Keno Strategy: How to Win and Basic Betting Systems

Published by Spencer Mitchell on June 22, 2023

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Published by Spencer Mitchell on June 22, 2023

Keno is a popular casino game that resembles lottery games, but the strategy for Keno is a bit different. The basic Keno betting strategy involves strategically picking from available options of numbers with the hope that the numbers you pick match the winning numbers. In short, it is an exciting game with an interesting probability of numbers being drawn. Continue reading to discover how you can benefit from understanding Keno advanced betting.

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Playing Keno for Beginners: How Does Keno Work?

The Keno gameplay is not as technical as many other games. As a beginner, you’ll be able to catch up quickly on how to play Keno advanced games. You start by picking your card. Usually, a Keno Card contains 1-80 numbers. So, the Keno strategy here is to select the numbers you hope will win the game for you. Plus, depending on the type of game you’re playing, you can select as many as 10 to 20 numbers.

Afterward, check the payout table. When playing an online Keno, the table will appear immediately after you choose your numbers. The table displays the amount you could win if you have matched some numbers. Suffice it to say that the amount you could win depends on the Keno numbers you have matched.

Going forward, decide your bet size. You do this by playing multiple games with your number selection or even a single game. You can also multiply the bet size provided you have already picked your winning spots. Then, the game starts. Numbers that are drawn will appear on your screen. Some casinos even categorize them into “hot” and “cold.” Hot numbers are those that appear often and recently. Cold numbers are those that don’t.

If any number you selected matches a drawn number, you’ll see “catching a spot” appear on the screen. Don’t forget, the more numbers you match, the higher the amount you win.

Keno Cards Explained Keno Cards Explained

Traditionally, you’ll be presented with a rectangular card to play the Keno game. The card contains numbers from 1 to 80. It is the card that serves as your playing item. You play on it by marking your selections with circles or boxes. You can adopt different playing patterns on the card depending on your Keno strategy to increase your winning chances. For example, you can choose the top half six, five spotlines, or number cluster Keno patterns.

 Moreover, playing the advanced Keno games online helps you simplify this process. Websites are designed with beautiful digital interfaces that make playing seamless. You will only be required to mark your card online and submit it afterward.

Step-by-Step Guide to Playing Keno

The following is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to play a Keno advanced game.

  • Pick Your Card: To play Keno, you start by picking up a card and selecting the numbers you believe will help you win the bet. Traditionally, you will find cards at specified Keno hubs in casinos. If you play online, the cards will readily be available on your screen upon logging in to the game. As said above, the cards contain numbers from 1 to 80, matching the numbers on the Keno machine. However, some casinos may use electronic means (a computer) to decide the winning Keno numbers, not drawing balls from a machine. Likewise, all online casinos that offer Keno games use the electronic method. In addition, you can also come across various categories of Keno cards in some of these casinos, where, apart from their regular cards, they also have jackpot cards, bonus cards, etc. One more thing you should know while playing the game is the frequency of card usage. Cards may be categorized into single-race and multi-race cards. While single-race cards can only be used once, you can use multiple cards to play as much as you want. At the same time, multi-race cards save you the stress of ticking numbers whenever you want to play a game. With it, you can play games multiple times with your selected numbers.
  • Choose Your Numbers: After picking your Keno card, fill out the numbers of your choice. The numbers you choose to bet on are known as Keno spots. Since there are 80 numbers on the card, it implies 80 Keno spots. They are made into ten columns and eight rows. Also, the card you’re playing on will specify the number of Keno spots you can choose.
    Some cards have a “quick pick” option to simplify the process. When you select the option, the computer will help you randomize selections. Plus, your odds of winning remain the same whether you pick manually or the computer picks it for you.
    Furthermore, instead of choosing numbers randomly, you can adopt one of the best keto patterns, such as top half six, five spotline, and number cluster Keno patterns, to boost your confidence. However, always remember that winning at Keno is mostly based on luck and very little on your Keno betting strategy.
    You may as well find “hot numbers” and “cold numbers” on the result board. But you mustn’t let them decide the numbers you select on your card. Numbers are drawn randomly, and each has an equal chance of winning. In short, the results obtained previously have nothing to do with what will be obtained subsequently.
  • Review the Payout Table: Before you decide on your casino Keno strategy, it is essential to review the payout table. It displays the amount you can win by playing a game. Generally, your payout is determined by the amount of numbers you match after the game result comes out. However, the percentage of the payout offered by respective casinos differs. Therefore, you should check your payout each time you play to know the exact amount you stand to win. In an online Keno game, the payout table will be shown immediately after you select your numbers.
  • Decide Your Bet Size: For each card you pick when using the Keno systems strategy, there’s an opportunity for you to play multiple games with the same numbers. You can also decide to increase the amount you place on the game. For instance, if your initial betting amount is $5, you can increase it to $10 to get double the payout, $15 to get triple, and so on. What is important is that you indicate whatever you decide with your bet on your card.
    It should also be noted that the amount you place on all selected numbers has to be the same. For example, if you select ten numbers and want to place a bet of $5 on your selected numbers, it will cost you $50. You also can double it to make a total of $100. However, you cannot vary the betting amount. For example, you can’t bet $5 on a number and $4 on another on the same card.
    More so, based on your preference and pocket, you can place between $1 and $20 on each bet. The location of the casino you play with may also affect the amount you can wager on your games. Plus, it is always advisable to start betting small and take measures to play responsibly.
  • Start the Game: Well, now you’re very close to mastering how to play the Keno advanced game. So, after selecting your spots and submitting your card, wait for the game to begin. If you’re playing in a casino lounge, you must stay glued to the game board. The board will display the results of many games one after the other. Therefore, you need to be alert to see your game result when it is displayed.
    However, if you opt for the online game, you won’t have to undergo this. After submitting your card, you only need to wait for the result to be displayed automatically on your device.
  • Match Your Numbers: When your game result is displayed, bring out your ticket to determine if you match the displayed number. If your selected numbers match the displayed numbers, you have won!
    The money you can win depends on how many numbers match the numbers displayed and your bet size. The boards usually show the payout for all Keno spots you have matched. If you win a game, your payout will be determined by the number of tickets that you played the same game. If you’re unsure of this, the Keno operator will be willing to guide you through.
    In addition, there are Keno lounges that offer players special playoffs if they select bonus numbers. Notably, there is no fixed payout, as different casinos offer different payouts. However, most casinos offer between 70% and 80% on range. However, most players will like payouts to be close to 100% as much as possible. Also, don’t worry if you’ve had an unlucky start to the game; once you have played a couple of cards, you’ll certainly be able to find a few Keno strategies that work for you.

