
If you’re looking to branch out from playing slots and classic table games, keno is one of the best options. But what if we told you that you can play free keno? That’s right, you can play without financial risk.
In this free keno games guide, you will learn how to play the popular game, and we will even suggest the best sweepstakes casinos to try. We will lay it all on the table for you, so you can get started regardless of your experience level. So, get ready to unwrap everything there is to know about keno.
Keno is a unique lottery-style game that is also reminiscent of bingo. If you enjoy the classic lottery or bingo-style gameplay, it is worth checking out free online keno. In this game, you will pick between numbers 1 to 80 in each round. 20 numbers are then randomly selected by an RNG (Random Number Generator), and if your prediction is correct, you’ll win a prize that’s equivalent to the matched numbers.
keno is one of the most straightforward sweepstakes games to learn. Having said that, you will still need to learn the basic rules and how gameplay works. Here’s a complete guide to show how the game works in practice:
Step #1: | You will be presented with numbers ranging from 1 to 80 |
Step #2: | Select which numbers you think will be picked in the draw |
Step #3: | If you don’t want to pick the numbers yourself, you can opt for auto-pick |
Step #4: | When you are ready, click the ‘Play’ button to start the round |
Step #5: | 20 numbers are randomly selected and displayed |
Step #6: | Check the results to see if you successfully matched the numbers |
Step #7: | If you land some matches, you will win a prize that’s equivalent to the picked numbers |
This then closes the end of the round, where you are given the option to play again or end your session. Each game is quick, only lasting a few moments, making it perfect for players who prefer fast-paced games.
Ultimately, the goal of keno is to match numbers, but there are different variants that each add a unique twist. Here’s an overview of the best keno versions:
Video keno gives the feel of an online slot machine. It’s also similar in a way to video poker. In this fast-paced game, there are 17 rounds per minute. This variety tends to have a lower house edge, too.
Just like other keno types, you will select up to 10 numbers and make your play before 20 numbers are randomly selected. If you match numbers, you will score a win. But the more numbers you match, the bigger your win will be.
Using live streaming software, live keno is drawn by a real human in real time. Just like being in a physical venue, you can watch the dealer draw and announce the numbers, showing the players the results as it happens. This variant is a fully immersive game and each round generally lasts between 3-5 minutes.
Just as the name suggests, this keno variant is designed with mobile in mind. While it may be available on mobile, these free keno games require no download most of the time. Whether you are playing from your smartphone or tablet, you can stay in on the action wherever it suits you.
Super keno sticks to the same rules as standard keno, with players trying to match up to 10 numbers. But the standout feature of Super keno is that if you match the first ball that is drawn, you get a 4x multiplier.
Power keno is the reverse of Super keno. In this version, your winnings are multiplied by 4x if you match the 20th ball that is drawn. All other rules follow the standard rules of keno.
As you would expect, jackpot keno is linked to a progressive jackpot that is added to over an extended period of time. The jackpot continues to increase until a player triggers the prize, taking the whole lot.
Getting started with your first round of free keno is easy, like most other sweepstakes casino titles, such as the Aviator casino game. Here’s a step-by-step guide that will help you initiate the game for the first time.
To start, you will need to select which sweepstakes casino you want to play at. Our top recommended site is Stake.us, which we will explore further later on.
Log in to your sweepstakes casino account and browse the gaming library. You will find an extensive range of casino-style games, including the Slingo game. But with your focus being on keno, it’s time to pick a keno variant. Choose from the likes of video keno, super keno, and jackpot keno.
You will be asked to make your number selections between 1 to 20 off the keno grid. Remember, the more numbers you match, the bigger your win will be.
Choose how many coins you want to play with per round. This will also determine your maximum potential win amount. You can adjust your play amount right up until the game starts.
Once the round has finished, you will pick whether or not you want to continue with another round of keno. Typically, you will be asked to confirm how many games you want to play after placing your play amount down. For instance, you can opt to stick around for 5 games if you wish.
When you hit the ‘Play’ button, the numbers are drawn using an RNG (Random Number Generator). You may score a win depending on how many numbers you guess correctly.
