American Roulette

American Roulette is the classic casino table game that combines simple rules with wide betting options. The most important feature that sets it apart from other roulette variants is the wheel: American Roulette has two green pockets — a single zero (0), and a double zero (00). That extra pocket changes the math, the payouts, and the house edge, so it's worth knowing before you place chips.

A quick history you can use at the table

Roulette began in Europe in the 18th century as a blend of several wheel games. The single-zero wheel became the standard across much of the continent. When roulette crossed the Atlantic, American casinos added the double zero to increase the house advantage. Over time, that layout became a hallmark of United States casino floors and remains common online and in live dealer lobbies aimed at players in the United States.

American Roulette wheel layout — what’s on the wheel

The American Roulette wheel has 38 pockets total:

• Numbers 1–36
• Single zero (0)
• Double zero (00)

Numbers 1–36 alternate red and black, while 0 and 00 are green. That alternating color pattern helps players scan the board quickly and supports bets like red or black. The physical or virtual wheel’s extra pocket is why American Roulette plays differently from single-zero variants.

Table layout — how the betting grid works

The table features a rectangular betting grid for inside bets, columns and dozens for broader bets, and boxes for even-money wagers. Players place chips directly on numbers for precise bets, or on lines and sections for group bets. Dealers—or the user interface in online games—accept bets until the “no more bets” call or the spin button is pressed, then the wheel is spun and the winning pocket is revealed.

How to play American Roulette — a simple step-by-step

1. Choose your chip value.
2. Place bets on the table grid or the outside boxes.
3. The dealer spins the wheel and releases the ball, or the RNG spins in online play.
4. The ball lands in a numbered pocket.
5. Winning bets are paid according to the payout table, and losing bets are collected.

Payouts and the house edge determine long-run returns, so always check the payout table and rules before you play.

Inside bets — precise options for higher payouts

Inside bets are placed on specific numbers or tight clusters:

• Straight Up — a single number, paid 35: 1.
• Split — two adjacent numbers, paid 17: 1.
• Street — three numbers in a row, paid 11: 1.
• Corner — four numbers in a square, paid 8: 1.
• Six Line — six numbers across two adjacent rows, paid 5: 1.

Inside bets cover fewer numbers, so hits are less frequent, but payouts are larger when they land.

Outside bets — broader coverage, lower variance

Outside bets cover larger groups of numbers and offer lower payouts:

• Red or Black — covers 18 numbers, paid 1: 1.
• Odd or Even — covers 18 numbers, paid 1: 1.
• High (19–36) or Low (1–18) — covers 18 numbers, paid 1: 1.
• Dozens — first (1–12), second (13–24), or third (25–36), covers 12 numbers, paid 2: 1.
• Columns — one of the three vertical columns, covers 12 numbers, paid 2: 1.

These bets are better for players seeking steadier sessions and more frequent wins.

American Roulette payout table

• Straight Up — 1 number — 35: 1
• Split — 2 numbers — 17: 1
• Street — 3 numbers — 11: 1
• Corner — 4 numbers — 8: 1
• Six Line — 6 numbers — 5: 1
• Dozens / Columns — 12 numbers — 2: 1
• Red/Black, Odd/Even, High/Low — 18 numbers — 1: 1

These are the standard payouts in American Roulette; always double-check the specific casino’s rules and terms.

Why the house edge is higher — the math behind 5.26%

American Roulette’s house edge is about 5.26%. That number comes from the two green pockets. On even-money bets, a player covers 18 of 38 pockets, but payouts assume a 36-pocket layout, so the extra zeros tilt expected return to the house. By comparison, European Roulette with a single zero typically carries about a 2.7% house edge. That difference matters over extended play.

Practical strategy tips for American Roulette

• Understand the odds before betting, and pick bets that fit your comfort with risk.
• Use outside bets for lower variance and more consistent returns.
• Manage your bankroll — decide session limits and stick to them.
• Avoid systems that promise guaranteed wins; no strategy overcomes the house edge.
• Treat roulette as an entertainment product with potential for "real cash wins," not a source of income.

American Roulette vs European Roulette — the short comparison

• Number of pockets: American has 38 pockets, European has 37.
• House edge: American is about 5.26%, European about 2.7%.
• Popularity: American Roulette is the norm on many United States casino floors, while European single-zero wheels are more common across Europe and in many online international lobbies.
• Game feel: The double zero changes payout math and player choices; European roulette is generally friendlier to even-money bets.

Online American Roulette vs live dealer roulette

Online RNG roulette offers fast spins, flexible bet sizes, and anonymity. Live dealer roulette streams a real wheel and dealer from a studio, letting you interact and watch the physical spin. Both formats follow the same rules; choose RNG for quick sessions, live dealer for a more authentic table experience. Check latency, studio quality, and operator licensing when picking a live dealer game.

Top software providers for American Roulette

Major developers that produce high-quality American Roulette titles include Evolution, Playtech, Pragmatic Play Live, NetEnt, and Ezugi. These studios provide polished RNG games and live dealer tables, mobile-optimized interfaces, and secure randomization or verified live streams.

Mobile American Roulette — play on the go

Most American Roulette games are optimized for smartphones and tablets. Mobile versions preserve the betting grid, allow touch betting, and deliver the same payout structures. Look for apps or mobile-optimized sites that support fast deposits and withdrawals, and that run smoothly on both iOS and Android devices.

Responsible play — quick reminders

Set deposit and session limits, take regular breaks, and avoid chasing losses. If gambling stops being fun or causes financial stress, seek help and consider self-exclusion options. Play with money you can afford to lose, and review the operator’s terms and limits before depositing.

If you want a reliable site that offers American Roulette and a wide live dealer selection, see our full review of Mino Casino for details on supported currencies, payment methods, and welcome offers — always read the operator’s terms and conditions before claiming a bonus.

Frequently Asked Questions