Roulette is universally recognized as one of the most iconic and popular games in casino history.
Understanding the subtle differences between the wheels is crucial for maximizing your chances of winning.
The Extra Green Zero
The single most important difference between the two games lies entirely in the number of green zero pockets.
This single extra pocket on the American wheel drastically alters the mathematical probabilities of the game.
- The green zeros represent the house edge
- American roulette includes the 0 and the 00
- European roulette only utilizes the single 0
The Mathematics of the Two Wheels
Conversely, the American wheel's extra double zero pushes the house edge up to a massive 5.26%.
Statistically, for every $100 you wager, you expect to lose $2.70 on European and $5.26 on American.
The En Prison and La Partage Rules
Some European, and particularly French, roulette tables offer player-friendly rules called "La Partage" or "En Prison."
This makes French roulette one of the most mathematically favorable table games on the entire casino floor.
| Type | Long Term Loss per $100 | Player Value |
|---|---|---|
| Single Zero | $2.70 | Excellent |
| Double Zero | $5.26 | Terrible |
Online casinos almost always offer both, so be vigilant and always click on the European wheel.
