Roulette is universally recognized as one of the most iconic and popular games in casino history.

European and American roulette may look nearly identical to the untrained eye, but the math differs wildly.

The Difference is in the Zeros

A European roulette wheel features 37 pockets in total: the numbers 1 through 36, plus a single zero (0).

This single extra pocket on the American wheel drastically alters the mathematical probabilities of the game.

• The green zeros represent the house edge
• American roulette includes the 0 and the 00
• European roulette only utilizes the single 0

Why the House Edge Matters

Because the European wheel has only one zero, the house edge is a very reasonable 2.70%.

There is absolutely no mathematical justification for ever choosing to play American roulette if European is available.

Special European Roulette Rules

Some European, and particularly French, roulette tables offer player-friendly rules called “La Partage” or “En Prison.”

This makes French roulette one of the most mathematically favorable table games on the entire casino floor.

Online casinos almost always offer both, so be vigilant and always click on the European wheel.