Roulette is the undisputed symbol of the casino floor, an elegant game of chance that has captivated players for centuries.
However, many beginners do not realize that there are actually two major variations of the game being played globally.
One version offers a fair game of chance, while the other is heavily stacked in favor of the casino.
In this article, we will compare European and American Roulette to definitively answer which version is better.
The Wheel Layout: The One Pocket Difference
The entire difference between European and American Roulette boils down to the green pockets on the wheel.
A European Roulette wheel features 37 pockets in total: the numbers 1 through 36, plus a single green zero (0).
When the game was brought to America, casino owners greedily added a second green pocket, the double zero (00), to increase their profits.
That extra double zero pocket might seem insignificant, but it completely destroys the player's odds.
When you bet on black, you lose if the ball lands on a green zero; in the American version, there are twice as many ways to lose.
Why the House Edge Matters in Roulette
The house edge is the built-in percentage of your bet that the casino expects to keep over the long term.
If you hit a single number on either wheel, the dealer will hand you 35 chips for every 1 chip you bet.
A 2.70% edge means you will lose an average of $2.70 for every $100 you wager; this is considered a fair casino game.
Despite the worse odds, the American game still only pays 35 to 1, significantly short-changing the player.
Mathematically speaking, playing American Roulette when a European table is available is a completely irrational decision.
La Partage and En Prison Rules
French Roulette uses the same single-zero wheel as the European version but includes special player-friendly rules.
The French variations are designed to protect players when the dreaded green zero actually hits.
Under the "La Partage" rule, if you make an even-money bet and the ball lands on zero, you receive half your bet back.
If your bet wins on the subsequent spin, you get your original stake back (without profit); if it loses, the casino takes it.
When playing at an online casino, you should always specifically search the lobby for French Roulette first.
Quick Reference: Which Game is Best?
American Roulette: 38 pockets (0 and 00). House edge is 5.26%. The worst option available. Single Zero Roulette: Excellent odds for a table game. This should be your default choice. French Rules: Cuts the house edge to 1.35%. Always play this online if the casino offers it. Mini Roulette: Often found online, features only 13 numbers. Avoid it, as the house edge is usually worse. Strategy: No betting system can overcome the 2.70% or 5.26% house edge over the long term.
Why American Roulette is a Trap
FeatureEuropean Roulette (Single 0)American Roulette (Double 00) Total NumbersThirty-SevenThirty-Eight Payout for Single Number35 to 135 to 1 (Identical) Actual Probability1 in 371 in 38 House Edge2.70%5.26% (Nearly Double)
The debate between European and American Roulette is not a matter of preference; it is a matter of mathematics.
However, online casinos offer both versions to all players, giving you the power to choose the better odds.
If you see a green 00 pocket, immediately close the game and find a European or French table instead.
Good luck at the tables, and may the ball always avoid the green pockets when you need it most.