European or American Roulette?
European Roulette and American Roulette follow the same core concept, but one key difference significantly affects the odds. European Roulette features a single zero (0), while American Roulette includes both a single zero (0) and a double zero (00). This additional pocket increases the house edge in American Roulette, making European Roulette the variant generally associated with more favourable odds for players.
Whether you're exploring online roulette for the first time or comparing game variants before placing a wager, understanding the differences between European and American Roulette can help you make more informed decisions. While the online casino tables and betting options may look similar at first glance, the wheel layout changes the mathematical probabilities behind every spin.
This guide focuses specifically on how European and American Roulette compare. If you're looking for a beginner-friendly explanation of rules, bets, and gameplay, our how to play roulette guide will do the trick.
What is the difference between European and American Roulette?
The main difference is the number of pockets on the wheel.
European Roulette
European Roulette contains:
- Numbers 1 to 36
- One green zero (0)
Total pockets: 37
American Roulette
American Roulette contains:
- Numbers 1 to 36
- One green zero (0)
- One green double zero (00)
Total pockets: 38
Although the addition of a single pocket may seem minor, it changes the odds and house edge across the entire game.
Quick comparison: European vs American Roulette
| Feature | European Roulette | American Roulette |
| Zero pockets | 1 (0) | 2 (0 and 00) |
| Total wheel pockets | 37 | 38 |
| House edge | 2.70% | 5.26% |
| Player odds | More favourable | Less favourable |
| Popular regions | Europe and many online casinos | North America |
For players focused on mathematical odds, European Roulette is generally considered the more favourable version.
Why does the extra zero matter?
The additional double-zero pocket increases the number of possible outcomes on every spin.
- In European Roulette:
1 winning number out of 37 pockets pays a straight-up bet - In American Roulette:
1 winning number out of 38 pockets pays a straight-up bet
Because payouts remain the same while the number of pockets increases, the extra zero increases the casino's advantage.
Example
Suppose you place a straight-up bet on a single number.
| Roulette variant | Chance of winning |
| European Roulette | 1 in 37 |
| American Roulette | 1 in 38 |
The difference may appear small for an individual spin, but it becomes more meaningful over extended play.
What is the house edge in each version?
The house edge represents the mathematical advantage built into the game.
European Roulette house edge
European Roulette has a house edge of approximately 2.70%. This means that over the long term, the game is designed to retain around 2.70% of total wagers.
American Roulette house edge
American Roulette has a house edge of approximately 5.26%. Because of the additional double-zero pocket, the house edge is almost double that of European Roulette.
House edge comparison
| Roulette variant | House edge |
| European Roulette | 2.70% |
| American Roulette | 5.26% |
For many players, this is the most significant distinction between the two variants.
Are the betting options different?
Most betting options remain the same in both games. Players can typically place:
Inside Bets
- Straight-up bets
- Split bets
- Street bets
- Corner bets
- Six-line bets
Outside Bets
- Red or Black
- Odd or Even
- High or Low
- Dozens
- Columns
The primary difference is that American Roulette includes additional betting combinations involving the 00 pocket. As a result, players familiar with one version will usually recognize most betting options in the other.
Which roulette variant has better odds?
European Roulette generally offers better odds due to its lower house edge.
Benefits of the single-zero wheel include:
- Fewer losing pockets
- Lower house edge
- Improved theoretical return
- More favourable long-term probabilities
For players comparing variants within an online casino, the wheel layout is often one of the most important factors to review before choosing a table.
Is European Roulette more popular online?
European Roulette is widely available across online casinos and is often one of the most frequently selected roulette variants.
Several factors contribute to its popularity:
- Simpler wheel design
- Single-zero layout
- Lower house edge
- Familiar gameplay
Many software providers offer multiple versions of European Roulette, including standard, premium, live dealer, and feature-enhanced variations.
Should beginners choose European or American Roulette?
Many newcomers start with European Roulette because the single-zero wheel provides more favourable odds while maintaining straightforward gameplay.
European Roulette may appeal to players who:
- Prefer lower house-edge games
- Want a traditional roulette experience
- Are learning about roulette variants
American Roulette may appeal to players who:
- Enjoy classic North American casino-style roulette
- Prefer the familiar double-zero wheel
- Want to experience a traditional American variation
Both games follow the same basic principles, making it relatively easy to switch between them.
How to identify which roulette version you're playing
Before placing a wager, take a moment to check the wheel layout.
You're playing European Roulette if:
- The wheel contains a single 0
- There is no 00 pocket
- The game description references a single-zero wheel
You're playing American Roulette if:
- The wheel contains both 0 and 00
- The layout includes a double-zero pocket
- The game description references an American wheel
Most online roulette games clearly display this information within the game lobby or information screen.
Does wheel layout affect strategy?
The available betting systems and roulette strategies generally work the same way in both variants.
However, the lower house edge found in European Roulette means that many strategy-focused players prefer the single-zero wheel when given a choice.
It's important to remember that roulette outcomes remain random and independent. No betting system can alter the built-in house edge or guarantee specific results.
Which roulette variant should you choose?
The best choice depends on your personal preferences and the experience you're looking for. Understanding the differences between European and American Roulette can help you choose the version that feels right for your next game.