⚠️ 18+ Only: Keno is a game of pure chance with no skill element.
The house edge is typically higher than most casino games.
Learn about responsible gambling.
What Is Keno?
Keno is a lottery-style game originating from ancient China. Players select numbers, and a random draw determines winners. It's similar to bingo but with more player control over number selection.
Unlike traditional lotteries with fixed numbers, keno lets you choose how many "spots" (numbers) to play—typically 1 to 10 from a pool of 80 numbers.
How to Play Keno
- Choose your spots: Select 1-10 (or more) numbers from 1-80
- Select your bet amount
- Watch the draw: 20 numbers are randomly drawn
- Match to win: Payouts based on how many of your numbers appear
The more numbers you pick, the more matches you need to win—but potential payouts also increase for high match counts.
Keno Odds Explained
Keno odds use combinatorial mathematics. Here's the probability of matching X numbers when picking different spot counts:
Picking 1 Spot
- Probability of hitting: 20/80 = 25%
- Probability of missing: 75%
Picking 5 Spots
| Matches | Probability |
|---|---|
| 0 | 22.7% |
| 1 | 40.5% |
| 2 | 27.0% |
| 3 | 8.4% |
| 4 | 1.2% |
| 5 (all) | 0.065% |
Picking 10 Spots
| Matches | Probability |
|---|---|
| 0 | 4.6% |
| 5 | 5.1% |
| 6 | 1.15% |
| 7 | 0.16% |
| 8 | 0.014% |
| 9 | 0.00061% |
| 10 (all) | 0.0000087% |
Reality Check: Matching all 10 spots has odds of about 1 in 8.9 million.
For perspective, you're more likely to be struck by lightning in your lifetime.
Payout Structures
Payouts vary by operator but typically follow this pattern (example for 10-spot):
| Matches | Typical Payout (per RM1) |
|---|---|
| 5/10 | RM 2 - RM 5 |
| 6/10 | RM 15 - RM 40 |
| 7/10 | RM 100 - RM 200 |
| 8/10 | RM 1,000 - RM 2,500 |
| 9/10 | RM 5,000 - RM 10,000 |
| 10/10 | RM 25,000 - RM 100,000 |
Note: Payouts vary significantly between providers. Always check the specific paytable before playing.
House Edge
Keno typically has one of the highest house edges in casino gaming:
- Online Keno: 3-8% house edge (better)
- Live/Traditional Keno: 20-30% house edge
- Compare to Blackjack: 0.5-2% house edge
- Compare to Slots: 3-10% house edge
Online versions from providers like Spribe typically offer 97% RTP (3% house edge), which is significantly better than traditional keno parlors.
Online Keno Variations
Online casinos offer various keno formats:
- Classic Keno: Standard 80-number, 20-draw format
- Power Keno: Multipliers for the last number drawn
- Super Keno: Enhanced payouts for first number matches
- Video Keno: Faster draws with bonus rounds
Responsible Play
Keno is entertainment, not investment. To play responsibly:
- Understand the odds: Big jackpots are extremely rare
- Set a budget: The house edge compounds over time
- No patterns exist: Each draw is independent
- Check RTP: Online versions usually offer better value
For help: Befrienders Malaysia: 03-7627 2929 (24/7)
Related Guides:
QQKeno Guide |
Lottery Odds Explained