The Difference Between European And American Roulette

Roulette is one of the most iconic and visually thrilling games available on any casino floor.


Understanding the difference between the American and European variations is the most crucial strategy in the game.

The Extra Number That Changes Everything

On a European table, the presence of the single zero is what prevents the even-money bets from being perfectly 50/50.


The American wheel, however, features 38 slots: numbers 1 through 36, a single zero, AND a double zero (00).

The payouts for hitting a single number are exactly the same (35 to 1) on both wheelsBecause the payouts are identical but the American wheel has an extra number, your odds of winning decreaseYou are taking on more risk for the exact same potential reward when playing the American version
Advanced European Roulette Rules

If you can find a French roulette table, you will encounter the best possible odds for this specific game.


Under the 'La Partage' rule, if you make an even-money bet (like Red or Black) and the ball lands on zero, you only lose half your bet.

Roulette VariationNumber of ZerosHouse Edge (Standard Bets)AmericanTwo (0, 00)5.26%EuropeanOne (0)2.70%

By simply choosing the European wheel, you instantly double your expected mathematical longevity at the casino.