Key takeaways
- Classic: three reels.
- Fruit machine: the British pub kind.
- Video: five reels and features.
- Megaways: changing reels.
Eight pages
TypeClassic slot machinesThree reels, a handful of symbols, one line.TypeFruit machinesThe British slot machine: three reels, holds, nudges and a feature board.TypeVideo slot machinesThe modern standard: a screen, five reels, features.TypeMegaways slot machinesReels that change height every spin.TypeJackpot slot machinesA slot machine with a prize pool on top.TypePays-anywhere slot machinesNo lines at all: count the symbols.TypeOnline vs land-based slot machinesThe same idea in two very different places.TypeUK slot machine categoriesLand-based machines in Britain are sorted into categories by stake and prize.
More types
TypeThree-reel vs five-reelThe old layout and the new.TypeWays-to-winNo lines to follow: any position on adjacent reels counts.TypeCluster paysSymbols win by touching, not by lining up.TypeBookOne book, ten free spins, one expanding symbol.TypeFishingFish with cash values, and a fisherman to collect them.TypeFruit slots onlineCherries and sevens on a modern machine.TypeHigh volatilityLong quiet stretches and occasional large wins.
Where they are found
Pub slot machinesThe fruit machine in the corner.Arcade slot machinesTwo kinds of arcade, two kinds of machine.Casino slot machinesThe highest-limit machines on land.
At a glance
| Type | Reels | How wins form | Volatility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | 3 | 1 to 5 lines | Low to medium |
| Fruit machine | 3 | 1 to 5 lines; holds and nudges | Low to medium |
| Video | 5 | Lines or ways | Any |
| Megaways | 6 | Up to 117,649 ways | High |
| Pays anywhere | 6 by 5 grid | 8 or more symbols | High |
| Jackpot | Any | As the base game, plus a pool | High |
Go further: The feature trail, Starburst vs Big Bass Bonanza and Ways-to-win slot machines.
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
What types of slot machine are there?
Classic, fruit, video, Megaways, jackpot and pays-anywhere.
What is a fruit machine?
The British pub slot machine.
Which type pays best?
Type does not set the return; RTP does.