Keno combines the excitement of lottery games with the fast pace of casino action. This numbers game lets players pick their lucky numbers and potentially win big with just a small bet. Players choose up to 20 numbers from a board of 80, then watch as winning numbers are drawn.

The game started in China over 2,000 years ago. Today, you’ll find keno in casinos worldwide and on most online gambling sites. Casino keno runs every 5-10 minutes, while online keno lets you play at your own speed.

You don’t need special skills or knowledge to play keno. The rules are simple: pick your numbers, place your bet, and wait for the draw. Your payout depends on how many numbers you pick and how many match the drawn numbers.

Online keno works the same way as casino keno but with digital tickets and automated draws. Many players prefer online keno because it offers better odds, more game variations, and the convenience of playing from home.

This guide covers everything you need to know about playing keno. You’ll learn the rules, betting options, strategies, and tips to improve your chances of winning. Whether you want to play at a casino or try online keno, we’ve got you covered.

What is Keno?

Keno is a casino game where you bet on numbers being drawn. Think of it like a mini lottery that runs every few minutes. The game uses a board with numbers from 1 to 80. You pick between 1 and 20 numbers. The casino then draws 20 numbers at random. The more numbers you match, the more money you win.

In physical casinos, you mark your numbers on a keno ticket using a crayon or pen. A machine called a “keno hopper” selects the winning numbers using ping pong balls, similar to lottery drawings. The winning numbers show up on TV screens around the casino.

Online keno follows the same basic rules. Instead of paper tickets, you click on numbers on your screen. A computer program randomly picks the winning numbers. Online games move faster because you don’t have to wait for other players or physical draws.

Video keno machines sit on the casino floor like slot machines. You play alone and control the speed of the game. These machines use a random number generator to pick winning numbers instantly after you bet.

Most casinos offer “multi-race cards” where you can play the same numbers for several games in a row. This saves time since you don’t need to mark new tickets for each game.

The minimum bet in keno starts at $1 in most casinos. Online games often let you bet for less. Maximum bets and payouts vary between casinos. Each casino sets its own rules about how many numbers you can pick and how much they pay for matches.

How to Play Keno: Step-by-Step Guide

Understanding the Keno Card

A keno card shows numbers from 1 to 80 in an 8×10 grid. In casinos, you mark your chosen numbers with a crayon or pen. Online keno lets you click or tap numbers on your screen. Each number you pick is called a “spot,” and your picks together make up your “spot card.”

Basic Steps to Play Keno

  1. Choose Your Numbers Pick between 1 and 20 numbers on your keno card. Most players select 4 to 10 numbers per game. You can pick your lucky numbers, birthdays, or let the computer choose random numbers for you.
  2. Decide Your Bet Amount Start with the minimum bet to learn the game. Casinos usually require $1 minimum bets. Online keno often starts at 25 cents. Your total win depends on your bet size and how many numbers you match.
  3. Select Number of Games You can play one game at a time or buy a multi-race card. Multi-race cards let you use the same numbers for several games in a row. Most casinos offer 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, or 20 games per card.

During the Game

The casino draws 20 numbers randomly. These numbers light up on screens around the casino or on your device. Online keno shows animations of the numbers being drawn. The game marks matching numbers on your card automatically.

Your payout depends on:

  • How many numbers you picked
  • How many numbers you matched
  • Your bet amount
  • The casino’s pay table

Collecting Winnings

In physical casinos, take your winning ticket to the keno counter. Online winnings go straight to your account. Video keno machines print a ticket you can cash at the casino cage or a ticket redemption machine.

Playing Online Keno

Online keno works like casino keno but moves faster. You can:

  • Play at your own pace
  • Save your favorite numbers
  • Use auto-play features
  • Try free games to practice
  • Play on your phone or computer

Remember to check the pay table before you play. Different casinos pay different amounts for the same matches. Online casinos often offer better odds than physical casinos because they have lower operating costs.

Keno Rules and Regulations

Standard Game Rules

All keno games follow the same basic structure. The house draws 20 numbers from a pool of 80 numbers every game. You can’t change your numbers after the game starts. Each casino posts its rules and pay tables near the keno lounge or on its website.

Betting Limits

Most casinos set these betting limits:

  • Minimum bet: $1 per game
  • Maximum bet: $20 per number
  • Maximum payout: $50,000 per game

Online casinos often offer lower minimum bets starting at 25 cents. Maximum bets and payouts vary by site. Always check the limits before you play.

Legal Requirements

You must be 21 or older to play keno in most US casinos. Some states allow 18-year-olds to play. Tribal casinos may have different age limits. Online keno follows the gambling laws of your state.

