Everybody knows the bonus game is the most exciting part of playing online slot games. Typically, players must hit a combination of scatters, wilds, or special symbols to kickstart these bonus features. However, slots with a bonus buy incorporated allow an easy solution. Instead of waiting patiently for the bonus feature to trigger, bonus buy slots allow players to pay their way into free spins or other special features. This greatly increases the win potential, but at a price.

The largest jackpots are made possible by multipliers, expanding symbols, transforming wilds, and various other hallmarks of modern online slot bonus features. Developers such as NetEntBig Time GamingHacksaw GamingRelax Gaming, and NoLimit City pay special attention to their bonus rounds, crafting exciting features that transform the gaming experience for the better.

Bonus buy slots are perfect for players on a time limit or people who want to increase the chances of a large payout by wagering their way into a bonus round. These games aren’t available in all jurisdictions, with the UK recently banning bonus buy slots in 2019. Nevertheless, they are still available across Canada, the US, and other online gambling hotspots. Before we explore everything you need to know about these games, check the best ones below:

Logo image for ELK Studios Logo image for Wild Toro

Wild Toro

RTP: 96.4%

Logo image for Big Time Gaming Image for White Rabbit

White Rabbit

RTP: 97.72%

Image for Push gaming Image for Jammin jars

Jammin' Jars

RTP: 95.25%

Logo image for Blueprint Gaming

Buffalo Rising

RTP: 96.3%

Logo image for NetEnt Image for Dead Or Alive 2

Dead or Alive 2

RTP: 96.8%

Logo image for Big Time Gaming

Extra Chili

RTP: 96.82%

Logo image for Pragmatic Play Image for Fruit Party

Fruit Party

RTP: 96.5%

Logo image for Pragmatic Play Image for The dog house megaways

The Dog House Megaways

RTP: 96.55%

Image for Merkur slots

Fishin Frenzy

RTP: 96.12%

Logo image for Relax Gaming Image for Money Train 2

Money Train 2

RTP: 98%

Logo image for Pragmatic Play Image for Gems Bonanza

Gems Bonanza

RTP: 96.51%

Logo image for Pragmatic Play Image For Big bass bonanza

Big Bass Bonanza

RTP: 96.7%

Which Casinos Offer Bonus Buy Slots?

Bonus buy slots can give players a significant advantage, especially if their bankroll is large enough to support regularly paying for bonus features. It can be a great way to enhance the fun, but only some slot machines offer the attribute. Similarly, not all online casinos offer bonus buy slots. There is a growing demand for these games, so an increasing number of sites are cottoning on.

Our team of casino experts has done comprehensive research to find the best platforms offering bonus buy slots. These sites have a top-tier selection of providers alongside next-gen Megaways titles and more. Want to play a bonus buy slot? Get stuck into the various options below

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How to Use Bonus Buy

Using bonus buy is relatively straightforward with most games. Of course, the first step is guaranteeing your chosen slot has a bonus buy option. Read the information and reviews online to double-check this, or use our list of games above. Afterward, taking advantage of feature buy slots is simple

#1: Pick a Feature Buy Game 

The first step is to choose an appropriate bonus buy slot. Players must consider several characteristics to make the most optimal decision. Examine the bonus games, free spins rounds, and maximum payouts to help you select a game. Checking for above-average RTP (higher than 96%) and high volatility is also advised. This will help you increase the odds of getting your money’s worth out of the slot bonus game once you have paid your way in. 

#2: Buy the Bonus

Bonus buy slots come in various shapes and sizes, but the actual feature button is always neatly signposted. Typically, you’ll find it near the other bet controls. Some games offer a set rate that players must pay to trigger the free spins round or other bonus features. More advanced games, such as Big Time Gaming’s White Rabbit (often regarded as the first feature buy slot), let players choose the exact configuration and fee they desire. In most cases, you should expect to pay 10 and 500x your stake to activate the slots bonus

#3: Enjoy the Benefits 

You can sit back and enjoy the benefits after paying for the bonus buy. Usually, the bonus feature will begin immediately, often with more favourable odds and less risk. The prizes are more or less the same compared to triggering the bonus round naturally, but developers have been known to adjust their software to reward bonus buy users. After activating this function, you’ll also experience a higher RTP, providing more winning opportunities. 

Can i use bonus funds for feature buys

Casino Bonuses for Feature Buy 

An important aspect of the bonus or feature buy option is that it isn’t available with online casino bonus funds. We advise players to clear their bonus credits before activating the bonus buy function. This can be advantageous, as it gives slots fans a chance to learn the bonus round characteristics and hopefully have more success when they trigger the bonus buy.

Here are some of the primary examples of casino bonuses to use before you activate the bonus buy function: 

  • Deposit Bonus: The majority of online casinos offer first-time players a deposit bonus. New sign-ups receive a percentage on top of their first payment in bonus funds, often 100% up to a certain value. The bonus money comes with wagering requirements you must satisfy before withdrawing. 

  • Free Spins Bonus: Many sites also offer new players a generous quantity of free spins on selected slots. This bonus is a great way to learn the ropes while playing slots for free, providing vital hands-on information for the special features if you decide to utilize the bonus buy. 

  • No-Deposit Bonus: Arguably the most attractive type of online casino promotion, no-deposit bonuses grant new customers bonus funds simply for registering. It means you can start playing slots for free without making a deposit. 

