-
American and European Roulette tables feature different wheels and different odds.
-
Understand the differences between American Roulette vs European Roulette
-
Identify the variant that best suits your gambling style.
The Astounding Difference Caused by a 00
The main difference between an American and European Roulette game is the green double zero, or 00. American Roulette wheels and tables feature this number, but European games do not. As a result of this number, American wheels have 38 numbers whereas European wheels have 37.
This single number has a significant impact on the odds of the game. While the house edge of European Roulette is 2.7%, that of American Roulette is 5.26%, almost twice as high.
In most casino games, higher-risk bets are matched with higher-value rewards. However, somewhat surprisingly, this is not the case for American Roulette. Even though the odds of a player winning a bet are lower, the potential payouts are just the same as those of European Roulette.
American Roulette vs European Roulette Bets and Payouts
When you launch an online or live roulette game, you'll probably see the table and wheel. Both games begin with a round of betting followed by the turning of the wheel and the dropping of the ball.
If you place an American and European wheel side by side, you'll notice subtle differences. American wheel numbers are set in pairs opposite to each other. European wheels, meanwhile, feature alternating numbers across the wheel. Table layouts are also slightly different, with European versions featuring an overall simpler layout than American tables.
Both versions of the game offer a series of inside and outside bets, but the American version includes one bet that's not found on European tables. The following table outlines all the standard bets offered by both roulette versions.
|
Bet |
Description |
Payout |
American Roulette Odds |
European Roulette Odds |
|
Straight-Up |
One number |
35:1 |
2.6% |
2.7% |
|
Split |
Two adjacent numbers |
17:1 |
5.3% |
5.4% |
|
Street |
Three adjacent numbers |
11:1 |
7.9% |
8.1% |
|
Corner |
Four adjacent numbers |
8:1 |
10.5% |
10.8% |
|
Basket |
0, 00, 1, 2, and 3 |
6:1 |
13.2% |
N/A |
|
Double Street Bet |
Two adjacent Street bets |
5:1 |
15.8% |
16.2% |
|
Dozen |
12 numbers that form a box |
2:1 |
31.6% |
32.4% |
|
Column |
12 numbers that form a column |
2:1 |
31.6% |
32.4% |
|
Black / Red |
18 numbers of the same colour |
1:1 |
47.37% |
48.65% |
|
Odd / Even |
18 numbers that are either all odd or all even |
1:1 |
47.37% |
48.65% |
|
Low / High |
18 numbers that either 1-18 or 19-36 |
1:1 |
47.37% |
48.65% |
American Roulette's Basket Bet
The Basket bet is only found on American Roulette tables as it requires a double zero. While the payout of 6:1 makes it an interesting choice, you'll have a 13.2% chance of winning. Worse still, the house edge on this particular bet is 7.9%.
Best Strategies for American Roulette vs European Roulette
While roulette is based entirely on luck, many players enjoy using mathematical strategies to help them determine what to bet on and how much to wager. All the major roulette betting systems are designed for European tables since the odds of winning are slightly higher. Nevertheless, they can also be used on American tables.
Martingale System
The Martingale System is a so-called, negative progression system, which means that it recommends increasing your wager following a loss. To make the most of this strategy, you should only place bets that pay evenly, such as Black or Even. Start by placing the smallest bet accepted by the table and wait for the result.
If you lose your bet, you should double the value of your wager. If you lose once more, double it yet again. However, if you win, your next bet should once again be the table's minimum wager.
Paroli System
While the Martingale System is simple to follow, it can quickly deplete your bankroll, especially during a losing streak. The Paroli System provides a close alternative that softens the blow of several consecutive losses. This system is also based on even money bets and recommends that you start by placing the table's minimum bet.
Using the Paroli System, you should double the value of your wager after a win and revert to the table's minimum after a loss. This positive progression system allows you to take advantage of a winning streak whilst minimising losses during a losing one.
American Roulette vs European Roulette: Verdict
Mathematically speaking, European Roulette is the clear winner as it offers better odds and the same payouts. It's not surprising, therefore, that this version is the overall most popular one in the world.
American Roulette is oftentimes preferred by some US players, but this is likely due to sentimental, rather than logical factors. Nevertheless, in certain cases, American tables may be able to accept lower betting limits which would make them more appealing to casual players or smaller bankrolls.
No matter whether you prefer American or European Roulette, you'll find both options available at Betfair's live casino. Many of these tables include optional racetrack bets and some European tables even feature the French Roulette rules known as En Prison or La Partage.
Key Takeaways
- The main difference between American and European Roulette is that the former includes a double zero, increasing the number count to 38.
- The European Roulette house edge is 2.7%, almost half that of American Roulette which is 5.26%.
- Roulette strategies can be applied to both versions of roulette but are most effective with European Roulette.
- American Roulette features a Basket bet that includes the double zero and pays 6:1.
- You should always play roulette responsibly and never gamble funds that you cannot afford to lose. Roulette betting strategies don't offer any guarantees of success and can quickly deplete your bankroll.