Unlocking the Secrets of Roulette Odds: The Key to Winning
Playing roulette without knowing its odds can lead to increased risk of losses, unrealistic expectations, poor bankroll management, limited strategy, and higher exposure to the casino’s advantage.
It’s crucial to understand the odds of the game. It empowers players with the knowledge they need to approach the game strategically and enhance their overall experience at the roulette table.
In this guide, explore the fundamental concepts behind roulette odds and explore various strategies to enhance your gameplay.
Highlights of the Article
- Due to one zero pocket, European Roulette has a lower house edge than American Roulette.
- European roulette tables have two rules to reduce the house edge for even-money bets.
- American Roulette has a higher house edge than its European and French counterparts.
- Unlike French Roulette, American Roulette doesn’t usually offer “En Prison” or “La Partage” rules.
- Outside bets have better odds of winning but give smaller payouts.
- Inside bets have the least odds of winning but offer bigger payouts when you win.
- Using ‘Mathematical Expectation,’ players can determine if a chance is worth it.
- 🎲 At a mathematical level, both Simple and Multiple bets are the same.
Objective Of The Game
The objective of playing roulette is to predict and bet on the winning number or group of numbers that the ball will land on after the wheel is spun.
Understanding Roulette Odds and Probability
Roulette odds and probability are two essential concepts that dictate the outcome of each spin.
While both terms relate to the likelihood of winning, they hold distinct meanings that profoundly impact players’ understanding of the game and their betting strategies.
Roulette Odds
- This represents the payout a player can expect to receive for a winning bet. They are usually expressed in the form of a ratio or fraction.
For example:
(This means that if you win, you’ll receive 35 times your original bet in addition to getting back your initial wager.) |
Roulette Probability
- On the other hand, it refers to the likelihood of a specific event occurring in the game. It is usually expressed as a percentage or a fraction.
For Example:
(This means that for every 37 spins, you can expect to win once on average.) |
In roulette, the outcome of each bet is determined by the probabilities associated with the numbers or types of bets chosen.
The Types of Roulette Bets and The Odds Behind Them
In the game of Roulette, wagers on the numbered spots are referred to as “inside” bets, while bets on red-black, odd-even, and high-low are categorized as “outside” bets.
The distinction between inside and outside bets derives from the table layout and the designated areas for chip placement.
Odds for Outside Bets
Outside bets have more chances of winning but offer the least payouts.
The bets are placed on larger groups of numbers, such as red or black, odd or even, or high (19-36) and low (1-18) numbers.
The payouts for outside bets are not particularly generous, typically offering a 1:1 payout for bets on odd or even numbers encompassing nearly half of the wheel.
Alternatively, column and dozen bets, which cover 12 numbers on the wheel, provide a slightly better payout of 2:1, granting approximately a 1 in 3 chance of winning.
The table shows the type of outside bets and their corresponding odds:
| Type of Outside Bet | Payout | Odds | |
| European Roulette | American Roulette | ||
| Red or black | 1:1 | 48.65% | 47.37% |
| Odd or even | 1:1 | 48.65% | 47.37% |
| High or low | 1:1 | 48.65% | 47.37% |
| Column | 2:1 | 32.4% | 31.6% |
| Dozen | 2:1 | 32.4% | 31.6% |
Side Note
If the ball settles on 0 or 00, any outside bet will result in a loss.
Odds for Inside Bets
Inside bets have lower chances of winning but offer higher payouts if successful.
It focuses on specific individual numbers or smaller groups of numbers within the grid.
For Examples:
- Straight (betting on a single number)
- Split (betting on two adjacent numbers)
- Corner (betting on four adjacent numbers)
Quick Tip
Stick to even-money bets like red/black or odd/even for a more balanced approach with higher winning chances.
The table shows the types of inside bets and their corresponding odds:
| Type of Outside Bet | Payout | Odds | |
| European Roulette | American Roulette | ||
| Straight Bet | 35:1 | 2.7% | 2.6% |
| Split Bet | 17:1 | 5.4% | 5.3% |
| Street Bet | 11:1 | 8.1% | 7.9% |
| Corner Bet | 8:1 | 10.8% | 10.5% |
| Basket Bet | 6:1 | N/A | 13.2% |
| Double Street Bet | 5:1 | 16.21% | 15.8% |
| Need to rely on something other than luck? |
Unlock the secrets of Roulette’s mathematical intricacies and discover how numbers and probabilities intertwine to create numerous possibilities for the players to win:
Roulette’s Mathematical Model
Side Note
From a mathematical perspective, studying Roulette reveals that every bet can be seen as an experiment with two outcomes: success or failure. The probability of landing on any specific number remains the same, as all numbers have an equal chance of appearing.
