Roulette has always been one of the most iconic casino games. The spinning wheel, the bouncing ball, and the anticipation as it settles into a pocket create a thrill unlike any other. But not all roulette wheels are created equal. The two most common versions you’ll encounter are European roulette and American roulette, and while they look similar at first glance, the differences between them can have a big impact on your strategy, odds, and overall experience.
If you’ve ever wondered why some players insist on European roulette while others don’t mind taking a chance on the American version, understanding the differences is crucial.
The Layout of the Wheels
The most obvious difference between the two versions lies in the wheel itself. European roulette wheels have 37 pockets, numbered 0 through 36, with just one green zero. American roulette wheels, on the other hand, have 38 pockets, including both a green single zero (0) and a green double zero (00).
That extra pocket might not seem like a big deal, but it changes the house edge dramatically. In European roulette, the house edge is around 2.7%. In American roulette, thanks to the double zero, the house edge jumps to about 5.26%. Over time, this difference significantly affects your chances of winning.
This is one reason why players often prefer European roulette—it simply gives you better odds. And in a gaming environment where every percentage point matters, the choice between wheels can’t be ignored. Interestingly, platforms offering broader betting options, like Non GamStop Bookmakers, often highlight these differences to guide players in making more informed decisions about which version to play.
Table Rules and Player Options
Beyond the wheel, the table layout and rules also differ slightly. In European roulette, many casinos offer the “en prison” or “la partage” rules. These rules come into play when you make an even-money bet and the ball lands on zero. With “la partage,” you lose only half your stake instead of the full amount. With “en prison,” your stake is held for the next spin, giving you another chance to recover it.
American roulette tables rarely offer these player-friendly rules. Without them, the added house edge of the double zero becomes even harder to overcome. This means that, from a purely strategic standpoint, European roulette is the smarter choice.
Strategy Considerations
Most roulette strategies—Martingale, Fibonacci, or flat betting—can technically be used on either wheel. However, because the odds are better in European roulette, these strategies tend to last longer and feel less punishing.
For example, if you’re using a progression strategy that relies on recovering losses after a few spins, the lower house edge in European roulette makes success more realistic. In American roulette, the higher house edge increases the chance that you’ll run into losing streaks before recovering.
This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy American roulette, but it does mean you need to adjust expectations. The game is faster, riskier, and less forgiving—more suitable for players who prioritize entertainment over long-term value.
The Experience Factor
While the numbers clearly favor European roulette, experience matters too. Some players actually enjoy the faster pace and slightly higher risk of American roulette. In land-based casinos, American roulette tables are more common in the United States, while European roulette dominates in Europe and online platforms.
The layout of the table can also affect how you play. In American roulette, the wheel’s sequence of numbers is different from the European version, which changes how some advanced betting systems are applied. For players who like experimenting with strategies, this variation can add an extra layer of excitement.
Online Casinos and Roulette Choices
One of the biggest advantages of online casinos is the ability to choose between versions of roulette that might not be available locally. Most reputable platforms now offer both European and American wheels, and some even include French roulette, which provides even more favorable rules for players.
The rise of live dealer roulette has further bridged the gap between online and land-based play. Streaming technology allows you to watch a real dealer spin the wheel in real time, bringing the authentic atmosphere of the casino to your home. And in this space, European roulette tends to dominate, once again due to its player-friendly odds.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the real difference between European and American roulette? At its core, it comes down to the extra double zero and the house edge it creates. European roulette gives you better odds, more favorable rules, and a smoother long-term experience. American roulette offers more risk, a faster pace, and often less player-friendly conditions.
As a player, your choice depends on what you value more: the thrill of risk or the comfort of better odds. For serious players who want the best chance at winning, European roulette is the clear winner. For those who play purely for excitement and don’t mind the higher house edge, American roulette still has plenty to offer.
In my view, both versions deserve their place in the casino world. But when you’re thinking strategically about stretching your bankroll and getting the best value, it’s hard to argue against the single-zero wheel.
