Roulette is a game of chance, so it’s crucial to understand the bet types and odds for each type. Knowing these will enable you to make smarter choices and improve your chances.
How to Calculate Roulette Payouts
The potential payout odds in roulette are stated in the form of x:1.
Note:You’ll win x dollars for every 1 dollar of your bet. For example, if a bet offers a 35:1 payout, you’ll get your bet back + $35 more.
Check the lowest risk wagers in the table. Outside bets are most recommended for beginners.
| Bets | Payouts | European roulette odds | American roulette odds |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red/Black/Odd/Even | 1:1 | 48.65% | 47.37% |
| Dozen | 2:1 | 32.4% | 31.6% |
Note:The highest payout bet is Straight Up. It pays 35:1.
Roulette Bet Types
There are two main types of bets: outside bets and inside bets. These options are available in every roulette game. See how they influence your potential payout in the tables below.
Inside Bets Explained
When betting on inside numbers in roulette, your odds vary depending on how many numbers you choose. These bets are riskier and less likely to win, but the payout is bigger.
| Bet Name | Definition | Payout | European roulette odds | American roulette odds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Straight Up | One single number | 35:1 | 2.7% | 2.6% |
| Split | Two connected numbers | 17:1 | 5.4% | 5.3% |
| Street | Three connected numbers vertically | 11:1 | 8.1% | 7.9% |
| Corner (or square) | Four connected numbers to form a square | 8:1 | 10.8% | 10.5% |
| Basket | Five numbers using the 0 and the 00 | 6:1 | N/A | 13.2% |
| 6-Line (or double street) | Six connected numbers vertically | 5:1 | 16.2% | 15.8% |
Outside Bets Explained
Outside bets cover a larger group of numbers, such as betting on red or black, or odd or even. They offer a higher chance of winning, but the payouts are smaller.
| Bet Name | Definition | Payout | European roulette odds | American roulette odds |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red/Black | Bet on all the Red or Black numbers | 1:1 | 48.65% | 47.37% |
| Odd/Even | Bet on all the Even or Odd numbers | 1:1 | 48.65% | 47.37% |
| Low/High | Low: grid of 1-18
High: grid of 19-36 |
1:1 | 48.65% | 47.37% |
| Column | Line of 12 numbers | 2:1 | 32.4% | 31.6% |
| Dozen | 1st, 2nd, or 3rd grid of 12 numbers | 2:1 | 32.4% | 31.6% |
Called Bets
There are also specific bets that are unique to French (European) roulette, They usually use their French names. A player vocalises these bets in casinos. They are made on a group of numbers based on their position on the roulette wheel and divided into two types: fixed (they remain constant) and variable (they can be adjusted according to the player’s preferences).
Note:They are for more advanced roulette options and aren’t included in most games.
Note:Some roulette tables have a special section called the racetrack designed for placing these bets.
Fixed Called Bets
| Bet Name | Definition | Odds | Payouts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neighbours of zero (Voisins du zéro) | It’s a 9-unit bet that covers 17 numbers from 22 to 25. | 45.95% | 1:16/1:10/1:1 |
| Thirds of the wheel (Le tiers du cylindre) | It’s a 6-unit bet that covers 12 numbers from 27 to 33. | 32.43% | 1:12 |
| Zero game (Jeu zéro) | Zero (0) itself and 6 numbers close to it (all numbers between 12 and 15). | 18.9% | 1:14/1:32 |
| Orphans (Orphelins) | It’s a 5-unit bet that covers eight numbers in total: 17, 34, 6, 9, 1, 20, 14, 31. | 21.62% | 1:31/1:13 |
Variable Called Bets
| Bet Name | Definition | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| Neighbours (Voisins) | A single number, as well as the two numbers on either side of your chosen number (five numbers in total). It covers 5 numbers. | 13.5% |
| Final (Finaal/Finale) | Individual numbers that end in the same digits, like 4, 14, 24, and 34. It covers 3 or 4 numbers. | 8.1%/10.8% |
How to Improve Your Roulette Odds
Roulette is a game of chance, so there is no way to influence the outcome. But the key is to understand the odds and have a clear strategy. Here’s what every player can do:
- Choose the right game: Understand the differences between roulette types. Opt for European roulette, which has a lower house edge.
- Know the odds: Learn the odds for different bets and use the grids.
- Start with outside bets: They offer better chances of winning and reduce risk.
- Use combinations bets: When more experienced, try these. They cost more but provide larger payouts in the long term.
- Stick to the strategy: Learn and use a roulette betting system.
Following these steps can help you make smarter bets and enjoy the game more.
