While roulette has been around since the late 18th century, not all roulette wheels are created equal. There are some key differences between American and European roulette that affect gameplay and odds. In this article, we’ll explore the contrasts between these two classic BooCasino games.
Wheels
The most noticeable difference lies in the wheels themselves. American roulette wheels contain 38 numbered pockets, including numbers 1-36, 0 and 00. European wheels have only 37 pockets, including 1-36 and a single 0 pocket.
This tiny distinction has massive implications for the house edge. The extra 00 pocket gives the house a 5.26% advantage in American roulette. Meanwhile, the single 0 wheel cuts that edge down to 2.7% in European games. Over extended play, that difference of 2.56% is significant. It also alters betting strategies and payoff calculations compared to the European version.
Table Layouts
American and European tables are visually distinct as well. While both contain numbered pockets matching their wheels, their betting layouts diverge.
American tables feature numbered boxes for the 36 numbers, along with extra boxes for 0, 00, 1-18, 19-36, odd, even, red, black, 1st 12, 2nd 12, 3rd 12, 1-3 columns and 2-to-1 payout bets. European tables have just 0 and 1-36, along with simpler even/odd and red/black boxes.
This expanded layout gives American players more betting options. But it’s also more crowded and chaotic than the more streamlined European layout. For many players, the European table provides better visibility and simplicity.
Gameplay and Rules
The gameplay procedure is essentially identical in both variants. However, American and European roulette feature subtle rule differences beyond the wheel and table.
The key distinction is that American games allow announced bets. If players call out a bet before the dealer closes wagering for that spin, it must be accepted. European games have no such rule. Dealers can reject or ignore late bets.
Additionally, American roulette allows combination bets covering two numbers that touch on the layout – like 0-00 or 17-20. Called “neighbors”, these wagers pay 17-1. European roulette prohibits these bets, since there is no 00 and horizontally adjoining numbers would span wheel pockets.
Finally, American casinos typically use color-coded chips to track each player’s bets. European games more often use cash chips of a single color. While not a firm rule, this does speed up the American version more than the European game.
House Edge Comparison
As mentioned earlier, the extra 00 pocket gives American roulette a much higher house advantage. Here’s a breakdown:
| Version | House Edge |
| American Roulette | 5.26% |
| European Roulette | 2.70% |
Over an extended period, this difference is very significant. European players can expect to lose money far slower, making bankrolls last longer.
Strategically, American players must adjust by betting more aggressively and taking advantage of the announced bet rule. European players use a more modest flat-betting approach. They also never face the risk of the 00 pocket, offering better straight-up number bet odds.
Popularity and Availability
In Europe, single 0 wheels dominate land-based and online casinos. These games are simply referred to as “roulette”. The double 0 American game was an adaptation as that version spread to U.S. casinos in the 19th century.
Nowadays, American roulette has expanded globally and is featured alongside European roulette in many venues. However, in some regions like the U.K., the single 0 game remains firmly in the majority. Players should always check both in-person and internet casino libraries to find their preferred version.
While rules and wheels divide them, American and European roulette offer the same classic gameplay. Their subtle differences influence strategy, odds and ultimately your bankroll over extended play. By understanding these contrasts, you can discover your favored variant for enjoying this centuries-old casino staple.