Labouchere vs Flat Betting
Which roulette betting strategy is right for you? Compare these two popular systems side-by-side.
Labouchere Strategy
Create a sequence of numbers and bet the sum of first and last. Cross out on win, add on loss.
aggressivecomplexnegative progression
Flat Betting Strategy
Bet the same amount on every spin regardless of wins or losses.
conservativesimpleflat progression
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Labouchere | Flat Betting |
|---|---|---|
| Style | aggressive | conservative |
| Complexity | complex | simple |
| Progression Type | negative | flat |
| Best For | Experienced players | Beginners |
Labouchere
Pros
- ✓Flexible and customizable
- ✓Clear profit target
- ✓Can be adjusted mid-session
Cons
- ✗Complex to track
- ✗Sequence can grow quickly
- ✗Bets escalate during losing streaks
Flat Betting
Pros
- ✓Simplest strategy possible
- ✓Predictable outcomes
- ✓No bet escalation
Cons
- ✗No recovery mechanism
- ✗Slow grind toward expected loss
- ✗Less exciting gameplay
Quick Summary
Quick Simulation: Labouchere on Red
Starting balance: $1,000 | Base bet: $10 | European roulette odds
Quick Simulation: Flat Betting on Red
Starting balance: $1,000 | Base bet: $10 | European roulette odds