Differences Between American vs European Roulette

This article breaks down the key differences between American and European roulette. It covers the layout of each wheel, the number of pockets, and how these variations affect the house edge — giving you a clear idea of how your odds shift depending on the version you play. It is a useful guide for beginners who want to understand which version of roulette is better to play.

American and European comparison  

American and European roulette look very similar, but they have a few important differences.
The number of pockets, the way the house edge is calculated, and certain betting features make each version feel a bit different. It’s a good idea — especially for beginners — to get a handle on these details before choosing which one to try.

Here is a clear comparison of the two:

That extra zero in American roulette wheel gives the casino a stronger edge, which lowers the player’s chances of winning.
 For those just getting into the game, European roulette is often the smarter pick because the odds are slightly better and rules like En Prison can help cut down potential losses.

Return to Player in Roulette

Return to Player (RTP) shows how much of the total money wagered on a game typically goes back to players over time. On a European roulette wheel, as well as under American roulette rules, the exact RTP percentage depends on both the wheel layout and the types of bets placed. Knowing how RTP works can help beginners steer clear of low-return bets and make smarter decisions at the table.

Return to Player in American Roulette  

The American roulette table has 38 pockets. They include numbers 1 to 36, plus 0 and 00. The addition of the double zero increases the house edge, resulting in a lower RTP compared to the European version. Here's how RTP changes depending on the bet:

The Five Number Bet is considered the weakest option when it comes to RTP, giving players the lowest expected return among all bets in American roulette.

Return to Player in European Roulette

European roulette table has only one green pocket (0), which improves the RTP. All standard bets have the same return, making the game more balanced:

Certain roulette variations incorporate the En Prison regulation specifically for wagers with 1:1 payout ratios. This can raise the RTP up to 98.65%, giving players even better value.

The Main Difference Between American vs European Roulette

Casino floors around the globe offer multiple roulette games, though American and European styles remain the most common. How to compare American vs European roulette? Both games look similar at first glance, but their key differences affect your chances to win. Knowing what sets them apart helps gamblers choose the right table for their money.

The American Roulette Wheel

The American wheel has 38 slots. It includes numbers from 1 to 36. Plus two green zeros: 0 and 00. The number layout follows a unique sequence, which differs from the one used on the European roulette wheel.

The European Roulette Wheel

The Euro roulette incorporates 37 compartments, spanning numerical designations from 1 through 36 alongside one solitary emerald zero section marked as 0. Many players prefer this version due to its lower house edge and straightforward structure. The numerical positioning sequence on this wheel configuration also varies compared to the American roulette table layout.

The number of pockets  

Are all roulette wheels the same? No. The quantity of available slots establishes the core distinction between these gambling variations:

• American roulette = 38 numbers
  • 36 red and black numbers
  • 2 green numbers (0 and 00)
• European roulette = 37 numbers
  • 36 red and black numbers
  • 1 green number (0)

This single additional pocket might seem minor but dramatically shifts the odds against players in American roulette. Smart gamblers recognize this mathematical reality when choosing which version to play. European roulette vs American is a common debate — but the house edge says it all.

The house edge

The house edge represents perhaps the most important distinction between these variants. European roulette offers a 2.7% house edge, significantly lower than American roulette's 5.26% advantage.

This numerical difference translates to an expected loss of $5.26 for every $100 placed on American wheels compared to just $2.70 when playing European versions over extended sessions. This nearly doubles the casino's advantage simply by adding the extra double-zero pocket.

So, now you know what is European roulette. Professional gamblers almost exclusively choose European roulette when available. The dramatic difference in expected return makes European roulette mathematically superior for anyone concerned with maximizing their chances of winning.

The order of the numbers on the wheel

Both wheels arrange numbers non-sequentially, but follow different patterns. The European wheel is designed to spread out high and low numbers, as well as odd and even ones, in a balanced way. The standard sequence aims to alternate odd and even numbers while distributing colors evenly.

American wheels follow a different numbering pattern that places opposing numbers across from each other. Consecutive numbers appear far apart, and the sequence ensures both zeros sit opposite one another with red/black numbers balanced between them.

The European wheel follows a traditional sequence where adjacent numbers on the wheel often sum to 37 or close to it. This mathematical arrangement creates what some gamblers call a more "balanced" wheel, though it offers no statistical advantage during actual play.

Which Roulette Version is Better?

Gamblers looking for the best roulette experience should consider more than just the visual differences between wheels. The mathematical realities create a clear advantage for players at European tables. That single green zero makes all the difference when calculating expected returns over time.

Smart money consistently chooses European roulette when both options exist. The reasons go beyond tradition or aesthetics - pure mathematics dictates that European roulette gives players significantly better odds of winning on every type of bet placed.

Casino regulars understand this advantage, which explains why American wheels dominate in Las Vegas while European wheels remain standard in Monte Carlo and other prestigious European gaming destinations. Casinos want that extra edge the double-zero provides, while players naturally seek the better odds.

American vs European roulette probability  

The odds of winning vary significantly between these two roulette versions across all bet types. European roulette consistently offers better probabilities thanks to having just one zero instead of two:

These percentage differences might seem small at first glance, but they add up dramatically over multiple bets. The house edge on American roulette odds (5.26%) nearly doubles that of European roulette (2.7%), meaning players lose money almost twice as fast on American wheels.

Consider a typical evening at the roulette table, placing 100 bets of $10 each. On an American wheel, the expected loss averages around $52.60, while the same session on a European wheel would result in expected losses of only $27. That's a $25.60 difference - enough for dinner or extra betting time.

For newcomers to roulette, these numbers tell the whole story. European roulette offers substantially better value. Many casinos in competitive markets now offer both versions, knowing that informed players seek out European wheels while casual tourists often play whatever table looks exciting.

True advantage players occasionally find European wheels with additional "La Partage" or "En Prison" rules that further reduce the house edge to just 1.35% on even-money bets. These tables represent the absolute best odds available on any roulette game anywhere in the world. If you’re new to roulette, begin with how to play European roulette for better odds.