American Roulette

American Roulette is a classic casino table game where a spinning wheel and a small ball decide winning numbers. The defining feature that sets it apart from other roulette variants is the presence of two green pockets: a single zero, labeled “0,” and a double zero, labeled “00.” That extra green pocket changes the math on every bet and is the main reason American Roulette plays differently from European-style wheels.

A short history: how American Roulette evolved

Roulette began in Europe in the 1700s as a simple wheel game that combined elements of earlier gaming traditions. When the game crossed the Atlantic to the United States in the 1800s, local casinos introduced the double zero to increase the house advantage. Over time, that layout became standard in North American brick-and-mortar casinos and later in many online rooms that cater to players in the United States.

Wheel layout: the numbers and colors that matter

The American Roulette wheel has 38 pockets total:

• Numbers 1 through 36
• A single zero, “0”
• A double zero, “00”

Numbers 1–36 alternate red and black, while the zero and double zero pockets are green. That alternating color pattern makes outside bets—like red or black—easy to understand at a glance, while the two green pockets reduce the probability of color or even-money wins.

Table layout: where to place your chips

The table shows a numbered grid for inside bets, plus labeled areas for outside bets. Players place chips directly on numbers or on the lines and boxes between numbers to cover splits, streets, and corners. Outside bet areas—red or black, odd or even, high or low, dozens, and columns—sit to the right or below the numbered grid. Dealers or software confirm wagers before a spin begins.

Inside bets: cover specific numbers

Inside bets focus on single numbers or small clusters:

• Straight up — a single number
• Split — two adjacent numbers
• Street — a row of three numbers
• Corner — four numbers meeting at a corner
• Six line — two adjacent rows, six numbers total

Inside bets pay more, because they cover fewer numbers and have lower probability.

Outside bets: larger groups, lower variance

Outside bets cover larger sections of the table and offer lower, steadier payouts:

• Red or Black
• Odd or Even
• High (19–36) or Low (1–18)
• Dozens (1–12, 13–24, 25–36)
• Columns (one of the three vertical columns)

These bets are good for players looking to manage risk and stretch their bankroll.

American Roulette payout table

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

Payouts above are standard across most casinos. Always check the specific rules and table limits before you play.

House edge: why the double zero matters

American Roulette carries a house edge of about 5.26%. That figure comes from the two green pockets—0 and 00—that pay like any single number when they win, but reduce the long-term probability of other outcomes. By comparison, European Roulette has one green zero and a house edge of about 2.7%. That difference is why many players prefer European wheels when seeking lower house advantage; American wheels remain popular in the United States and in many online rooms.

Practical strategy tips for new players

• Understand the odds before placing any wager; know how many numbers a bet covers.
• Use outside bets for lower variance and steadier play.
• Set a session bankroll and time limit, and stick to them.
• Avoid betting systems that promise guaranteed wins; roulette is a game of chance, and outcomes are independent.
• Check table limits and rules, since some venues offer special bets or different payouts.

American Roulette vs European Roulette — quick comparison

• Number of pockets: American has 38 pockets, including 0 and 00; European has 37, with a single zero.
• House edge: American ~5.26%; European ~2.7%.
• Popularity: American Roulette is the default in many casinos across the United States, while European-style wheels are more common in many European casinos and in some online rooms that promote lower house edge.

Online RNG roulette vs live dealer roulette

Online platforms offer two main ways to play: random number generator (RNG) versions and live dealer streams. RNG roulette runs on tested software that simulates spins instantly, so games are fast and available 24/7. Live dealer roulette streams a real wheel and dealer from a studio; spins feel more like a land-based casino and provide social interaction. Both formats are fair when provided by reputable operators and certified by independent testing agencies.

For a reputable operator review that covers many popular games and promotions, see the Spinko Casino review.

Top software providers offering American Roulette

Major studios produce high-quality American Roulette titles and live tables:

• Evolution
• Playtech
• Pragmatic Play Live
• NetEnt
• Ezugi

These developers offer polished interfaces, mobile-friendly play, and a mix of RNG and live dealer options.

Mobile play: roulette on phones and tablets

American Roulette games are optimized for smartphones and tablets, with responsive layouts and touch controls. Mobile versions preserve bet types, payouts, and table limits, so you can place inside or outside bets easily on the go. Look for apps or mobile sites that advertise fast withdrawals and secure banking when playing for real cash.

Responsible gambling reminder

Set clear deposit and loss limits before you play, and never wager money you cannot afford to lose. Use site tools to set session time limits or self-exclusion if needed, and consult professional help if gambling stops being enjoyable. Always check terms and conditions for bonuses and promotions.

If you’re trying American Roulette for the first time, start with small outside bets to learn the pace and rules. Know the odds, set limits, and enjoy the game responsibly—and always read the terms and conditions when you take advantage of any casino offer.