The FreeSlots99 Blog

News and announcements about gambling, top casinos on the internet and casino slots.

What is the 5 Spin Slot Machine Strategy

Written by: Filip Gromovic Reviewed by: Nashon Khamala

Read time: 12 minutes


Ever walked away from a slot machine after just five spins? That is the idea behind the 5 spin strategy. It is easy, quick and a bit controversial. In this piece, we’ll break down what the 5 spin method is, how it works, and whether it is worth your time.


Introduction to the 5 Spin Method

If you have ever felt like a slot machine just wasn’t going to hit, you’re certainly not alone here. That’s exactly the kind of mindset that inspired the 5 spin method. So, what is the 5 spin slot machine strategy? In the most simple terms, it is a way of avoiding getting stuck at one pokie for too long.

The concept is this: you play slots for just five spins per game. If you don’t win anything meaningful in those five spins, you move on to the next one. No chasing losses. No sitting around waiting for a jackpot that will probably never come. Just five spins, then walk.

Some players really believe in it. They say it helps to maintain your time and money, keeps your head clear and boosts your overall gaming experience. Other players say it doesn’t make a difference because, well, slot machines use a random number generator, so every spin is completely random, no matter what you do.

Still, the method has gained acceptance because it seems to be a smart, low-risk way to enjoy slots. You get to try out various types of machines, try your luck across different themes and styles, and maybe even grab something lucky without spending too much.

So now that we have covered what it is, let’s look deeper into how the method actually works.


How the 5 Spin Slot Method Works

So now that we have answered the question, what is the 5 spin slot method? Let’s talk about how to actually use it. The rule is simple: five spins per machine, then you walk. That is it. No sticking around for just one more. No waiting to see if a free spins bonus is coming. Five tries, then you move along.

The idea behind this method is that if a slot wants to give you a win, it usually does it in no time, sometimes even within the first few spins. Some players believe that when machines are set to give a chance to win, they do it early to hook you in. Whether or not that’s true? That’s up for public discussion. But the strategy isn’t really about beating the mechanics, it is about managing your gameplay style.

Here’s how you should consider using the system:

  1. Choose a slot machine, could be a classic slot, video slot or even a progressive slot.
  2. Wager in your max bet if you are aiming for the highest possible payouts
  3. Hit spin. Count five spins.
  4. If you don’t get a decent win, like a bonus, a mini jackpot or a solid symbol combo, you simply just leave the machine.
  5. Go to the next one and repeat.

This method is hinged on variety. You get to try different types of machines, some with multi payline setups, others with special features like wild symbols or animated reels. It keeps things fresh and you get to escape the trap of putting in too much money into one machine that just isn’t hitting.Of course, this method doesn’t increase your odds of winning. Every spin is still based on random results from a number generator. But it is a great way to play without getting caught


Does the 5 Spin Slot Strategy Actually Work?

Let’s be honest, this is the part you are probably most curious about. Sure, the 5 spin method sounds smart and simple, but does it actually work? Well, it depends on what you expect.

First, it is important to remember that slot machines use a random number generator. That means every spin is totally uninfluenced. There is no memory, no pattern and no way to know what’s coming next. So in terms of stats, your odds of winning won’t improve just because you’re doing five spins instead of fifty.

But here’s where the strategy has its benefit: it is not about beating the machine, it is about managing your money and your mindset.

The 5 spin method helps you avoid getting sucked into long sessions on one machine. You’re not sitting there for 40 minutes hoping the next spin is the one. Instead, you’re moving around, trying new games, keeping the experience light and fun. It is a good idea if you’re the kind of person who wants to make their time and money last longer without going too far in a game.

Does it guarantee a win? No. But some players have said they’ve hit bonuses or cool payouts early in the session, which makes the five-spin limit feel lucky. Others just like that it keeps them from making emotional decisions, like chasing losses or increasing their wager when they feel frustrated.

Also, this strategy gives you the chance to try out various types of slots, like progressive slots, which might not hit a lot of times but can offer massive jackpots when someone hits it right. You also get to test video slots with cool graphics or maybe a classic slot with basic mechanics. You are not just in one place and that can make the whole gaming experience way more fun.

Now, does that mean it is foolproof? Not at all. Remember, every spin is completely random. But if your goal is to play smart, stay in control and still have fun, then yeah, it can work, not by changing the winning odds, but by changing how you view the game. So, it can actually work, just not in the way you’d expect.


