes. I know this because the game developers allow such changes through their customization tools.
So, you might play the same slot on multiple casino apps and get varying experiences. To avoid being disappointed with a brand that delivers below expectations, it helps to first try the game for free. I do this especially for branded originals and exclusives, which are common at US casino sites.
5. Play for entertainment
Sometimes, I just want to have fun spinning reels. If you feel the same, free online play is the best route to take. You can try thrilling titles like Buffalo Gold, Buffalo Blitz, and 88 Fortunes without worrying about losing money.
In Buffalo Gold, for example, I enjoy the free spins bonus rounds, multipliers, and stacked wilds. Meanwhile, 88 Fortunes offers multiple jackpots you’ll find engaging.
Top choice casinos
How to choose the right casino for free online slots
It’s easy to spot a casino with demo mode or no deposit bonuses and start playing right away. However, I didn’t select my top six apps randomly. Instead, I paid attention to the following factors:
Legal States
Online casino gaming isn’t permitted everywhere in the US. Since most sites and apps require registration before playing for free, I first confirm the legal states.
For instance, you can play at FanDuel in Michigan, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Connecticut, and New Jersey. Meanwhile, BetMGM and Fanatics are not available in CT. It’s essential to use only apps that are legal in your state to avoid any issues.
Bonuses and Promotions
For this factor, my focus is on no deposit casino bonus offers. The goal is to find sites that not only support demo mode but also let you play for free with promos. That way, you can withdraw potential winnings after satisfying all requirements.
When reviewing promotions, I also consider the welcome offer for new players. It helps if there’s a rewarding bonus to claim when you decide to deposit and play slots for real money. Similarly, I look at existing-player promos like referral and loyalty programs.
Supported Games
We’ve observed that demo mode or free play isn’t available on all slots. Therefore, when reviewing the top sites, I look at the supported titles. My best picks are casino apps that allow demo mode on popular and fun games.
Furthermore, I consider other gaming options like blackjack, roulette, and poker. While you’re signing up for free slots, you may want to try out these games over time.
Mobile Performance
Lastly, I analyze the mobile compatibility of each casino brand. The good news is that all top US casinos have dedicated iOS and Android apps to install from official stores. In my evaluations, I prioritize responsiveness, speed, and ease of use. Only apps that score high across the board make my top list.
Pros and cons of free online casino slots
Based on my reviews, these are the upsides and drawbacks of free slots at online casinos:
- Risk-free learning opportunity
- Ideal for entertainment
- Withdrawable no-deposit bonus winnings
- No payouts in demo mode
Conclusion – Spin reels for free at top US casinos today
My position is that free online slots are worth a try. Demo mode lets you practice, experiment with features, or just play for fun. With a no deposit bonus, you can even withdraw real winnings if you meet the requirements
The best part is that many US casino sites and apps let you spin reels for free. We’ve highlighted the top six from my reviews, and you can count on them for quality sessions. When you pick your preferred casino, click the banners on this page to visit the site and sign up.
Experience the online casino bonuses loved by players
Free online slots FAQs
Are free slots legal in the US?
Yes, playing free slots in demo mode is legal in the US since it doesn’t require real money. For no deposit bonus plays, legality will depend on your state.
Do I need to register to play free casino slots?
Some casinos require registration before playing free demo mode, while others don’t. So, it depends on the site or app you use.
Can I win real money on free to play casino games?
You can’t win real money on free casino games if you’re playing in demo mode. Only no deposit bonuses support such, but you usually have to complete a playthrough before cashing out.
What is the difference between free and real online casino slots?
Free and real online casino slots are the same in terms of design and in-game features. The only difference is that you use virtual credits and not actual money when spinning for free. Consequently, you can only withdraw winnings on real casino slots.
Where can I play free casino slots in the US?
You can play free casino slots on different gaming sites and apps in the US. My top recommendations are Caesars, BetMGM, FanDuel, and Fanatics.