European roulette and Las Vegas roulette are two of the most recognisable versions of the game, but there is one major difference: the number of zero pockets on the wheel.
European roulette normally uses a single zero, while the traditional Las Vegas version uses both 0 and 00. That extra pocket changes the mathematical odds and gives the casino a higher house edge.
The basic gameplay remains similar, but understanding the differences can help players identify which roulette variant they are playing.
What Is European Roulette?
European roulette is the single-zero version of roulette.
Its wheel contains 37 pockets: numbers 1 through 36 and one 0 pocket. The numbers are divided between red and black, while the zero is green.
Players can place a range of inside and outside bets, including bets on individual numbers, colours, odd or even numbers and groups of numbers.
The single zero is the key feature that distinguishes European roulette from the traditional double-zero version.
What Is Las Vegas Roulette?
Las Vegas roulette traditionally refers to the American-style double-zero roulette commonly associated with casinos in the United States.
The wheel contains 38 pockets:
- Numbers 1 to 36
- One 0
- One 00
Both 0 and 00 are green, while the other pockets are red or black.
The additional 00 pocket increases the mathematical advantage held by the casino.
How Many Numbers Are on Each Wheel?
How Many Numbers Are on Each Wheel
The number of pockets is one of the easiest ways to identify the two versions.
European Roulette Wheel
A European wheel has 37 pockets in total.
There are 36 numbered pockets plus the single green 0.
Because there are fewer pockets, an individual number has a slightly higher probability of appearing than it does on a double-zero wheel.
Las Vegas Roulette Wheel
The traditional Las Vegas-style wheel has 38 pockets.
It contains the same 36 numbered pockets but adds both 0 and 00.
The extra pocket reduces the probability of hitting any particular number and increases the house edge on standard bets.
Do Payouts Differ Between European and Las Vegas Roulette?
Standard roulette payouts are generally the same for comparable bets.
For example, a straight-up bet on a single number typically pays 35 to 1 in both versions.
The important difference is not the payout itself but the probability of winning.
On a single-zero wheel, there are 37 possible pockets. On a double-zero wheel, there are 38.
As a result, the same advertised payout produces different expected returns between the two games.
European Roulette vs Las Vegas Roulette: What to Remember
European and Las Vegas roulette use the same basic concept, but their wheels are not mathematically identical.
European roulette normally has one zero and 37 pockets, producing a standard house edge of about 2.70%. Traditional Las Vegas roulette has both 0 and 00, giving it 38 pockets and a standard house edge of about 5.26%.
For players comparing the two, the number of zero pockets is the most important detail to check.
Neither version offers a guaranteed way to win, and previous spins do not determine future outcomes. Roulette should be treated as a game of chance, with bets kept within limits that are affordable.
FAQs
What is the main difference between European and Las Vegas roulette?
What is the main difference between European and Las Vegas roulette
European roulette normally has one zero, while traditional Las Vegas roulette has both 0 and 00. The additional pocket gives the American-style game a higher house edge.
Which has better odds, European or Las Vegas roulette?
European roulette has better mathematical odds for players because its standard house edge is lower. European roulette typically has a 2.70% house edge compared with about 5.26% for traditional double-zero roulette.
How many numbers are on a European roulette wheel?
A European roulette wheel has 37 pockets: numbers 1 through 36 plus one green 0.
How many numbers are on a Las Vegas roulette wheel?
Traditional Las Vegas-style roulette has 38 pockets: numbers 1 through 36, 0 and 00.
Does Las Vegas roulette pay more than European roulette?
Standard payouts for comparable bets are generally the same. The difference comes from the number of pockets, which changes the probability of winning and therefore the house edge.
Why does the 00 make American roulette worse for players?
The 00 creates an additional outcome that loses on most standard outside bets. This increases the casino's mathematical advantage without increasing the standard payout proportionally.
Is European roulette always the best roulette option?
Not necessarily. Players should check the specific rules of each game. Some single-zero tables may offer additional rules, such as La Partage, that can further affect the house edge on qualifying bets.
Is Las Vegas roulette the same as American roulette?
Traditional Las Vegas roulette is generally the American-style double-zero version, featuring both 0 and 00. However, players should always check the actual table rules.
