How to Play Keno Like a Pro: The Ultimate Guide
- Theo Quinten
- Last Updated on March 17, 2024
- No Comments
- Keno Academy
Key takeaways:
- Keno involves selecting numbers on a card ranging from 1 to 80, with players typically choosing between 1 and 20 numbers, known as “spots.” The objective is to match these selected numbers with those drawn by the house, with payouts increasing based on the number of correct matches.
- While some rely on random selection, others employ strategies such as tracking “hot” and “cold” numbers. It’s vital to understand that each draw is independent, dispelling myths about number selection influencing outcomes.
- Beyond number selection, betting strategy significantly impacts gameplay. Straight bets offer simplicity, while way bets and combination bets introduce complexity and strategic opportunities. Progressive jackpots promise substantial rewards for hitting specific number combinations.
Table of Contents
Anatomy of a Keno Card
Understanding the Keno card is the first step towards mastering the game.
Typically, a Keno card features 80 numbers, arranged in a grid of 8 rows and 10 columns.
Players can usually pick between 1 and 20 numbers, known as ‘spots’, with each selection being crucial.
The goal? To have as many of your chosen numbers match those that are drawn during the game. The more matches you have, the higher your potential winnings.
How to Play Keno Online: Step-by-step
To start your journey with the best Keno numbers, finding a reliable online casino is the first step.
Look for platforms that are licensed and have positive reviews from other players.
Once you’ve found your ideal casino, the registration process is usually straightforward:
- You’ll need to provide some basic information to set up your account.
- After registration, navigate to the Keno section of the casino.
Here, you will find the digital version of the Keno card we discussed earlier.
Placing your first bet is as simple as:
- selecting your numbers
- deciding how much you want to wager
- waiting for the result of the draw and checking your ticket
Picking Keno Numbers – Which Way is Correct?
Is there a strategy for selecting the best Keno numbers, or is it all just luck?
Some players swear by random number selection, trusting entirely in fate.
Others prefer to use strategies, such as tracking ‘hot’ (frequently drawn numbers, also called the best keno numbers) and ‘cold’ (rarely drawn) numbers.
However, it’s essential to remember that each draw in Keno is independent, and past results don’t influence future outcomes – a fact that dispels many common myths and misconceptions about number selection in Keno.
Understanding Keno Bets and Betting Variations
When it comes to Keno, the best numbers are just part of the equation.
How you choose to bet on those numbers can be just as crucial.
Keno offers a variety of betting options, each with its own set of rules and potential payouts.
Let’s break down some of the most popular types of Keno bets and explore how they can add a new layer of excitement to your game.
Straight Bets
The straight bet is the classic, straightforward way to play Keno.
In a straight bet, you choose a set of numbers, known as “spots,” and you are paid based on how many of your numbers are drawn.
It’s simple and direct: you pick your numbers, place your bet, and wait for the draw.
The more numbers you match, the higher your prize – it’s as simple as that.
Way Bets
Way bets are where Keno starts to get a bit more complex – and a lot more interesting.
In a way bet, you’re essentially playing several straight bets at once, but in a combined form.
For example, if you pick eight numbers, you might play them as two separate sets of four.
This is known as a “2-way bet of 4.”
Each of these sets is a “way,” and you can win on each of them independently.
Way bets allow for a lot of flexibility and can lead to some significant payouts if luck is on your side.
Combination Bets
Combination bets are for those who like to mix things up.
In a combination bet, you combine groups of numbers to create several different bets.
For instance, if you pick six numbers, you might create three different combinations of two numbers each.
You’re then betting that these specific pairs will hit.
It’s a fun way to add a strategic layer to your Keno game, as it allows you to hedge your bets and spread out your risk.
Progressive Jackpots
Last but certainly not least, we have progressive jackpots.
These are the bets that can turn a small wager into a life-changing win.
In a game with a progressive jackpot, a portion of every bet made goes into a pooled jackpot that continues to grow until someone wins it.
To win the progressive jackpot in Keno, you typically need to hit a specific set of numbers, often all of them, which is no small feat.
But if the stars align and you hit that magic combination, the rewards can be astronomical.
Online vs Land-based Keno – Which is Better?
Players are often faced with a critical decision: to play online or to enjoy the game in a traditional, land-based casino.
Both options have their unique charms and drawbacks.
So, how do you decide which is the better fit for you?
Let’s weigh the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.
