Roulette is the undisputed symbol of the casino floor, an elegant game of chance that has captivated players for centuries.
Sitting down at the wrong Roulette table is one of the most common and expensive mistakes a novice player can make.
The difference between the two games comes down to a single, tiny pocket on the wheel, but the mathematical impact is massive.
Let's explore the math behind the wheels so you can ensure you are always getting the best possible odds.
Understanding the Physical Difference on the Wheel
The entire difference between European and American Roulette boils down to the green pockets on the wheel.
Because there is only one zero, the total number of possible outcomes on a European wheel is 37.
When the game was brought to America, casino owners greedily added a second green pocket, the double zero (00), to increase their profits.
This seemingly minor architectural change is the sole reason why one game is vastly superior to the other.
The zeroes are the casino's primary source of profit on even-money bets; the American wheel doubles the casino's advantage.
The Math: Comparing the House Edge
To truly understand why the American version is inferior, we must look at the mathematical House Edge.
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.
On an American wheel, the true odds of hitting your number jump to 37 to 1 (because of the 38 total pockets).
By simply playing the American version, you are giving the casino nearly double the statistical advantage for absolutely no extra reward.
French Roulette: The Best Rules Available
French Roulette uses the same single-zero wheel as the European version but includes special player-friendly rules.
These special rules—La Partage and En Prison—apply to even-money bets like Red/Black or Odd/Even.
This simple rule effectively cuts the house edge on even-money bets in half, down to an incredibly low 1.35%.
The "En Prison" rule is similar; if the zero hits, your bet is "imprisoned" and left on the table for the next spin.
If French is unavailable, default to European; but never, ever click on the American Roulette table.
Quick Reference: Which Game is Best?
Double Zero Roulette: High house edge, fast bankroll drain. Never play this if other options exist. The European Wheel: Features only one zero. A fair 2.70% edge. The most common good table available. French Rules: Cuts the house edge to 1.35%. Always play this online if the casino offers it. Novelty Games: Multi-wheel or lightning roulette alter the payouts; always check the RTP before playing variants. Strategy: No betting system can overcome the 2.70% or 5.26% house edge over the long term.
Odds and Payouts Breakdown
FeatureEuropean Roulette (Single 0)American Roulette (Double 00) Total NumbersThirty-SevenThirty-Eight Payout for Single Number35 to 135 to 1 (Identical) Chance of SuccessBetterWorse Casino Profit MarginFair (2.7%)Predatory (5.26%)
There is absolutely no logical reason a player should ever choose to play American Roulette.
Vegas casinos know the American wheel is a trap, which is why they force low-stakes players to use the double-zero tables.
If you see a green 00 pocket, immediately close the game and find a European or French table instead.
Gamble smart, protect your funds, and never surrender an unnecessary advantage to the house.