Starburst vs Book of Dead
Near-identical returns and opposite temperaments: Starburst pays little and often, Book of Dead seldom and large.
By Ryan Jessop. Last checked .
Key takeaways
- Starburst: 96.09% RTP, low.
- Book of Dead: 96.21% RTP, high.
- Max win: 500x against 5,000x.
- Figures are defaults.
In shortNear-identical returns and opposite temperaments: Starburst pays little and often, Book of Dead seldom and large.
Side by side
| Line | Starburst | Book of Dead |
|---|---|---|
| Developer | NetEnt | Play'n GO |
| Default RTP | 96.09% | 96.21% |
| Volatility | Low | High |
| Maximum win | 500x | 5,000x |
| Layout | 5 reels, 3 rows | 5 reels, 3 rows |
| Ways to win | 10 paylines, paying both ways | 10 paylines |
| Main feature | Expanding wild re-spins | Expanding symbol |
| Released | 2012 | 2016 |
How they differ in play
Give each £20 at 10p a spin. On Starburst the balance drifts: small both-ways wins arrive every few spins and the occasional wild re-spin lifts it. On Book of Dead the same 200 spins may bring nothing but line scraps, or one feature with a good symbol that pays more than Starburst could in a week.
Cost of 200 spins at 20p
| Slot | Staked | Average cost |
|---|---|---|
| Starburst | £40 | £1.56 |
| Book of Dead | £40 | £1.52 |
At default RTP; a long-run average.
Top prize at £5
Starburst: £2,500. Book of Dead: £25,000. Arithmetic from published maximums.
Verdict
Starburst
A gem slot that pays both ways, with expanding wilds that re-spin.
Book of Dead
Ten lines, one expanding symbol and very high swings.
Full pages: Starburst and Book of Dead. Any other pair: comparison tool.
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Slot figures are developers' published defaults, each confirmed against two sources; the version at your casino can differ. UK land-based stake and prize limits and online rule dates were checked against Gambling Commission and licensing authority sources on 6 October 2026. History follows commonly cited accounts. Offer terms dated 5 October 2026. How we check. 18+. Free help: 0808 8020 133 or safer gambling.
Frequently asked questions
Is Starburst or Book of Dead better?
Near-identical returns and opposite temperaments: Starburst pays little and often, Book of Dead seldom and large.
Which has the higher RTP?
Book of Dead, by default.
Which has the bigger max win?
Book of Dead.
Which is more volatile?
Book of Dead.