The casino must display:

  • Current payout rates
  • Game rules
  • Maximum prizes
  • Odds of winning

Game Timing

Physical casinos run keno games every 5-10 minutes. Each draw takes about 5 minutes. You must buy tickets before the game starts. Late tickets move to the next game.

Online keno moves at your pace. You control when each game starts. Most online casinos give you 30 seconds to pick numbers before each draw.

Responsible Gaming Rules

Casinos must follow responsible gaming laws. They will:

  • Post problem gambling hotline numbers
  • Offer self-exclusion programs
  • Set daily betting limits
  • Track large wins and losses

Online casinos add extra protection:

  • Account verification
  • Deposit limits
  • Time limits
  • Reality checks

Remember that keno is a game of chance. Never bet more than you can afford to lose. Most casinos offer free pamphlets about responsible gaming at the keno counter.

Keno Number Selection

Understanding Number Options

You can pick between 1 and 20 numbers in keno. Most casinos give better odds when you pick between 4 and 8 numbers. Each number from 1 to 80 has the same chance of being drawn.

Some video keno games show “hot” and “cold” numbers. Hot numbers came up recently. Cold numbers haven’t appeared in a while. These patterns don’t affect future draws. Each draw is random and independent.

Selection Methods

Quick Pick lets the computer choose random numbers for you. Many players use Quick Pick because it’s fast and random. The computer can’t predict winning numbers any better than you can.

Pattern playing means picking numbers that make shapes on your card. Common patterns include:

  • Corners of the card
  • Middle row or column
  • Birthday month and day
  • Lucky numbers
  • House numbers

Strategy Basics

Most experienced players stick to these guidelines:

  • Pick the same amount of numbers each game
  • Keep your bets consistent
  • Don’t chase hot or cold numbers
  • Stay within your budget
  • Play the same numbers for multiple games

Multi-Game Strategy

Playing multiple games with the same numbers saves time. It also helps you track your results better. Many players buy multi-race cards for 5 or 10 games in a row.

Online Number Selection

Online keno offers extra features for picking numbers:

  • Save favorite number combinations
  • View your playing history
  • Get random number suggestions
  • Use pattern templates
  • Track your results

The odds stay the same whether you play online or in a casino. Pick numbers you feel good about. Don’t spend too much time analyzing past results. Every draw starts fresh with the same odds.

Keno Odds and Payouts

Understanding the Odds

Keno has a house edge between 20% and 40%. This means the casino keeps $20 to $40 of every $100 bet over time. Online keno usually offers better odds than physical casinos.

Here’s what you should know about number selection odds:

  • Picking 1 number: 1 in 4 chance of hitting
  • Picking 2 numbers: 1 in 17 chance of hitting both
  • Picking 6 numbers: 1 in 7,753 chance of hitting all six
  • Picking 10 numbers: 1 in 253,801 chance of hitting all ten

Standard Payouts

Most casinos use this basic payout structure for a $1 bet when picking 5 numbers:

  • Hit 5 of 5: Pays $500 to $1,000
  • Hit 4 of 5: Pays $15 to $50
  • Hit 3 of 5: Pays $2 to $5
  • Hit 2 of 5: Pays $1

Video Keno Payouts

Video keno machines often pay more than live games:

  • Higher hit frequency
  • Lower minimum bets
  • Better odds on small wins
  • Special bonus rounds
  • Progressive jackpots

Online Keno Returns

Online casinos typically offer:

  • 95% average return rate
  • Lower minimum bets
  • Higher maximum wins
  • More bonus features
  • Better odds on most bets

Progressive Jackpots

Some keno games offer progressive jackpots. These games have special rules:

  • Must bet maximum coins
  • Need to hit specific number combinations
  • Jackpot grows until someone wins
  • Lower payouts on regular wins

Multipliers and Bonuses

Many games include multipliers that can boost your win:

  • 2x multiplier doubles your win
  • 3x multiplier triples your win
  • 5x multiplier pays five times normal
  • 10x multiplier on special games

Check the pay table before you play. Different casinos pay different amounts for the same hits. The best payouts usually come from online casinos and video keno machines.

Types of Keno Bets

Standard Bet Types

A straight ticket is the most common keno bet. You pick your numbers and bet on them all at once. For example, if you pick 5 numbers on a straight ticket, all 5 numbers must hit for the highest payout. Most new players start with straight tickets because they’re simple to understand.

Way tickets let you group numbers into different combinations. On a way ticket, you might pick 8 numbers total, then play them as two groups of 4 numbers each. This gives you three bets: one on each group of 4, plus one on all 8 numbers. Way tickets cost more because you’re making multiple bets at once.

