The Best Slots with Progressive Jackpots

We’ve highlighted the best online progressive jackpot slots in the US based on critical factors such as prize size and betting limits. We also tested the online casinos and contacted their customer support to ensure they could handle significant jackpot payouts adequately.

Editor: Christopher Brunne
Last Update: November 20, 2024

Best Progressive Jackpot Slot Casinos Online in 2024

Sunil Sandhu Fact Checker Last updated: November 20, 2024

What are Progressive Jackpot Slots?

Progressive jackpot slots are a type of online slot game where the jackpot increases gradually as players place bets. A small portion of each bet is added to the jackpot pool, which continues to grow until someone wins it. Here is how progressives work in more detail:

  • A small percentage of each bet goes into the jackpot.
  • The jackpot grows over time until it is won.
  • It can be linked across different casinos or be exclusive to one.
  • Once won, the jackpot resets to a predetermined amount.

Progressive slots usually require players to place qualifying bets to be eligible for the full jackpot. This gradual accumulation makes them appealing to players who are drawn to the idea of potentially larger payouts.

Top US Progressive Jackpot Slot Casinos by Features

Not every player looking for slots with a progressive jackpot is the same. Some seek the biggest prize pool and highest RTP games. Others focus on mobile experience and fast payouts. When you play progressive slots, it’s essential to understand the strategies that might enhance your chances of winning and the odds associated with these games. To meet these diverse needs, we’ve selected online casinos with unique strengths, such as fast jackpot win payouts and exclusive progressive slots.

Jackpot slots with a trophy, a slot reel and gold coins.

Best Progressive Jackpot Slots

We’ve highlighted some of the best progressive jackpot slots that pool together bets across different casinos. These games are also known as networked progressives and come with varied betting limits and structures. Prominent progressive slot game developers, such as IGT, Blueprint Gaming, and NetEnt, have created some of the most popular and engaging progressive slots available today.

For regular visitors of high roller online casinos, we recommend Mega Jackpots Cleopatra, which allows bets of up to $600 per spin. Meanwhile, Aztec’s Millions is ideal for low rollers and stands out for recording one of the highest wins of over $4,000,000.

Progressives Software Bet Limits Highest Win Ever Reels Paylines
Divine Fortune Megaways
NetEnt $0.10 – $100 $296,038.25 6 Megaways
Mercy of the Gods
NetEnt $0.20 – $400 $65,786.33 5 20
Mega Jackpots Cleopatra
IGT $0.40 – $600 $564,843.08 5 20
Jack in the Box
Pariplay $1 – $250 $692,919.72 6 100
Empire Fortune
Yggdrasil $0.20 – $100 68,374.00€ 5 20
Irish Riches
Blueprint Gaming $0.20 – $100 10,000x 6 Megaways
Aztec’s Millions
RTG $0.20 – $5 $4,420,568.00 5 25
PowerPlay Mega
Playtech $0.10 – $100 $229,639 5 Megaways
Spirit of the Inca Maxi
RTG $3,5 – $35 $214,536.00 5 25
Thunder Cash Sizzling Hot
Ainsworth $0.01 – $18 1,000x 5 20

Note that after a progressive slots jackpot has been hit, the amount resets to a lower value and gradually grows over time with each bet placed. This mechanism ensures that jackpots can continuously reach significant sums. Bonus rounds also play a crucial role, as they often provide more opportunities for players to win. So, understanding how paylines work and how you can trigger these rounds is essential.

Types of Progressive Jackpot Games

There are several types of progressive jackpot games, each offering unique features and varying levels of excitement. Understanding these types can help you choose the best progressive slots to play based on your preferences and goals.

Standalone Progressive Jackpots

Standalone progressive jackpots are based on the old time stationary machines. They are unique because they are limited to a particulat casino and accumulate through bets placed on a single online slot rather than across a network. While the prizes may not reach as high as networked progressives, they usually offer more frequent wins. If you’re looking for a more personal experience, where your contributions directly influence the reward, this setup should suit you better.

Progressives Software Bet Limits Highest Win Ever Reels Play at
Pay Day
Novomatic $0.30 – $15 13,530.40x 5 BetMGM
Pompeii Rising Jackpots
Aristocrat $0.88 – $88 1136x 5 BetRivers
MGM Grand Millions
BetMGM $0.20 – $500 $5,000,000 5 BetMGM

We tested these standalone progressive jackpots and can recommend Pay Day by Novomatic, available at BetMGM Casino in New Jersey, to players looking for low to moderate betting limits. Meanwhile, Pompeii Rising Jackpots by Aristocrat is ideal for those who appreciate a unique historical theme. However, we were most impressed by MGM Grand Millions, which boasts a staggering highest win of $5,000,000.

