When walking through a massive casino floor, you will inevitably find the classic roulette table. However, what most tourists are unaware of is that not all roulette wheels are the same of this classic game. The two standard versions are European Roulette and American Roulette. Although they appear exactly the same to a novice, the subtle differences between the two formats have a gigantic effect on the mathematical odds. This comparison will explain the core differences between the two wheels and explain which one you should always choose.
The fundamental distinction between these two formats boils down to a single space on the wheel. The classic European layout features exactly 37 pockets: standard numbers 1-36, and a single green zero (0). This single zero is the source of the house advantage.
The American wheel, conversely, has an extra slot.
This small extra pocket is mathematically devastating for anyone placing a bet.
Since the winning payouts for hitting a single number are exactly the same in both games (offering a 35 to 1 payout), that one extra green slot ruins the odds. In the European game, the house edge is a highly respectable 2.7%. Unfortunately, in American roulette, that single extra pocket nearly doubles the casino’s advantage, raising the edge to 5.26%.
| Roulette Variant | Wheel Layout | Casino Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Single-Zero Roulette | One green zero | Great odds |
| Double-Zero Roulette | 38 (Numbers 1-36, plus 0 and 00) | Terrible odds |
To summarize the comparison, there is absolutely no logical reason to sit down at the American version if you have the choice. Always look for the European version to give yourself the best possible chance.</p
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