Combination tickets mix different types of bets on one ticket. You might bet on 6 numbers total, playing them as three groups of 2 numbers each, plus one group of 6. Each combination counts as a separate bet. These tickets offer more ways to win but cost more per game.

Split Ticket Play

Split tickets divide your numbers into separate bets on the same ticket. Think of it as playing multiple straight tickets at once. You draw a line between your number groups to show they’re separate bets. Each group needs its own bet amount.

King tickets use one special number (the king) that plays with every other group on your ticket. If you mark number 7 as your king and pick two groups of 3 numbers each, the king number plays with both groups. This creates more winning combinations.

Advanced Betting Options

190-Way tickets use complex groupings to create many possible winning combinations. These tickets require careful planning and larger budgets. Most experienced players avoid 190-way tickets because they’re expensive and complicated.

Top-bottom tickets split the keno board into two sections. You bet on numbers from either the top half or bottom half of the board. Some players think this improves their chances, but the odds remain the same as regular number picks.

Progressive bets increase your bet size after each win. Some players start at $1 and double their bet after each win. This strategy can lead to bigger wins but also bigger losses. Set a clear limit before trying progressive betting.

Multi-race cards let you play the same numbers for several games in a row. You can buy tickets for 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, or 20 games at once. Multi-race cards save time but require a bigger upfront investment.

Tournament play offers special rules and bigger prizes. Casinos sometimes run keno tournaments where players compete for a prize pool. These events usually require entry fees and follow strict betting rules.

Online Keno Guide

Choosing an Online Casino

Pick online casinos with valid gaming licenses. Licensed casinos must follow strict rules about fairness and payouts. Look for licenses from Malta, Gibraltar, or Curacao gaming authorities.

Check the casino’s payment options before signing up. Most sites accept credit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. Make sure they offer fast payouts and low withdrawal fees. Good casinos process withdrawals within 24-48 hours.

Read player reviews about customer support. The best online casinos offer 24/7 support through live chat, email, and phone. Test their customer service before depositing money. Send them a question and see how fast they respond.

Playing Keno Online

Creating an account takes about 5 minutes. You’ll need to provide:

  • Full name
  • Email address
  • Phone number
  • Home address
  • Date of birth

Most sites offer welcome bonuses for new players. These bonuses match your first deposit up to a certain amount. Read the bonus terms carefully. Some require you to play a specific number of games before withdrawing winnings.

Online Game Features

Online keno moves faster than casino keno. Each game takes about 30 seconds. You control when to start the next draw. Auto-play lets you run multiple games automatically.

Game interfaces show your betting history and statistics. You can track your wins, losses, and frequent numbers. Many sites let you save your favorite number combinations for future games.

Mobile apps work just like desktop versions. You can play on your phone or tablet anywhere with internet access. Games adjust automatically to fit your screen size.

Online Safety Tips

Use strong passwords for your casino account. Enable two-factor authentication if available. Never share your login details with anyone.

Set deposit limits when you create your account. Most sites let you limit daily, weekly, or monthly deposits. This helps control spending and protects your bankroll.

Take regular breaks while playing online. It’s easy to lose track of time when games move quickly. Set a timer or use the casino’s reality check feature.

Practice Games

Try free keno games before betting real money. Most online casinos offer practice modes. Use these to learn the game interface and test different betting strategies.

Free games work exactly like real money games. The only difference is you can’t win actual cash. Switch to real money games once you’re comfortable with how everything works.

Keno Strategies and Tips

Beginner Strategies

Start with small bets until you understand the game. Most successful players bet $1 or $2 per game. This lets you play longer and learn without risking much money.

Pick 4 to 8 numbers per game. This range offers the best balance of risk and reward. Picking too many numbers reduces your chances of matching them all. Picking too few numbers limits your potential wins.

Never chase losses by betting more than planned. Set a strict budget before you start playing. When you hit your loss limit, stop playing and come back another day.

Money Management

Divide your gambling budget into sessions. If you have $100 to spend, break it into four $25 sessions. This prevents you from spending everything at once.

Use the 1% rule for your bankroll. If you have $500 to play with, don’t bet more than $5 per game. This helps your money last longer and protects against big losses.

Track your wins and losses carefully. Write down how much you spend and win each session. This shows your actual results over time and helps adjust your strategy.

Advanced Techniques

Play the same numbers for multiple games. This costs less than changing numbers every game. It also makes it easier to track your results.

Watch for progressive jackpots that are overdue. Some players only play when jackpots reach certain amounts. Remember that each draw has the same odds, regardless of jackpot size.