Fixed Jackpots

Fixed jackpots offer a predetermined prize that doesn’t change. These can also appear as fixed multiplier wins, where the payout is a specific multiple of the player’s bet. Unlike progressive jackpots, which increase with each bet placed across a network, fixed jackpots provide a stable, known reward. Our expert team has tested a variety of these games to present the best slots that offer this feature:

Fixed Jackpot Game Software Jackpot Size RTP Paylines
Flash Pays
Design Works Gaming $9,136 97.11% 30
Star Watch Fire
Konami $5,000 94.10% 25
Blue Wizard
Rarestone Gaming $200,000 96.50% 30

For players seeking high RTP and significant jackpot sizes, Flash Pays by Design Works Gaming stands out with a 97.11% RTP and a jackpot of $9,136. However, if you seek a six-figure potential reward, Blue Wizard from Rarestone Gaming might interest you more. It boasts a $200,000 fixed jackpot and a 96.50% RTP, which is quite fair for such a significant prize.

Local Progressive Jackpots

Local progressive jackpots pool bets from players at the same casino. This means that the jackpot is limited to the players within that specific casino, whether it’s an online platform or a physical location. Local progressive slots often offer higher chances of winning than network progressives because the pool of players contributing to the jackpot is smaller.

While the jackpot amounts might not reach the heights of network progressives, they still offer substantial rewards and more frequent payouts. Local progressive slots are ideal for players who prefer a more intimate gaming experience and want to see their contributions directly impact the jackpot prize. These games balance the thrill of chasing a big win and the realistic possibility of hitting the jackpot.

Network Progressive Jackpots

Network progressive jackpots, also known as wide-area progressives, accumulate bets from multiple casinos and games within a provider’s network. This means the jackpot is shared across a vast network of casinos and games, leading to more significant jackpot amounts.

Network progressive slots offer the potential for major wins, but the competition is also much fiercer, similar to winning the lottery. The sheer size of the jackpot in network progressives is what makes them so appealing.

Players from different casinos and even other countries contribute to the same jackpot pool, which can grow to millions of dollars. While the odds of winning a network progressive jackpot are slim, the possibility of hitting such a significant prize keeps players coming back for more.

Progressive Slot Machines: Game Mechanics

Understanding the game mechanics of progressive slot machines is essential for any player looking to maximize their chances of winning. These games use a random number generator (RNG) to determine the outcome of each spin, ensuring that every result is independent and unpredictable.

RTP (Return to Player)

The RTP of a progressive slot machine is the percentage of money that the game pays out to players over time. It’s important to note that the RTP of progressive slots is typically lower than regular real money slots. This is because a portion of each bet is allocated to the progressive jackpot, which reduces the overall payout percentage.

However, the allure of potentially winning a significant jackpot makes progressive slots an attractive option for many players. Progressive slot machines are designed to offer a unique gaming experience with the potential for substantial rewards.

The combination of the RNG and the progressive jackpot mechanism ensures that the prize pool continues to grow over time, creating an exciting and dynamic gaming environment. By understanding the RTP and how progressive slots work, players can make more informed decisions and enhance their overall gaming experience.

Progressive Jackpot Slot Guide

When looking for progressive jackpot casino slots, you need to consider a few critical factors, including the odds of winning and the strategies that might enhance your chances. To understand progressive jackpots, it’s essential to know that they are accumulative prize pools that increase until a winner is found. Our guide delves into these topics, offering insights into how the RTP rates of these online games are calculated and clarifying the process of withdrawing a jackpot win.

The Odds of Winning a Progressive Jackpot

The odds of winning a progressive jackpot game are calculated based on the unique algorithm and random number generator (RNG). Unlike traditional slots, where Return to Player (RTP) gives a clear indication of payout frequency, progressive jackpots have varying odds that can be influenced by the jackpot size and the number of players contributing to the pot.

A golden progressive jackpot slot machine with other casino imagery.

These variables make the probability of winning more dynamic and difficult to estimate. In contrast to standard slots, the RTP of a progressive slot machine often includes the jackpot contribution. This means a portion of each bet goes towards the jackpot pool, which can slightly lower the RTP. Understanding these mechanics is crucial, as it can help you set realistic expectations and strategize your gameplay accordingly.

How to Win a Progressive Jackpot

Follow our tips to maximize your chances of winning with progressive jackpots. Slots are games of chance, so obviously, there is no way to guarantee a win, but there are a few key strategies that might help improve your chances. These approaches can help align your play style with the game’s mechanics, potentially setting the stage for significant wins.

  • Set a budget: It’s crucial to do this before playing to avoid spending more than you can afford and to maintaining healthy gambling habits.
  • Understand the game’s paytable: Familiarize yourself with the slot’s paytable to know which symbols or combinations are most lucrative.
  • Choose progressive slot games with higher RTPs: Opting for slots with higher RTP percentages can offer better odds for regular wins.
  • Play with maximum bets: If your budget allows, play with the maximum bet. Many progressive slots require it or you won’t be eligible for the jackpot win.
  • Know when to walk away: Recognize the right moment to stop, whether it’s after a big win or to prevent further losses, preserving your bankroll for future sessions.