Determining the profitability of a bet requires understanding the concept of mathematical expectation.
Computation for Probability of Winning The Bets
The number of successful outcomes in a series of games follows a Binomial distribution, where “n” represents the number of games played and “p” means the probability of winning the bet.
The probability of hitting x times in n games is n combined with x, by p to the x, by (1-p) to the n-x, where p is the probability of winning and (1-p) the probability of losing:
Example:
- Let’s consider that you’re playing a European roulette wheel with 37 numbered pockets: numbers 0-36.
Assuming you place a bet on a single number, the probability of winning (p) on a single spin is 1/37 since there are 37 total pockets on the wheel.
Now, let’s say you want to calculate the probability of winning exactly 3 times (x) in 10 spins (n). Using the binomial probability formula, we have:
So, the probability of winning exactly 3 times out of 10 games in a single number bet of European roulette, with a 1/37 probability of winning each time, is approximately 0.196%.
Quick Tip
To determine if a bet is worth it, you must know about “mathematical expectation.”
It’s about calculating the average outcome of a bet over time.
Mathematics behind Roulette Bets
Now, see all the bets or plays of both European and American Roulette to which a player can place their bet and their corresponding probability:
Simple Bets
Simple bets (outside bets) cover larger groups of numbers and offer higher chances of winning but lower payouts. For example: red/black, odd/even, and high/low.
1 to 1 | probability 18/37 =~ (48.6% European) (47.4% American)
1 to 1 | probability 18/37 =~ (48.6% European) (47.4% American)
1 to 1 | probability 18/37 =~ (48.6% European) (47.4% American) |
Multiple Bets
Multiple bets (inside bets) cover specific individual numbers or smaller groups and have lower odds of winning but higher payouts—examples: straight, split, and corner.
1/2 to 1 | probability 24/37 =~ (64.8% European) (63.1% American)
1/2 to 1 | probability 24/37 =~ (64.8% European) (63.1% American)
2 to 1 | probability 12/37=~ (32.4% European) (31.6% American)
2 to 1 | probability 12/37 =~ (32.4% European) (31.6% American)
5 to 1 | probability 6/37 =~ (16.2% European) (15.8% American)
8 to 1 | probability 4/37 =~ (10.8% European) (10.5% American)
11 to 1 | probability 6/37 =~ (8.1% European) (7.9% American)
17 to 1 | probability 2/37 =~ (5.4% European) (5.3% American)
35 to 1 | probability 1/37 =~ (2.7% European) (2.60% American) |
Side Note
Both Simple and Multiple bets are the same at a mathematical level. Remember that if a chance is more difficult to hit, it is rewarded better.
The Odds of Winning 3 Different Types of Roulette
Roulette’s RTP percentage is 94% to 97%, making it highly favored for its appealing combination of simplicity, thrill, and the opportunity for significant payouts.
To increase your winning chances, it is key to know that roulette has 3 variants:
- European,
- French, and;
- American.
Each version has a unique wheel configuration, affecting the odds offered to players.
They may seem similar, but their clear differences significantly affect the game’s overall outcome and should be thoroughly understood for better gameplay.
In this section, the differences between the three variants will be discussed.
European Roulette
European Roulette is one of the main forms of Roulette likely to be encountered in online and European land-based casinos.
In terms of odds, it falls in the median, as French Roulette offers the most favorable odds, while American Roulette presents the least favorable odds.
Did You Know?
European Roulette is believed to have originated in Europe, with the earliest versions traced back to France in the 17th century.
Wheel Design – European Version
European Roulette features a wheel with 37 numbered pockets labeled from 0 to 36. The numbers are distributed alternately in red and black colors.
The inclusion of a single zero pocket (0) distinguishes European Roulette from American Roulette, which has both a single and a double zero pocket.
- Due to the single zero pocket, European Roulette’s lower house edge of 2.7% makes it more player-friendly than the American version, with its higher house edge of around 5.26%.
Side Note
Even though European Roulette has a lower house than American, remember that is still a game of chance, and there is no guaranteed strategy for winning.
- European Roulette offers betting options, including inside bets on specific numbers or groups and outside bets on larger sections like red/black, odd/even, or high/low.
- Some European roulette tables have “En Prison” and “La Partage” rules, reducing the house edge for even-money bets.
En Prison
- Lets players keep half their bet for the next spin
La Partage
- Immediately returns half the bet to the player when the ball lands on zero.
Side Note
Even though “La Partage” is beneficial, not all French roulette tables offer this rule. Make sure to check the rules before playing.