Pros and Cons of Online Keno
Pros:
- Convenience: Online Keno is available 24/7, right at your fingertips. Whether you’re on your couch or on the go, you can play anytime, anywhere.
- Pace of Play: Online, you control the speed of the game. No waiting for other players or for the next scheduled draw.
- Variety: Online casinos often feature a wide array of Keno variations, giving you plenty of options to keep things fresh.
- Bonuses and Promotions: Online casinos frequently offer bonuses that can give your bankroll a nice boost.
Cons:
- Lack of Social Interaction: Playing online can be a solitary experience, lacking the social atmosphere of a land-based casino.
- Potential for Technical Issues: A slow or interrupted internet connection can disrupt your game.
Pros and Cons of Land-based Keno
Pros:
- Social Experience: There’s something special about the camaraderie of playing Keno in a lively casino atmosphere.
- Tangible Experience: Holding a physical Keno card and watching a live draw can enhance the excitement of the game.
- No Technical Worries: Without the need for an internet connection, you’re free from the stress of technical glitches.
Cons:
- Limited Availability: You need to be physically present at a casino, which might not always be convenient.
- Slower Pace: Land-based Keno games are scheduled and can move at a slower pace, which might not suit all players.
Making the Choice that Suits You
Ultimately, the “better” option between online and land-based Keno comes down to personal preference.
Are you a social butterfly who thrives in the energetic atmosphere of a casino floor?
Or do you value the convenience and control of playing online, where you can enjoy Keno in your pajamas if you so choose?
Maybe you’re someone who enjoys the best of both worlds, depending on your mood.
The key is to understand what you want from your Keno experience.
If you prioritize convenience and variety, online Keno might be your game.
If the social aspect and the tangible experience of a casino are what you’re after, then land-based Keno could be your perfect match.
In the end, both online and land-based Keno have their unique appeals, and neither is objectively “better” than the other. It’s all about finding the style of play that brings you the most enjoyment and suits your lifestyle.
What are the Odds of Winning if you Play Online Keno?
In Keno, the odds are determined by three factors: the total numbers you choose to play, the numbers you need to hit to win, and the total numbers drawn in the game.
For example, if you choose 5 numbers (also known as a “5-spot” game), the odds of hitting all 5 numbers are calculated based on the various combinations in which those numbers could appear among the 20 numbers drawn.
It’s a complex calculation, but it’s one that online casinos often display clearly, allowing you to know your odds before you play.
Here’s a simplified example:
In a 1-spot game (where you pick only one number), your odds of hitting that number are 1 in 4, since 20 out of 80 numbers are drawn.
As you pick more numbers, the calculations become more complex, and the odds lengthen, but the potential payouts grow significantly larger.
But Theo, I want to find out the odds of my 10 picks ticket, how can I do it? Don’t worry, I have just the right tool for you to calculate the odds of it. I made the keno odds calculator just for you with instructions on how to use it. 🙂
Comparing Keno Odds with Other Casino Games
When you stack Keno up against other casino games, you’ll notice that it has a higher house edge – often around 25-30%.
This is considerably higher than the house edge in games like Blackjack (which can be as low as 1-2%) or Baccarat (which typically sits around 1.06% for the Banker bet).
But here’s the catch: while Keno’s house edge is higher, the potential payouts can be much more substantial.
Hitting a big combination in Keno can result in a massive win (up to more than 200,000x), far exceeding the typical payouts in games like Blackjack or Roulette.
This is part of Keno’s appeal: the dream of turning a small bet into a substantial windfall.
So, is playing Keno online worth it?
It depends on your perspective. If you’re looking for a game with the best odds of winning small, consistent amounts, Keno might not be your first choice.
But if you’re drawn to the excitement of chasing a large prize – knowing that the odds are longer but the reward could be life-changing – then Keno’s unique blend of risk and reward might be just what you’re looking for.
7 Keno Tips and Tricks for Increased Odds of Winning
Keno is largely a game of luck, but that doesn’t mean you can’t tilt the odds slightly in your favor.
Here are seven tips and tricks that might just help you increase your chances of scoring a big win.
Managing Your Bankroll
First and foremost, set a budget for your Keno play and stick to it. This is the golden rule of any form of gambling.
Decide in advance how much you’re willing to spend, and don’t exceed that limit. This ensures that you can enjoy the game without risking financial stress.
Picking the Right Number of Spots
In Keno, you can usually pick between 1 and 20 numbers. But what’s the ideal amount?
Statistically, picking between 4 and 8 numbers offers the best odds of winning a payout. It strikes a balance between decent odds and a worthwhile payout.
