Complete Guide to How to Play Keno
Keno is a unique casino game that combines elements of lottery and bingo. Simple rules and potential for big wins make it a popular choice among players. However, to truly maximize your chances of winning, it's important to understand how to play keno and win and apply a keno strategy.
Our expert opinion and tips will guide you through the gameplay, helping you make informed decisions when selecting numbers and managing your bets. We'll share insights on number selection strategies, bankroll management, and how to strike a balance between risk and reward.
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What is the game of keno?
Keno is a popular lottery-style game found in many casinos around the world, both land-based and online. It originated in ancient China and has since gained immense popularity due to its simple yet exciting gameplay. In keno, players select numbers from a set range, typically between 1 and 80, to match as many of their chosen numbers to the numbers drawn by the game.
The game begins by selecting a desired number of spots on the keno ticket. These spots represent the numbers that the player wishes to play. The more spots selected, the higher the potential payout, but also the lower the odds of winning. After selecting the spots, the game randomly draws a set of numbers, usually around 20, from a pool of numbers. The player wins based on how many of their chosen numbers match the numbers drawn.
Online Keno offers various betting options, allowing players to adjust their wager and potential winnings according to their preferences. Payouts are determined by the number of matches made, the number of spots chosen, and the specific paytable of the casino. Some keno games also offer additional features such as bonus rounds and progressive jackpots, adding more excitement and potential rewards to the gameplay.
How to Play Keno and Win
Playing keno is a game of chance, but there are strategies you can employ to increase your chances of winning. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to play keno and win:
- 1
Understand the rules
Familiarize yourself with the basic rules of keno. In keno, players select numbers from a predetermined range, usually from 1 to 80. The objective is to correctly predict which numbers will be drawn.
- 2
Choose your numbers
Select your numbers based on personal preference or use strategies such as picking hot or cold numbers. Hot numbers are those that have been frequently drawn in previous games, while cold numbers are less frequently drawn. Some players also like to choose a mix of both.
- 3
Decide on the number of spots
Each keno ticket allows you to choose a specific number of spots, which are the numbers you want to play. The number of spots you select will impact the odds of winning and the potential payout. Keep in mind that the more spots you choose, the harder it becomes to match all the numbers.
- 4
Place your bets
Determine the amount you want to wager on each keno game. Most keno games allow you to adjust the bet amount per game, giving you control over your risk and potential winnings.
- 5
Wait for the draw
Once you've selected your numbers and placed your bets, the keno draw will begin. Random numbers will be drawn using a random number generator or through physical means, such as a ball machine.
- 6
Check your numbers
After the draw is complete, compare the numbers drawn to your chosen numbers. If you match enough numbers, you win a prize. The payout will depend on the number of spots you selected and the paytable of the specific keno game.
How to Play Keno: Different Keno Bets
Keno offers various types of bets that players can place to enhance their gameplay experience. Here are the various keno bets you can make so you can apply an optimal keno strategy:
Straight Bet: A straight bet is the simplest and most common type of keno bet. In this bet, you choose a set of numbers and hope that they match the numbers drawn. The more numbers you select and match, the higher your payout.
Split Bet: With a split bet, you divide your selected numbers into two separate groups. This increases your chances of winning since you have more opportunities to match the drawn numbers. However, keep in mind that each group will have its own individual wager.
Way Bet: A way bet allows you to cover multiple combinations of numbers on a single ticket. You can choose more numbers than the required spots and create different combinations within those numbers. This increases your chances of winning, but it also increases your wager amount.
Combination Bet: A combination bet is similar to a way bet, but it covers all possible combinations of the selected numbers. This bet offers the highest chance of winning, but it comes with a higher cost.
King Bet: In a king bet, you select one number as your "king" and combine it with other numbers. If your king number is drawn, it increases the payouts for the other numbers in the combination.
Top/Bottom or Left/Right Bet: With this bet, you choose numbers from the top or bottom half or the left or right side of the keno ticket. This can be an interesting strategy if you notice certain patterns in the drawn numbers.
Special Bets: Some keno games offer special bets or bonus features that provide additional opportunities to win. These can include bonus numbers, extra balls, or side games that offer separate prizes.
Remember to check the specific rules and payouts of the keno game you are playing, as they may vary slightly from one casino to another. Understanding the different keno bets and applying a keno strategy will help you customize your gameplay and increase your chances of winning.

Keno payouts
You may have heard that keno is an impossible game to beat, but that’s only true when you select tonnes of numbers. If you only go for one, two or three numbers, you may find you win quite frequently.
Keno payouts vary wildly depending on how many numbers you select. When you’re first learning how to play online keno, it’s a good idea to only choose a couple of numbers while you get the hang of things. You should quickly figure out the very limited online keno rules, and then you can decide whether you want to go for a more outlandish score.
