American Roulette vs European Roulette: Which is Better?

European and American roulette are among the most popular variants of the game, representing two of its three fundamental types. While casual players might not immediately notice the differences, or may overlook the impact of an additional 00 pocket in one of them, the truth is that European and American roulette differ significantly in terms of winning odds and betting options. This guide will outline the primary distinctions and help you make a more informed choice.

Roulette Types:

Main Differences: A Comparison

The following table summarizes the main differences between these two roulette types. This overview will give you a clear snapshot of the unique features of European and American roulette. Continue reading to dive deeper into these aspects and understand what they mean for your gameplay.

Extra Zero Pocket – 00

The most prominent difference in American roulette is the additional 00 pocket (resulting in 0 + 00). European roulette, on the other hand, has only a single 0 pocket. Consequently, the American roulette wheel features 38 pockets in total (36 + 0 + 00), while the European wheel has 37 pockets (36 + 0). This difference is more than just cosmetic; it also affects the odds of winning, as explained in the “Odds” section below. As a result, American roulette is also called “double zero roulette,” while European roulette is known as “single zero.”

Number Arrangement on the Wheel

Another subtle difference lies in the sequence of numbers around the wheel. In European roulette, the number 26 (black) sits to the left of the 0 pocket, and 32 (red) is to its right. In American roulette, 2 (black) is on the left, 28 (black) on the right, and directly opposite is the second house pocket (00).

Odds of Winning

To calculate the probability of winning a specific bet in roulette, you divide the number of successful outcomes by the total number of pockets. This results in slightly lower winning odds in American roulette. For example:

In European roulette, the odds of winning a straight-up bet are 2.70%. This can be calculated as 1 / 37 = 0.0270.

In American roulette, the odds for the same bet are 2.63%, as shown by 1 / 38 = 0.0263.

The payout for this type of bet is the same in both versions; the difference lies in the probability of winning. While a 0.07% difference may seem minor, over time, it can affect your bankroll and, ultimately, your success in managing the house edge. For high-stakes players, even a small advantage can be significant. The table below provides a more detailed comparison of the odds in both versions.

House Edge and RTP (Return to Player)

This odds difference also impacts your long-term return on investment. Both the house edge and RTP vary between these two versions. The house edge shows the casino’s expected profit from your bets, while RTP indicates how much you can expect to win back over time. Here’s how these factors differ:

In European roulette, the RTP is 97.30%, and the house edge is 2.70%. So, for every 100 units wagered, you can expect to win back 97.30 units, with the casino taking a 2.70-unit profit.

In American roulette, the RTP is lower at 94.74%, with a house edge of 5.26%. This means that, for every 100 units wagered, you would get back 94.74 units on average, while the casino earns a 5.26-unit profit.

In short, the European variant allows you to lose less in the long run, making it a better choice for those seeking a higher RTP.

Five-Number Bet (Basket Bet)

The five-number or “basket” bet is unique to American roulette and isn’t available in European or other versions. As the name suggests, this bet covers five numbers: 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3. To place this bet, you place your chips on the line between the 0 and 1 pockets. The basket bet pays out at 6:1 but is often referred to as the “worst bet in roulette” due to its low RTP. While American roulette’s overall RTP is 94.74%, the RTP for the basket bet drops further to 92.11%.

Which Roulette Version Is Better?

In terms of gameplay enjoyment, this is a matter of personal preference. Some players enjoy the basket bet and find American roulette’s additional betting options more engaging. However, if you’re looking to maximize your return on investment (ROI), American roulette isn’t the ideal choice, as it offers the lowest RTP among all variants. European roulette is generally preferable for this purpose, as it has a lower house edge and higher RTP.

Why Do Players Choose Double Zero Roulette?

Despite its lower RTP, there are several reasons why players still choose American roulette. A primary factor is the lack of alternatives; double-zero roulette was the standard in the U.S. for a long time, and even today, it remains the most common variant in American casinos due to its profitability for the house. Many casual players in the U.S. may not even be aware that there’s a single-zero version.

Additionally, RTP or house edge may not be a top priority for all players. Some prefer the higher-paced gameplay and find the variety provided by the basket bet appealing. Whatever the reasons, American roulette will undoubtedly remain a popular option in many casinos.