Learning About Roulette: Key Differences Between American and French Roulette

American and French roulette both involve predicting where a ball will land on a spinning wheel. 

While the objective remains the same in both casino games, the two versions differ in several important ways that influence the mathematical odds, the house edge, and certain gameplay rules.

Understanding these differences helps explain why French roulette is often viewed as a more favourable variation from a mathematical perspective. Though results still remain random, much like in any other casino game at Genting Casino. Learn more about this through the following points:

• Understanding the Two Roulette Variants
• Wheel Layout and Number Differences
• How the House Edge Differs
• Odds Comparison Between American and French Roulette
• Gameplay Variations
• Special Rules in French Roulette

Understanding the Two Roulette Variants

French roulette uses a wheel with 37 numbered pockets consisting of the numbers 1 to 36 and a single zero, the same as in European roulette.

American roulette uses a wheel with 38 numbered pockets by adding both a single zero and a double zero.

Although both games feature similar betting options, the additional pocket in American roulette changes the probability of every wager placed.

French roulette is widely available in online roulette and live roulette games, particularly in markets where traditional European-style tables are popular.

Wheel Layout and Number Differences

The wheel design creates the biggest distinction between the two versions.

Feature	French Roulette	American Roulette
Total pockets	37	38
Green pockets	One (0)	Two (0 and 00)
Double zero	No	Yes
Table layout	French layout and terminology	American layout with 0 and 00

The extra double zero found on the American wheel increases the number of possible outcomes, reducing the probability of winning every standard wager compared with French roulette.

How the House Edge Differs

The house edge is one of the most significant differences between the two games.

Because French roulette has only one zero pocket, its standard house edge is lower than American roulette. In addition, many French roulette tables include special rules that can further reduce the house edge for certain even money wagers.

Version	Zero Pockets	House Edge
French Roulette	One	2.70%
American Roulette	Two	5.26%

These differences apply consistently over time because they are built into the design of each wheel.

Live French Roulette by Playtech

Odds Comparison Between American and French Roulette

The available betting options are similar, but the probabilities differ because American roulette includes one additional pocket.

Bet Type	French (37 pockets)	American (38 pockets)
Straight up (single number)	1/37 (≈2.70%)	1/38 (≈2.63%)
Red or Black	18/37 (≈48.65%)	18/38 (≈47.37%)
Odd or Even	18/37 (≈48.65%)	18/38 (≈47.37%)
High or Low	18/37 (≈48.65%)	18/38 (≈47.37%)
Dozen	12/37 (≈32.43%)	12/38 (≈31.58%)
Column	12/37 (≈32.43%)	12/38 (≈31.58%)

Although the betting categories remain almost identical, the additional double zero slightly lowers the probability of every winning outcome in American roulette.

Gameplay Variations

Aside from the wheel itself, there are several gameplay differences.

Feature	French Roulette	American Roulette
Wheel design	Single zero	Single zero and double zero
Number of outcomes	37	38
Betting layout	French terminology	American terminology
House advantage	Lower	Higher
Special betting rules	Available on many tables	Generally unavailable

The gameplay remains familiar in both versions, with the primary differences resulting from the wheel configuration and the rules available on certain tables.

American Roulette Live from MGM Grand Casino

Special Rules in French Roulette

French roulette commonly includes rules known as La Partage and En Prison on qualifying tables.

Both rules apply only to certain even money wagers when the ball lands on zero.

• La Partage returns half of an eligible even money stake after a zero outcome.
• En Prison allows an eligible even-money wager to remain in play for the following spin instead of settling immediately.

These rules can reduce the effective house edge on qualifying bets, making French roulette mathematically different from American roulette. Not every online casino or live casino table offers these rules, so it is worth checking the game information before playing.

Genting Casino Tip: Before choosing between roulette variants, check both the wheel layout and whether special French roulette rules such as La Partage or En Prison are available. These features can influence the mathematical house edge for certain wagers.

Understanding the Differences

American and French roulette offer very similar gameplay, but important mathematical differences exist because of their wheel designs and rule variations. The single zero wheel and additional French rules can produce different odds and a lower house edge on qualifying wagers compared with American roulette.

At Genting Casino, understanding these distinctions allows players to make informed decisions when exploring online roulette and live roulette games while always keeping responsible gambling at the forefront.

Learning how different roulette variants work can help players better understand the games they encounter. However, every roulette spin is independent and based entirely on chance. Responsible gambling means setting personal limits, staying within your budget, and recognising that previous results do not affect future outcomes. If gambling is no longer enjoyable, consider taking a break or seeking support.

FAQs

What is the biggest difference between American and French roulette?

The biggest difference is the wheel. French roulette has a single zero, while American roulette includes both a single zero and a double zero.

Why does French roulette have a lower house edge?

French roulette has only one zero pocket, and many tables also include La Partage or En Prison, which can reduce the effective house edge on qualifying even-money bets.

Are the betting options different?

Most standard inside and outside bets are the same, although the American layout includes the additional double zero.

What are La Partage and En Prison?

They are special French roulette rules that apply to certain even money wagers when the ball lands on zero, helping reduce the effective house edge under qualifying conditions.

Are American and French roulette available in live casino games?

Yes. Both versions can be found in live casino and online casino environments, although availability depends on the operator and game selection.