American Roulette

American Roulette is the familiar wheel-and-table game where a small ball decides the outcome and players back numbers or number groups with chips. The single, defining difference from other roulette variants is the presence of two green pockets: a single zero ("0") and a double zero ("00"). That extra green pocket shifts the math, and it changes how you think about risk and payout choices at the table.

A quick history: from Europe to the United States

Roulette traces its roots to 18th-century Europe, where French gaming salons refined the wheel and betting layout into something close to what players recognize today. After the game crossed the Atlantic, American casinos adapted the wheel to include the double zero. That change became the standard in United States casinos and in many online versions aimed at players in the United States, creating what we now call American Roulette.

American Roulette wheel layout: the details that matter

The American Roulette wheel has 38 pockets total. Those pockets include:

• Numbers 1–36
• A single zero ("0")
• A double zero ("00")

Numbers 1–36 alternate red and black around the wheel, while both zero pockets are green. That alternating color pattern helps players visually track sections of the wheel, but the two green pockets are the primary reason the house edge is higher than other variants.

American Roulette table layout: how the betting grid works

The table features a numbered grid for inside bets, columns and dozens boxes for larger group bets, and special areas for even-money bets like red or black. Players place chips directly on numbers, on lines between numbers, or on boxes that represent groups. Dealers handle chip placement and payouts at land-based and live dealer tables, while in RNG games the interface accepts your chip picks and locks in bets before the spin.

How to play American Roulette — simple step-by-step

1. Choose your chip value.
2. Place bets on the table before the dealer closes betting or the digital timer ends.
3. The dealer spins the wheel and releases the ball, or the RNG runs the spin.
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 casino’s terms and conditions for specific rules.

Inside bets — high payout, low coverage

Inside bets are placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers directly on the numbered grid.

• Straight Up — single number, highest payout.
• Split — two adjacent numbers.
• Street — three-number row.
• Corner — four numbers that meet at a corner.
• Six Line — two adjacent rows, six numbers total.

These bets pay more because they cover fewer numbers.

Outside bets — lower risk, broader coverage

Outside bets cover larger portions of the wheel and pay less, but they give more frequent winning chances.

• Red or Black — covers 18 numbers, paid even money.
• Odd or Even — covers 18 numbers, paid even money.
• High (19–36) or Low (1–18) — covers 18 numbers, paid even money.
• Dozens — 12-number groups (1–12, 13–24, 25–36).
• Columns — each column covers 12 numbers on the grid.

Outside bets suit players who prefer steadier stretches of wins and losses.

American Roulette payout guide

• 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 shown are typical; consult the casino’s rules for any variations.

Why the house edge is higher — the math behind 5.26%

Because the American wheel has 38 pockets, including both "0" and "00," the house edge on almost all standard bets is 5.26%. That edge comes from the fact that even-money and other bets still pay as if only 36 winning numbers exist, while the two green pockets give the house additional wins. By comparison, European Roulette, with one zero, usually carries a house edge near 2.7%.

Practical strategy tips for American Roulette

• Understand the odds before you bet—know what each bet covers and its payout.
• Use outside bets for lower volatility and more frequent payouts.
• Manage your bankroll with limits on session time and loss amounts.
• Avoid betting systems that promise guaranteed wins; roulette is a game of chance, and no system can overcome the house edge.
• If you prefer lower house edge, consider European or single-zero versions where available.

American Roulette versus European Roulette — what to weigh

• Number of pockets: American 38 pockets, European 37 pockets.
• House edge: American ~5.26%, European ~2.7%.
• Popularity: American Roulette is the standard at many casinos in the United States, while European and single-zero variants are more common in parts of Europe. Your choice often comes down to personal preference and the available game types at the casino you use.

Online American Roulette versus live dealer roulette

Online options include RNG-based American Roulette and live dealer versions streamed from studios. RNG games are fast, available anytime, and optimized for mobile play. Live dealer tables recreate the in-person experience with real dealers, social interaction, and slower pacing. Both formats follow the same table rules and payouts; choose based on whether you prefer speed and convenience or an authentic casino atmosphere.

Top software providers for American Roulette

Major developers that produce high-quality American Roulette titles include:

• Evolution
• Playtech
• Pragmatic Play Live
• NetEnt
• Ezugi

These vendors offer polished interfaces, reliable random number generation or professional live-stream setups, and mobile-friendly design.

Mobile play: roulette in your pocket

American Roulette titles are widely optimized for smartphones and tablets. Expect touchscreen betting grids, pinch-to-zoom for table detail, quick spin modes, and consistent payouts. Mobile play is a practical way to try different bet mixes and manage session length, but always use secure connections and reputable sites.

Responsible play reminder

Set deposit, loss, and session limits before you start. Play for entertainment, not income. If gambling stops being fun, step away and seek help from certified support services. Casinos list terms and support options for a reason—read them and use tools like self-exclusion or limit settings when needed.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I learn more about specific casinos that offer American Roulette? For a closer look at one operator, see the Spinara Casino review.

Play smart, know the odds, and enjoy the game responsibly.