What Are the Best Keno Numbers?

Like in lottery games, Keno players always want to find out if particular numbers hit more often. After an intensive study of some collected data, it was revealed that some numbers appear frequently. For example, in certain circles, numbers such as 1, 4, 23, 34, and 72 have been said to appear often. That said, the “best Keno numbers” will vary based on the Keno variant and the location in which it is played.

However, players must understand that this information is not conclusive. Keno is naturally a game of chance. Whenever a game is played, every number has an equal chance to be drawn and presented as the winning number.

The online platforms randomly generate numbers with a Random Number Generator (RNG). The Keno machine used at casino lounges also generates numbers randomly. Therefore, no one can be genuinely confident of the numbers drawn regardless of their Keno strategy. However, with the knowledge of hot and cold numbers, one can hope to be close to choosing the winning numbers.

Hot and Cold Numbers in Keno

In Keno, when selecting numbers, you probably would have heard of hot and cold numbers. Below is an exposition of the two concepts and how they can help in your Keno number selection.

  • Hot Numbers: The Hot numbers are those numbers that have been making the draw more often. They also might have appeared recently. Players find them helpful for advanced Keno strategies and refer to them as “winning” or “lucky” numbers. Although research has revealed that specific numbers appear more often, one must never forget that drawn numbers remain random, and selecting hot numbers does not form a conclusive strategy for Keno. For a Keno machine, all numbers are equal and stand equal chances to be drawn.
    The wisdom behind hot numbers is that they stand in Keno spots that are likely advantageous over others. Hence their frequent appearance. However, while the advantage could be accidental, Keno players often choose the numbers, hoping they may be drawn again.
  • Cold Numbers: Cold numbers are those that appear rarely while playing Keno advanced games. Players do judge these numbers by their antecedents and do not put much trust in them for subsequent games. On the other hand, some players believe that the rare appearance of some numbers could imply that they will soon hit. Hence, these players approach games with a “reverse psychology.”
    Meanwhile, like the hot numbers, cold numbers become cold by mere incidence. No one can be sure if they will get hot soon or remain cold. So, whichever strategy you choose, whether it be cluster Keno patterns or line patterns, nobody can determine the exact fate of the draw.

Keno Odds and Probabilities: Can You Predict Keno Numbers?

For every game you play, there is a probability that the numbers you pick will match the winning numbers. Understanding this probability will make you play better and help in devising better Keno strategies. Notwithstanding, the Keno game remains a game of luck. You can’t tell for sure that you will win a game despite using the best Keno systems strategy. Notwithstanding, the following are the probabilities when you play a game.

