American Roulette

American Roulette is the classic casino wheel many players in the United States recognize instantly. Its defining feature is the two green pockets—single zero (0) and double zero (00)—which change the math on every bet. That extra pocket means different odds and a higher house edge than other roulette variants, but the fast pace, clear bet choices, and straightforward payouts keep it a favorite at many brick-and-mortar and online casinos.

Where American Roulette Came From

Roulette began in Europe in the 18th century, blending elements of earlier wheel games and chance devices. The single-zero wheel became popular across continental Europe. When roulette crossed the Atlantic, casino operators in the United States added a double zero to the wheel. That tweak created the distinct American Roulette layout and helped shape its place in American gaming rooms and online tables.

American Roulette Wheel Layout — What’s on the Wheel

The American Roulette wheel has 38 pockets total. Those pockets include numbers 1–36, plus a single zero (0), and a double zero (00). The numbered pockets alternate red and black, while the 0 and 00 pockets are green. The extra green pocket reduces the probability of number-based hits compared with single-zero wheels, but it also changes the risk-and-reward profile you’re choosing when you play.

American Roulette Table Layout — Where to Place Your Chips

The betting grid sits in front of the wheel and displays numbers 1–36 in a three-by-twelve matrix, with separate boxes for 0 and 00. Players place chips directly on numbers for “inside” bets, or on lines and boxes for grouped bets. Outside bets—like red or black, odd or even, and dozens—go on labeled areas around the grid. Dealers (or the digital interface online) accept bets until the “no more bets” call or animation, then spin the wheel and drop the ball.

How to Play American Roulette — Quick Steps

1. Choose your chip value.
2. Place bets on the table—inside or outside areas—before the dealer closes betting.
3. The dealer spins the wheel and releases the ball.
4. The ball settles in a numbered pocket.
5. Winning bets are paid according to the payout table, and losing chips are collected.

Payouts and settlement follow the house rules for that table, so check the posted payouts and any table minimums. See terms and conditions for bonus-related wagering requirements.

Inside Bets — High Payouts, Narrow Coverage

Inside bets target specific numbers or small groups of numbers on the grid. They pay higher if they hit, because they cover fewer outcomes.

• Straight Up — one number, largest payout.
• Split — two adjacent numbers, smaller than straight up.
• Street — three numbers in a row.
• Corner — four numbers in a square.
• Six Line — two adjacent rows covering six numbers.

Inside bets are for players chasing bigger returns per spin, while understanding the lower hit frequency.

Outside Bets — Lower Volatility, Bigger Coverage

Outside bets cover larger portions of the wheel and pay lower, but they hit more often.

• Red or Black — covers 18 numbers by color.
• Odd or Even — covers 18 numbers by parity.
• High or Low — covers 18 numbers, 1–18 or 19–36.
• Dozens — first, second, or third groups of 12 numbers.
• Columns — one of the three vertical columns of 12 numbers.

Outside bets are useful for steady bankroll management and players seeking more frequent wins, though payouts are smaller.

American Roulette Payout Table

• 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

These are the standard payouts used at most American Roulette tables. Always confirm table rules before you play.

House Edge in American Roulette — The Math Behind the Game

The double zero creates a house edge of 5.26% on most bets in American Roulette. That percentage comes from the 38-pocket wheel and typical payout structure. By comparison, European Roulette, with a single zero and 37 pockets, has a house edge around 2.7%. The extra green pocket in American Roulette is the primary reason for the higher advantage to the house.

Practical Strategy Tips for American Roulette

• Understand the odds before you bet—each bet type has different coverage and payout.
• Use outside bets for lower-risk play and more frequent, smaller wins.
• Manage bankroll carefully—set session limits for losses and wins.
• Avoid betting systems that claim guaranteed wins; roulette is a game of chance.
• Try smaller stakes while learning wheel rhythm and table pace.

These tips help you stay in control and enjoy the game without unrealistic expectations.

American Roulette vs European Roulette — Quick Comparison

• Number of pockets — American: 38, with 0 and 00; European: 37, with a single 0.
• House edge — American: 5.26%; European: about 2.7%.
• Popularity — American Roulette is more common in the United States, while European and single-zero tables dominate in Europe and many online lobbies.

If minimizing house edge matters, single-zero variants typically offer better long-term odds for players.

Online American Roulette vs Live Dealer Roulette

Online American Roulette comes in two main forms: RNG tables, where a certified random number generator determines outcomes, and live dealer tables, which stream real wheels and dealers from studios. RNG games are faster and often offer more side bets, while live dealer games deliver a real-time social feel and visible wheel action. Choose RNG for speed, and live dealer for an immersive table atmosphere. Both types are designed to be fair when provided by reputable operators.

Best Software Providers for American Roulette

Top developers that offer high-quality American Roulette titles include Evolution, Playtech, Pragmatic Play Live, NetEnt, and Ezugi. These studios focus on polished visuals, reliable game mechanics, mobile-friendly interfaces, and certified fairness. If you prefer live dealer tables, look for providers known for their streaming quality and professional dealers.

Mobile American Roulette — Play on the Go

Most modern American Roulette games are optimized for smartphones and tablets, with responsive layouts, touch-friendly bets, and fast loading. Whether you prefer live dealer streams or RNG wheels, you can play legally where allowed in the United States on licensed platforms that support geolocation and secure payments.

Responsible Gambling Reminder

Set deposit, time, and loss limits before you play, and treat roulette as entertainment rather than a way to make money. If you need help, contact casino support, use self-exclusion tools, or reach out to local responsible gambling resources. Always review a casino’s terms and conditions and payout policies before wagering.

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Frequently Asked Questions

End your session with a clear plan—set a limit, pick bets that suit your style, and enjoy the straightforward action American Roulette delivers.