American Roulette

American Roulette is the version most commonly found in casinos across the United States. At its core, it’s the same game of chance that players know and love, but with one clear difference that changes the math: the wheel has two green pockets, labeled “0” and “00.” That extra pocket increases the house edge, and it’s the single detail that separates American Roulette from other variants like European Roulette.

A Short History — From Europe to the United States

Roulette traces its roots to 18th-century Europe, where earlier wagering wheels evolved into the organized casino game we recognize today. When roulette crossed the Atlantic, the United States adapted the wheel by adding the double zero to create American Roulette. That change became standard in many American casinos, shaping the version most United States players encounter on casino floors and online.

Wheel Layout — What’s on the Wheel

The American Roulette wheel has 38 pockets total. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Numbers 1 through 36
• Single zero (“0”)
• Double zero (“00”)

Numbers 1–36 alternate red and black, while both zero pockets are green. The extra green pocket is what shifts the odds in favor of the house, but it also creates familiar betting spreads and payout structures players use for strategy and bankroll management.

Table Layout — How Bets Are Placed

The table features a rectangular betting grid showing numbers 1–36, plus separate areas for “0” and “00.” Players place chips directly on individual numbers for inside bets or on sections outside the grid for larger group bets. Dealers collect chips and announce “no more bets” before spinning, so place your wagers early if you want to lock them in.

How to Play American Roulette — Quick Steps

1. Choose your chip value.
2. Place bets on the table — individual numbers, combinations, or outside bets.
3. The dealer spins the wheel, then releases the ball in the opposite direction.
4. The ball lands in a numbered pocket.
5. Winning bets are paid according to the payout table, and losing bets are collected.

Always check the table limits and any casino terms before betting.

Inside Bets — Targeted Plays with Bigger Payouts

Inside bets focus on specific numbers or small groups on the grid. They carry higher payouts, and they win less frequently.

• Straight Up — a single number.
• Split — two adjacent numbers.
• Street — three numbers in a row.
• Corner — four numbers at a square intersection.
• Six Line — two adjoining rows, six numbers total.

Inside bets reward bigger payouts, but expect lower hit rates, so size these bets to fit your bankroll.

Outside Bets — Lower Risk, More Frequent Wins

Outside bets cover larger portions of the wheel, offering smaller but more regular payouts.

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

Outside bets are a sensible choice for players looking to extend sessions with steadier returns.

American Roulette Payout Table

• 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 may vary slightly by casino, so always confirm the posted table odds before playing.

House Edge — The Numbers That Matter

American Roulette’s house edge is 5.26%, driven by the double zero. That edge comes from the fact that both zeros lose against bets that would otherwise cover 18 or 12 numbers. By contrast, European Roulette, with a single zero, has a lower house edge of about 2.7%. The difference matters for long-term play and bankroll planning.

Strategy Tips Beginners Can Use

• Understand the odds before you bet, and match your bet sizes to your bankroll.
• Favor outside bets for lower variance and more consistent session lengths.
• Use small, disciplined wagers on inside bets if you want the chance at bigger payouts.
• Avoid systems that promise guaranteed wins; roulette outcomes are random.
• Set clear loss and win limits, and take breaks when needed.

Roulette is a game of chance, so focusing on risk management will keep sessions enjoyable.

American Roulette vs European Roulette — Key Differences

• Number of pockets — American has 38 pockets, European has 37.
• House edge — American roughly 5.26%, European roughly 2.7%.
• Regional popularity — American Roulette is common in United States casinos, while European Roulette is more prevalent in European venues and many online platforms catering to international players.

Choosing between the two comes down to personal preference, risk tolerance, and which game your casino offers.

Online RNG Roulette vs Live Dealer Roulette

Online American Roulette comes in two main formats. Random number generator versions run instantly on software with fast rounds and many side bet options. Live dealer roulette streams real wheels from studios or casino floors, with a human dealer and slower, more social rounds. Both are legal options for United States players where online gaming is licensed, and both must follow platform rules and terms and conditions.

Top Software Providers to Watch

Leading studios produce polished American Roulette experiences, including live dealer tables and RNG versions. Notable providers include Evolution, Playtech, Pragmatic Play Live, NetEnt, and Ezugi. Each brings different presentation styles, betting features, and mobile performance, so try a few to find the interface you prefer.

Mobile Play — Roulette on Phones and Tablets

Most modern American Roulette games are optimized for smartphones and tablets. Mobile versions keep the same betting options, with touch controls for placing chips, and adaptive layouts that fit portrait or landscape screens. Check device compatibility and network requirements before playing on the move.

Responsible Play — Keep Control of Your Game

Set deposit limits, session timers, and loss caps before you start. If gambling stops being fun or you notice risky patterns, take a break and use the platform’s self-exclusion or support options. All casino offers and games are subject to terms and conditions, and you should always read those before playing.

Want to try American Roulette at a site we reviewed? See our full review of GambleGorilla Casino for details on games, payments, and support — note that terms and conditions apply.

End your session with limits in mind, and play with the goal of entertainment first.