  • When you play only a number, your odds of having a match is 1 in 4
  • Your odds of matching both numbers when you pick two numbers is 1 in 17
  • If you play three numbers, the odds of matching all are 1 in 73. The odds of matching two numbers in such a game is 1 in 8.
  • There’s an odd of 1 in 327 for matching all numbers when you pick four numbers. 1 in 24 for matching three and 1 in 5 for matching two.
  • If you play five numbers, the odds are 1 in 1551 that you will match all, 1 in 83 that you will match four, and 1 in 12 that you will match 3

Picking up additional numbers will increase your probability of matching numbers and, at the same time, diminish the potential win amount because the payouts are spread across the possible combinations. Also, fewer selections may reduce the winning chances but the reward is always huge when a win happens. On the same note, the traditional Keno machines at casinos usually come with higher edges by default. Whereas, online Keno platforms usually have a lesser edge, which means a bigger part of the pool is given back as winning payouts.

Choosing Your Keno Number Choosing Your Keno Number

Choosing Keno numbers requires due care because that is what determines how the game goes. Players try a variety of strategies to find winning combinations, with some picking randomly while others stick to some of the best Keno patterns.

Those that pick randomly do not use any pattern or strategy. They only pick numbers, trusting their intuition that they will be drawn. On the other hand, players who play with patterns use some existing systematic methods to choose numbers.

One of the most popular methods is the number cluster Keno patterns. Number clusters form over time when numbers appear from draws. Sometimes, the clusters formed seem to indicate winning numbers to the players. With time, players develop the clusters they would like to play. They would then tend to choose these numbers more often. Clusters that players use to improve their winning chances include five spot lineup, half six, 4 X 5 corners, etc.

Furthermore, some players follow existing patterns to choose numbers. These patterns are products of long-term studies and theories. According to some experts, these patterns are likely to guide towards choosing winning numbers. The patterns include double up, risk spreading, favorite/lucky numbers, four cards, 20 cards, etc.

Some players prefer to lean towards playing hot numbers that are known for their recurring appearance in Keno draw. Conversely, some prefer to stick to cold numbers that have not been drawn lately with the hope that the chosen number will be their luck. In the end, the reality with Keno is that it is a game of pure luck. While it is interesting to select combinations based on some important dates or to follow previous patterns of consecutive figures, every draw is a separate incident on its own.

In fact, the charm of Keno lies in its unpredictability. Whether a player decides to use a random number generator for selection or hand-pick a lucky number by following some specific patterns, each selection has an equal chance for a possible win.

How to Win at Online Keno

Though we have stressed enough that Keno is a game of chance, employing some tactical approach can surely elevate your gaming experience. So, let’s check out some of the popular approaches gamblers use while playing Keno.

Look for Keno Games with a High Payout Percentage

The first rule of your Keno casino strategy should be to select games with a high payout percentage or, simply, a high rate of return to player (RTP). The RTP is the percentage of wagered money a game will pay back to players. For instance, If a Keno game has 95% RTP, it means $95 will be returned as winnings on every $100 wagered. High RTP games do not guarantee wins, but it is a strategic way of retaining your bankroll over multiple rounds of games.

Even if you have your favourite casino platform where you usually pay slots and every other game, it may not have high RTP for Keno. That’s why you need to research and use casinos that specifically offer variants of Keno and high RTP. Information about Keno is usually available on the game’s description section of a casino website. By prioritizing Keno games with a favorable RTP, you increase your likelihood of enjoying extended playtime and better overall returns.

Practice with Free Keno Games

Keno is quite easy to play. That’s why many players dive into it and start playing with real money. You need to get familiar with the game mechanics before you start playing real money Keno. There are many reputable online casinos that offer free versions of Keno. This allows players to understand the rules, get familiar with their Keno systems strategy, and develop their own approach to the game.

Practice will make you identify patterns in your gameplay, and make you decide which approach suits your style. Free games also help in mastering the pace of online Keno. They’re a bit different from traditional casino settings.

Also, some casinos may have high RTP but poor game platforms; you may experience lag or a game that runs slow. On rare occasions, the game may even restart abruptly. So, if possible, it’s always best to test out the game without using real money to better understand how the platform works and then decide whether or not it’s a fair ground to play Keno.

Select a Balanced Range of Number (4 – 8 Picks)

Though you can choose up to 20 numbers in a wager, the logical question is how many of these numbers will land. You need to make a delicate balance in number picking. If you select too few numbers, your chance of hitting enough matches to win is narrow. However, if you choose too many numbers, your potential payout will be limited.

Experts have recommended that selecting between four and eight numbers is the most intelligent option to balance the risk. This Keno betting strategy helps maintain a reasonable chance of success. For example, if you get 5 out of 5 chosen games, your payout may be 50 to 1, quite impressive. But if five out of ten is what you get correctly, your payouts will be reduced to 3 to 1.

Also, note that every number has an equal probability of being drawn. Focus on balance when thinking of the best strategy for Keno and avoid overthinking number selection.

