Roulette comes in different versions, and the two most popular are American and European roulette. These variants look similar at first glance, but they have important differences that affect how the game plays and what chances players have of winning. Understanding these differences helps players make better decisions about which version to play.
The main difference between American and European roulette is that American roulette has an extra pocket with a double zero (00), giving it 38 total numbers instead of 37, which results in worse odds for players. This single change impacts the house edge, betting options, and overall gameplay. The American version has a house edge of 5.26%, while the European version sits at 2.70%.
Beyond the extra zero, these roulette variants have differences in wheel layouts, special betting rules, and available bet types. Players who want to get the most value from their bets should understand how these factors work together. This guide breaks down both versions and explains which one offers better odds for players.
Fundamental Differences Between European and American Roulette
European roulette and American roulette differ primarily in the number of pockets on the wheel, which directly affects the house edge and overall gameplay. The wheel layout and table design also vary between these two popular versions.
Number of Pockets
The total number of pockets on the roulette wheel represents the main structural difference between these two versions. European roulette features 37 pockets numbered 1 through 36, plus one zero pocket. American roulette contains 38 pockets with numbers 1 through 36, a single zero, and an additional double zero.
This extra pocket changes the math behind every bet. With one additional pocket, the probability of hitting any single number drops from 1 in 37 to 1 in 38. The payout for a winning single-number bet stays the same in both versions at 35 to 1, but the extra pocket gives the casino a larger advantage in American roulette.
Single Zero vs Double Zero
The single zero pocket appears on both the European and American roulette wheel. The double zero pocket only exists on the American wheel. These green pockets mark where the casino gains its mathematical edge.
When the ball lands on zero in European roulette, all inside and outside bets lose unless the player bet directly on zero. The same rule applies to both the single zero and double zero in American roulette. This means American roulette players face two ways to lose on even-money bets instead of just one.
The double zero wheel increases the house edge from about 2.7% in European roulette to roughly 5.26% in American roulette. Some European tables offer special rules like La Partage or En Prison that return half the bet or give players another chance when zero hits, further reducing the house edge to around 1.35%.
Roulette Wheel Layouts
The wheel layouts differ in how the numbers are arranged around the rim. On the European roulette wheel, numbers follow a specific pattern with the single zero positioned between 26 and 32. The sequence alternates between red and black pockets, with high and low numbers distributed to create balance.
The American roulette wheel layout places the double zero directly opposite the single zero. The number sequence differs from the European version, though it still alternates colors and distributes high and low numbers throughout. Both wheel layouts aim to prevent patterns, but the arrangement of numbers follows different logic in each version.
Table Layout and Design
The roulette table layout displays all available betting options. Both versions show numbers 1 through 36 arranged in three columns of 12 rows, plus spaces for outside bets like red/black, odd/even, and high/low.
The American roulette table includes an extra betting space at the top for the double zero. This creates a unique five-number bet (0, 00, 1, 2, 3) that carries an even higher house edge of 7.89%. The European table layout has only the single zero space and does not offer this five-number bet option.
Both table layouts use the same color scheme with red and black numbers matching the wheel. The zero pockets appear in green on both versions. The betting grid size remains similar, though American tables may position the extra zero space differently depending on the casino or online platform.
House Edge and Player Odds
The house edge directly determines how much money the casino expects to keep from each bet over time, while player odds reflect the actual probability of winning different types of bets. European roulette offers a house edge of 2.7% compared to American roulette’s 5.26%, which translates to better odds and higher return percentages for players choosing the European version.
House Edge Comparison
European roulette has a house edge of 2.7% because its wheel contains 37 pockets: numbers 1 through 36 plus a single zero. American roulette adds a double zero to the wheel, creating 38 total pockets and pushing the house edge to 5.26%.
This difference means American roulette takes nearly twice as much from players over time. For every $100 wagered, European roulette keeps $2.70 on average, while American roulette keeps $5.26.
