Roulette Betting Options

Last updated: 2025-12-26

Roulette is one of the most well-known table games among casino games. The player places a bet on the table and the round’s result is determined by which number the roulette wheel’s ball lands on. In roulette, betting methods are often divided into two main groups: outside bets, where win probability is relatively higher but payout ratio lower, and inside bets, where hit probability is lower but payout ratio higher.

This guide describes the most common roulette betting options and their typical payout ratios and probabilities in European and American roulette. General background on the topic can also be found on the roulette page.

Basic Roulette Concepts

Roulette probabilities depend primarily on how many zeros are in the game.

Generally speaking, adding a second zero decreases individual bets’ hit probabilities. Content covering roulette results and betting can also be found on the play roulette with real money page (note: content may cover playing more broadly, but this article focuses on rules and probabilities).

Most Common Outside Bets

Outside bets (outside bets) are placed on the table’s edge areas. They cover a large set of numbers, so hit probability is higher compared to individual numbers. In return, payout ratio is typically lower.

Black or Red

In this bet, you choose whether the winning number is black or red. Zero (and in American roulette also 00) does not belong to either color, so it loses the color bet.

Even or Odd

The player chooses whether the winning number is even or odd. Zero and 00 (if in use) are neither even nor odd, so they lose the bet.

• Payout Ratio 1:1
• European Roulette 48.6%
• American Roulette 46.37%

Small or Large

In this bet, you choose the number range 1–18 (small) or 19–36 (large). Zero and 00 do not belong to either range.

• Payout Ratio 1:1
• European Roulette 48.6%
• American Roulette 46.37%

General practical considerations about betting and game routines can also be found on the online casino tips for beginners page (neutral approach varies by article).

Inside Bets

Inside bets (inside bets) are placed on the number area. They can target one or more numbers depending on where on the table the bet is placed. The payout ratios below are roulette’s established basic payouts.

One Number

A single number bet (straight up) is placed directly on an individual number.

• Win Ratio 35:1
• European Roulette 2.7% (1/37)
• American Roulette 2.63% (1/38)

Two Numbers

A two-number bet (split) is placed on the border between two adjacent numbers.

• Win Ratio 17:1
• European Roulette 5.4% (2/37)
• American Roulette 5.26% (2/38)

Four Numbers

A four-number bet (corner) is placed at the intersection of four numbers, covering all four numbers.

• Win Ratio 8:1
• European Roulette 10.8% (4/37)
• American Roulette 10.53% (4/38)

Broader Bets and Group Wagers

Column Bet

A column bet (column) targets one vertical column containing 12 numbers.

• Win Ratio 2:1
• European Roulette 32.4% (12/37)
• American Roulette 31.5% (12/38)

Dozen

A dozen bet (dozen) targets one of three number ranges: 1–12, 13–24, or 25–36.

• Win Ratio 2:1
• European Roulette 32.4% (12/37)
• American Roulette 31.5% (12/38)

Probabilities and Expected Value in Practice

In roulette, a single bet’s expected value depends on the game version and number of zeros. In two-zero roulette, the same bet type hits on average less often than in one-zero roulette. This is also visible in outside bets, where hit probabilities are 18/37 and 18/38.

If the topic interests you more broadly, roulette risk management and game discipline principles are also covered in the article four-step strategy for safe online roulette. Additionally, there is a general overview of live game implementations and dealer games on the live casino dealers page.

Live Roulette and Game Formats

Roulette is typically offered in two formats: as a random number generator-based digital version and as a live version where the result is determined by a physical wheel and ball. In live roulette, the player sees the round’s progress through video, and the interface handles bet placement and result calculation.

Some game versions may have additional rules or different bet options. Therefore, it is common to check the game’s rules and payout table before betting. General principles related to payments and security practices are covered in the article secure payment methods at online casinos.

Summary of Betting Options

Roulette betting options can be summarized as follows: outside bets offer higher hit probability and 1:1 payouts, while inside bets can offer higher payout ratios with lower hit probability. Differences between European and American roulette relate especially to the number of zeros, which affects probabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference in probabilities between European and American roulette

The difference comes from the number of zeros. European roulette has 37 pockets (0–36), while American has 38 (0–36 and 00). For example, a color bet’s hit probability is 18/37 or 48.6% in European and 18/38 or 46.37% in American roulette.

How is the payout ratio 35:1 interpreted for a single number bet

35:1 means the win is 35 times the bet in addition to the bet. Practices may vary in the interface, but roulette’s standard payout for a single number bet is 35:1.

Why does zero affect outside bets

Zero does not belong to colors, even or odd numbers, or number ranges 1–18 and 19–36. Therefore, when zero hits, outside bets lose, which decreases hit probability compared to a situation without zero.

Where can you see what bets a particular roulette table supports

Information is usually found in the game’s rules section and payout table. They list supported bet types, bet limits, and possible special rules (for example, special tables or modified roulettes).