American Roulette

American Roulette is the classic casino table game many players picture when they think of wheel-and-ball action. Its straightforward betting, familiar payouts, and the signature double-zero setup make it a staple at brick-and-mortar casinos and online sites serving players in the United States. If you want simple rules, clear odds, and the chance at big single-number payouts, American Roulette delivers.

A Short History: From European Salons to American Casino Floors

Roulette began in Europe in the 18th century, evolving from wheel games and early betting formats. When the game crossed the Atlantic, American operators introduced a twist: the double zero pocket. That addition created the American Roulette layout we recognize today, and it became the dominant form in many United States casinos while the single-zero European variant stayed more common across Europe.

Wheel Layout: What Makes American Roulette Different

The American Roulette wheel has 38 pockets total.

• Numbers 1–36, alternating red and black.
• Single zero (0), green.
• Double zero (00), green.

The two green pockets are the key difference from other roulette variants. They increase the house edge, but they also keep the familiar red-black alternation and the same high single-number payout that attracts risk takers.

Table Layout: How the Betting Grid Works

The American Roulette table pairs a visual betting grid with outside bet areas. Players place chips on squares for single numbers, on lines for groups, or on the outer boxes for even-money and dozen bets. Dealers clear losing bets, announce spins, and pay winners according to the payout table printed on the table or in the game interface.

How to Play American Roulette — Simple Player Actions

1. Pick your chip value.
2. Place chips on the table—on single numbers, groups of numbers, or outside bet areas.
3. The dealer spins the wheel and releases the ball.
4. The ball lands in a numbered pocket.
5. Dealers pay winning bets according to the payout table, and losing chips are removed.

Keep bets inside the betting window before the dealer announces “no more bets,” and always check posted terms and conditions for any house rules.

Inside Bets — Target Specific Numbers

Inside bets cover single numbers or small clusters, offering the highest payouts.

• 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

Inside bets pay big on a hit, but they win less frequently.

Outside Bets — Lower Risk, Steadier Action

Outside bets cover larger groups and pay lower odds, which suits players who prefer longer play sessions with smaller swings.

• Red or Black — 18 numbers — 1: 1
• Odd or Even — 18 numbers — 1: 1
• High (19–36) or Low (1–18) — 18 numbers — 1: 1
• Dozens — 12 numbers — 2: 1
• Columns — 12 numbers — 2: 1

Outside bets push for steadier returns and are good for bankroll management.

American Roulette Payout Table

• Straight up covers 1 number and pays 35: 1
• Split covers 2 numbers and pays 17: 1
• Street covers 3 numbers and pays 11: 1
• Corner covers 4 numbers and pays 8: 1
• Six line covers 6 numbers and pays 5: 1
• Dozens / Columns cover 12 numbers and pay 2: 1
• Red/Black, Odd/Even, High/Low cover 18 numbers and pay 1: 1

Payouts shown are standard for American Roulette; always confirm the table pays before you wager.

House Edge Explained — Why the Double Zero Matters

American Roulette carries a house edge of about 5.26%, driven by the presence of both 0 and 00. Those green pockets mean even-money bets do not split the odds cleanly between player and house. By comparison, European Roulette uses a single zero and has a house edge of about 2.70%. That difference is why many players prefer European tables when available, but American Roulette remains popular in the United States and on many online platforms.

Strategy Tips That Actually Help

• Understand the odds before you bet, and choose bet types that match your risk tolerance.
• Use outside bets for lower variance and longer play.
• Set a bankroll and session limits, and stick to them.
• Avoid betting systems that promise guaranteed wins—roulette outcomes are random.
• Treat losses as the cost of entertainment, not an investment.

Roulette is a game of chance. Smart money management and clear expectations are the best strategies.

American Roulette vs European Roulette — Quick Comparison

• Number of pockets: American has 38, European has 37.
• House edge: American ~5.26%, European ~2.70%.
• Popularity: American is common in United States casinos and some online lobbies, while European single-zero tables are more common in Europe and on international sites.

Online American Roulette vs Live Dealer Roulette

Online American Roulette comes in two main forms:

• RNG versions – software-driven tables with virtual wheels and automated payouts. Fast, available 24/7, and usually lower minimum bets.
• Live dealer – real dealers spin physical wheels in studios and stream the action to your device. Live games offer a social feel and added transparency for players who prefer seeing the wheel and ball.

Both types are legal on regulated online platforms in the United States where the operator is licensed. Choose based on pace, immersion, and minimum stake rules.

Top Software Providers for American Roulette

Look for titles from established developers that prioritize fairness, smooth gameplay, and mobile optimization. Notable providers include Evolution, Playtech, Pragmatic Play Live, NetEnt, and Ezugi. These studios offer RNG and live dealer options, multiple camera angles, and fast interfaces for desktop and mobile play.

If you want to check a full casino option that offers a wide software portfolio and player support, see our LolaJack Casino review.

Mobile Play — Roulette on Phones and Tablets

Modern American Roulette games are built for smartphones and tablets, with responsive layouts and touch controls. Whether you prefer quick spins on a commute or longer sessions at home, look for mobile-optimized titles and apps that save your preferred bets and offer secure payment options.

Play Responsibly — Set Limits and Know When to Stop

Gambling should be entertainment, not a way to solve financial problems. Set deposit, loss, and session limits before you play, and use site tools to enforce them. If gambling causes stress or harms your life, seek help from local support services and consider self-exclusion options offered by licensed casinos.

Frequently Asked Questions About American Roulette