The extra double zero pocket doesn’t change roulette payouts. A straight-up bet on a single number still pays 35 to 1 in both versions. But the actual roulette odds of winning that bet drop from 1 in 37 (European) to 1 in 38 (American).
Even-money bets like red/black and odd/even face the same payout structure but worse odds at an American roulette table. The presence of both zero and double zero means these bets lose more frequently.
Impact on Player Odds
The roulette odds for any bet worsen when an additional zero appears on the wheel. A bet on a single number has a 2.70% chance of winning in European roulette versus 2.63% in American roulette.
Outside bets show clearer differences. Betting on red in European roulette gives players 18 winning pockets out of 37 total, creating odds of 48.65%. The same red bet in American roulette drops to 18 out of 38 pockets, or 47.37% odds.
Common bet odds comparison:
| Bet Type | European Odds | American Odds |
|---|---|---|
| Single number | 2.70% | 2.63% |
| Red/Black | 48.65% | 47.37% |
| Odd/Even | 48.65% | 47.37% |
| Dozen | 32.43% | 31.58% |
These percentage differences compound over multiple spins. Players face more frequent losses at an American roulette table, even though individual roulette payouts remain identical.
Return to Player Percentages
Return to Player (RTP) represents the percentage of all wagered money that gets paid back to players over time. European roulette has an RTP of 97.3%, while American roulette sits at 94.74%.
This 2.56% RTP difference affects bankroll longevity. A player betting $1,000 total can expect to retain $973 playing European roulette versus $947.40 playing American roulette, assuming average results.
French roulette offers even better RTP through special rules. The “La Partage” rule returns half of even-money bets when the ball lands on zero, reducing the house edge to 1.35% and increasing RTP to 98.65% for those specific bets.
Players maximize their expected returns by choosing European roulette over American whenever both options exist. The roulette table layout looks similar, but the single-zero wheel provides measurably better value for every type of bet placed.
Special Rules and Bets
European and American roulette offer distinct betting options and special rules that significantly impact gameplay. European roulette includes player-friendly rules like La Partage and En Prison that lower the house edge, while American roulette features a unique five-number bet that works against the player.
La Partage and En Prison
La Partage and En Prison are special rules found in some European roulette games that reduce the house edge on outside bets. These rules only apply when the ball lands on zero.
Under La Partage, players get half their stake back on even-money bets when zero hits. This cuts the house edge on red/black, odd/even, and high/low bets from 2.70% to just 1.35%.
En Prison works differently but achieves similar results. When zero appears, the player’s even-money bet gets “imprisoned” for the next spin. If the bet wins on the following spin, the player recovers the original stake without any profit. If it loses, the casino takes the bet.
Both rules make European roulette more favorable for players who focus on outside bets. Not all casinos offer these rules, so players should check before playing.
Call Bets in European Roulette
Call bets are special betting patterns available in European roulette that cover specific sections of the wheel. These bets use French names and require players to announce them rather than place chips directly.
The most common call bets include Voisins du Zéro (neighbors of zero), Tiers du Cylindre (third of the wheel), and Orphelins (orphans). Each covers a different wheel section with a specific chip arrangement.
Voisins du Zéro covers 17 numbers between 22 and 25 on the wheel using nine chips. Tiers du Cylindre covers 12 numbers opposite zero with six chips. These bets give players a way to bet on wheel sections rather than table layout positions.
Call bets are typically available only at European roulette tables and require a higher minimum bet than standard wagers.
Five Number Bet in American Roulette
The five-number bet is exclusive to American roulette and covers 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3 with a single wager. Players place chips on the corner where the zero boxes meet the first row.
This bet pays 6 to 1 but carries a house edge of 7.89%, making it the worst bet in roulette. The standard house edge in American roulette is 5.26%, so this bet increases the casino’s advantage by nearly 50%.
Players should avoid the five-number bet entirely. Every other bet on the American roulette table offers better odds, even though the overall house edge remains higher than European roulette.
Similarities Between European and American Roulette
Both versions of roulette share the same core betting structure and payout ratios. Players use identical table components and follow the same basic rules for placing wagers.
