Roulette Odds & RTP Explained: Is It Worth Playing?

Roulette is one of the most widely played casino games online and in casinos, but not everyone is clear on what the odds and theoretical Return To Player (RTP) percentages actually mean.

Understanding roulette odds and RTP can make it easier to decide whether to play and what to expect. If you’re interested in playing, grasping these basics is a sensible first step.

This straightforward guide explores how roulette odds and RTP really work, helping you to make informed choices that suit you. Read on to learn more.

Is Roulette 50/50?

At first glance, it is easy to think roulette offers a simple choice between red or black, odd or even. Many assume these are 50/50 bets.

However, both European and American wheels include at least one green zero that does not count towards any of these options. In American roulette, there are two green pockets: 0 and 00.

Because of these green spaces, the chances aren’t split equally between the two main choices. For example, European roulette offers 18 red, 18 black, and 1 green zero from 37 total numbers. This means betting on red or black gives odds of 18/37, not 18/36.

Keep this in mind if you decide to play roulette, as even the most common bets are not quite as even as they first appear.

Roulette Odds & RTP

Roulette is built around fixed odds that depend on the bet you place and the wheel in play. Each bet type—from single numbers to outside bets like red/black—comes with its own chances of hitting.

RTP is a theoretical percentage showing the portion of stakes that might be returned to players, on average, over time. For example, if a game has a theoretical RTP of 95%, this suggests that, on average, out of a £100 wager, the casino expects to keep £5 of it. It is important to keep in mind that RTP is an average over time over many spins and is not an accurate representation of outcomes in individual sessions.

Every version of roulette comes with a slightly different house edge, which is reflected in its odds and theoretical RTP figure. Comparing these details may be very helpful if you’re weighing up your choices at the roulette table.

So, how does RTP differ between the main versions of the game? Let’s take a closer look.

European Roulette

European roulette features 37 pockets, labelled 0 to 36, with a single green zero.

This single zero means every number on the wheel has the same chance of hitting, while outside bets are just slightly less likely to win than you may expect because the 0 is not included. For example, bets like red, black, odd, or even have 18 chances each compared to the full 37 pockets.

The average RTP for European roulette hovers around 97.3%. This figure is based on standard rules and means that, over many spins, that portion of all bets could be paid back to players.

If you’re thinking about what version to play, the favourable RTP of European roulette might be worth considering.

American Roulette

American roulette wheels look similar, but they have 38 pockets due to the extra double zero (00). That extra space changes things.

Each number has a lower chance of winning than on the European wheel, and outside bets like red, black, odd, or even are a little less likely as well. In practical terms, this brings the RTP down to about 94.74%.

That difference between versions is important for those wanting the best RTP or lowest house edge.

French Roulette

French roulette also uses a wheel with 37 numbers and one green zero. What makes it stand out is the inclusion of rules like “La Partage” and “En Prison”. These rules apply only to even-money bets when the outcome is a zero:

• La Partage: If your even-money bet lands on zero, half your stake is returned.
• En Prison: The bet stays on the table for one more spin, and if it wins, you get it back.

These special features mean the RTP for some even-money bets can go up to about 98.65%. This higher potential RTP is one reason French roulette appeals to some players.

If you choose French roulette, double-check which rules are used, as this can make a real difference to your returns.

Can You Increase Your Odds of Winning Roulette?

Roulette is random by design. Every spin is independent, and the ball has the same chance of landing in any pocket each time.

Betting on more numbers or outside bets may change how often you might win in a single round, but it does not reduce the house edge. Strategies and systems, like betting more after a loss, cannot change the odds or RTP in any way.

Some players may be tempted to chase patterns, but the game is structured so that every outcome is just as possible as the last. Focusing on the fixed odds and your own limits helps to set realistic expectations and keep the experience enjoyable.

Is Roulette Worth Playing?

Deciding if roulette is for you depends on what you want from the game.

Roulette’s swift gameplay and wide range of bets are appealing to some, but the certainty is that each spin is independent and every bet has set odds against it. While there is always a chance of a potential win in an individual session, the house edge ensures casinos stay ahead overall.

It makes sense to play roulette for entertainment rather than as a way to try to make money. Setting spending and time limits in advance can help ensure that playing remains enjoyable.

Which Casino Game Has The Best Odds?

Not all casino games are created equal when it comes to odds and theoretical RTP percentages.

Games such as blackjack and some forms of baccarat generally offer the best theoretical RTP values. In blackjack, if you successfully implement optimal basic strategy, then the house edge can be lowered to around 0.5-1%. Roulette and slot machines tend to fall a bit lower, though this depends on the specific rules of the game.

If finding the best potential payout is your goal, you might want to consider the RTP figures and house edge for each game before getting started. Of course, any game choice should also fit your playing style and budget.

As always, keep responsible gambling practices in mind, and never wager more than you are willing to lose.

Discover The Best Online Roulette Casinos

Finding a suitable online casino is just as important as knowing the odds. A reputable site will always hold a valid UK Gambling Commission licence and use secure payment methods.

At Best Casino HQ, we’ve compiled a list of recommended online casinos that feature a solid selection of roulette games alongside clear, fair terms for UK players.

Before you sign up, take a moment to make sure the casino’s rules and options match what you’re looking for. There’s no one-size-fits-all, so review the details that matter to you.

Visit Best Casino HQ to browse our curated list of trusted online casinos.