American Vs European Roulette Explained
The iconic roulette wheel is the ultimate visual representation of casino gambling worldwide. While the fundamental idea —picking the winning number— remains identical everywhere, not all roulette wheels offer the exact same odds. The casino world features two main versions that dominate the casino floors: the US version and the European wheel. Knowing the massive variations between the two styles is absolutely essential if you want to play smart.
The Number of Pockets: How One Pocket Changes Everything
The primary physical distinction between American and European roulette is the number of green pockets. A traditional European Roulette wheel features 37 total pockets: numbers one to thirty-six, and one single green zero. On the other hand, the American Roulette wheel features 38 total pockets. It has the same numbers 1 through 36, the 0, and an extra green slot: the double zero. This single extra pocket might seem insignificant to a casual tourist, but in reality, it ruins the math for the player.
How the Double Zero Ruins Player Profitability
In roulette, the winning odds paid are calculated as if there were only 36 numbers. To illustrate, guessing the exact number returns 35 times your bet, no matter the wheel type. Since the Euro version has 37 total slots, the casino's built-in mathematical advantage is a very reasonable 2.70%. However, since the US version adds that second green slot while keeping the exact same 35 to 1 payout, the casino's advantage skyrockets to exactly 5.26%.
Never play the American wheel if you have the choice. It makes no sense to play with a double zero.
The Top Line bet is unique to the US wheel and is statistically terrible, giving the house a 7.89% advantage.
Some European tables use the En Prison mechanic, which reduces the casino margin on outside bets to just 1.35 percent.
A Quick Comparison: American vs European
To summarize the mathematics, here is this simple chart. It shows the exact reason why pros always prefer the single zero wheel.
Game AspectSingle Zero WheelDouble Zero Wheel
Number of Slots3738
Green Pockets1Two (0 and 00)
Casino AdvantageLow at 2.70%5.26% (Very Bad)
Optimal Edge1.35% on even money bets5.26% (Rule does not apply)
The bottom line is simple, the addition of the double zero is nothing more than a casino trick to double their profits from uninformed players. No matter if you are wagering at a lavish casino in Las Vegas or gambling at an online casino from your smartphone, your first goal must always be locating a single zero game. Skipping the 00 wheel is the easiest and most effective way to mathematically improve your winning probabilities.