European Roulette

Written by: Sadonna Price , Expert in Online Casinos and Poker

European roulette is typically the most sought-after version of the game. Due to its single green 0 pocket, it has better odds and a lower house edge than many of the other variants out there.

I’ll explain the game’s details, including the table layout, betting options, sites to play for real money, and what makes this specific variant my favorite choice.

Before going deep into the game, familiarize yourself with everything and test different strategies and betting methods.

Try this free European roulette version with no strings attached.

Table of Contents:

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European Roulette Basics

At its core, European roulette is all about where a little ball lands on a spinning wheel. The wheel has numbers 1-36, alternating between red and black, plus a single green zero pocket.

Each round involves players putting chips on the table to wager on spaces. The goal is that you wager on an area that corresponds to where the ball eventually lands.

Once the bets are in, either the software or the dealer spins the wheel and tosses the ball. All tables then automatically determine winners and payouts.

Are you new to the game of roulette and want to learn the basics?
You can learn more about the gameplay and types of bets in our How To Play Roulette Guide.

Wheel & Table Layout

The European Roulette wheel has a sequence of numbers from 0 to 36, which aren’t sequenced numerically.

By understanding the layout, you can make informed betting decisions by strategizing your gameplay. You can elevate your game even further by understanding how roulette’s odds and payouts work!

European Roulette Infographic

Best Casinos to Play European Roulette Online

European roulette is available in nearly every online casino. Myself and other experienced gamblers on the team deposit and gamble real money to help you pick only trusted sites.

Based on our firsthand research and experience, the table below lists the best casinos.

RANK ONLINE CASINO ROULETTE GAMES BONUS START
1 DuckyLuck Casino Logo DuckyLuck Casino ROULETTE GAMES 5 BONUS 500% up to $7,500 Play Now
2 Bovada Casino Logo Bovada Casino ROULETTE GAMES 6 BONUS 125% up to $3,750 Play Now
3 SlotsandCasino Logo SlotsandCasino ROULETTE GAMES 6 BONUS 500% up to $7,500 Play Now
4 BetUS Logo BetUS ROULETTE GAMES 8 BONUS 150% up to $3,000 Play Now
5 Cafe Casino Logo Cafe Casino ROULETTE GAMES 8 BONUS 350% up to $2,500 Play Now

Difference Between European and American Roulette

European Roulette Icon

Both European and American roulette are popular variations of a timeless casino game. The main difference is that European Roulette includes a single green zero and has only 37 pockets.

In contrast, the American version features an additional 00 segment, which brings its pocket total to 38. This seemingly minor difference can notably impact win rates over time.

For this reason, I recommend newbies stick to the European version. Below is a simplified comparison to better understand the differences between each variation.

Wheel Layout

  • European: Features 37 pockets. Numbers 1-36 and one green zero (0).
  • American: Features 38 pockets. Numbers 1-36, a green zero (0), and a green double zero (00).

House Edge

  • European: Approx. 2.70%, due to having fewer pockets than American roulette.
  • American: Approx. 5.26%, which is nearly double that of European roulette due to the additional double zero.

Special Rules

  • European: Offers the ‘En Prison‘ or ‘La Partage‘ rule in some casinos.
  • American: Typically doesn’t offer any additional rules outside of normal gameplay.

Ways to Play Online

You have two options to play European Roulette: the electrifying atmosphere of live dealer games or the swift, uninterrupted gameplay of the digital variation.

Single-player online roulette is an entertaining simulated game that uses a random number generator for results. Live streaming options use an actual wheel and ball to provide more authentic gameplay.

Both versions of European Roulette have their distinct advantages. Below, I explore what makes them unique to help you decide which experience aligns with your gaming preferences.

Live Dealer Games

Live roulette provides an authentic casino atmosphere where you play with other people, and a human dealer runs the show.

  • Realistic casino experience straight from your laptop or mobile.
  • Winnings depend on a real wheel and ball that is moving in real time somewhere in the world.
  • Live Casino games streamed in real-time with HD definition.
  • Availability to chat with a real croupier and sometimes other players.
  • A strong internet connection is required due to streaming.

Software-Based RNG Games

This is basic online roulette software without a human dealer. Most software providers have some version you can try.

  • High-quality graphics and an enjoyable gaming interface.
  • Winnings depend on the result of a random number generator.
  • Available 24/7 and can be played even with moderate internet.
  • No human interaction, just gameplay with the software.
  • Digital experience without a real croupier.

Why Is European Roulette My Favorite?

Live dealer roulette Icon

You might wonder why European roulette remains my favorite, as well as for other players. The answer is simple: the game offers a low house edge (2.70%), and there is no need to learn advanced strategies.

Many online casinos offer special house rules that halve the house edge to 1.35%. The combination of good odds and big potential payouts is hard to resist.

So, don’t wait. Grab your digital chips, pick your numbers, and let the ball decide your fate. Spin the wheel and remember, fortune favors the bold!

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions? I’ve got you covered. Check out some of the most common questions about European roulette.

Why is European roulette better than American roulette?

Since the house edge is lower, players have a better chance of winning at European roulette than at an American roulette table.

What does 0 pay in European roulette?

Like other single numbers, the zero space pays 35:1 at most tables.

Do I need a camera to play live dealer games?

No, you do not need a webcam to play live dealer casino games. You can see the action in the casinos, but the croupier only sees your screen name.

Sadonna Price

Sadonna Price Expert in Online Casinos and Poker

Sadonna is a gambling content writer and former professional poker player that loves using her creativity to provide insight into the most interesting aspects of the casino world.

Learn More About Sadonna