European roulette is one of the most elegant casino games you can play online. Simple rules, fast rounds, and a relatively low house edge make it perfect for players who want both excitement and a fair chance at steady returns. Compared to American roulette, the European version is mathematically friendlier, which is why experienced players usually prefer it.
This guide will walk you through how European roulette works, every type of bet you can make, and practical bankroll and strategy tips so you can play with confidence.
How European Roulette Works
Single Zero Wheel
European roulette uses a wheel with 37 pockets:
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Numbers 1 to 36 (alternating red and black)
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A single green pocket: 0
The presence of only one zero is what gives European roulette a lower house edge than American roulette, which has both 0 and 00.
Basic Round Flow
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You choose your bets and place chips on the table layout.
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The dealer (or auto wheel online) spins the ball in the opposite direction of the wheel.
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When the ball lands in a pocket, the number and color are announced.
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Winning bets are paid according to the paytable; losing bets are removed.
Because each spin is independent and random, past outcomes do not influence the next spin.
Types of Bets in European Roulette
European roulette offers two main categories: inside bets and outside bets. Inside bets target specific numbers or small groups; outside bets cover larger sections of the table.
Inside Bets (Higher Risk, Higher Payouts)
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Straight Up
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Bet on a single number (including 0).
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Payout: 35 to 1
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Split
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Bet on two adjacent numbers (for example, 14 and 17).
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Payout: 17 to 1
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Street
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Bet on a row of three numbers (such as 7, 8, 9).
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Payout: 11 to 1
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Corner (Square)
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Bet on four numbers that touch at a corner on the layout.
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Payout: 8 to 1
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Line (Six Line)
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Bet on two adjacent streets, covering six numbers.
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Payout: 5 to 1
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These bets are more volatile but can deliver significant wins when the ball lands correctly.
Outside Bets (Lower Risk, Lower Payouts)
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Red or Black
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Bet on the color of the winning number.
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Payout: 1 to 1
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Odd or Even
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Bet on whether the number is odd or even.
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Payout: 1 to 1
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Low or High (1–18 / 19–36)
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Bet on the half of the number range.
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Payout: 1 to 1
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Dozens (1–12, 13–24, 25–36)
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Bet on any group of twelve numbers.
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Payout: 2 to 1
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Columns
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Bet on one of the three vertical columns of twelve numbers.
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Payout: 2 to 1
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Outside bets give you a much higher chance of winning each spin, which is why they are ideal for beginners and for players who prefer a steadier pace.
House Edge and Why European Roulette Is Better
Because there is only one zero pocket, the house edge in European roulette is about 2.7 percent. That means over a very long time, the casino expects to keep 2.7 percent of all bets.
In American roulette, the extra 00 pocket raises the house edge to around 5.26 percent. This difference significantly impacts long-term results, which is why choosing European roulette over American is one of the easiest “wins” you can give yourself.
Simple, Practical Strategies for European Roulette
There is no system that can beat the wheel in the long run, because every spin is random. However, you can still play in a way that protects your bankroll and maximizes your chances of walking away ahead.
1. Focus on Outside Bets for Stability
If you want longer sessions and smoother swings:
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Prioritize Red/Black, Odd/Even, and Low/High.
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Mix in Dozens or Columns if you want slightly higher payouts with a reasonable hit rate.
This does not change the house edge, but it does reduce variance and helps you stay in the game longer.
2. Avoid Chasing Losses with Progression Systems
Systems like Martingale (doubling after each loss) look attractive on paper, but in reality:
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They quickly require very large bets.
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You can hit table limits or run out of bankroll before recovering.
Use a flat betting style instead: keep your unit size consistent and increase only when you reach a profit goal, not after a loss.
3. Combine Bets for Custom Risk Levels
You can shape your own risk profile by combining bets, for example:
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One unit on Red (outside bet).
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Plus small straight-up bets on your “lucky numbers”.
This way, you have frequent small returns from Red, while occasionally taking a shot at big payouts on specific numbers.
Bankroll Management for European Roulette
Good bankroll control is more important than any betting pattern.
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Set a Session Budget
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Decide how much you are willing to lose before you start.
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Treat it as the cost of entertainment.
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Choose a Reasonable Unit Size
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A common guideline is to use 1–2 percent of your total bankroll as a base bet.
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Example: For a bankroll of 200 units, bet 2–4 units per spin.
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Set Win and Loss Limits
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Loss limit: stop if you lose a predefined amount (for example, half your session budget).
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Win goal: when you reach a target profit, lock in your win by cashing out or stepping away.
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This disciplined approach prevents emotional decisions and helps you keep control, even when the wheel is not going your way.
Live European Roulette vs RNG Roulette
Online casinos usually offer two main versions:
RNG (Computerized) European Roulette
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Spins are controlled by a certified Random Number Generator.
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Faster rounds, available 24/7.
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Great for quick sessions and low minimum bets.
Live Dealer European Roulette
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Real wheel and real dealer streamed from a studio.
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More immersive and social.
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Often has slightly higher minimum bets but a realistic casino feel.
Both versions use the same basic rules and house edge, so choose based on your preferred experience and budget.
Responsible Gaming
European roulette should always remain fun, not stressful. Keep these principles in mind:
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Never gamble with money you cannot afford to lose.
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Do not play while angry, tired, or under the influence.
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Take regular breaks to avoid impulsive bets.
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Use deposit and time limits if they are available at your casino.
If you ever feel that you are losing control, stop playing and seek professional support.
Conclusion
The European roulette casino game blends simplicity, style, and a relatively low house edge into one of the most attractive options for online players. By understanding the wheel, using smart bet selection, and applying solid bankroll management, you give yourself the best chance of enjoying the game and protecting your balance.
You cannot control where the ball lands—but you can control how you bet, when you quit, and which version of roulette you choose. That is where real long-term success starts.
