American Vs European Roulette Explained

The classic game of roulette is the most famous image of casino gambling worldwide. Although the core concept —picking the winning number— is the same across the globe, not all tables are identical. The casino world features two main versions that dominate the casino floors: American Roulette and European Roulette. Understanding the critical differences between the two styles is absolutely essential for anyone trying to protect their bankroll.

The Number of Pockets: The Double Zero Factor

The primary physical distinction between the wheels is the number of green pockets. A traditional European Roulette wheel has exactly thirty-seven slots: the numbers 1 through 36, plus a single green zero (0). On the other hand, the American Roulette wheel contains 38 spaces. It includes the same numbers 1 through 36, the single green zero (0), plus a devastating extra pocket: the double zero (00). This single extra pocket might not look like a big deal to a casual tourist, but in reality, it changes the entire game.

How the Double Zero on Your Winning Odds

In roulette, the mathematical returns are calculated as if there were only 36 numbers. For example, a winning straight-up bet pays out at 35:1, on both the American and European tables. Because the single zero table only has one extra pocket (the zero) that causes outside bets to lose, the casino's built-in mathematical advantage is a very reasonable 2.70%. Tragically, because the American wheel has 38 total spaces without increasing the payouts, the casino's advantage skyrockets to a massive 5.26%.


Never play the American wheel if both are available. There is absolutely no reason to play with a double zero.
The 0-00-1-2-3 wager only exists on the double zero layout and is statistically terrible, with a massive 7.89 percent margin.
Some European tables use the En Prison mechanic, which reduces the casino margin on even-money bets down to an incredible 1.35%.

Side-by-Side Analysis: The Tale of the Tape

For a fast visual reference, please review the detailed table. It breaks down exactly why smart gamblers always prefer the French or Euro games.


CharacteristicEuropean RouletteDouble Zero Wheel
Spaces on Wheel37Thirty-Eight
Number of Green ZeroesSingle Zero2
Casino Advantage2.7%5.26% (Very Bad)
Optimal Edge1.35%5.26% (Rule does not apply)


To wrap it up, the extra 00 pocket is nothing more than a casino trick to extract more money from casual tourists. No matter if you are wagering at a lavish casino in Las Vegas or gambling at an online casino from your smartphone, your absolute first move must always be locating a single zero game. Refusing to play the American version is the simplest method to massively boost your winning probabilities.