Roulette is one of the most popular casino games worldwide. With its spinning wheel and the suspense that builds with each spin, it’s a game that has captivated gamblers for centuries. But if you’re someone who has tried both European and American roulette, you may have noticed that there are a few differences between the two versions. These differences can influence your game strategy, betting options, and even the odds of winning. Let’s dive into the details and explore the subtle yet important distinctions between European and American roulette.
Understanding the Basics of Roulette
Before diving into the differences between European and American roulette, it’s important to have a solid understanding of how the game itself works. At its core, roulette is a simple game that combines elements of chance and strategy. The game is played on a spinning wheel, which is divided into numbered pockets. These pockets are where the ball will eventually land after the wheel has been spun. The goal of the game is to predict which pocket the ball will fall into once the wheel comes to a stop.
The numbered pockets on the wheel are arranged in a specific sequence. In both European and American roulette, the numbers range from 1 to 36, with the addition of one or two special pockets — the zero (0) in European roulette and both a single zero (0) and a double zero (00) in American roulette. These zero pockets play a crucial role in determining the outcome of the game and affect the odds.
Players place their bets before the wheel starts spinning. You can place a bet on a single number, a group of numbers, or even on broader categories like odd/even, red/black, or high/low. The betting options are varied, giving players plenty of ways to wager based on their preferences. Once the bets are placed, the dealer spins the wheel, and the small ball is released onto the spinning surface. The ball travels around the wheel and eventually comes to rest in one of the numbered pockets.
When the wheel stops, the pocket where the ball lands determines the winning number. Players who placed a bet on the correct number or category are paid according to the odds of their bet. The excitement of roulette lies in the anticipation of where the ball will land, and it’s this element of chance that has made the game a timeless favorite in casinos around the world.
The Wheel Design: European vs. American Roulette
The design of the roulette wheel is one of the most significant differences between European and American roulette. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the two types of roulette wheels:
- Number of Slots: 37 slots (numbers 1 to 36 and a single zero ‘0’)
- Zero: There is only one zero pocket (‘0’)
- Layout: The numbers are arranged to balance high and low numbers, red and black, and odd and even numbers. The arrangement is designed to keep the game fair and engaging.
- Number of Slots: 38 slots (numbers 1 to 36, a single zero ‘0’, and a double zero ’00’)
- Zero: There are two zero pockets: a single ‘0’ and a double zero (’00’)
- Layout: The numbers are arranged similarly to the European wheel, but the addition of the double zero (’00’) affects the balance and distribution of the numbers, slightly altering the odds compared to European roulette.
The Impact of the Extra “00” in American Roulette
| Roulette Type | House Edge | Reason for House Edge | Number of Zero Pockets | Impact on Players |
| European Roulette | 2.7% | Only one zero pocket, providing better odds for players. | 1 zero pocket (‘0’) | More favorable odds for players, as the house edge is lower. |
| American Roulette | 5.26% | Extra “00” pocket increases the number of losing outcomes. | 2 zero pockets (‘0′ and ’00’) | Higher house edge, making it less favorable for players. |
Odds of Winning: European vs. American Roulette
The addition of the extra “00” pocket in American roulette has a direct impact on the odds of winning, making it slightly more difficult to win compared to European roulette. While both versions of the game offer a variety of bet types, the presence of the double zero in American roulette increases the number of potential outcomes, slightly lowering the chances of hitting a winning number.
In European roulette, there are 37 total pockets on the wheel, consisting of numbers 1 through 36 and a single zero. This gives players a better chance of winning, especially with straight-up bets. For example, the odds of winning a straight-up bet on a single number in European roulette are 1 in 37, or about 2.7%. On the other hand, in American roulette, the addition of the “00” increases the total number of pockets to 38, which means the odds of winning on a straight-up bet become 1 in 38, or approximately 2.63%. This slight difference may not seem like much, but over time, it can add up and give the casino a bigger advantage.
Other bet types, such as the split bet (covering two numbers) or the column and dozen bets, are impacted by the extra “00” pocket in a similar manner. In European roulette, a split bet has odds of 1 in 18.5, while in American roulette, the odds shift to 1 in 19. While these odds still offer reasonable chances of winning, the difference reflects the higher risk involved when playing American roulette.
Even on the broader bets like red/black or odd/even, the extra “00” in American roulette reduces the probability of winning. In European roulette, players have an almost 49% chance of winning on these bets (18/37), whereas in American roulette, this drops to about 47.37% (18/38). While this may seem like a minor difference, it further illustrates how the “00” pocket impacts the game’s overall odds and makes American roulette less favorable for players compared to its European counterpart.
Betting Options: European vs. American Roulette
Both European and American roulette offer a wide variety of betting options, but the outcomes of these bets are influenced by the design of the roulette wheel. Here’s a detailed look at the different betting options available in both versions:
- Inside Bets (Available in Both European and American Roulette):
- Straight Up: Betting on a single number.
- Split Bet: Betting on two adjacent numbers.
- Street Bet: Betting on a row of three numbers.
- Corner Bet: Betting on four numbers that form a square.
- Outside Bets (Available in Both European and American Roulette):
- Red or Black: Betting on whether the winning number will be red or black.
- Odd or Even: Betting on whether the winning number will be odd or even.
- High or Low: Betting on whether the winning number will be between 1-18 or 19-36.
- Dozen Bet: Betting on one of the three dozen groups (1-12, 13-24, 25-36).
- Column Bet: Betting on one of the three columns of numbers.
