Playtech Blog
Why You Should Always Play European Roulette
Over Others
Roulette is one of the world’s most iconic casino games: simple to understand, exciting to play, and packed with history. But if you’re serious about giving yourself the best chance at success (and more fun along the way), one version stands above the rest: European roulette.
In this guide, we’ll break down why this oulette wheel gives you better odds, how it compares to American roulette, and how you can use this knowledge to your advantage, whether at a land-based casino or online.
European vs. American Roulette: What’s the Big Difference?
Take a look at the American and European roulette wheel layout above.
At first glance, the two games look nearly identical. Both use a spinning wheel and a board filled with numbers. But the details are crucial:
Game
Zeroes
Total Pockets
House Edge
Odds on Even Money Bets
European Roulette
1 (0)
37
~2.70%
48.65%
American Roulette
2 (0, 00)
38
~5.26%
47.37%
👉 The key difference is that the European wheel has a single zero (0), while the American version adds a double zero (00). That extra pocket increases the house edge significantly, meaning your money goes further on the European table.
Why European Roulette Is Better for Gamblers
Let’s break down exactly why this game deserves your attention:
Lower House Edge = More Value
The single zero means a house edge of about 2.70%, compared to 5.26% on American tables, which is almost double. Over time, you’ll keep more of your bankroll, especially on even-money bets.
Balanced Number Layout
The European wheel is designed for a fairer, more balanced distribution of red/black, odd/even, and high/low numbers, avoiding clustering and creating a smoother game.
No “Sucker Bets”
European roulette doesn’t offer risky options like the American five-number bet (0, 00, 1, 2, 3), which carries a 7.89% house edge.
En Prison & La Partage: Extra Protection
Many European roulette games include these player-friendly rules on even-money bets if the ball lands on zero:
- La partage: You get half your stake back.
- En prison: Your bet stays on the table for the next spin.
These rules can cut the house edge on even-money bets to around 1.35%.
European Roulette Payouts & Bet Types: Inside vs. Outside Bets
The European payout structure is the same as American roulette, but with better odds thanks to that missing double zero. Let’s break down the bet types:
Inside Bets
Higher payouts, lower chances of winning. Best for those chasing bigger wins.
Bet Type
Payout
Description
Straight Up
35:1
Bet on a single number
Split
17:1
Bet on two adjacent numbers
Street
11:1
Bet on three numbers in a row
Corner
8:1
Bet on a block of four numbers
Line
5:1
Bet on six numbers (two rows)
Outside Bets
Lower payouts, better odds. Great for steady, longer play.
Bet Type
Payout
Description
Red / Black
1:1
Bet on all red or all black numbers
Odd / Even
1:1
Bet on all odd or all even numbers
High / Low
1:1
Bet on 1-18 or 19-36
Dozens
2:1
Bet on 1-12, 13-24, or 25-36
Columns
2:1
Bet on one of the three vertical columns
- Inside bets = bigger wins, less often. Outside bets = smaller wins, more often — perfect for stretching your bankroll.
European Roulette Strategy Tips
While roulette is ultimately a game of chance, smart choices help you get the most from each session:
- Focus on outside bets (red/black, odd/even, high/low) for steadier play.
- Look for games with en prison or la partage to lower the house edge.
- Use sensible staking plans: flat betting or mild progressions (e.g. D’Alembert).
- Practice with free European roulette before risking real money.
Historical Origins: How European and American Roulette Evolved
European roulette dates back to 18th-century France, born from Blaise Pascal’s experiments with perpetual motion. The single zero became a staple in European casinos. When the game crossed the Atlantic, American casinos added the double zero to boost profits, creating a game that looks similar but gives worse odds.
European Roulette Online: Where to Play
Today’s online casinos bring the authentic roulette experience right to your screen. Look for:
- HD streaming & immersive camera angles in live dealer games
- Smooth, realistic graphics in RNG versions
- Free play options to practice before wagering real money
Platforms like Playtech offer top-tier European roulette online, where classic design meets modern tech.
Key Takeaways
- The European wheel offers better odds on every bet, from straight-up numbers to columns, dozens, and even-money wagers.
- The American wheel increases risk without increasing rewards.
- Look for la partage or en prison rules to further reduce the house edge.
Final Thoughts: Make the Smart Choice
Every detail, from the extra double zero to the layout of numbers, stacks the odds either for or against you. If you want longer sessions, better value, and a game designed with players in mind, European roulette is always the smarter choice.
Ready to Spin the Wheel with Smarter Odds?
Join Wewin55 now to play European roulette online or live, and enjoy superior odds, immersive european roulette tables, and gameplay from leading providers like Playtech.