The Differences Between American, European, and French Roulette

Roulette is one of the most exciting and iconic casino games in the world. Whether you’re playing in a luxurious casino in Monte Carlo or spinning the wheel online, you’ve likely seen different versions of the game.

The three most popular types are American, European, and French Roulette. While they may look similar at first glance, they have important differences that can affect your chances of winning.

In this article, we’ll break down the rules, odds, layouts, and house edge of each version—so you can decide which one is best for you.

Wheel Layout and Number of Zeros

The biggest difference between the three roulette types lies in the number of zeros on the wheel.

 American Roulette

• Contains 38 pockets: numbers 1 to 36, a single zero (0), and a double zero (00).

• The extra 00 gives the house a greater advantage.

 European Roulette

• Has 37 pockets: numbers 1 to 36 and a single zero (0).

• No double zero, which slightly improves your odds.

French Roulette

• Also has 37 pockets, just like European roulette.

• The layout is similar to European, but the rules and betting options differ slightly (more on that below).

House Edge

The house edge is the casino’s built-in advantage. The lower the house edge, the better it is for the player.

American Roulette:

• House edge: 5.26%

• This is because of the two zeros (0 and 00).

European Roulette:

• House edge: 2.7%

• Better odds for players due to only one zero.

French Roulette:

• House edge: 1.35% (on even-money bets)

• Thanks to special rules like La Partage or En Prison, the house edge drops even more.

Special Rules

French Roulette comes with unique rules that can lower your losses, especially on even-money bets.

En Prison Rule:

• If you place an even-money bet (like red/black or odd/even) and the ball lands on 0, your bet is “imprisoned.”

• You don’t lose your bet immediately. Instead, it stays on the table for the next spin.

• If you win the next spin, you get your original bet back.

La Partage Rule:

• If you place an even-money bet and the ball lands on 0, you lose only half of your bet.

• The casino keeps the other half.

Note: These rules don’t exist in American or European roulette.

Table Layout and Bet Names

American Roulette:

• The layout includes a section for 0 and 00 at the top.

• The betting area is often slightly more spread out.

European Roulette:

• Has only one 0 at the top.

• Bets like “dozen”, “column”, and “even/odd” are clearly marked.

French Roulette:

• The layout is labeled in French.

• Some of the bets may be unfamiliar at first, like:

  • Manque (low numbers: 1–18)

  • Passe (high numbers: 19–36)

  • Pair/Impair (even/odd)

• Offers “Call Bets” or “Announced Bets”, which are specific bets on number sections of the wheel (usually for more advanced players).

Which One Should You Play?

Here’s a quick summary to help you choose:

Verdict:

• Avoid American roulette if you can. The extra 00 gives the casino a bigger edge.

• European roulette is a solid choice with better odds.

• French roulette is the best option for serious players who want the lowest house edge—especially if you like betting on red/black or odd/even.

Where to Find These Games

• American Roulette is common in casinos across the United States and parts of the Caribbean.

• European Roulette is the most widely found version, both online and in international casinos.

• French Roulette is often available in high-end European casinos and some online platforms, but it’s less common overall.

Final Thoughts

Roulette may seem like a simple game of chance, but choosing the right version can make a big difference in your odds. While all three types have their charm, European and French roulette clearly offer better value for your money due to lower house edges and player-friendly rules.

So next time you spin the wheel, remember: less zero means more chances for you to win.