What’s the difference between American and European Roulette?

There is only one major difference between American and European roulette: the number of zeros. The American wheel has two green spaces (0 and 00) on top of the regular numbers (1 through 36), whereas the European wheel has just one (the single zero). That means that the advantage of the house is 2.7% on a European wheel and twice as much – 5.26% – on an American wheel. In other words, your chances of success at American-style roulette are about half as good as they are for European-style roulette. A professional gambler would always choose European roulette, because every extra opportunity to win counts. Besides, besides having fewer zeros, European roulette also has another rule known as “en prison” that favors players.

Only the zeros differ: American Roulette has two – 0 and 00 – whereas European has only one. That increases the house’s advantage over players (from 2.7% to 5.26%), and decreases their chances of winning on any given bet. So if you want more favorable odds, pick the European option. In fact, if you prefer low odds and a more favorable house advantage, select the European version. As for me, I like the speedier pace of American Roulette and the added betting opportunities it provides. It all comes down to personal taste and risk appetite.