Casinos Where You Can Try This Straregy

EDITOR'S PICK
LuckyTiger
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to $7500 Welcome Pack No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Cherry Gold
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to 310% Match Bonus and 100% Cashback after your first deposit! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Bovegas
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to $6000 Welcome bonus! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
MBit
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to 4 BTC +325 FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
LuckyStake
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Get up 25 Free Coins! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Raging Bull
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
2500$+50FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
NV Casino
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to €2,000 + 225 Free Spins No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Verde
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to 1200 Euro+200FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Slots and Casino
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
300% up to $1500 +100 FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Freespinz
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
BC.GAME
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to 180% for the first Deposit! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Miami Club
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
800$ BONUS! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Jackpota
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
150% Extra Coins! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Hello Millions
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
150% Extra Coins! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Legendz
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
500 GC, 3 SC + 50% Extra Coins! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Spree
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
30,000 GC + 30 FREE SC for $9.99! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Crown Coins
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Sign up to play for free! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
VegasAces
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
5000$ Welcome Bonus No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
MilkyWay
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
30 No deposit Free Spins! Bonus code: 30SPACE
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Highroller
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
8000$ Welcome bonus+100FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Superslots
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
6000$ Welcome bonus+100FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
BetUS
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
260% Sign-up bonus up to 7500$ Bonus code: BETUS260
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
SlotsParadise
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
250% Match up to 2500$ No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
TaoFortune
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Get 250,000 FREE Tournament Coins and 100 Secret Coins No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
NoLimitCoins
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
100,000 FREE Gold Coins and 100 Super Coins No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Funrize
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Sign up and Claim 7$ bonus No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Snatch
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
450% Bonus +325FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Wild
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
5000$ Welcome bonus No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
BetOnline
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to 250$ in free bets +100FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Xbet
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to 200$ in Bonus Bets No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Ybets
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Deposit Bonus 500% up + 400FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Immerion
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
100% up to $1,000 + 100 FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Slots of Vegas
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
250% Welcome Bonus +50FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Slotocash
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
600% Welcome Match +60FS on TOP! 600CASINO
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Nevada777
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
600% Bonus+ 100FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Ducky Luck
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
500% Match Bonus +150FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Slots.lv
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
200% up to 3000$+30FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Café
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to 2500$ in Welcome Bonus No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
MyBookie
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to 1000$ Welcome Bonus No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Red Stag
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to 2500$ in Welcome Bonus +500FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Uptown Aces
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
600% Welcome Match +60FS on TOP! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Drake
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
200% up to 3000$+30FS No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Ignition
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
3000$ Welcome Bonus No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Love2Play
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Get your 50 FS! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
BetWhale
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
125% Deposit Boost! No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
SGCasino
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
100% up to 1000 Euro+200FS+1 Bonus Crab No code required
Read Review
EDITOR'S PICK
Bovada
*T&Cs apply. 18+, new customers
Up to $3 750 in Welcome Bonuses No code required
Read Review
Show more

Benefits of the 5 Spin Method

So why do people actually use the 5 spin method? If it doesn’t boost your chances of winning, what is the point? The truth is, the benefits have more to do with your mindset and how you manage your session than with hitting it big, as we have already established in the previous sections of this article.

Here is why players love this method:

  • It helps you control your spending—You’re not hanging on to the same slot machine for 20 minutes hoping for a miracle. Five spins means you cap your time and money on any single machine, which can offer a big difference in how long your balance lasts.
  • It keeps you moving and exploring—One of the not too talked about parts of this method is how it encourages variety. You’ll try different types of slots, maybe a classic slot here, a video slot over there, even a progressive slot that catches your eye. That mix keeps things fun.
  • It reduces emotional play—You know that feeling when you’re convinced a win is just around the corner? The 5 spin method cuts that off before it starts. It’s a simple rule that helps you avoid the drive to chase losses, a common trap when playing slots.
  • It is easy to stick to—There is no complicated system to remember. No chart. No if this, then that. You just start playing, spin five times and move on. That simplicity is part of the attraction.

And sure, while it doesn’t affect the random number generator or change the odds, the strategy gives you structure. It turns a potentially chaotic experience into one with boundaries. For a lot of players, that alone makes it worth using, especially when they’re trying to get better at managing how they play.


How Many Spins Should You Play on a Slot Machine

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this, but it is a question just about every slot player has asked at some point. How many spins should you play on a slot machine before calling it quits?

Well, if you are using the 5 spin method, then the answer is pretty straightforward—five. That is the whole essence of the strategy. But if you are not following that method strictly, things could get a little complicated.

Here’s something important to keep in mind: slot machines are built to be unpredictable. Thanks to the random number generator, every spin has the same odds of winning, no matter how many times you have already played. That means spin number 6 isn’t any luckier than spin number 1.

So, instead of focusing on how many spins to play, a better question would be: How much time or money am I willing to spend on this game? Putting limits based on your budget and attention span is way more effective than chasing a win.

Some players like to stick around for 20–30 spins, especially on video slots with bonuses and additional features. Others stick to short sessions and keep things moving. And of course, with free spins or a mini bonus, you could naturally stay longer.

If you’re not getting any kind of payout even a small one, after a dozen spins, it might be a sign to move on. The game could just be cold and that is totally fine.

Bottom line? Don’t think so much about the number. Think about the experience you want and make choices that help you enjoy the title, not stress over it.


Should You Stick to One Slot Machine or Switch?

This is one of those questions every slot player battles with. You sit down, spin a few times and then wonder, Should I keep going or try something else?