Consider playing “ways” instead of straight tickets. Way tickets give you more chances to win with the same numbers. They cost more per game but offer better overall odds.

Online Strategy Tips

Take advantage of casino bonuses. Use welcome bonuses and reload offers to boost your bankroll. Read all bonus terms before accepting them.

Play free games to test new strategies. Online casinos let you practice without risking money. Try different number combinations and betting patterns in free mode first.

Use auto-play features carefully. Set win and loss limits when using auto-play. This prevents the system from playing too many games if you’re not paying attention.

Risk Management

Mix your bet sizes based on your results. Increase bets slightly when winning and decrease them when losing. Never increase bets to recover losses.

Take regular breaks during long sessions. Set a timer for 30-minute playing periods. Step away for at least 10 minutes between sessions to clear your head.

Remember that no system guarantees wins. Keno remains a game of chance. Focus on having fun and playing responsibly rather than trying to beat the game.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Betting Too Much

The biggest mistake new players make is betting too much money too fast. Don’t start with big bets. Even $1 per game adds up quickly when games run every few minutes.

Many players lose their bankroll by raising bets after losses. Doubling your bet to recover losses never works. It only leads to bigger losses and frustration.

Poor Number Selection

Playing too many numbers hurts your chances of winning. Each extra number you pick makes it harder to hit them all. Most games pay better when you hit all your numbers rather than just some of them.

Choosing only lucky numbers or birthdays limits your options. This often means missing out on a big part of the board. Smart players spread their picks across all areas of the keno card.

Not Checking Payouts

Different casinos pay different amounts for the same wins. Many players forget to check the pay table before playing. Higher payouts mean better chances to win in the long run.

Some games offer special payouts for hitting zero numbers. Players often ignore these bonus payouts. Always read the full pay table to understand all winning combinations.

Playing Too Fast

Online keno runs as fast as you want. Many players rush through games without thinking. Take your time between games to review your results and adjust your strategy.

Auto-play features can drain your bankroll quickly. Set strict limits when using auto-play. Never walk away from your computer while auto-play is running.

Chasing Losses

The worst mistake is trying to win back losses. Many players:

  • Bet more money than planned
  • Play longer than intended
  • Use rent or bill money
  • Borrow money to keep playing

Once you hit your loss limit, stop playing. The numbers won’t become “due” or “hot” just because you lost before.

Not Using Bonuses Properly

Online casinos offer bonuses to attract players. Skipping these bonuses means missing free money. Read the bonus terms carefully and use them to extend your playing time.

Ignoring Bankroll Management

Playing without a plan leads to big losses. Set clear limits for:

  • Total spending
  • Time played
  • Single bets
  • Session losses

Stick to these limits no matter what happens during play.

Playing While Distracted

Drinking alcohol or playing when tired leads to mistakes. Only play keno when you’re alert and focused. This helps you make better decisions about betting and number selection.

Keno Variations and Special Features

Power Keno

Power Keno multiply your win by 4x when the last number drawn matches one of your picks. This game keeps standard keno rules but adds bigger payouts for that final number match.

For example: If you win $10 and your last number hits, you get $40 instead. Many players pick fewer numbers in Power Keno to increase the chances of hitting that last number bonus.

Super Keno

Super Keno works like Power Keno but pays 4x when the first number drawn matches your picks. Players often spread their numbers across the board in Super Keno to increase first-number chances.

The first number bonus makes Super Keno popular with aggressive players. Remember that base payouts might be lower to make up for the bonus potential.

Caveman Keno

This video keno variation adds three special spots called “eggs” after you pick your numbers. If two or three eggs reveal dinosaurs during the draw, your wins multiply by 2x or 4x.

Caveman Keno moves slower than regular Keno because of the egg animations. The extra features make the game more entertaining but don’t improve your odds of winning.

Multi-Card Keno

You can play up to 20 cards at once in Multi-Card Keno. Each card can have different numbers and bet amounts. The game draws one set of numbers that applies to all your cards.

Multi-Card Keno costs more because you’re playing multiple cards. But it gives you more chances to win on each draw. Most players start with 2-4 cards before trying more.

Progressive Keno

Progressive games link multiple machines or online players together. Part of each bet goes into a shared jackpot that grows until someone hits all their numbers.

Most progressive games require:

  • Maximum bet size
  • Specific number of spots played
  • All numbers matched for jackpot
  • Special number combinations

Pattern Keno

Some video keno games let you bet on number patterns. Common patterns include:

  • Four corners
  • Middle cross
  • Top and bottom rows
  • Left and right columns

Pattern games usually pay less than regular keno. They’re popular because they make number-picking easier.