French Roulette
French Roulette is similar to European Roulette regarding wheel design, house edge, and betting options.
Here’s a concise overview:
Wheel Design – French Version
The wheel layout is identical to the European version, with a single zero pocket (0).
In contrast to American and European Roulette, the numbers grid is horizontally positioned at the center of the table.
Around the grid, you’ll find Outside bets like High, Even, and Black above and Low, Odd, and Red below. Additionally, the Dozen Bets are on both sides of the grid.
Did You Know?
In French Roulette, players can make “Call Bets,” also known as “Announced Bets.” These are special bets placed on specific wheel sections, and the croupier announces them.
- With only one zero pocket, French Roulette has a lower house edge of approximately 2.70%, just like European Roulette.
- French Roulette provides a wide range of betting options, including inside bets on specific numbers or groups and outside bets on larger sections like red/black, odd/even, or high/low.
- French Roulette introduces unique rules, namely “la partage” and “en prison,” which differentiate it from other game versions.
“la partage,”
- If one loses an Outside bet due to the ball rolling in the zero pocket, the bettor receives half of his chance back.
“en prison”
- The bet remains in place, marked as “en prison,” when the ball lands on zero.
It allows you to win back the money placed on an Outside bet.
These rules are exclusive to French Roulette, offering players a statistical advantage and reducing the house edge on even money bets to 1.35%.
Quick Tip
Take advantage of the “La Partage” rule when available. It decreases the house edge on even-money bets, making it a more player-friendly option.
American Roulette
American Roulette is a well-known variation of the classic casino game with its distinctive features.
The following is a concise overview of the American roulette wheel design, house edge, betting options, and rules:
Wheel Design – American Version
American Roulette resembles European Roulette in table layout but has a double zero (00) and a single zero (0).
The number grid is vertical, and zero and double zero bets are on the left. Outside chances are below the grid in two rows.
- American Roulette has a higher house edge of approximately 5.26% compared to European and French Roulette due to the inclusion of single zero and double zero pockets.
- Players can place inside bets on specific numbers or groups within the grid and outside bets covering larger sections like red/black, odd/even, or high/low.
- Unlike French Roulette, American Roulette does not typically offer “En Prison” or “La Partage” rules.
This means that when the ball lands on zero or double zero, players lose their even-money bets unless stated otherwise by the specific casino rules.
Did You Know?
Exclusive to American Roulette, “Five-Number Bet” offers the highest house edge and is generally considered a riskier bet that covers 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3.
Roulette 101: Terminologies
This glossary of roulette betting language will make it easier for beginners to easily understand the terms experienced players frequently use to place bets and describe the game’s features.
| Terminology | Definition |
| Odds | The probability or likelihood of a particular outcome occurring and determines the payout ratio for a winning bet. |
| Payout | The money a player receives as winnings for a successful bet based on the specific bet type and associated payout ratio. |
| Probability | The likelihood of a particular outcome happening during the game, such as the probability of a specific number or color being the winning result. |
| Straight Up | This type of bet involves placing chips on a specific number on the table layout
|
| Split | A type of bet involves placing chips at the intersection of two adjacent numbers on the roulette layout. |
| If either of the two numbers comes up, the payout is typically 17 times the original wager. | |
| Street | The bet is placed on three numbers positioned horizontally on the layout.
|
| Trio | In the single-zero variant of the game, the player can bet on either of two three-number combinations: 0/1/2 or 00/2/3. |
| If the winning result corresponds to the selected combination, the payout is typically 11 times the original wager. | |
| Corner/ Square | The player selects four numbers on the layout that form a square shape.
|
| Basket/ 5 Number Bet | In the single-zero version of the game, this bet is placed on the numbers 0, 1, 2, and 3. |
| If any of these four numbers come up as the winning outcome, the payout is typically at odds of 11 to 1. | |
| Line/ Double Street | For this bet, two street wagers are combined, where each wager is placed on three consecutive numbers. |
| The payout is usually 5 to 1 if any of the six numbers in those two streets win. | |
| Column | If any of the 12 numbers within the chosen vertical column on the table layout wins, the player’s payout is typically at odds of 2 to 1. |
| Dozen | If any of the 12 numbers within the selected vertical line is the winning outcome, the player receives a payout typically at odds of 2 to 1.
