Online slot games are easy to play and can offer big payouts. They have become the most popular casino game, and the technology that powers them is evolving to make them even more exciting for players. However, many players are confused about how these machines work, especially when they see the word RNG (Random Number Generator).

The basic concept of a slot machine is simple: you pay a coin, and the reels spin. When you land on a winning combination, the coin is removed from the machine and you receive a payout. However, the exact payout depends on a variety of factors, including the volatility level and the chance of hitting a jackpot. It’s important to understand these factors before playing online slots.

When it comes to choosing a slot machine, you should consider the graphics, gameplay and audio visual effects. You should also read the paytable to find out about the minimum and maximum payouts. Some games have a fixed return to player percentage (RTP), while others have a progressive jackpot that grows with every bet and pays out the whole ticket when it is hit.

There are thousands of different online slot games, from classic 3-reel slots to modern video ones with 3D graphics. Some are themed on popular TV shows, movies or rock bands. These are known as branded slots and are developed through licensing agreements with the original owners. Companies such as Microgaming, NextGen and NetEnt are among the top providers of branded slot machines.