Standard Bets and Payouts
The payout structure remains consistent across both types of roulette. A straight-up bet on a single number pays 35:1 in both games. A split bet covering two numbers pays 17:1, while a street bet on three numbers returns 11:1.
Corner bets pay 8:1, and six-line bets offer 5:1 payouts. Outside bets follow the same pattern too. Red or black bets pay 1:1, as do odd or even wagers.
Dozen bets and column bets both pay 2:1 in either version. The betting options available on the roulette table are identical, giving players the same strategic choices.
These uniform payouts mean the betting experience feels similar regardless of which version a player chooses.
Roulette Wheel and Table Components
Both games use a spinning wheel with alternating red and black numbered pockets. The numbers 1 through 36 appear in the same red and black pattern on both wheels.
The roulette table layout displays the same betting grid. Players see the inside betting area with numbers 1-36 arranged in three columns of twelve numbers each. The outside betting sections for red/black, odd/even, and dozens occupy the same positions.
A ball gets spun around the wheel in both games until it lands in a numbered pocket. The dealer manages the game using the same procedures and equipment. Both versions use chips to represent bets placed on the table surface.
French Roulette and Its Distinctions
French roulette uses the same 37-number wheel as European roulette but adds player-friendly rules that lower the house edge to 1.35% on even-money bets. The game features distinct table markings in French and special betting rules not found in other variants.
French vs European Roulette
Both French and European roulette feature a single zero wheel with 37 pockets. The wheel configuration remains identical between the two versions. The house edge sits at 2.70% for standard bets in both games.
The main difference appears in the special rules. French roulette offers La Partage or En Prison rules that benefit players making even-money bets. These rules cut the house edge in half to 1.35% for red/black, odd/even, and high/low wagers. European roulette lacks these player protections, making French roulette mathematically superior for even-money betting strategies.
Unique Table Layout
The French roulette table displays betting areas with French terminology rather than English. Players find “Manque” for low numbers (1-18) and “Passe” for high numbers (19-36). Red and black appear as “Rouge” and “Noir,” while odd and even show as “Impair” and “Pair.”
The table itself often uses a rectangular layout instead of the standard format. All number betting positions typically appear on one side of the table rather than both sides. This single-sided design reflects the traditional French casino setup where croupiers use long sticks called rakes to manage bets across the wider table surface.
Application of Special Rules
La Partage applies when the ball lands on zero during even-money bets. Players receive half their stake back immediately rather than losing the entire amount. This rule reduces losses on zero outcomes.
En Prison offers an alternative approach to the same situation. When zero hits on an even-money bet, the wager stays “imprisoned” on the table for the next spin. If the bet wins on the following spin, players recover their original stake without additional winnings. A loss on the second spin costs the full bet. Both rules produce the same 1.35% house edge on even-money wagers, though La Partage provides immediate resolution while En Prison requires patience for one more spin.
Online Roulette and Global Availability
Both European and American roulette are widely available through online platforms, though their popularity varies by region. Players can access these variants through software-based games or live dealer streams, each offering distinct features for bankroll management and gameplay pace.
Playing Roulette Online
Online casinos provide access to both European and American roulette through desktop browsers and mobile apps. Players can choose between the two variants based on their preferred house edge and table rules.
Most licensed platforms offer free play modes alongside real money tables. This allows players to test different roulette variants without risking their bankroll. Table limits typically range from low-stakes options to high-roller rooms, giving players flexibility in how they manage their funds.
The online format also includes features like bet history tracking and statistics displays. These tools help players monitor their spending and make informed decisions about their gameplay sessions.
Popularity of Each Variant Around the World
European roulette dominates in the UK and across Europe, where the single zero format is standard at both physical and online casinos. The lower house edge makes it the preferred choice for players in these regions.
American roulette remains more common in the United States, particularly in Las Vegas casinos. However, online platforms in the US now offer both variants where online gambling is legal.