|
| High/ Low | In this bet, players choose low numbers (1-18) or high numbers (19-36) and place their chips accordingly. |
| It covers nearly half of the wheel, and if the winning outcome matches the selected range, the payout is 1 to 1. | |
| Even/ Odd | If the winning outcome matches, they receive a 1 to 1 payout
|
| Red/ Black | This basic bet allows players to wager on all red or black numbers, with a 1 to 1 payout for a winning outcome. New players commonly favor it. |
| Betting Table | The betting table in a roulette game is where players place their wagers on different numbers and betting options. |
| Even Bets | Wagers placed on options such as even or odd numbers, red or black, or low (1-18) or high (19-36) numbers. |
| Single Number | A single number bet in roulette is a wager placed on a specific number on the wheel and has odds of 35 to 1. |
| Two Numbers | A two numbers bet in roulette is a bet put on two adjacent numbers on the wheel, with odds typically set at 17 to 1. |
| Three Numbers | In the single-zero version of roulette, the player can place a wager on either the three-number combination of 0/1/2 or 00/2/3, which offers an 11:1 payout. |
| Four Numbers | A wager placed on a group of four numbers forming a square on the roulette table, with odds typically set at 8 to 1. |
| Five Numbers | A bet placed on a specific combination of numbers: 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3, which typically offers a payout of 6 to 1. |
| Six Numbers | A wager placed on a group of six numbers, typically two adjacent rows, with odds typically set at 5 to 1. |
| Inside Bets | Inside bets in roulette are wagers placed on particular numbers or groups of numbers within the central area of the table layout. |
| It offers higher payouts but lower odds of winning compared to outside bets. | |
| Outside Bets | An outside bet is a wager placed outside the central numbers on the table, such as on odd or even, red or black, or low (1-18) or high (19-36). |
| Zero Spiel | The “zero games” in roulette include numbers closest to 0, such as 12, 35, 3, 26, 0, 32, and 15.
|
| Voisins du Zéro | French term common in European casinos.
|
| Orphelins | A “section bet” is a term commonly used in European casinos.
|
| Tiers | This bet involves choosing a vertical column on the roulette table layout and betting on all 12 numbers within that column.
|
Roulette 101: Rules and Mechanics
Learning the rules and mechanics of any casino game is essential; this increases the chance of a player beating the game.
Comprehensive Guide on How Roulette Works
Roulette games deal with only four common elements: the ball, the roulette wheel, the roulette, and the chips. All roulette tables operated by a casino have the same basic mechanics:
Steps in Playing the Game
To start one set of the game, the following steps are to be observed:
In a Nutshell
In roulette, luck is the ultimate factor, so there’s no perfect strategy to beat the game.
However, depending on which roulette variation you play, you can devise a plan to increase your chances of winning using the information above.
Indeed, Roulette remains a thrilling and unpredictable game, offering excitement and the possibility of winning.
Remember to embrace the uncertainties, enjoy the gameplay, and remember that while there is no foolproof strategy, a well-planned approach can enhance the overall roulette experience.
FAQ
Is roulette all luck?
The biggest part of winning a game of roulette is luck.
The truth is that roulette is a casino game most dependent on luck. You have some ways of increasing your chances, but having luck is a prerequisite for roulette.
What are the odds of hitting 00 on roulette?
The odds of hitting zero on roulette are the same as with any other number — 35/1.
Like with other straight roulette odds, 00 odds bring $35 for $1 wagered and have a 2.63% probability of happening.
What number hits the most in roulette?
All numbers are equally likely to hit in roulette.
One number usually called the lucky number is 17. This is the most common number people play on. It is also famous because of the legendary win by Sir Sean Connery, who won three bets on number 17 one after the other in 1963.
The probability and odds of roulette win for number 17 are the same as for any other number.
There are no statistics that can show the number that comes the most, but mathematically, they are the same. If you choose any number you like, it is as likely to hit the roulette as number 17.
What is the probability of winning in roulette?
The probability of winning in roulette starts from 2.63% and goes to 48.64%.
Roulette probability problems when calculated show that the probability is dependent on both the type of the roulette as well as the type of bet one is interested in.
The lowest probability is to win a straight bet. The highest probability is to win Red/Black, Odd/Even, or High/Low bets.
What color comes up more in roulette?
Both colors are equally likely to come up.
There are some theories that red comes more, and some people claim that black comes more. Either way, betting on just one color doesn’t give you an advantage.
Probabilities for winning black are almost 50% — as are for the red too.
List of Sources:
Meet the Author
Milica is a language aficionado, with a passion for literature and writing. Besides her English language and literature degree, she likes to study other languages in her free time. With experience in translating, writing, and teaching, she is always keen to learn more and try something new. She tries to transfer her love of research and learning something new to all her texts. When she is not working, she enjoys her dance lessons, spending time with her cat, and watching basketball.