There is no hard rule, but if you’re using the 5 spin method, switching is baked right into the strategy. You spin five times, and if nothing happens, you walk away. Simple as that.

But let’s say you are not using that method. Then it really comes down to your own play style. Some people like to stick to one slot machine they feel comfortable with, especially if they have had wins on it before. Others enjoy bouncing around and trying out various types; classic slots, multi payline games or those sophisticated video slots with fun bonus rounds.

There is no real advantage to staying or switching. Every machine operates with a random number generator, and your next spin is just as unpredictable as the last. You won’t increase your odds by being loyal to one machine, and switching doesn’t give you a boost either.

So what is the best move? Go with what keeps the game fun. If a machine feels cold or boring, don’t be afraid to try something else. After all, the objective is to enjoy your gaming experience, not second-guess each spin.

Advanced 5 Spin Method Techniques

Alright, so you have got the basics of the 5 spin strategy down. But is there a way to level it up? Absolutely, yes. Some experienced players add little adjustments to make the method even more flexible, without losing its main advantage, keeping your play short and under control.

Here are a few ways players adjust the strategy

  1. Set a hit threshold—Instead of walking away only if you get nothing, some players only move on if they don’t get a win above a certain amount. For example, if you win less than 2x your spin cost in five tries, it’s still not good enough. 
  2. Test different machines, not just looks—It can be quite tempting picking a slot with advanced graphics or a cool theme, but don’t forget to try out different types like classic slots, video slots and even less known online slot games. 
  3. Time your breaks—After a few rounds of hopping machines, take a break. Not because it changes your chances of winning, it doesn’t, but because it gives you time to think clearly. A clear head avoids chasing losses and helps you stay in control of your money.
  4. Track results casually—You don’t need a spreadsheet, but keeping mental notes of which slots give back early and which don’t can help you create patterns in your gaming experience.

These adjustments won’t crack the random number generator, and they won’t magically help you win at slots. But they do make the strategy more personalized and a bit more strategic without making things difficult.

And the best part? You’re still playing on your own terms, not the machine’s.


Alternatives to the 5 Spin Method

The 5 spin method isn’t for everyone, and that’s totally fine. If it feels a little too structured for your taste, there are a few other ways players like to approach slot machines, each with its own vibe and rhythm.

  1. The Bankroll Chunk Method—This one’s all about splitting your money into smaller parts. You pick a budget for each machine, say, $10 and play until that’s gone or you hit something good. It gives you more flexibility than the 5-spin rule, but still helps with managing your time and money.
  2. The Play Until a Feature Strategy—Some people like to stay in a game until they trigger a free spins round or bonus feature. These are usually what make video slots exciting. Just be careful — waiting on features can eat through your balance if luck isn’t on your side.
  3. The Hit and Run Playstyle—This one’s similar to the 5 spin idea. You play until you get a decent win — something above your bet amount — then you cash out or move to a new machine. Quick, clean and keeps you from giving back your wins on the next spin.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 5 Spin Method

Is the 5 spin method guaranteed to help me win at slots?

No—and that’s the first thing to understand. Like everything else in slot gaming, the 5 spin method doesn’t change the random number generator or improve your chances of winning. 

Why five spins and not ten or twenty?

Good question. The number five isn’t magic—it’s just simple. The idea is that most slot machines, if they’re going to hit something exciting, tend to do it early. Not always, of course—it’s all completely random—but five spins gives you a quick sample without going overboard.

What if I get a small win during my five spins? Should I keep going?

That’s up to you. Some players count a tiny win (like less than 2x your bet) as a miss and still move on. Others like to keep spinning if they feel momentum. Just don’t fall into the trap of thinking you’re due—remember, every next spin is a brand new roll of the dice.

Can I use the 5 spin method on online slots?

Absolutely. The method works the same playing online as it does in a physical casino. The only difference is you might move through machines a little faster, which makes having a plan even more important.

Does this work better on certain types of slots?

Some players feel it works better on high-volatility video slots or progressive slots that are built to hit big, but rarely. Still, it really depends on your own goals. Trying various types and seeing what fits your style is half the fun.


Filip Gromovic Writer at FreeSlots99
Filip Gromovic

Filip Gromovic is a senior slots reviewer here at FreeSlots99 with over five years of experience evaluating the latest drops in the world of iGaming.
Being a slot fan himself, Filip approaches slot ratings just the way we like it – professionally, but also from a player’s standpoint.
That enables him to give his unbiased take on the slot’s features, gameplay and design, while only recommending top-tier releases to our readers.
More info on Filip Gromovic

Nashon Khamala Reviewer at FreeSlots99
Nashon Khamala

Having served FreeSlots99 for more than 5 years as a senior content editor and reviewer, Nashon Khamala has extensive knowledge in game slots and iGaming.
His membership in the Editorial Freelancers Association helps him deliver content that reaches both editorial excellence standards and an engaging information level.
By using his expertise in slots games combined with player-focused analysis, Nashon delivers a professional evaluation of slot features and player experiences in his reviews.
More info on Nashon Khamala