Roulette Simulator

Roulette Variations Guide

Discover the differences between European, American, and French roulette and which offers the best odds.

Quick Comparison

FeatureEuropeanAmericanFrench
Number of Zeros1 (Single Zero)2 (Double Zero)1 (Single Zero)
Total Numbers373837
House Edge2.70%5.26%1.35%*
Special RulesNoneNoneLa Partage/En Prison

*With La Partage rule on even-money bets

🇪🇺 European Roulette

Key Features

  • 37 numbers: 0, 1-36
  • Single zero: Only one green pocket
  • House edge: 2.70% on all bets
  • Layout: Standard betting layout
  • Availability: Most online casinos

Why Choose European?

  • ✅ Better odds than American roulette
  • ✅ Simple rules, easy to understand
  • ✅ Widely available online
  • ✅ Standard for most strategy guides
  • ✅ Good balance of risk and reward

Best For: Most players, especially beginners. Offers the best combination of simplicity and favorable odds.

🇺🇸 American Roulette

Key Features

  • 38 numbers: 0, 00, 1-36
  • Double zero: Two green pockets
  • House edge: 5.26% on most bets
  • Layout: Double zero at top
  • Origin: Popular in US casinos

Disadvantages

  • ❌ Higher house edge (5.26% vs 2.70%)
  • ❌ Worse odds on every bet type
  • ❌ Extra zero reduces winning chances
  • ❌ No special rules to help players
  • ❌ Nearly double the house advantage

Avoid When Possible: The extra zero significantly increases the house edge. Only play if European roulette isn't available.

🇫🇷 French Roulette

Key Features

  • 37 numbers: 0, 1-36 (like European)
  • Single zero: One green pocket
  • French layout: Different table design
  • Special rules: La Partage & En Prison
  • Language: Often uses French terms

Special Rules

La Partage ("The Division")

When zero hits, even-money bets lose only half their value instead of the full amount.

En Prison ("In Prison")

When zero hits, even-money bets are "imprisoned" for the next spin. If they win, the bet is returned.

Best Overall: French roulette with La Partage offers the lowest house edge (1.35%) on even-money bets, making it the most player-friendly version.

House Edge Impact

French Roulette

1.35%

On even-money bets with La Partage

European Roulette

2.70%

On all bets

American Roulette

5.26%

On all bets except five-number

What This Means for Your Bankroll:

For every $100 you bet, you can expect to lose on average:

  • • French Roulette (even-money): $1.35
  • • European Roulette: $2.70
  • • American Roulette: $5.26

Which Roulette Should You Play?

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1st Choice: French Roulette

If available with La Partage rule, this offers the best odds for even-money bets (1.35% house edge).

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2nd Choice: European Roulette

Widely available and offers good odds (2.70% house edge) on all bets. Best choice if French isn't available.

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3rd Choice: American Roulette

Only play if it's your only option. The double zero significantly increases the house edge to 5.26%.

Practice All Variations

Try both European and American roulette in our free simulator to experience the difference.

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