European vs. American Roulette: Which One Should You Play?
Roulette is one of the most iconic casino games, attracting players with its simplicity and excitement. However, if you’re planning to spin the wheel, you’ll quickly notice that there are two main versions: European and American Roulette. While they might look similar, there are key differences that impact your odds, the house edge, and overall experience.
So, which one should you play?
Understanding the Basics of Roulette
Roulette is a classic casino game in which players wager on the possible outcome of a ball landing on a rotating wheel. According to casino expert Tom Middleton, 4567 is widely used strategy for roulette, which offers a more structured approach to betting that many players follow. The wheel consists of numbered pockets, alternating between red and black, with a green pocket for the zero(s).
Players can place different types of bets, from single numbers to groups of numbers, odd/even, or red/black. The dealer, or croupier spins the wheel, and wherever the ball lands determines the winners. While the game’s concept is the same, European and American versions have some distinct differences that affect your chances of winning.
The Key Differences Between European and American Roulette
The Number of Pockets
The biggest visual difference between the two versions is the number of pockets on the wheel:
- European Roulette has 37 pockets, numbered 0-36.
- American Roulette has 38 pockets, numbered 0-36 plus an additional 00.
That extra pocket might not seem like a big deal, but it significantly affects the house edge and your potential returns.
The House Edge
The house edge is the built-in advantage that casinos have over players. Here’s how it differs between the two versions:
- European Roulette House Edge: About 2.70%
- American Roulette House Edge: About 5.26%
This means that over time, the casino expects to keep 2.7% of all bets placed in European Roulette, while American Roulette gives the casino nearly double the edge at 5.26%.
For example, if you wager $100, the expected loss in European Roulette is around $2.70, while in American Roulette, it jumps to $5.26.
The Role of the Extra “00”
The biggest reason for the higher house edge in American Roulette is the extra 00 pocket.
In both versions, most bets pay out at odds that assume a fair game with 36 numbers (e.g., a straight-up bet on a single number pays 35:1). However, in American Roulette, there are 38 pockets instead of 37, reducing your actual chances of winning a bet without increasing the payout. In simple terms, the more pockets on the wheel, the lower your chances of winning.
The RTP (Return to Player)
RTP indicates the percentage of the total wagered amount that a game returns to players over time. As the house edge differs in each variant, the RTP accordingly varies too:
- European Roulette RTP: 97.30% (since the house edge is 2.70%)
- American Roulette RTP: 94.74% (since the house edge is 5.26%)
A higher RTP means that, on average, you’ll win back more money over time in European Roulette compared to American Roulette.
5. The “En Prison” and “La Partage” Rules
European Roulette sometimes includes additional rules that benefit players, particularly on even-money bets, such as red/black or odd/even.
- En Prison: If the ball lands on 0, even-money bets aren’t lost immediately. Instead, they are “imprisoned” for the next spin. If your wager is successful on the following spin, you will receive your stake returned.
- La Partage: If the ball lands on 0, you only lose half of your even-money bet instead of the full amount.
These rules lower the effective house edge on even-money bets to 1.35%, making European Roulette even more favorable.
Which One Should You Play?
Now that we’ve covered the differences, let’s answer the big question: which roulette version is better for you?
Choose European Roulette If:
- You want better odds and a lower house edge.
- You prefer a game with higher RTP.
- You like the chance to recover part of your bet with En Prison or La Partage.
- You are a serious player looking for a strategic edge.
Choose American Roulette If:
- You enjoy higher-risk games and don’t mind the extra house edge.
- The casino only offers American Roulette.
- You like the aesthetic of the American-style wheel.
- You want to try something different for fun.
Should You Ever Play American Roulette?
While European Roulette is the clear winner in terms of odds, American Roulette still has its appeal. Some casinos in the U.S. only offer American wheels, so if that’s your only option, you can still play for entertainment. Just keep in mind that your bankroll won’t last as long due to the higher house edge. If you’re looking to maximize your chances of winning, though, European Roulette is the way to go.
Tips for Playing Roulette Wisely
No matter which version you choose, here are some key tips to keep in mind:
- Know the house edge: Always be aware of your odds before you play.
- Manage your bankroll: Set limits on how much you’re willing to lose.
- Stick to even-money bets: If you’re playing European Roulette, take advantage of La Partage and En Prison.
- Avoid risky bets: Straight-up bets (on a single number) have high payouts but very low chances of winning.
- Play for fun: Roulette is a game of luck, so enjoy the experience rather than focusing purely on winning.
Final Verdict: European Roulette Wins!
When it comes to deciding between European and American Roulette, European Roulette is the clear choice for most players. With a lower house edge, better RTP, and extra player-friendly rules, it offers better odds and a more enjoyable experience.
American Roulette can still be fun if you’re just playing casually or if it’s your only option. But if you have the choice, go for European Roulette and increase your chances of walking away with more winnings. Now that you know the differences, which version will you play? Spin the wheel and may luck be on your side!