Now you know the basics, we will move on to exploring a few of our top tips for getting the most out of the free keno and win real cash games. Keep in mind that in the context of sweepstakes casinos, ‘winning real cash’ refers to redeeming Sweeps Coins for real-world prizes (and not winning money directly).
While the house edge of keno tends to be higher than for many casino-style games, like the Plinko online game, it also changes depending on how many numbers you pick. We think the sweet spot is picking between 4 to 8 numbers, as it gives you a good chance.
Let’s put it this way: picking too few numbers will leave you with a small chance of winning. Whereas choosing too many numbers will result in your play amount being more than a potential win.
It’s so easy for the human brain to see a pattern in something, even when it isn’t there. Keno is operated by RNGs, meaning that all outcomes are 100% fair and random. If you see a pattern, it’s a coincidence. Don’t think that you are seeing a pattern and then rely on this for your predictions.
Just like any other casino-style game, like Towers casino games, you should always pay attention to the RTP (Return-to-Player Percentage). The RTP gives you an indication of what you can expect to win on average over time.
Before you start playing with Sweeps Coins, we recommend playing with Gold Coins first, as they have less value and are easier to replenish. Once you are more confident, you can then start playing with Sweeps Coins for a chance to redeem real-world prizes.
You might be playing free keno, but you should still practice responsible gaming. For example, play with lower amounts to make your balance last longer. We recommend treating virtual currency almost like it’s real money - use it wisely and sparingly.
If you are looking for a recommendation of the best social casinos in the US, then look no further. Check out our mini reviews, so you can find the ideal free-to-play site for you.
Stake.us is renowned for its Stake Original games, which are developed by the in-house team. In this collection, you will find its version of keno, which is exclusive to the site. This version allows you to adjust the volatility from classic, low, medium, and high. It has a house edge of 1%, meaning the RTP is 99%, just like most Stake Original games.
Our favorite feature of Stake.us keno is auto-pick, which allows you to set the computer to decide which numbers you choose. So, if you don’t have any favorite numbers you want to play or you just want to have fun with randomly selected numbers, the auto-pick feature is your friend.
To help get you on your way, you will pick up 260,000 Gold Coins, 55 Stake Cash, and a 5% Rakeback bonus after registration.
After creating an account at Ding Ding Ding, you will be given a generous bonus of 100,000 Gold Coins and 5 Sweeps Coins. From here, you can venture into the gaming lobby where 1,500+ casino-style games are waiting to be explored.
Ding Ding Ding is home to a solid range of proprietary games, including keno. But don’t forget to check out other in-house games like Plinko and Dice while you’re there.
The Money Factory is yet another one of our favorite sweepstakes casinos for specialty games. For those who are interested in lottery-style games, you will find three keno games here, including Super keno. We also recommend checking out other specialty games, including bingo and scratch cards, for a similar experience.
After registration, you will be awarded 15,000 Gold Coins and 2 Sweeps Coins, which can be used to play your favorite keno games. But don’t forget to explore other options too to get a well-balanced gaming session.
As we get to the end of this guide, you will be a whole lot closer to playing keno on the best sweepstakes casinos, including Stake.us, Ding Ding Ding, and The Money Factory. You have learned the basic rules of gameplay and picked up some strategies along the way. So, whether you are a complete novice or you are looking to brush up on your knowledge, we hope you got what you needed from this guide.
‘Payouts’ don’t happen at sweepstakes casinos in the traditional sense. But what you can do is accumulate free Sweeps Coins to later exchange for real-world prizes, including cash, gift cards, and merchandise. So, while payouts are off the table, you can still walk away with a tangible prize.
It’s tough to pick which one is our favorite, as Stake.us, Ding Ding Ding, and The Money Factory deliver different experiences. But if you want a unique take on keno, we recommend trying out the Stake Originals keno game with a 99% RTP.
No version of keno is the ‘best’ because it all comes down to personal preference. If you are not sure which type of keno to play, why not check out our guide for a breakdown of the most popular options? This will give you an idea of what might suit you best.
21+ and present in VA. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.