Roulette is one of the most iconic and widely played casino games, both online and in land-based venues. Its simple premise-a spinning wheel, a bouncing ball, and a series of betting options-makes it appealing to beginners and experienced gamblers alike. Yet, with so many ways to place your chips on the table, many players wonder: what’s the best bet to make in roulette? This article explores the subject in depth, providing practical guidance for UK players looking to make informed choices at the wheel.
For those interested in exploring a wider range of gaming options, including casinos not on gamstop, understanding the fundamentals of roulette betting is crucial. Whether you’re playing at a traditional casino or online, the principles remain consistent.
Understanding the Basics of Roulette Bets
Before diving into the best bets, it’s essential to understand the types of wagers available in roulette. The layout of the table and the design of the wheel influence your options and the associated odds.
Inside Bets
Inside bets are placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers on the roulette grid. These bets generally offer higher payouts but come with lower odds of winning. Common inside bets include:
- Straight Up: Betting on a single number (pays 35 to 1)
- Split: Betting on two adjacent numbers (pays 17 to 1)
- Street: Betting on three numbers in a row (pays 11 to 1)
- Corner: Betting on four numbers that meet at one corner (pays 8 to 1)
- Six Line: Betting on two adjacent rows (pays 5 to 1)
Outside Bets
Outside bets cover larger groups of numbers and offer lower payouts but higher chances of winning. These bets are often recommended for those who prefer a steadier approach. Typical outside bets include:
- Red or Black: Betting on the colour of the winning number (pays 1 to 1)
- Odd or Even: Betting on whether the number will be odd or even (pays 1 to 1)
- High or Low: Betting on 1-18 or 19-36 (pays 1 to 1)
- Dozens: Betting on one of three groups of twelve numbers (pays 2 to 1)
- Columns: Betting on one of three columns of numbers (pays 2 to 1)
The House Edge: European vs. American Roulette
One of the most significant factors affecting your chances in roulette is the version of the game you choose. European roulette features a single zero, while American roulette has both a single and a double zero. This difference impacts the house edge:
- European Roulette: House edge is 2.7%
- American Roulette: House edge is 5.26%
For UK players, European roulette is almost always the better choice. The lower house edge means your bets have a slightly better chance of yielding returns over the long term.
What Makes a Bet the “Best” in Roulette?
Determining the best bet in roulette depends on your goals and playing style. Some players prioritise frequent, smaller wins, while others seek the excitement of big payouts. To evaluate what’s best, consider:
- Probability of Winning: How likely is the bet to succeed?
- Payout Ratio: What do you stand to win if your bet comes in?
- Risk Level: Are you comfortable with the variance?
- Bankroll Management: How does the bet fit your budget?
The Best Bets for Consistency: Even Money Bets
For most players, especially those new to roulette or looking for a balanced approach, even money bets are widely considered the best option. These include Red/Black, Odd/Even, and High/Low. Here’s why:
High Probability, Lower Risk
Even money bets cover 18 of the 37 numbers on a European wheel (or 18 of 38 on an American wheel). This means you have just under a 50% chance of winning each spin, making these bets the most consistent in terms of returns.
Ideal for Bankroll Longevity
Because you’re more likely to win these bets in the short term, your bankroll tends to last longer, allowing for more spins and extended play. This is particularly important if you enjoy the social aspect or entertainment value of roulette.
Simple to Understand
Even money bets are straightforward and don’t require complex strategies or calculations. This makes them ideal for casual players or those just starting out.
Exploring Dozens and Columns Bets
If you’re seeking a middle ground between risk and reward, dozens and columns bets are worth considering. These cover 12 numbers each and pay 2 to 1, offering a reasonable chance of success with a higher payout than even money bets.
How Dozens and Columns Work
You can place a chip on one of the “1st 12,” “2nd 12,” or “3rd 12” boxes, or on one of the columns at the end of the table. If the ball lands on any number in your chosen group, you win double your stake.
When to Use These Bets
These bets suit players who want more excitement than even money bets but aren’t ready to risk everything on inside bets. They also allow for some strategic play, such as covering two dozens or columns for a higher chance of winning, though this reduces your payout.
Inside Bets: High Risk, High Reward
For those who crave the thrill of a big win, inside bets-particularly the straight up bet-offer the highest payouts. However, the chances of hitting a single number are slim (1 in 37 on a European wheel).
Who Should Consider Inside Bets?
If you have a larger bankroll, enjoy high volatility, or simply want to try your luck on a favourite number, inside bets can be appealing. Just remember that these bets are less likely to win, so it’s wise to use them sparingly and as part of a broader betting strategy.
Combination Bets: Balancing Risk and Reward
Some players prefer to mix inside and outside bets, aiming to balance the excitement of big wins with the consistency of smaller payouts. For example, You might place a few chips on red and a small wager on your lucky number.
Benefits of Combination Betting
- Allows for more varied gameplay
- Can help offset losses on riskier bets
- Makes each spin more engaging
Combination betting doesn’t change the house edge, but it can make your session more entertaining and potentially stretch your bankroll.
Special Rules: En Prison and La Partage
Some European roulette tables offer special rules that can improve your odds on even money bets:
- En Prison: If the ball lands on zero, your even money bet is “imprisoned” for the next spin. If it wins on the next spin, you get your stake back.
- La Partage: If the ball lands on zero, you lose only half your even money bet rather than the entire amount.
These rules reduce the house edge further, making even money bets even more attractive when available. If you find a table with these options, they’re worth taking advantage of.
Roulette Strategies: Do They Influence the Best Bet?
Many players explore betting systems such as the Martingale, Fibonacci, or Labouchere. These systems dictate how you adjust your bet size based on previous outcomes.
What to Know About Betting Systems
- They do not change the house edge or the fundamental odds of the game.
- They can help with bankroll management or add structure to your play.
- They carry risks, especially if you hit a long losing streak.
While betting systems can make the game more interesting, they shouldn’t be mistaken for guaranteed ways to win. The best bet remains the one that matches your risk tolerance and goals.
Online Roulette: Additional Considerations
When playing roulette online, there are a few extra factors to keep in mind:
Game Selection
Most reputable online casinos offer both European and American roulette. Always opt for European roulette when possible for the lower house edge.