European vs American Roulette: Why That Extra Zero Costs You £2.50 Per £100
European vs American Roulette: Why the Single Zero Matters
When I first started playing roulette professionally, the difference between European and American variants seemed trivial—just one extra green pocket. However, after analysing thousands of spins and calculating the mathematical implications, I can tell you that this single additional zero fundamentally changes the game's profitability. Understanding these differences isn't just academic; it's the difference between losing £2.70 and £5.26 for every £100 you wager.
The Fundamental Difference: Wheel Layout and House Edge
The core distinction between European and American roulette lies in the number of zero pockets. European roulette features 37 pockets: numbers 1-36 plus a single zero (0). American roulette has 38 pockets: numbers 1-36, a single zero (0), and a double zero (00).
This seemingly minor addition creates a substantial mathematical advantage for the house. European roulette maintains a house edge of 2.70%, while American roulette jumps to 5.26%—nearly double the casino's advantage.
Calculating the House Edge
Let's examine how this works mathematically. When you place a straight-up bet (single number) in European roulette:
- Probability of winning: 1/37 = 2.703%
- Probability of losing: 36/37 = 97.297%
- Payout: 35:1
- Expected value: (1/37 × 35) - (36/37 × 1) = -0.027 or -2.70%
For American roulette with the same bet:
- Probability of winning: 1/38 = 2.632%
- Probability of losing: 37/38 = 97.368%
- Payout: 35:1
- Expected value: (1/38 × 35) - (37/38 × 1) = -0.0526 or -5.26%
How the Extra Zero Increases Your Losses
The mathematics behind the increased house edge reveals exactly how that extra zero pocket affects your bankroll. When the American wheel added the double zero, it increased the total number of possible outcomes without adjusting the payouts proportionally.
Consider an even-money bet like red/black. In European roulette, you have 18 winning numbers out of 37 total, giving you a 48.65% chance of winning. In American roulette, you still have 18 winning numbers, but now out of 38 total, reducing your winning probability to 47.37%.
Over time, this difference compounds significantly. If you place £100 in even-money bets:
- European roulette expected loss: £100 × 2.70% = £2.70
- American roulette expected loss: £100 × 5.26% = £5.26
The extra zero costs you an additional £2.56 per £100 wagered—a 95% increase in expected losses.
Special European Rules: La Partage and En Prison
European roulette often includes special rules that further reduce the house edge on even-money bets, making it even more attractive than the standard calculations suggest.
La Partage Rule
Under La Partage, when the ball lands on zero, players lose only half their stake on even-money bets (red/black, odd/even, high/low). This rule reduces the house edge on these bets to just 1.35%.
En Prison Rule
The En Prison rule offers an alternative when zero appears. Instead of losing your even-money bet, it becomes "imprisoned" for the next spin. If your bet wins on the subsequent spin, you retrieve your original stake (without additional winnings). If it loses, the casino takes the bet.
Both rules significantly improve your odds on even-money bets, though unfortunately, they're not available at all European roulette tables. When shopping for games, always seek out tables offering these player-friendly rules.
Complete Betting Odds Comparison
Here's a comprehensive breakdown of all bet types and their respective odds in both variants:
| Bet Type | European Odds | American Odds | Payout | European House Edge | American House Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Straight Up (Single Number) | 36:1 | 37:1 | 35:1 | 2.70% | 5.26% |
| Split (Two Numbers) | 17.5:1 | 18:1 | 17:1 | 2.70% | 5.26% |
| Street (Three Numbers) | 11.33:1 | 11.67:1 | 11:1 | 2.70% | 5.26% |
| Corner (Four Numbers) | 8.25:1 | 8.5:1 | 8:1 | 2.70% | 5.26% |
| Five Number (0,00,1,2,3)* | N/A | 6.6:1 | 6:1 | N/A | 7.89% |
| Six Line (Six Numbers) | 5.17:1 | 5.33:1 | 5:1 | 2.70% | 5.26% |
| Dozen/Column | 1.08:1 | 1.16:1 | 2:1 | 2.70% | 5.26% |
| Even Money Bets | 1.055:1 | 1.11:1 | 1:1 | 2.70% | 5.26% |
*The five-number bet is only available in American roulette and represents the worst bet on the table with a 7.89% house edge.
Expected Loss Per £100 Wagered
To put these percentages into concrete terms, here's what you can expect to lose per £100 wagered over the long term:
- European roulette (standard): £2.70
- European roulette (with La Partage/En Prison on even-money bets): £1.35 on even-money bets, £2.70 on others
- American roulette: £5.26
- American five-number bet: £7.89
These figures represent theoretical expectations over infinite play. In shorter sessions, variance will create significant deviations from these numbers, but the mathematical advantage remains constant.
Why European Roulette Should Always Be Your Choice
The evidence overwhelmingly favours European roulette for several compelling reasons:
Lower house edge: At 2.70% versus 5.26%, European roulette offers significantly better odds on every bet except the unique American five-number wager (which you should avoid entirely).
Better long-term value: Over extended play, the difference becomes substantial. A player wagering £10,000 over time can expect to save approximately £256 by choosing European over American roulette.
Special rules availability: European tables may offer La Partage or En Prison rules, further reducing the house edge on even-money bets to an excellent 1.35%.
No terrible bets: American roulette includes the five-number bet with its appalling 7.89% house edge—a trap that doesn't exist in European roulette.
From a strategic standpoint, there's simply no mathematical justification for choosing American roulette when European variants are available. The extra zero provides no benefit to players while substantially increasing the casino's advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do the better odds in European roulette mean I'm more likely to win individual bets?
Yes, but only marginally. On even-money bets, your winning probability increases from 47.37% (American) to 48.65% (European). Whilst this seems small, it compounds significantly over time and reduces the house edge by nearly half.
Are the payouts different between European and American roulette?
No, the payouts are identical for equivalent bets. The difference lies in the probability of winning due to the additional zero pocket in American roulette. This is precisely why the house edge increases—you're paid the same amount for lower odds of winning.
Can I find European roulette in all UK casinos?
Most reputable UK casinos offer European roulette, and many exclusively feature European variants. However, some may offer both types. Always check the wheel before playing and specifically seek out European tables, particularly those offering La Partage or En Prison rules.
How much difference does the house edge make in a single session?
In short sessions, variance dominates and you might not notice the difference. However, over longer play periods or multiple sessions, the mathematical advantage becomes apparent. Even in a single session, you're mathematically better positioned with European roulette's superior odds.
Is it worth travelling to find a European roulette table instead of playing American?
Absolutely. The difference in house edge is substantial enough to justify seeking out European tables. If you're planning to wager significant amounts, the improved odds will save you money in the long term, making any additional effort worthwhile.
About the Author
Professional poker player turned strategy writer. Specialises in casino game mathematics, roulette systems, and blackjack card counting.