Roulette Odds, Payouts & Probability Explained

Ready to up your roulette game? I’m here to guide you. Mastering roulette odds and probability isn’t just for seasoned players – it’s the key to transforming your gameplay. So, why is the house edge in roulette such a big deal? Simply put, it’s the casino’s secret weapon, dictating how much they make from bets. 

Don’t worry, though. We’re about to dig deep, uncovering the nitty-gritty of odds, payouts, and probabilities in roulette. By the end of this, you’ll be equipped with knowledge that could tip the scales in your favor. Let’s break down this casino classic together in this comprehensive guide.

What are the Odds in Roulette?

How odds work in casino games

In casino games, odds represent the likelihood of an outcome happening, usually expressed as a ratio. In roulette, odds determine the payouts for bets. Better odds of winning result in lower payouts. For instance, in European roulette, the odds of hitting a single number are 1 in 37, equating to a 2.7% chance of winning. However, betting on red or black increases the odds of winning to approximately 48.6%.

The concept of the house edge in roulette

House edge is the casino’s advantage over players, representing a percentage of each bet the casino expects to keep as profit. In roulette, the house edge comes from the presence of the green zero (or double zero in American roulette) on the wheel, skewing the odds in favor of the casino. European roulette has a house edge of 2.7%, while American roulette has a house edge of 5.26%.

How to Calculate Roulette Payouts

Understanding the roulette table layout

The roulette table layout consists of inside and outside sections. The inside features individual numbers from 0 (and 00 in American roulette) to 36, while the outside offers additional betting options. Understanding the layout helps identify different bet types and calculate payouts.

The step-by-step process of calculating payouts

To calculate a roulette payout:

1. Determine the odds of winning for the specific bet type.

2. Divide the total number of possible outcomes (37 for European roulette, 38 for American roulette) by the odds of winning.

3. Subtract one from the result to account for the original wager.

4. Multiply the remaining value by the amount wagered to determine the payout.

For example, calculating the payout for a single number bet in European roulette involves dividing 37 by 1, subtracting 1, and multiplying the result by the wager.

European vs. American roulette payout differences

The double zero on the American wheel increases the house edge and affects the odds and payouts for bets. For instance, the odds of hitting a single number in European roulette are 1 in 37, resulting in a 35 to 1 payout. The odds in American roulette are 1 in 38, but the payout remains 35 to 1. This difference highlights the advantage of playing European roulette, which offers better odds and a lower house edge.

Inside bets – how do the odds differ?

Inside bets in roulette involve betting on individual numbers or small groups of numbers on the roulette table. These bets typically offer higher payouts but have lower odds of winning than outside bets. Each type of inside bet has different odds and potential payouts, which will be discussed in more detail below.

1. Straight-up bet

A straight-up bet is when a player places their bet on a single number on the roulette table. This type of bet has the lowest odds of winning but offers the highest potential payout. The odds of winning a straight-up bet in European roulette are 1 in 37 (2.70%), while in American roulette, the odds are 1 in 38 (2.63%). The payout for a winning straight-up bet in both versions of the game is 35 to 1. If a player bets $1 on a single number and wins, they will receive $35 in winnings plus their original $1 bet, totaling $36.

2. Split bet

A split bet is when a player places their bet on two adjacent numbers on the roulette table. This bet is made by placing the chips on the line that separates the two numbers. The odds of winning a split bet in European roulette are 2 in 37 (5.41%), and in American roulette, they are 2 in 38 (5.26%). The payout for a winning split bet is 17 to 1 in both game versions. If a player bets $1 on a split bet and wins, they will receive $17 in winnings plus their initial $1 bet, totaling $18.

3. Street bet

A street bet covers three consecutive numbers in a horizontal row on the roulette table. To place a street bet, the player puts their chips on the outer edge of the row they want to bet on. The odds of winning a street bet in European roulette are 3 in 37 (8.11%), while in American roulette, the odds are 3 in 38 (7.89%). The payout for a winning street bet is 11 to 1 in both game versions. If a player bets $1 on a street bet and wins, they will receive $11 in winnings plus their original $1 bet, totaling $12.

4. Corner bet

A corner bet covers four numbers that form a square on the roulette table. The player places their chips at the intersection of the four numbers to make this bet. The odds of winning a corner bet in European roulette are 4 in 37 (10.81%), and in American roulette, they are 4 in 38 (10.53%). The payout for a winning corner bet is 8 to 1 in both game versions. If a player bets $1 on a corner bet and wins, they will receive $8 in winnings plus their initial $1 bet, totaling $9.