Quick Draw Keno

This fast version draws numbers every 4-5 minutes. Quick Draw runs in bars and restaurants. Games cost less but also pay less than casino keno.

Many states offer Quick Draw through their lottery system. Rules and payouts vary by location. Always check local regulations before playing.

Live Dealer Keno

Some online casinos offer keno with live dealers. Real people draw numbers using physical equipment while you watch on video. Live games run slower but feel more like casino keno.

Comparing Keno to Other Casino Games

Keno vs Lottery

Keno runs more games per hour than lottery drawings. Standard lotteries draw once or twice per week. Keno draws happen every few minutes in casinos.

Lottery tickets cost less but keno offers better odds. A $2 lottery ticket might win millions, but your chances are tiny. Keno pays smaller prizes more often.

Keno vs Bingo

Both games use numbered balls and cards. But bingo makes you wait for specific patterns. Keno lets you pick your own numbers and patterns.

Bingo games need other players to start. Keno starts even if you’re the only player. Video keno runs instantly whenever you want to play.

Prize structures differ too. Bingo usually has one main prize per game. Keno pays different amounts based on how many numbers you match.

Keno vs Slots

Slot machines play faster than Keno. You might spin slots 500 times per hour. Keno plays 12-15 games per hour in casinos.

Keno needs more thinking than slots. You pick numbers and bet amounts in keno. Slots just need you to press a button or pull a lever.

The house edge works differently:

  • Slots: 2% to 15% house edge
  • Keno: 20% to 40% house edge
  • Video Keno: 5% to 15% house edge

Keno vs Roulette

Roulette offers more betting options than keno. You can bet on numbers, colors, odds/evens, and groups in roulette.

Both games let you pick numbers, but roulette uses 1-36 plus 0 and 00. Keno uses numbers 1-80 and draws 20 winners each game.

Roulette has better odds than live keno. The house edge in roulette stays around 5.26%. Live keno’s house edge often exceeds 25%.

Entertainment Value

Keno provides longer play time per dollar than most games. A $20 buy-in might last 30 minutes at slots but 2 hours at keno.

Social aspects vary by game:

  • Keno: Quiet, relaxed atmosphere
  • Slots: Solo play, fast action
  • Bingo: Social, community feel
  • Roulette: Excited crowds, table action

Learning Curve

New players learn keno quickly. The basic rules take 5 minutes to understand. Other games need more study:

  • Roulette: Must learn bet types and payouts
  • Slots: Easy but bonus features get complex
  • Bingo: Need to track patterns and numbers

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money can I win playing keno?

Maximum wins vary by casino. Most live casinos cap keno wins at $50,000 per game. Online casinos might pay up to $100,000 or more. Progressive jackpots can reach higher amounts. Remember that big wins are rare. Most winning tickets pay between $5 and $500.

What numbers hit most often in keno?

No numbers hit more often than others in the long run. Each number has the same chance of being drawn every game. Hot and cold numbers only show past results. They don’t predict future draws.

Is online keno rigged?

Licensed online casinos use tested random number generators. Gaming authorities check these systems regularly. Legitimate online casinos can’t rig their games without losing their license. Always play at licensed sites to ensure fair games.

How often do keno numbers repeat?

Numbers often repeat in back-to-back games. With 20 numbers drawn from 80, some repeats are normal. Don’t avoid numbers just because they hit in the last game. Each draw starts fresh with equal odds.

Should I play more or fewer numbers?

Most players pick between 4 and 8 numbers per game. This range offers a good balance between winning chances and payout amounts. Playing more numbers increases your chances of matching some but makes it harder to match them all.

Why do payouts vary between casinos?

Each casino sets its pay table based on its business model. Online casinos usually pay more because they have lower costs. Different jurisdictions also have different rules about minimum payouts.

How long does each keno game take?

Live casino games run every 5-10 minutes. Video keno plays as fast as you want. Online keno typically takes 30 seconds per game. Quick Draw games in bars run every 4-5 minutes.

Can I play keno on my phone?

Yes, most online casinos offer mobile keno apps. These work on both Android and iPhone. You need internet access to play. Games adjust automatically to fit your screen size.

What happens if I pick the same number twice?

Keno systems won’t let you pick the same number twice on one ticket. If you try to mark a number twice, only the first mark counts. This rule applies to both paper tickets and digital games.

Do I have to pay taxes on keno winnings?

Yes, keno winnings are taxable income. Casinos report wins over $1,200 to the IRS. Keep records of all your gambling wins and losses for tax purposes. Consider consulting a tax professional about reporting requirements.