European vs. American Roulette: Rules, Odds, and Strategies

One of the most recognizable casino games, roulette has a very simple format: a wheel, a ball, and numbered pockets. Behind this simplicity lies a fascinating difference in how the game plays out, depending on whether you sit down at a European or American table.

Strategy, expected outcomes, and even the flow of play can feel different depending on which wheel is in front of them. The following sections break down how these versions compare, and how players can use that knowledge to make smarter decisions at the table.

The Roulette Wheel Layouts

Roulette is, above all else, a game defined by its wheel. The design shapes not only how it looks but also the probabilities behind every bet placed.

European Roulette Wheel

The European version features 37 pockets, numbered 1 through 36, plus a single zero. The sequence of numbers on the wheel is carefully arranged, alternating red and black pockets with the green zero interrupting the pattern. That single zero is the factor that gives the casino its mathematical advantage. 

With only one green pocket, the odds of hitting your chosen number or color are better compared to American tables.

American Roulette Wheel

At first sight, the American roulette wheel looks similar, but the extra double zero pocket changes the calculation. This version carries 38 pockets: numbers 1 through 36, a single zero, and a double zero. 

The double zero sits opposite the single zero, giving the wheel symmetry while increasing the total number of pockets. That one extra slot almost doubles the house edge, making American roulette a tougher version for long-term play.

The physical design might appear cosmetic, but the implications run deep: every bet you make on an online casino roulette wheel carries slightly worse odds than it would on its European counterpart.

House Edge Explained

The true heart of roulette strategy lies in understanding the house edge. This is the built-in advantage casinos hold, expressed as a percentage of each bet that statistically goes to the house over time.

In European roulette, the single zero pocket creates an edge of roughly 2.70%. That means for every hundred dollars wagered, players can expect to statistically lose $2.70 in the long run. The calculation stems from the fact that payouts are designed as if there were no zero pocket, but the presence of the zero shifts the math in favor of the casino.

American roulette raises that figure significantly. With both zero and double zero in play, the house edge jumps to about 5.26%. While it may not sound like a large leap, over hundreds of spins the difference is noticeable. A game that drains players at almost double the pace is no minor distinction.

To illustrate how the numbers shift depending on wheel type and bet, here is a quick breakdown:

The chart makes the impact of that double zero crystal clear. On every common bet, the American roulette wheel gives away less value to the player, shifting expected returns firmly toward the house.

Special Rules: La Partage and En Prison

Roulette’s European tradition has given rise to rules that soften the blow of the zero pocket. These adjustments don’t appear everywhere, but when they do, they can lower the house edge even further.

La Partage

La Partage is most commonly found in French-style European roulette tables. If you place an even-money bet such as red/black, odd/even, or high/low and the ball goes to zero, you only lose half your wager. The other half is returned to you, cutting your loss in half. This simple rule reduces the house edge on even-money bets to about 1.35%.

En Prison

En Prison works a little differently but achieves a similar effect. Your stake gets frozen when zero comes up on an even-money bet; if the bet wins on the following round, you get your stake back with no added winnings. If it loses, the bet is gone. Like La Partage, this rule essentially halves the house edge on even-money wagers, making them more favorable compared to American roulette.

Together, La Partage and En Prison show how the European roulette table can be a safer choice for players seeking longer playtime with fewer statistical setbacks.

Which Version Offers the Best Chances?

When comparing European and American roulette, the numbers speak for themselves. European roulette, with its single zero and optional rule variations, stands out as the smarter option for minimizing the house edge. A player at a European table is facing roughly half the disadvantage of someone sitting at an American table.

The difference becomes especially important for players who favor even-money bets. With La Partage or En Prison in effect, the house edge can drop close to 1.35%, which is one of the most favorable odds you’ll find in a mainstream casino game.

The difference between American and European roulette is ultimately a question of how much risk you are willing to tolerate. For those seeking a lower edge, playing European Roulette is clearly better.

Strategy Adjustments by Game Type

Roulette strategy isn’t about beating the house — it’s about making choices that stretch your bankroll and give you the best chance to walk away with winnings. Different wheel layouts call for different adjustments.

1. Account for the higher edge in American roulette. If you’re at a U.S. casino playing on a double zero wheel, understand that each bet carries more risk. Keep wagers smaller and avoid strategies that rely on dozens of repeated spins.
2. Lean on even-money bets in European games with La Partage or En Prison. These rules make red/black, odd/even, and high/low bets far stronger, reducing the long-term edge dramatically.
3. Adjust bankroll management. The longer you play, the more likely the house edge will catch up with you. In American roulette, shorter sessions and conservative staking are better suited.
4. Avoid the “sucker bet.” American roulette offers a five-number bet covering 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3. It carries an edge of 7.89%, which is among the worst bets you can make. Steering clear of this option is one of the simplest adjustments a player can take.

These strategy tweaks might not overturn the mathematics, but they can influence how long you play and how enjoyable the experience is.

Player Perception and Casino Settings

Roulette’s popularity around the globe has led to clear regional preferences. In Europe, online platforms and land-based casinos tend to use single-zero wheels, giving most players access to the more favorable format. European roulette wheels are standard in digital play because they attract players seeking better odds.

In the United States, however, the story is different. The double-zero setup dominates, with the US roulette wheel being the standard in most casinos. American players often encounter this format without even realizing the mathematical disadvantage compared to European versions.

The setting shapes not only the odds but also player expectations. Online and live casinos often feature both options, while brick-and-mortar houses in the U.S. largely stick to American roulette.

Final Comparison Table: European vs. American

Spinning Roulette Wheel the Right Way

Roulette carries a charm that goes beyond percentages and charts; the spin of the ball, the rhythm of the wheel, and the anticipation as it slows down create moments every player enjoys. European tables lean toward lower edges and extra rules that can soften losses, while American wheels bring a faster pace and a slightly sharper challenge.

Picking a version should be less about chasing outcomes and more about deciding how you want your session to flow. Both wheels deliver the same iconic spin, but the path they lead you down changes with every green pocket on the layout.