Payouts in European and American Roulette
| Bet Type | European Roulette Payout | American Roulette Payout | Reason for Difference | Impact on Players |
| Straight Up | 35 to 1 | 35 to 1 | Identical payouts | Better odds in European roulette |
| Split Bet | 17 to 1 | 17 to 1 | Identical payouts | Better odds in European roulette |
| Street Bet | 11 to 1 | 11 to 1 | Identical payouts | Better odds in European roulette |
| Corner Bet | 8 to 1 | 8 to 1 | Identical payouts | Better odds in European roulette |
| Red or Black | 1 to 1 | 1 to 1 | Identical payouts | Better odds in European roulette |
| Odd or Even | 1 to 1 | 1 to 1 | Identical payouts | Better odds in European roulette |
| High or Low | 1 to 1 | 1 to 1 | Identical payouts | Better odds in European roulette |
| Dozen Bet | 2 to 1 | 2 to 1 | Identical payouts | Better odds in European roulette |
| Column Bet | 2 to 1 | 2 to 1 | Identical payouts | Better odds in European roulette |
The History and Popularity of European and American Roulette
Roulette has a fascinating history that dates back to the 18th century in France, where it was invented. The game quickly gained popularity in Europe due to its simplicity and the thrill of chance. As it spread to different parts of the world, including the United States, variations of the game began to emerge. The most notable change occurred when the double-zero pocket was added to the American version of the roulette wheel, altering the dynamics of the game significantly.
European roulette is considered the original version of the game. The design, with its single-zero pocket, has remained mostly unchanged since it was first introduced in France. It is known for its simplicity and its lower house edge compared to other versions, making it a favorite among players who prefer better odds and a more traditional casino experience.
American roulette, on the other hand, was adapted when the game crossed the Atlantic in the early 19th century. To make the game more profitable for casinos, the double-zero pocket was added, which increased the house edge and reduced the chances of winning for players. Despite this, American roulette gained its own following, especially in the United States, where casinos and gaming establishments adopted the modified version.
Today, both European and American roulette enjoy widespread popularity. While European roulette is often favored in most international casinos due to its favorable odds, American roulette remains a staple in casinos across the United States, drawing players with its distinct layout and thrilling gameplay. The competition between these two versions continues to shape the global roulette landscape, with each offering a unique experience to players worldwide.
Which is Better: European or American Roulette?
Choosing between European and American roulette ultimately depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for in your gaming experience. Below are some key points to consider when deciding which version is better for you:
- Odds and House Edge:
- European roulette has a house edge of 2.7%, which gives players a better chance of winning compared to American roulette, which has a higher house edge of 5.26%.
- If you’re seeking a game that gives you better odds and a higher probability of winning, European roulette is the clear choice.
- The “00” Impact:
- American roulette has an extra “00” pocket, which increases the number of losing outcomes and slightly decreases your chances of winning.
- This addition makes American roulette more challenging but also adds an element of excitement for some players who enjoy the thrill of the double-zero.
- Gameplay and Strategy:
- European roulette’s single-zero wheel allows for more straightforward gameplay and offers a more predictable experience.
- American roulette, with its additional “00,” presents more variation and can appeal to players looking for a more complex or unpredictable game.
- Personal Preferences and Casino Atmosphere:
- Some players prefer the historical authenticity and simplicity of European roulette, which remains largely unchanged since its inception.
- Others may enjoy the uniqueness and the distinct feel of American roulette, which adds the extra challenge of the double-zero pocket.
European vs. American Roulette: Key Differences in House Edge and Payouts
| Bet Type | European Roulette Odds | American Roulette Odds | European Roulette Payout | American Roulette Payout |
| Straight Up Bet | 1 in 37 (2.7%) | 1 in 38 (2.63%) | 35 to 1 | 35 to 1 |
| Split Bet | 1 in 18.5 | 1 in 19 | 17 to 1 | 17 to 1 |
| Street Bet | 1 in 11.5 | 1 in 12 | 11 to 1 | 11 to 1 |
| Corner Bet | 1 in 8.25 | 1 in 8 | 8 to 1 | 8 to 1 |
| Red or Black | 18/37 (48.65%) | 18/38 (47.37%) | 1 to 1 | 1 to 1 |
The Influence of the Double-Zero Pocket on Gameplay in American Roulette
The addition of the double-zero (00) pocket in American roulette fundamentally changes the game compared to its European counterpart. This extra pocket not only alters the structure of the wheel but also has a significant impact on the overall player experience, making the game both more challenging and exciting. While European roulette features 37 slots, including 36 numbers and a single zero (0), American roulette adds another layer of complexity with the inclusion of the double-zero (00), increasing the total number of pockets to 38.
One of the main consequences of the double-zero pocket is the shift in odds and probabilities. In European roulette, the odds of winning a straight-up bet on a single number are 1 in 37, giving players a 2.7% chance. In contrast, the odds in American roulette are 1 in 38, translating to a 2.63% chance of winning a straight-up bet. Although the difference in odds might seem minimal, it directly affects the player’s overall chances of winning throughout the game, especially on bets with higher risks.
This additional pocket, however, is not just a minor detail – it significantly increases the house edge. The house edge in European roulette is 2.7%, while in American roulette, it rises to 5.26%. This means that players in American roulette are more likely to lose over time due to the extra “00” pocket, which provides the casino with a larger advantage. For those who prioritize better odds, European roulette is the more favorable option.
Despite these drawbacks, American roulette still attracts many players. The thrill of the double-zero adds an element of excitement and uniqueness, which appeals to those who enjoy a more unpredictable game. Whether it’s the extra challenge or the excitement of the game’s structure, American roulette offers a different experience for those who are looking to explore a variant of the classic game with a higher level of risk.