Here’s how much you’ll receive if you guess up to 10 numbers in keno:
Numbers chosen | Matches | Payout (per CA$1 bet) | Probability |
---|---|---|---|
1 | 1 | 2 | 1 in 4 |
2 | 2 | 10 | 1 in 17 |
3 | 3 | 25 | 1 in 73 |
3 | 2 | 2 | 1 in 8 |
4 | 4 | 50 | 1 in 327 |
4 | 3 | 5 | 1 in 24 |
4 | 2 | 1 | 1 in 5 |
5 | 5 | 500 | 1 in 1,551 |
5 | 4 | 15 | 1 in 83 |
5 | 3 | 2 | 1 in 12 |
6 | 6 | 1,500 | 1 in 7,753 |
6 | 5 | 50 | 1 in 324 |
6 | 4 | 5 | 1 in 36 |
6 | 3 | 1 | 1 in 8 |
7 | 7 | 5,000 | 1 in 40,980 |
7 | 6 | 150 | 1 in 1,366 |
7 | 5 | 15 | 1 in 116 |
7 | 4 | 2 | 1 in 20 |
7 | 3 | 1 | 1 in 6 |
8 | 8 | 15,000 | 1 in 230,115 |
8 | 7 | 400 | 1 in 6,233 |
8 | 6 | 50 | 1 in 423 |
8 | 5 | 10 | 1 in 55 |
8 | 4 | 2 | 1 in 13 |
9 | 9 | 25,000 | 1 in 1,380,688 |
9 | 8 | 2,500 | 1 in 30,682 |
9 | 7 | 200 | 1 in 1,691 |
9 | 6 | 25 | 1 in 175 |
9 | 5 | 4 | 1 in 31 |
9 | 4 | 1 | 1 in 9 |
10 | 10 | 200,000 | 1 in 8,911,712 |
10 | 9 | 10,000 | 1 in 163,382 |
10 | 8 | 500 | 1 in 7,385 |
10 | 7 | 50 | 1 in 621 |
10 | 6 | 10 | 1 in 88 |
10 | 5 | 3 | 1 in 20 |
10 | 0 | 3 | 1 in 22 |
What is the difference between Keno and Bingo?
When you are learning how to play keno and win, you may find that both keno and bingo are quite similar in gameplay. There are however some key differences which you should be aware of, especially when you learn how to play keno and win.
Game Format
In Keno, players choose numbers from a predetermined range, typically between 1 and 80. A set of numbers is then drawn randomly, and players win if their chosen numbers match the drawn numbers. In contrast, Bingo involves players purchasing pre-printed cards or tickets with a grid of numbers. The game will handpick and randomly choose numbers before calling them out. Players must then daub off the corresponding numbers on their cards.
Selection of Numbers
In Keno, players have the flexibility to choose their own numbers, typically selecting a certain amount from the available range. In Bingo, players are assigned pre-printed cards with numbers already displayed on them.
Payout Structure
In Keno, the payout is based on the number of matches between the drawn numbers and the player's chosen numbers. The more matches you have, the bigger your payout will be. In Bingo, the payout structure typically involves achieving a specific pattern on the card, such as completing a line, two lines, or a full house. The payout amount is generally predetermined and shared among the winners.
Speed of Gameplay
Keno is generally a faster-paced game, as the drawing of numbers is automated or conducted at regular intervals. Bingo, on the other hand, can have a slower pace, as the numbers are called out by a game host, allowing players to mark their cards accordingly.
Social Aspect
Bingo is often played in a social setting, such as community centres or bingo halls, where players can interact with each other and enjoy the social atmosphere. Keno, while also playing in some social settings, is more commonly found in casinos, where the focus is primarily on the gameplay itself.

How to Play Keno: Strategy
While Keno is largely a game of chance, there are a few strategies you can employ to improve your gaming experience. Here are some tips to consider when playing Keno:
- 1
Understand the Odds
Familiarize yourself with the odds of winning different Keno bets. Each casino has its own paytable and odds, so it's important to check the specific rules and payouts before playing. Overall, the bigger the number of keno numbers chosen, the higher your potential payout will be.
- 2
Set a Budget
Before playing Keno, determine your budget and stick to it. Decide how much you are willing to spend and avoid chasing losses. Remember that Keno is a game of chance, and there is no guaranteed winning strategy.
- 3
Choose the Right Number of Spots
Consider the number of spots (numbers) you select on your Keno ticket. Choosing too few numbers may limit your chances of winning while choosing too many numbers can decrease the potential payout. Find a balance that suits your playing style and risk tolerance.
- 4
Mix Up Your Number Selection
Instead of sticking to the same set of numbers for every game, consider mixing up your number selection. Choosing a combination of high and low numbers, as well as spread across different ranges, can add variety to your gameplay and potentially boost your opportunities of hitting a winning combination.
- 5
Play with Bonus Features
Some online casinos offer bonus features, such as multipliers or bonus rounds, that can increase your potential winnings. Take advantage of these features when available to enhance your overall Keno experience.
How to Play Keno: Conclusion
Now that you know how to play keno, you are also aware of the fact that similar to other online casino games available on the market, it is a game of chance. You can still apply a keno strategy to help you manage your funds better and extend gameplay.
If you are looking to play keno for real money, our team here at CasinoRider has thoroughly vetted all gambling sites recommended on this page before deeming them safe and secure.
How to Play Keno FAQ
To play Keno, you start by selecting numbers on a Keno ticket, typically ranging from 1 to 80. The number of spots you can choose varies depending on the casino. Once you have selected your numbers, the casino will randomly draw numbers. If your chosen numbers match the drawn numbers, you win.
In Keno, you can make different types of bets, including straight bets (choosing a specific number), way bets (combining groups of numbers), and combination bets (combining multiple straight bets). Each bet type has its own payout odds and potential winnings.
Keno payouts are determined by the casino's paytable, which outlines the odds and potential winnings for different bets. The payout amount depends on the number of spots you have selected and the number of numbers that match.
The odds of winning in Keno vary depending on the number of spots you have selected and the specific game's rules. Generally, the more numbers you choose, the lower the odds of winning, but the higher the potential payout.
There are many online gambling sites in Canada that offer free Keno games that give you the chance to play without risking real money. These free games are a great way to practise, learn the rules, and get familiar with the gameplay before playing with real money.
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