Asian markets show growing interest in both formats through international online casino sites. Players in these regions can access European and American tables through offshore platforms or regulated local sites depending on their country’s laws.
Live Dealer and RNG Formats
RNG (Random Number Generator) roulette uses computer software to simulate wheel spins. These games run 24/7 and allow for faster gameplay since there’s no waiting between spins. RNG tables work well for players who want to control the pace of their sessions.
Live dealer roulette streams real wheels and professional croupiers through video feeds. Players place bets through a digital interface while watching actual spins happen in real time. This format creates a more authentic casino atmosphere and builds trust through visible gameplay.
Both formats undergo testing by independent agencies to verify fairness. The choice between RNG and live dealer depends on personal preference rather than odds, as both maintain the same house edge for their respective roulette variants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players often wonder about the technical differences between these two roulette versions and how these variations affect their chances of winning. The wheel layout, house edge, and availability in casinos are the most common concerns for both new and experienced players.
What are the primary differences in the wheel layout between American and European Roulette?
The main difference lies in the number of pockets on each wheel. European roulette has 37 pockets numbered 0 through 36. American roulette has 38 pockets with an additional 00 pocket alongside the single 0.
The extra pocket on the American wheel changes the entire layout. Both wheels have red and black pockets for numbers 1-36. The zero pocket is green on both versions, and the American wheel includes a second green pocket for the double zero.
This single extra pocket affects every aspect of gameplay. The pocket arrangement also differs slightly between the two wheels, though both maintain alternating red and black colors.
How do the house edges compare in American and European Roulette?
European roulette offers a house edge of 2.7% on most bets. American roulette has a house edge of 5.26% on most bets due to the extra double zero pocket.
The difference comes directly from the number of pockets. With 37 pockets, European roulette gives the house a smaller advantage. The 38-pocket American wheel nearly doubles the casino’s edge over players.
This means players lose money more slowly on European roulette over time. For every $100 wagered, the casino expects to keep $2.70 on European wheels versus $5.26 on American wheels.
What betting strategies are most effective for European Roulette as opposed to American Roulette?
Most betting strategies work the same way on both roulette versions. The Martingale, D’Alembert, and Fibonacci systems can be applied to either game. However, these strategies perform slightly better on European roulette because of the lower house edge.
Players should focus on outside bets like red/black or odd/even when using European roulette. These bets have nearly 50% winning chances and benefit more from the reduced house edge.
No strategy can overcome the house edge completely. The lower house edge in European roulette simply means betting systems lose money at a slower rate compared to American roulette.
Where can one find European Roulette tables in Las Vegas?
European roulette tables are less common in Las Vegas casinos. Most Las Vegas properties primarily offer American roulette because the higher house edge generates more revenue for casinos.
Some upscale casinos on the Strip do offer European roulette tables. These tables often have higher minimum bets than their American counterparts. Players might find them in high-limit rooms or special gaming areas.
Downtown Las Vegas and smaller casinos rarely feature European roulette. Players should call ahead or check casino websites to confirm table availability before visiting.
How do the payout odds vary between American and European Roulette versions?
The payout odds remain identical between both versions. A straight-up bet on a single number pays 35 to 1 in both games. Red/black bets pay 1 to 1, and dozens bets pay 2 to 1 regardless of which version players choose.
The actual probability of winning differs between the two games. A single number bet has a 1 in 37 chance of winning on European roulette versus 1 in 38 on American roulette. The payouts stay the same, but the winning frequency changes.
This creates a mathematical disadvantage for American roulette players. They receive the same payout for bets that are harder to win.
Can one increase their winning chances by choosing European Roulette over American Roulette?
Yes, European roulette provides better winning chances than American roulette. The single zero wheel gives players a 2.7% house edge compared to 5.26% on the double zero wheel.
Players win more frequently on European roulette over long playing sessions. Each bet type has a slightly higher probability of winning because there are fewer total pockets on the wheel.
The difference becomes more noticeable over time. A player making 100 bets will statistically lose less money on European roulette than on American roulette with the same bet amounts.