American Roulette

American Roulette is the classic casino wheel game where players bet on where a small ball will land after the dealer spins the wheel. What sets American Roulette apart from other variants is the presence of two green pockets — single zero ("0") and double zero ("00"). That extra green pocket changes the math on your bets and is the primary reason American Roulette plays differently from European and French versions.

A Short History — From Europe to the United States

Roulette began in Europe in the 17th and 18th centuries as a refined wheel-and-table game, popular in French gaming houses and salons. The game crossed the Atlantic in the 19th century, and American casinos adapted it to local tastes by adding the double zero. That tweak became standard in the United States and remains a defining feature of American casinos and many online tables aimed at United States players.

How the American Roulette Wheel Is Laid Out

The American Roulette wheel has 38 pockets total:

• Numbers 1–36
• Single zero ("0")
• Double zero ("00")

Numbers 1–36 alternate red and black, while both zero pockets are green. The alternating colors make visual patterns easy to follow, and the two green pockets are deliberately separated on the wheel to preserve random distribution.

Reading the Table — How Bets Are Placed

The table shows a betting grid for numbers and several outside betting sections around it. Players place chips directly on numbers or on the lines and boxes that represent groups of numbers. Dealers accept chips, spin the wheel, then announce "no more bets" before releasing the ball. Bets left on the table when the ball lands are evaluated, and winning chips are paid according to the payout table.

How to Play American Roulette — A Simple Guide

1. Choose your chip value.
2. Place one or more bets on the table — inside or outside.
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 structure, and losing chips are collected.

If you’re playing online, the platform handles the spin and payouts, while live dealer versions mirror the in-person experience with a real wheel and dealer.

Inside Bets — Precision Plays and Payouts

Inside bets are placed on specific numbers or tight groups of numbers on the grid:

• Straight up — a single number. Highest payout for a single chip.
• Split — a chip on the line between two adjacent numbers.
• Street — a row of three numbers.
• Corner — a square covering four numbers.
• Six line — two adjacent rows, covering six numbers.

These bets have higher payouts because they cover fewer numbers, and they’re ideal when you want bigger potential returns on smaller coverage.

Outside Bets — Safer, Broader Options

Outside bets cover larger sets of numbers and tend to offer more frequent, smaller wins:

• Red or Black — color bets covering 18 numbers.
• Odd or Even — 18 numbers each.
• High (19–36) or Low (1–18) — 18 numbers each.
• Dozens — first (1–12), second (13–24), or third (25–36).
• Columns — vertical columns of 12 numbers on the grid.

Outside bets are useful if you prefer steadier action and lower variance.

American Roulette Payouts

Typical payout structure for American Roulette:

• 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

Payouts are standardized, but always check the table at your casino or online lobby, and review the platform’s terms and conditions.

Why the House Edge Is 5.26%

American Roulette’s house edge is 5.26%. That comes from the two green pockets. For example, a straight-up win pays 35: 1, but the true odds with 38 pockets would suggest 37: 1, so that difference gives the house its edge. By comparison, European Roulette, with a single zero, has a house edge of about 2.7%, which is why many players prefer European wheels when available.

Practical Strategy Tips for New Players

• Understand the odds before you bet — know which bets cover more numbers, and how that affects frequency of wins.
• Use outside bets for lower volatility and more consistent returns.
• Set a bankroll and session limits, and stick to them.
• Avoid systems that promise guaranteed wins; roulette outcomes are random, and no strategy removes the house edge.
• Try free or demo modes to learn the table layout and pacing before wagering real money.

Roulette is a game of chance. Smart play is about managing risk and enjoying the experience, not expecting predictable wins.

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: about 5.26%. European: about 2.7%.
• Popularity — American Roulette is common in United States casinos and on many online sites targeting United States players, while European and French variants remain widespread in Europe.

Online American Roulette and Live Dealer Options

Online platforms offer two main ways to play: RNG (random number generator) roulette, where the spin is virtual and immediate, and live dealer roulette, where a real dealer spins a physical wheel in a studio and streams the action. RNG tables are great for fast play and low minimums, while live dealer games deliver a more social, authentic atmosphere. Choose what fits your style and check for state-legal availability.

Top Software Makers for American Roulette

Major providers that produce high-quality American Roulette or live roulette tables include Evolution, Playtech, Pragmatic Play Live, NetEnt, and Ezugi. These developers offer polished interfaces, reliable randomization, and strong live-streaming technology for a smooth experience on desktop and mobile.

Mobile Play and Smooth Sessions

Modern American Roulette games are optimized for smartphones and tablets, with responsive layouts and touch-friendly controls. Whether you prefer quick spins on a commute or longer sessions at home, mobile versions keep bets, payouts, and stats readable and simple.

Play Responsibly

Set deposit and time limits, and never chase losses. If gambling stops being fun or starts to impact your daily life, seek help from a support service. Responsible play means knowing when to take a break and keeping the game within your means.

If you want a recommended place to try American Roulette tables, see our Bet Monks Casino review — and always read the casino’s terms and conditions before claiming bonuses or wagering real money.

Frequently Asked Questions