5. Line bet

A line bet covers two adjacent rows of three numbers each, totaling six numbers. To place a line bet, the player puts their chips on the outer edge of the two rows they want to bet on. The odds of winning a line bet in European roulette are 6 in 37 (16.22%), while in American roulette, the odds are 6 in 38 (15.79%). The payout for a winning line bet is 5 to 1 in both game versions. If a player bets $1 on a line bet and wins, they will receive $5 in winnings plus their original $1 bet, totaling $6.

In conclusion, inside bets offer higher payouts but lower odds of winning. Players who prefer riskier bets with larger potential rewards may opt for inside bets, while more conservative players may choose outside bets with better odds and lower payouts.

Outside bets – how do the odds differ?

Outside bets in roulette involve betting on larger groups of numbers or specific attributes of the numbers on the roulette table. These bets offer better winning odds than inside bets but have lower potential payouts. Understanding the odds and payouts of each type of outside bet can help players make informed decisions about their betting strategy.

1. Column bet

A column bet covers all 12 numbers in one of the three vertical columns on the roulette table. To place a column bet, the player places their chips at the bottom of the desired column in the designated betting area. The odds of winning a column bet in European roulette are 12 in 37 (32.43%), while in American roulette, the odds are 12 in 38 (31.58%). The payout for a winning column bet is 2 to 1 in both game versions. If a player bets $1 on a column bet and wins, they will receive $2 in winnings plus their original $1 bet, totaling $3.

2. Dozen bet

A dozen bet is similar to a column bet but covers three sets of 12 numbers instead: 1-12, 13-24, or 25-36. The player places their chips in the designated betting area for the dozen they want to bet on. The odds of winning a dozen bets in European roulette are 12 in 37 (32.43%), and in American roulette, they are 12 in 38 (31.58%). The payout for a winning dozen bet is 2 to 1 in both game versions. If a player bets $1 on a dozen bets and wins, they will receive $2 in winnings plus their original $1 bet, totaling $3.

3. Even-money bet (Red/Black, Odd/Even, High/Low)

Even-money bets cover half the numbers on the roulette table, excluding the zero(s). These bets are popular among players because they offer the highest odds of winning among all roulette bets. There are three types of even-money bets: Red/Black, Odd/Even, and High/Low.

Red/Black bets cover all red or black numbers on the table. Odd/Even bets cover all odd or even numbers, while High/Low bets cover either the numbers 1-18 (low) or 19-36 (high).

In European roulette, the odds of winning an even-money bet are 18 in 37 (48.65%), while in American roulette, the odds are 18 in 38 (47.37%). The payout for a winning even-money bet is 1 to 1 in both game versions. If a player bets $1 on an even-money bet and wins, they will receive $1 in winnings plus their original $1 bet, totaling $2.

So to sum it up, outside bets offer better odds of winning but lower potential payouts compared to inside bets. Players who prefer more conservative bets with a higher probability of winning may choose outside bets, while those seeking higher payouts and are willing to risk lower odds of winning may opt for inside bets.

Improve Your Odds at Roulette

Choosing the right type of roulette game

Improving your odds in roulette begins with selecting the right type of roulette game. As mentioned earlier, European roulette offers better odds and a lower house edge compared to American roulette. By choosing European roulette, you’re more likely to experience better chances of winning, as the absence of the double zero reduces the casino’s advantage.

Employing betting strategies and systems

While no betting strategy guarantees success, employing systems can help manage your bets and potentially improve your odds of winning. Some popular roulette betting strategies include the Martingale, Reverse Martingale, D’Alembert, and Fibonacci systems. These methods often involve adjusting your bet size based on previous outcomes or a specific pattern. However, it’s crucial to remember that roulette remains a game of chance, and no strategy can overcome the house edge entirely. Employ betting strategies as a way to manage your bankroll, but maintain realistic expectations of winning in the long run.

Bankroll management

Bankroll management is a vital aspect of playing roulette and improving your odds. By setting limits on the amount you’re willing to spend and establishing a loss threshold, you can reduce the risk of losing substantial amounts of money. This practice also enables you to extend your playing time and maintain a clear mindset while playing, which can contribute to making better decisions when placing bets. Maintain a disciplined approach to your bankroll, and avoid chasing losses, as this can lead to even greater losses.

Best Casinos for Online Roulette

Now that you’re aware of the benefits of playing roulette online, you may be wondering where to find the best platforms for the game. Here you can find a curated selection of the best online casinos for roulette:

These casinos offer a variety of roulette games, excellent bonuses, and promotions, as well as top-notch customer support and secure payment options. By choosing one of these recommended platforms, you can enjoy an enjoyable and potentially rewarding online roulette experience. Check out the link for more information, and start playing roulette online today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Roulette Odds