American vs European Roulette: Key Differences

July 8, 2026
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american vs european roulette key differences

There is one big difference between American vs European roulette, and that is the double-zero pocket. The American version has a wheel that has a single zero as well as a double zero. The European roulette wheel only holds a single zero pocket; this makes the odds better when playing the European version. 

Through this article, we will take a look at the house edge, the wheel layout, as well as the payouts. If you are a beginner to roulette or an experienced player, this is an article worth reading.

american vs european roulette

House Edge Comparison

The house edge is the advantage the casino holds over the players. There is always a percentage the casino expects to keep over the long term. In European roulette, that percentage is 2.70%. If you are playing the American version, the percentage is 5.26%. Looking at these calculations, players playing American roulette are expected to lose twice as much. 

If you are looking to play over the long term and would like to make the most of your bankroll, then European roulette is the better choice. Understanding roulette odds will help you see why using a single-zero wheel is a big advantage.

Betting Options are Almost Identical

It may come as a surprise to players that the roulette betting layout is the same on European and American roulette. Both versions include:

  • Straight up bets
  • Split bets
  • Street bets
  • Corner bets
  • Six line bets
  • Red or black
  • Odd or even
  • High or low
  • Dozens
  • Columns

As the payouts are the same even though there is an extra zero on the American version, the expected return is lower. As the betting is the same on both versions, players can easily switch between each roulette variation with no problems. 

Special Rules That Favor Players 

There are some European roulette tables that include certain rules that can reduce the house edge even more. 

  • La Partage: When you place an even-money bet, such as red or black, and the ball lands in the zero pocket, you get half your bet back. This lowers the house edge on those specific bets to 1.35%.
  • En Prison: Instead of losing your even money bet straight away when you land in the zero pocket, your bet remains in prison for the next spin. If you win the following bet, your original wager will be returned. 

It is worth noting that not all casinos offer this rule, but it certainly decreases the house edge when playing European roulette.

Wheel Layout Differences

It is not only the fact that American roulette features a double zero pocket, but the numbers are arranged slightly differently on a European and American roulette wheel. The European wheel alternates red and black numbers around the single zero, which offers better balance. 

The American roulette wheel holds a single and a double zero; therefore, there is a different sequence of numbers. There are some players who believe number placements make a difference in winning and losing. But every spin is completely random, so it should not make a difference. 

The Better Roulette Version For Beginners

The European version of roulette is certainly a much better choice for a beginner to the game of roulette. The reasons are simple:

  • Lower house edge
  • Easier bankroll management
  • Available at online casinos
  • Better long-term value

As beginners usually spend time learning roulette strategies and money management, keeping more of your funds makes a big difference in the long run.

Is American Roulette Worth Playing?

American roulette is not a bad game to play; some players enjoy playing it more than European roulette. These are the reasons some gamblers prefer it:

  • Traditional Las Vegas experience
  • Fast-paced tables
  • Larger variety of casino promotions
  • The casino atmosphere in North America

If you only have the American version of roulette available, you must understand the house edge. This will allow you to set realistic expectations.

Can Strategy Overcome the House Edge

No betting system has the power to eliminate the house edge. There are popular roulette strategies like Martingale, Fibonacci and D’Alembert, which all manage bankroll differently, but they can not make you more likely to win. Roulette is a game of chance and probability. If you want to learn more about games where you need strategy and skill, it is found here. Roulette is a game that relies on probability and luck. 

What Version of Roulette Should You Play?

For the majority of players, European roulette would be the choice, as it offers better odds with only a single zero wheel. If you choose European roulette, your bankroll will end up lasting longer while offering exciting gameplay. But both versions of roulette are entertaining and exciting. 

It is worth remembering that both versions must be played responsibly. Understanding the mathematical differences allows you to make informed decisions before betting. If you are searching for trustworthy and reliable online casinos in NZ, you can find lots of European and American versions of roulette.

Written by
Sophia Novakivska
10 years experience Pokies & Live Games Specialist

Sophia Novakivska has already been spending 12 years on everything related to gambling writing. Slot and casino reviews, comparisons, top options for different audiences, news, how-tos and gambling history - she knows the area and proved it with her publications on Better Collective, AskGamblers and Gambling.com. For four years, Sophia is into NZ iGaming niche where she analyzes the online casino bonuses, live games, new slot releases, and sport news. Sophia’s credentials: GLI University’s iGaming testing & compliance course (2020) and UKGC-approved Responsible Gambling certification (2022).

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