Roulette is a casino classic, but the difference between single zero and double zero tables matters more than it first appears. The wheel’s design influences more than just appearances. It has a direct effect on outcomes and what the casino keeps from each spin.
This blog post compares European (single zero) and American (double zero) roulette. It explores how the numbers on the wheel influence returns and breaks down layouts and bet types to give a complete picture.
Read on to see how it all connects.
What Is the Difference Between Single Zero and Double Zero Roulette?
European roulette features a wheel with numbers from 1 to 36, plus a green 0. American roulette has the same, but includes a second green pocket, the 00.
At first glance, that might not seem major. The layouts look similar, and the betting grid changes only slightly. However, that added 00 pocket subtly shifts how the game works in the background.
It also changes the number of possible outcomes. A European wheel has 37 pockets. An American wheel has 38.
This change, though small, sets the foundation for what follows in every spin.
House Edge Explained in Single vs Double Zero Roulette
The added pocket in American roulette doesn’t just alter the layout. It adjusts how much the casino may retain from each wager over time.
This figure, known as the house edge, is based on the structure of the game. On European wheels with 37 slots, it works out to about 2.70%. That means if £100 is hypothetically wagered repeatedly, the casino might retain around £2.70 on average.
On American wheels, the 00 pocket increases that figure. With 38 possible outcomes, the house edge rises to roughly 5.26%, or £5.26 per £100. The potential payouts between the two versions may appear identical, but this shift in probability subtly tilts the odds further in the house’s favour.
This is why some versions are generally preferred over others, as you'll see later.
How Do Payouts Compare Between the Two Versions?
If you’re playing either version, the standard returns are the same. For instance, a straight-up selection (betting on a single number) typically pays 35 to 1 on both European and American wheels. The same applies to split bets, corner bets, and selections on red or black.
What does differ is how often those results occur. On a European table, a straight-up selection has a 1 in 37 chance of hitting. On an American one, it’s 1 in 38. This small change is what leads to the different figures you saw earlier regarding the house’s share.
Some tables include extra features or alternate rules that change these outcomes slightly. These are not present on all layouts, so always check the table for the exact rules in place.
Why Is European Roulette Preferred Over American Roulette?
Some favour European roulette because of how the structure keeps more of the initial wager involved in the game over time. That single green zero means there are fewer ways to lose on any given spin.
Additionally, some European tables include features not usually found in the American version. For example:
- La Partage: If zero lands, half the stake is returned on even-money bets. This reduces the average return to the house on those bets to around 1.35%.
- En Prison: Instead of losing straight away on zero, the stake is held for one more spin. If the next spin wins, the stake is returned.
These rules can make European tables more favourable for even-money bets, though they are not available everywhere.
Which Version of Roulette Offers Better Odds for Players?
The impact of the extra pocket becomes clear when you compare outcomes. For example, a selection on red has 18 favourable results out of 37 on a European wheel. That is about 48.65%. On an American wheel, it is 18 out of 38, or roughly 47.37%.
This pattern holds for all standard selections, from single numbers to columns and dozens. While the numbers do not change much between versions, the underlying likelihood of each outcome does.
Over time, this difference can add up. If you’re comparing tables, this can help guide which setup might suit you better.
Understanding Table Layouts and Betting Options
All roulette tables use a grid system next to the wheel. The layout shows the numbers 1 to 36, arranged in three columns and twelve rows. European layouts feature a single 0 at the top, while American layouts include both 0 and 00.
There are two main types of selection:
- Inside selections: These cover individual numbers or small groups. Examples include:
- Straight-up (a single number)
- Split (two adjacent numbers)
- Street (a row of three)
- Corner (a block of four)
- Line (six numbers across two rows)
- Outside selections: These include larger sets like red or black, odd or even, and high or low. These are found around the edge of the board and usually have more frequent hits but pay smaller multiples.
Some tables may list additional options, such as local rules or special selections. These guide how the game plays at that specific table, so it is worth checking before you join if you’re thinking of doing so.
Single Zero vs Double Zero Roulette – Which Is Better?
The single zero format gives a clearer path to better outcomes over time. The edge is smaller. If features like La Partage or En Prison are in play, even-money selections tend to keep more of the original stake involved in future spins.
That said, American roulette is still widely played. Some might choose it for its availability or simply because they are more familiar with the layout. It follows most of the same rules, just with that second green pocket added in.
Whichever version you consider, understanding the distinctions helps you make a more informed choice. And if you do decide to have a spin, remember to set limits, pace yourself, and treat it as entertainment rather than a way to make money.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.