Playing Free Keno Games for Practice
Before diving into real-money Keno, consider playing free versions of the game online.
This gives you a feel for the game and allows you to test different strategies without risking your bankroll.
Choosing Consecutive Numbers
Some seasoned Keno players swear by playing consecutive numbers.
While each draw is independent and random, consecutive numbers have been observed to hit more frequently in some cases (but still, I’m not an advocate of consecutive numbers).
Mixing Up Your Numbers
Don’t fall into the trap of always playing the same numbers.
Mix it up from time to time. This keeps the game exciting and ensures that you’re not missing potential lucky numbers.
Playing at a Reliable Casino
Whether online or land-based, make sure you are playing at a reputable and licensed casino.
This ensures fair play and that you’ll actually receive your winnings when you hit it big.
Knowing When to Stop
Keno is fun, but it can be easy to get carried away.
Set a loss limit for yourself, and if you hit that limit, it’s time to step away. This is part of managing your bankroll but is important enough to merit its own mention.
Are There Any Differences Between Bingo and Keno?
At first glance, Bingo and Keno might seem like twins in the world of number games.
They both involve players selecting numbers and hoping to match those numbers with ones that are drawn randomly. But when you dig a little deeper, you’ll find that these two games are more like distant cousins than identical twins.
Let’s break down some of the key differences between Bingo and Keno.
Game Mechanics
In Bingo, players purchase cards with pre-selected numbers arranged in a grid.
The game progresses as numbers are drawn and called out, and players mark off these numbers on their cards.
The goal is to be the first to complete a specific pattern and call out “Bingo!”
In Keno, players have the freedom to select their own set of numbers, usually between 1 and 20, from a pool of 80. After players have picked their numbers, 20 numbers are drawn randomly.
The more numbers a player matches, the higher the prize they win, with big rewards for matching a high number of selections.
Number of Balls/Cards
Bingo typically involves 75 or 90 balls, depending on the variant, and players have cards with pre-set numbers.
In Keno, players choose from a pool of 80 numbers, and 20 of these numbers are drawn in each game.
Winning Patterns
Bingo is all about completing specific patterns on a card.
This could be a full line, two lines, a full house, or various other patterns, depending on the game variant.
Keno doesn’t involve patterns.
It’s all about matching as many of your selected numbers as possible with the numbers that are drawn.
Popularity and Availability
Bingo is a social game, often associated with community centers and church halls, though online versions are now widely available.
It’s hugely popular in the UK, the US, and other parts of the world.
Keno is more associated with casinos.
It’s a big hit in places like Las Vegas, and it’s also widely available in online casinos.
Keno tends to be more popular in the United States and Australia.
In summary, while Bingo and Keno may seem similar on the surface, they are distinct games with their own set of rules and appeal.
Bingo is more about the community and the excitement of completing a pattern before anyone else, while Keno offers the allure of big payouts and the freedom to choose your own numbers.
So, whether you’re drawn to the social charm of Bingo or the strategic, high-stakes thrill of Keno, there’s a numbers game out there with your name on it.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Playing Keno
Keno is a fun and exciting game, but it can quickly turn frustrating if you find yourself caught in common pitfalls.
Being aware of these mistakes and avoiding them can make your Keno experience more enjoyable and might even boost your chances of winning.
Let’s explore some of the most common mistakes players make when enjoying Keno.
Overbetting
One of the most significant mistakes Keno players make is overbetting, or wagering more than they can afford to lose.
Keno is a fast-paced game, and it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and bet excessively.
Remember, the key to enjoying any form of gambling is to play within your means.
Set a budget before you start playing and stick to it, no matter how tempting it might be to place just one more bet.
Ignoring Paytables
Keno paytables outline the potential winnings you can earn based on the number of matches you make.
Ignoring these paytables is a common mistake.
Different casinos and different Keno games can have varying paytables, and some are more generous than others.
Before you start playing, take a moment to study the paytable. It can guide you in deciding how many numbers to play and can significantly impact your potential winnings.
Chasing Losses
We’ve all been there: after a losing streak, it’s tempting to keep playing in the hope of winning back what you’ve lost.
This is known as chasing losses, and it’s a dangerous path.
More often than not, chasing losses leads to even greater losses and can turn a fun game of Keno into a stressful and costly experience.
When you find yourself on a losing streak, it’s often best to step away, take a break, and perhaps try again another day when your luck might have turned.