How Do Bonus Buy Slots Work?

Bonus buy slots use a simple yet innovative concept. The presence of a generous multiplier during slot special features generally increases the odds of enjoying higher winnings. Whereas players must be patient to trigger these bonus rounds while playing conventional slots, bonus buy slots allow them to fast-track their way in exchange for paying a larger stake. 

It’s like a legal way of cheating the gameplay in many ways, albeit one where you must be prepared to pay handsomely. Bonus buy slots are increasingly available on the market, with players attracted to enhanced wins and the chance to make a profit. Popular titles include Money Train 2, Deadwood, and San Quentin xWays. Are you bored of playing the same old base game? If so, bonus buy slots might be the way forward. 

Bonus Buy Variations

The bonus buy rules can differ from game to game, especially when different developers are involved. There is always a minimum fee for using this feature, but each game's process and overall bonus gift differ. We’ve outlined the most common bonus buy variations below: 

Multi-Pick 

Many modern online slots have several bonus features for players to enjoy. This is especially true of Megaways titles, which can have numerous free spin and wild-based special rounds. The multi-pick bonus buy function allows players to mix and match the different bonuses. It grants impressive customizability but often costs more.

Different Value Rounds 

Some slots offer different value bonus buy features. For example, you could trigger a bonus using 50x your stake, but it may not be as advantageous as using 100x your stake. Developers can offer more free spins for larger stakes or other things like reducing the quantity of low-value symbols on the reels.

Gamble Feature 

The gamble feature was an early precursor to the bonus buy function, pioneered by developers such as Eyecon and Barcrest in the early 2000s. It works slightly differently from conventional feature buy options. Players can gamble their winnings to win a certain number of times more than the original payout. The only problem? If you lose the gamble (often decided by a coin toss), you lose everything. Some games, like Extra Chili by Big Time Gaming, also allow players to gamble their free spins to hopefully receive more. 

Bonus Tokens 

Big Time Gaming first introduced bonus tokens in White Rabbit. The Australian developer with a taste for innovation unveiled its Feature Drop system in this exciting slot, with gold tokens occasionally dropping on the reels and decreasing the bonus buy price. It brings a nice balance between regular online slot gameplay and the opportunity to pay more for incentives.

Can i play bonus buy slots in the uk

Bonus Buy Slots in the UK 

The UKGC banned bonus buy slots in the UK in 2019 after conversations with GambleAware and other entities. Any online casino platforms offering British slots fans bonus buy games are unlicensed and unregulated. As a result, they should be avoided at all costs. This is by no means the end of the world, as UK players still have a wide array of other bonuses to enjoy. 

Many leading platforms offer generous welcome offers and ongoing promotions, so this is an easy way to boost your bankroll and potential winnings. Moreover, the next generation of modern online slots is packed to the brim with special features, even in their base mode. For example, Megaways slots always have a cascading reels mechanic that can deliver multiple wins on the same spin. Alternatively, games like Rainbow Riches Pick N Mix allow players to choose a cocktail of bonus features before they start playing. 

How Much Do Bonus Buys Cost?

Paying for the bonus buy feature will cost different amounts depending on the game. Most typically, developers require players to pay their original stake with an added multiplier. The amount can get quite large as a result, so it’s important to keep a consistent eye on your bankroll if you’re using bonus buy regularly. 

To guarantee you understand how to calculate the bonus buy cost, let’s use a theoretical example: 

Bonus Buy Costs x100 & You Wager 10.00 = Bonus Buy Costs 1000.00 Credits 

As you can see, it’s very straightforward. Simply multiply your initial stake by the multiplier listed on the bonus buy function. 

To Play or Not to Play?

Ultimately, choosing between using the bonus buy feature or playing, as usual, is a personal decision. It can make the gameplay more exciting and potentially trigger more wins and payouts, but it may also drain your bankroll very quickly. One of the main things to consider is whether or not you have enough bankroll to support the feature. Otherwise, you could soon find yourself in the red. 

On the other hand, using the bonus buy feature can pay off handsomely if you win. You could significantly boost your profits if you win, but this isn’t always guaranteed. For most people, the question revolves around balancing paying for bonuses and taking care of your bankroll. Here are a few bonus buy pros and cons to help you make the decision: 

Things We Like

Instantly triggers slot bonus features where higher prizes are available

Cuts out the countless paid spins necessary to trigger bonus rounds normally

Significantly increases the excitement and reduces the time spent playing in the base mode

Can deliver a higher jackpot amount via more advantageous multipliers

Activating bonus buy increases slot RTP

Things to Consider

Costs a lot more than a typical online slot spin

Doesn’t guarantee a winning spin

Can be dangerously addictive

Using the bonus buy function can pay off handsomely, but it also has risks. There’s nothing wrong with using it, but make sure you fully understand the rules and how it works. You must also consider the cost and whether it makes sense for you. Use bonus buy sensibly at all times!

FAQ on Bonus Buy Feature Slots

Look below in case you have any more questions regarding bonus buy feature slots. Our expert team has answered a few queries below:

What are bonus buy slots?
Does increasing your wager increase the feature buy?
Can you play bonus buy slots in the UK? 
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Robin Storm

Author & Casino Games Expert

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Robin works tirelessly to make gambling fun and worry-free for all players. With his impressive industry experience, he is passionate about being able to play casino games in a fun and safe environment, ensuring players avoid all the hassles that may appear.
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