Gambling Taxes

In the US, gambling winnings, including those accumulated from playing online slots with a progressive jackpot, are subject to federal taxes. However, the tax rates depend on the amount won. Wins over a certain threshold may also trigger automatic withholding by the casino. Note that these rates can also vary significantly depending on the state and your tax bracket.

Furthermore, specific rules apply to jackpot wins, such as the necessity for casinos to issue a W-2G tax form for wins over $1,200 on slots. Given these complexities, it’s advisable for jackpot winners to consult with a tax professional to navigate their specific situations properly and ensure compliance with all federal and state tax requirements.

Withdrawing Jackpot Wins

When it comes to withdrawing jackpot wins from online casinos, the options and conditions can vary significantly. For example, Borgata Casino in New Jersey has set a cap on withdrawals at $100,000, which can be convenient for large jackpot wins. However, some platforms like BetRivers are faster at processing, so it’s all about what aspects you prioritize.

Casino Name Withdrawal Limits Average Withdrawal Time
BetMGM
$20 – N/A 12 hours – 7 business days
DraftKings
$1 – $100,000 1 – 3 business days
Betrivers
$10 – N/A Instant – 14 business days
Betway
$10 – $100,000 1 – 3 business days
Caesars Palace
$10 – N/A 3 – 5 business days

Withdrawing jackpot wins from online casinos is straightforward, but there are important aspects to consider, especially if you claimed one of the fair casino bonuses we’ve outlined. You must be aware of the casino’s withdrawal policies, which can include limits, timeframes, and necessary verification steps to ensure a smooth transaction. Following the steps we’ve outlined can facilitate a hassle-free withdrawal of your winnings.

  • Verify your account: Complete all required identity verification processes to ensure your account is in good standing.
  • Check the withdrawal limits: Understand the minimum and maximum withdrawal limits to plan your payout accordingly.
  • Choose your withdrawal method: Select a withdrawal method that suits your preferences, considering speed and possible fees.
  • Request the withdrawal: Submit your withdrawal request through the casino’s cashier section, clearly specifying the amount.
  • Wait for processing: Allow the casino the specified time to process your request, keeping an eye on any updates or communications.

Concluding Thoughts

Based on our comprehensive review, slots with a progressive jackpot stand out as a thrilling option for those looking for ever-increasing prize pools and dynamic gameplay. Games like Mercy of the Gods and Jack in the Box are among my favorites, thanks to their wide betting limits and fair RTP rates. I recommend slots in this category to players seeking engaging mechanics and significant payout potential.

Christopher Brunne is the founder of plainenglish.io/gambling, a project resulting from his cooperation with Sunil Sandhu, the owner of plainenglish.io. They met at a conference in Boston. Christopher, who lives in Boston, has an extensive sports background and is a fan of online casino games. When he’s not working on the site, you can find him at the TD Garden or at the playground with his toddler son, who so far shows no interest in basketball.

Christopher Brunne Editor

In addition to the best progressive jackpot slots, our analysis has enabled us to identify the top platforms where you can play these games. This meticulous approach, which focuses on factors like payout rates, game diversity, and casino reliability, ensures that our ranking contains an option for every type of player, from novices to seasoned gamblers.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you still have questions about how a progressive slots jackpot accumulates or where you can play online, our experts are here to provide clarity and support. We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to address common inquiries and help enhance your understanding of how these games work.

What are progressive jackpot slots?
Progressive jackpot slots are games where the prize increases each time the game is played but not won. They are usually linked across multiple casinos, allowing the jackpot to grow quickly. Some of the best progressive slots you can play for real money in the US include Divine Fortune and Irish Riches.
What are the odds of winning a progressive jackpot?
It's hard to say, as the odds of winning a progressive jackpot are quite dynamic and depend on the specific game and the network it's part of. Unlike standard slots, the RTP for progressive slots often includes the jackpot contribution, which is why their payout rates are usually lower.
What's the difference between standalone and network progressive jackpots?
The main difference between network progressives and standalone progressive jackpots is that the latter accumulate bets from a single game at a single casino, whereas the first pool bets across multiple jackpot games and casinos. This distinction significantly affects the potential jackpot size.
How are progressive jackpot payouts handled?
Usually, withdrawals involve specific steps and documentation, especially for larger wins. Online casinos also have different policies for withdrawal times and limits. So, to get the most accurate information on how progressive jackpot payouts are handled at your chosen platform, you can contact their customer support team.
What is the biggest progressive jackpot ever won online in the US?
Among the top progressive jackpot online casinos we've examined, the record for the biggest win goes to MGM Grand Millions, which boasts a $5,000,000 reward. However, that's a standalone jackpot, while among the networked progressives, the winner is Aztec’s Millions.
Are progressive jackpot wins taxable in the US?
In the United States, all gambling winnings are subject to taxation, including progressive jackpot wins. The IRS requires reporting of these winnings, and in some cases, casinos withhold taxes upfront. However, the tax rate depends on many factors, including the prize size and your income.