A slot is a place to put coins in a coin-operated machine. The machine is activated by a lever or button (physical or touchscreen) and then spins to rearrange the symbols, which pay out credits based on the paytable. Symbols vary between machines but include classic objects like fruits, bells, and stylized lucky sevens. Most slot games have a theme that is aligned with the graphics and bonus features of the game.

Players can bet a fixed amount of money and then spin the reels to try to match a winning combination. They can win jackpots, free spins, and extra rounds, depending on the game. Slots are popular in casinos and online. They can be one of the most rapid and exhilarating casino games, but they must be played responsibly to avoid spending more than they can afford to lose.

Unlike the old-style mechanical machines that dispensed tickets with barcodes, modern slot machines use microprocessors to determine the outcome of each spin. They also have multiple reels and a variety of symbols, including wilds, which can increase the number of possible combinations.

Many slots have side bets, which add to the total amount of the game and can lead to larger payouts. Some slots also offer a progressive jackpot, which grows with each bet and can be awarded at random or as part of a specific bonus round. Players can also find more information about the game’s rules and symbols in its pay table.