✅ Quick Answer: European Roulette is Better for Players
If you’re looking to maximize your winning chances, European roulette is the better choice. The single zero (0) in European roulette lowers the house edge to 2.7%, compared to 5.26% in American roulette, which has both 0 and 00.
European vs American Roulette: Key Differences
| Feature | European Roulette | American Roulette |
|---|---|---|
| Zero Pockets | 1 (Single 0) | 2 (0 and 00) |
| Total Numbers | 37 | 38 |
| House Edge | 2.7% | 5.26% |
| Payouts | Same (35:1 on straight bets) | Same |
| Best For | Strategic players, better odds | High-risk gamblers |
The European roulette wheel layout features:
Numbers from 1 to 36
A single green 0
Alternating red and black pockets
The layout is symmetrical, offering a more balanced spin probability.
American Roulette Wheel: Why It’s Riskier
The American roulette wheel layout adds an extra green pocket: 00 (double zero). This seemingly small change doubles the house edge.
More zero pockets = more house advantage.
European Roulette Strategy That Works
Although roulette is a game of chance, these European roulette strategies can increase your longevity:
Martingale Strategy: Double your bet after each loss (for even-money bets).
Reverse Martingale: Increase bet after wins, not losses.
D’Alembert: Increase by 1 unit after a loss; decrease after a win.
Sector Betting: Focus on sections of the wheel using number groupings.
💡 Pro Tip: European roulette offers “En Prison” and “La Partage” rules in some casinos, which return part of your bet if the ball lands on 0 — further lowering the house edge.
Read More: How to Win on Slot Machines: Best Strategies for 2025
European Roulette Payout Chart
| Bet Type | Payout |
|---|---|
| Straight Up | 35:1 |
| Split | 17:1 |
| Street | 11:1 |
| Corner | 8:1 |
| Line | 5:1 |
| Column/Dozen | 2:1 |
| Red/Black | 1:1 |
| Even/Odd | 1:1 |
| High/Low | 1:1 |
📌 Payouts are the same for both American and European roulette, but odds of winning are better in European version.
European Roulette vs Single Zero Roulette: Are They the Same?
Yes, European roulette = Single Zero roulette. Both refer to the version with only one “0” on the wheel, which gives better odds than the American version.
However, French roulette is another variant of single-zero roulette but offers even lower house edge if “La Partage” rules apply.
Can You Play European Roulette Online?
Yes, most online casinos offer European roulette because of its player-friendly odds. Look for:
Live dealer European roulette
Low-minimum bet tables
Bonus-compatible roulette games
Platforms like Betway, LeoVegas, and 22Bet offer authentic European roulette games with real dealers.
Trusted Resources for Roulette Info
FAQ
Q1: Is European roulette better than American?
A: Yes. European roulette has a lower house edge (2.7%) compared to American roulette’s 5.26%, making it better for players.
Q2: Why does American roulette have worse odds?
A: It includes an extra “00” pocket, increasing the number of losing outcomes for the player.
Q3: Can I use strategy in roulette?
A: While it’s still a game of chance, bankroll strategies like Martingale and D’Alembert can help manage risk.
Q4: Do European roulette payouts differ from American?
A: No, the payouts are the same; the odds of winning differ due to the extra pocket in American roulette.
Q5: Where can I play European roulette online?
A: You can play at top casinos like LeoVegas, 22Bet, or 888 Casino, offering both RNG and live dealer options.
Final Verdict
European roulette is the clear winner.
With fewer zero pockets and a lower house edge, you stand a better chance at winning. Unless you enjoy taking bigger risks with fewer returns, avoid American roulette when given the choice.