Roulette is universally recognized as one of the most iconic and popular games in casino history.
Understanding the subtle differences between the wheels is crucial for maximizing your chances of winning.
The Difference is in the Zeros
The single most important difference between the two games lies entirely in the number of green zero pockets.
The addition of the 00 pocket effectively doubles the casino's built-in mathematical advantage over the player.
- European wheel has 37 total pockets
- American wheel has 38 total pockets
- Both versions pay 35 to 1 on a single number bet
Why the House Edge Matters
Conversely, the American wheel's extra double zero pushes the house edge up to a massive 5.26%.
This means you will lose money almost twice as fast playing the American version over the long term.
The En Prison and La Partage Rules
The "En Prison" rule "imprisons" your bet for the next spin if the zero hits, giving you a second chance.
This makes French roulette one of the most mathematically favorable table games on the entire casino floor.
| Game | Wheel Numbers | Edge with La Partage |
|---|---|---|
| French | 37 | 1.35% |
| American | 38 | N/A |
Online casinos almost always offer both, so be vigilant and always click on the European wheel.