Accept the Role of Random Chance in Keno

Keno heavily relies on random chance. It’s unlike skill-based games like Poker and Blackjack. Its outcome is determined entirely by a random number generator (RNG). This means no amount of Keno advanced strategy can guarantee a sure win but can only help manage risk and position you for a possible win.

Accepting this reality will help you approach the game with a relaxed mindset. You will enjoy the gaming experience rather than being fixated on winning the game. So, set realistic expectations and understand that losses are a natural part of the game. That will prevent frustration and make your gaming sessions more enjoyable. Remember, Keno is designed to be a fun and entertaining way to test your luck.

Play Licensed, Trustworthy CasinosPlay Licensed, Trustworthy Casinos

One of the most important aspects of a casino Keno strategy is to play only at trustworthy casinos that ensure fair gameplay, secure transactions, and seamless payout. But how do you know a trustworthy casino? License!! Legit casinos are regulated by gambling authorities and issue licenses as a guarantee that their service is fair. For Keno, having a license means the operator uses legitimate RNG software that’s free from manipulation.

So, verify the casino’s license information online before you sign up or play real-money Keno games with them. Just go on to the casino’s licensing authority and check by using the unique identification number. Also, a trustworthy casino would offer additional perks, such as customer support, user-friendly interfaces, etc, that enhance your overall experience.

Explore Multi-Race Keno Cards

Multi-race Keno cards will allow you to use the same set of selected numbers across multiple games without having to re-enter their picks. This feature saves time if you want to choose to play the same numbers all over again. It is particularly beneficial for players who have identified a set of favorite numbers and aim to streamline their gameplay.

It also allows players to observe how their chosen numbers perform over several rounds. It’s also a popular Keno systems strategy because it’s a way to identify patterns and potentially increase your chances of winning.

Also, many online casinos do offer discounts or incentives for using multi-race cards. While Multi-Race Cards don’t directly increase your winning chances, they actually help you save time and save you the trouble of having to repeatedly select the same spots.

Use Bonuses to Maximize Playtime

This is one of the best Keno strategies used by plenty of gamblers, where they only look to play at casinos that offer the best deal. Bonuses are the beautiful perks of online casinos that make players stay glued to the gameplay. You can leverage bonuses given to extend your playtime and increase your purse.

Check out the casino’s promo page for welcome bonuses, deposit matches, and free spins. With these bonuses, you can increase your bankroll and enjoy more games without additional financial investment. However, read the terms and conditions associated with these bonuses, as some might have unreasonably high wagering requirements.

Understanding Different Keno Bets Understanding Different Keno Bets

Keno offers different betting options. This allows players to tailor their strategies and maximize potential payouts. You can choose any of these to personalize your Keno betting strategy.

Straight Bets: This is the most common Keno bet, especially among beginners. It is played by choosing a set of numbers and wager on how many of the numbers that would be drawn. It offers straightforward odds based on the number of picks. Plus, you can bet up to 20 numbers at a session, depending on the game.

Way Bets: Here, you will select a group of numbers and divide the chosen numbers into equal sub-groups. Then, each of the numbers must appear in a group together for a win. For instance, you can select nine numbers and group them into three sets of three. Now, if a number comes up from each of the groups, you’ve got three numbers correct but it wouldn’t count as they’re not in the same group. In most casinos, you can also combine each of the groups to increase the chance of winning a smaller payout. But it requires a slightly higher wager.

Combination Bets: This strategy for Keno takes the concept further by allowing players to combine straight and way bets on the same ticket. If multiple groups of your bet hit, you have the chance of higher rewards.

Bankroll Management in Keno

As a game of chance, it’s easy to think that the next play may be your lucky win, but no, the gambling world doesn’t work like that. In fact, discipline while betting is an important Keno betting strategy.

The first step in managing your bankroll is to set a limit. Decide how much money you’re comfortable losing before you start playing, and stick to it. This should be an amount that won’t impact your financial obligations or daily life. Once you have a budget, divide it into smaller portions for each gaming session. You can stretch it further by determining the number of losing streaks that will make you pause. For example, you may decide to take a break after losing thrice consecutively.Another effective manager option is to adjust your wagers according to your budget. For instance, if your bankroll is small, lower your stakes to ensure you can play multiple rounds.

Additionally, use your bonuses and promotions. Some do have a time limit. Make sure you use them before they expire. Lastly, don’t chase your losses. It can lead to making impulsive decisions that will blow up your bankroll. Instead, focus on enjoying the game as a form of entertainment.

Spencer Mitchell, image
Spencer Mitchell, image
Author : Spencer Mitchell
Spencer Mitchell is an online casino expert with a tremendous knowledge of all casino games, games strategy, online casino bonuses and reviews. Spencer is the casino content chief editor at Casinofy
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