American Roulette

American Roulette is a classic casino table game where a spinning wheel and a small ball decide winners. The key difference compared with other roulette versions is simple but important: the wheel has two green pockets, labeled “0” and “00.” That extra pocket raises the casino’s advantage and changes how odds and payouts play out compared with single-zero wheels.

Where roulette came from and how it reached the United States

Roulette has roots in 18th-century Europe, blending elements of wheel-based games that predated modern casinos. The single-zero format became the standard across much of Europe. When roulette crossed the Atlantic, North American casinos adapted the wheel by adding a double-zero pocket. That change created the distinct American Roulette layout you find in land-based and online casinos across the United States today.

Wheel layout — read the wheel at a glance

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 the 0 and 00 pockets are green. That extra green pocket is what increases the house edge and slightly lowers the odds for straight-number wins compared with single-zero formats.

Table layout — how the betting grid works

The betting grid on the table shows all numbers 1–36 in a 3-by-12 arrangement, plus areas for 0 and 00. Outside the number grid, you’ll find boxes for even-money bets, dozens, columns, and other group wagers. Players place chips directly on numbers for inside bets, or on the outside areas for broader bets. Dealers clear the table and pay winners based on where chips are placed when the ball settles.

How to play American Roulette — a quick guide

1. Choose your chip value. Set a denomination that fits your bankroll.
2. Place bets on the table. Put chips on single numbers, splits, rows, dozens, colors, or other areas.
3. The dealer spins the wheel and releases the ball. Wait until bets are closed.
4. The ball lands in a numbered pocket. The dealer announces the result and marks the winning number.
5. Winning bets are paid according to the payout table, and losing bets are cleared. Always check the table limits and platform terms and conditions before wagering.

Inside bets — aim for specific numbers

Inside bets cover fewer numbers and offer higher payouts:

• Straight up — single number
• Split — two adjacent numbers
• Street — three numbers in a row
• Corner — four numbers in a block
• Six line — two adjoining rows, six numbers

These bets pay more because they hit less often. The double-zero wheel makes the odds slightly tougher than single-zero games.

Outside bets — lower risk, steadier returns

Outside bets cover larger groups of numbers and pay at lower rates:

• Red or black
• Odd or even
• High (19–36) or low (1–18)
• Dozens — first, second, third (1–12, 13–24, 25–36)
• Columns — full vertical columns of 12 numbers

These options are popular when you want longer play with more frequent, smaller wins.

Typical payouts for American Roulette

• Straight up: 1 number at 35: 1
• Split: 2 numbers at 17: 1
• Street: 3 numbers at 11: 1
• Corner: 4 numbers at 8: 1
• Six line: 6 numbers at 5: 1
• Dozens / Columns: 12 numbers at 2: 1
• Red/Black, Odd/Even, High/Low: 18 numbers at 1: 1

Payouts are the standard casino rates, but always confirm the exact rules and limits with the casino’s terms and conditions.

House edge — why two green pockets matter

American Roulette’s house edge is 5.26%, driven by the presence of both 0 and 00. Each green pocket reduces the long-term return to players compared with single-zero formats. By contrast, European Roulette, with a single zero, typically has a house edge of about 2.7%. That difference is why many players prefer single-zero games when available, but American Roulette remains popular in the United States and on many online platforms.

Smart tips for American Roulette players

• Understand the odds before placing bets, and know how each bet affects variance.
• Use outside bets for lower risk and longer play sessions.
• Manage your bankroll with session limits and set loss thresholds.
• Avoid betting systems that promise guaranteed wins; roulette is a game of chance.
• Check table limits, payout rules, and the casino’s terms and conditions before you play.

How American and European Roulette compare in practice

• Number of pockets — American has 38 pockets, European has 37.
• House edge — American is about 5.26%, European about 2.7%.
• Popularity — American Roulette is common in United States casinos and in many global online lobbies, while European Roulette is more common across casinos in Europe and single-zero-focused online rooms.

Online RNG roulette versus live dealer action

Online American Roulette comes in two main forms. RNG roulette uses certified random-number generators to determine outcomes instantly, ideal for fast play and mobile sessions. Live dealer roulette streams a real wheel and dealer from a studio or casino floor, letting players watch the spin in real time and interact via chat. Both formats offer authentic gameplay; choose RNG for speed and lower stakes, or live dealer for atmosphere and a social experience.

Top software providers for American Roulette

Major developers that offer high-quality American Roulette games include Evolution, Playtech, Pragmatic Play Live, NetEnt, and Ezugi. These providers power both RNG tables and live dealer studios, with polished interfaces, mobile optimization, and reliable gameplay.

For a broad range of software partners and live dealer options available at popular sites, see the BetWest Casino review for more on providers and game variety.

Mobile play — roulette on phones and tablets

American Roulette titles are optimized for smartphones and tablets. Touch-friendly controls, widescreen layouts, and fast load times let you place inside and outside bets with the same features as desktop versions. Always confirm that your chosen casino supports your device and offers secure deposits and withdrawals.

Responsible play reminder

Set deposit and session limits, take regular breaks, and never chase losses. Treat roulette as entertainment, not income. Many platforms provide self-exclusion tools and support resources; check the casino’s responsible gambling section and terms and conditions for options that fit your needs.

Frequently asked questions

American Roulette is straightforward to learn, with clear betting options and an energetic table atmosphere. Know the layout, respect the house edge that comes with the double zero, manage your bankroll, and choose the game format—RNG or live dealer—that fits how you like to play.