American Roulette

American Roulette is one of the most recognized casino table games in the United States, built around a spinning wheel, a bouncing ball, and a wide menu of bets that range from simple even-money picks to high-paying number shots. What sets it apart from other roulette variants is simple - and massive for the math: American Roulette has two green pockets, 0 and 00.

That extra green pocket changes the odds, shifts the house edge, and makes bankroll decisions matter even more.

Roulette’s European Roots - and How the American Wheel Changed

Roulette traces back to Europe, where early versions blended wheel-based games and probability experiments into the format players recognize today. As roulette crossed the Atlantic and gained popularity in the United States, the wheel evolved into the American layout with the addition of the double zero (00).

That one change created a distinct variant with a larger wheel count, a different pocket arrangement, and a higher casino advantage - which is why understanding the format before you bet is a smart move.

Wheel Breakdown: 38 Pockets, Two Greens, and Plenty of Action

The American Roulette wheel has 38 pockets total:

• Numbers 1-36
• Single zero (0)
• Double zero (00)

The numbers 1 through 36 are split between red and black pockets, arranged in an alternating pattern (though not in simple numerical order). The 0 and 00 pockets are green, and they’re the key reason American Roulette plays differently than European Roulette.

Table Layout Explained: Where Your Chips Go and What It Means

The American Roulette table features a betting grid that mirrors the number set and adds “group” bet areas. Players place chips directly on the felt:

• On a single number (or lines between numbers) for precise bets
• On blocks of numbers like dozens and columns
• On outside sections like red/black or odd/even

Where your chips land determines what you’re covering and what the payout will be if the ball drops your way.

How to Play American Roulette in 5 Simple Moves

1. Choose your chip value at the table (online you’ll pick a stake level or chip denomination).
2. Place your bets on the layout before the betting window closes.
3. The dealer spins the wheel and releases the ball in the opposite direction.
4. The ball settles into a numbered pocket .
5. Winning bets are paid based on the standard payout schedule for that bet type.

That’s it - every spin is independent, and every round resets the odds.

Bet Types That Define American Roulette (Inside vs Outside)

American Roulette bets are usually grouped into inside bets (tighter coverage, bigger payouts) and outside bets (wider coverage, smaller payouts).

Inside Bets: Higher Payout Potential on Precise Picks

Inside bets target specific numbers or compact groups on the grid.

A Straight Up bet covers one number. It’s the boldest option on the table and pays the most when it hits.

A Split covers two numbers by placing the chip on the line between them.

A Street covers three numbers in a horizontal row (for example, 1-2-3).

A Corner covers four numbers by placing the chip on the intersection where four numbers meet.

A Six Line covers six numbers by placing the chip on the line between two adjacent streets (for example, 1-2-3 and 4-5-6).

Outside Bets: More Coverage and Smoother Swings

Outside bets cover larger groups and are often where beginners start to keep variance more manageable.

Red or Black, Odd or Even, and High or Low (1-18 / 19-36) each cover 18 numbers.

Dozens cover 12 numbers at a time: 1-12, 13-24, or 25-36.

Columns also cover 12 numbers, aligned vertically on the grid.

American Roulette Payout Table (Quick Reference)

Here’s the standard payout structure you’ll see across most American Roulette games:

• Straight Up: 1 number, 35: 1
• Split: 2 numbers, 17: 1
• Street: 3 numbers, 11: 1
• Corner: 4 numbers, 8: 1
• Six Line: 6 numbers, 5: 1
• Dozens / Columns: 12 numbers, 2: 1
• Red/Black, Odd/Even, High/Low: 18 numbers, 1: 1

Payouts are typically listed as “to 1,” meaning you also get your original stake back on a win.

The House Edge in American Roulette: Why 00 Matters

American Roulette has a house edge of 5.26%, driven by the presence of the double zero (00). With two green pockets instead of one, more outcomes work against every standard bet over time.

For comparison, European Roulette (with only a single zero) sits at about 2.7% house edge, which is why many players view it as the more player-friendly variant.

Smart Strategy Tips for New Players (Without the Hype)

The best approach to American Roulette is practical and expectation-aware.

Start by learning what each bet covers and what it pays, because it’s easy to overestimate how often long-shot bets should land. If you want a steadier ride, lean on outside bets like red/black or dozens to reduce volatility compared to single-number swings.

Set a bankroll before you play and stick to it. Roulette can move quickly, so staking discipline does more for your session than chasing patterns. And be cautious with betting systems that claim guaranteed profit - roulette is a game of chance, and no progression method changes the underlying odds.

American Roulette vs European Roulette: The Differences That Change Everything

The biggest differences are straightforward:

• Number of pockets : American has 38 (0 and 00) , European has 37 (0 only)
• House edge : American is 5.26% , European is about 2.7%
• Where you’ll see it most : American Roulette is more common in US casinos , while European Roulette dominates across much of Europe and many online lobbies

If you’re choosing between them online, the zero count is the first thing to check.

Online American Roulette vs Live Dealer Tables: Two Ways to Play

Online roulette typically comes in two formats.

RNG (random number generator) roulette plays instantly - spins resolve quickly, making it ideal for players who like rapid rounds and flexible stakes.

Live dealer roulette streams from professional studios, with a real wheel, real dealers, and a paced betting window that feels closer to a land-based table. It’s a great fit if you like watching the wheel spin and following the ball all the way to the pocket.

Top Providers Powering American Roulette Online

Many of the best-known studios in iGaming produce American Roulette titles and live tables, including Evolution, Playtech, Pragmatic Play Live, NetEnt, and Ezugi. Game rules, table limits, and side options can vary by provider, so it’s worth checking the paytable and rules panel before placing your first chip.

Mobile American Roulette: Built for Phones and Tablets

Modern American Roulette games are optimized for mobile play, with responsive layouts, clean chip controls, and quick access to bet history and re-bet options. Whether you’re playing RNG or live dealer, the experience is designed to run smoothly on smartphones and tablets so you can play from anywhere you’re allowed to gamble.

Where to Play American Roulette Online Right Now

If you’re looking for American Roulette with flexible banking options, these casinos are worth a look:

Wicked Plays Casino supports both traditional and crypto payments, and new players can claim a 300% welcome bonus up to $1000 with code WICKED (minimum deposit $25, 40x playthrough). You can find more details on the dedicated page here: Wicked Plays Casino.

FoxyFlush Casino and Fiestaslots Casino also offer broad cashier coverage and large multi-deposit welcome packages, with full breakdowns available on their review pages: FoxyFlush Casino and Fiestaslots Casino.

Always read bonus terms before opting in - wagering rules and game contribution can vary.

Responsible Gambling: Keep It Fun, Keep It Controlled

Set deposit and loss limits that match your budget, take breaks, and never wager money you can’t afford to lose. If the game stops feeling enjoyable, pause and reach out for help through your local responsible gambling resources.

FAQ: American Roulette Answers Players Ask Most