Martingale vs Labouchere
Which roulette betting strategy is right for you? Compare these two popular systems side-by-side.
Martingale Strategy
Double your bet after each loss to recover losses plus a small profit when you win.
very-aggressivesimplenegative progression
Labouchere Strategy
Create a sequence of numbers and bet the sum of first and last. Cross out on win, add on loss.
aggressivecomplexnegative progression
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Martingale | Labouchere |
|---|---|---|
| Style | very-aggressive | aggressive |
| Complexity | simple | complex |
| Progression Type | negative | negative |
| Best For | Short sessions | Experienced players |
Martingale
Pros
- ✓Simple to understand and follow
- ✓Guarantees profit on each winning sequence
- ✓Works well in short term
Cons
- ✗Exponential bet growth can wipe out bankroll
- ✗Table limits can break the system
- ✗Large bets for small rewards
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
Quick Summary
Quick Simulation: Martingale on Red
Starting balance: $1,000 | Base bet: $10 | European roulette odds
Quick Simulation: Labouchere on Red
Starting balance: $1,000 | Base bet: $10 | European roulette odds