Roulette is one of the most iconic and enduring games found in both land-based and online casino environments. The spinning wheel, the anticipation as the ball bounces, and the variety of betting options make it a favourite for newcomers and seasoned gamblers alike. But with so many ways to wager, many players wonder: what is the best bet to make in roulette?
This guide explores the different types of roulette bets, examines their odds, and offers practical advice to help you make informed decisions when you play, whether you’re spinning the wheel at a local casino or exploring options not on GamStop.
Understanding Roulette Bets: The Basics
Before diving into strategies and recommendations, it’s essential to understand the basic types of bets available in roulette. Roulette offers a wide range of betting options, each with its own risk and reward profile. These are typically divided into two main categories:
- Inside Bets: Wagers placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers on the inner section of the betting layout.
- Outside Bets: Wagers placed on broader categories such as red/black, odd/even, or high/low, found on the outer section of the betting layout.
Each type of bet comes with different odds and payout rates, and understanding these can help you make more strategic choices at the table.
Comparing Inside and Outside Bets
The distinction between inside and outside bets is fundamental to finding the best bet in roulette. Here’s how they differ:
Inside Bets
Inside bets focus on specific numbers or combinations. Examples include:
- Straight Up: Betting on a single number (pays 35:1).
- Split: Betting on two adjacent numbers (pays 17:1).
- Street: Betting on three numbers in a row (pays 11:1).
- Corner: Betting on four numbers that form a square (pays 8:1).
- Six Line: Betting on two adjacent rows of three numbers (pays 5:1).
These bets offer higher payouts but come with lower odds of winning. They are generally more volatile, making them appealing to risk-takers or those chasing big wins.
Outside Bets
Outside bets cover larger groups of numbers, offering lower payouts but higher chances of winning. Examples include:
- Red or Black: Betting on the colour of the winning number (pays 1:1).
- Odd or Even: Betting on whether the number will be odd or even (pays 1:1).
- High or Low: Betting on whether the number will be in the range 1-18 or 19-36 (pays 1:1).
- Dozens: Betting on one of three sets of twelve numbers (pays 2:1).
- Columns: Betting on one of the three vertical columns (pays 2:1).
Outside bets are popular with new players or those who prefer a steadier, less volatile style of play.
House Edge and Roulette Variants
The type of roulette you play can significantly affect your odds. The two most common variants are European and American roulette:
- European Roulette: Features a single zero (0), resulting in a house edge of about 2.7%.
- American Roulette: Includes both a single zero (0) and a double zero (00), increasing the house edge to about 5.26%.
Whenever possible, opt for European roulette, as the lower house edge makes every bet slightly better for the player.
What Is the “Best” Bet in Roulette?
When players ask about the best bet to make in roulette, the answer depends on what they mean by “best.” Are you looking for the highest chance of winning, the biggest possible payout, or the most consistent experience? Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Best Bet for Consistency: Even Money Bets
If your aim is to play for longer with a steady bankroll and reduce volatility, even money bets are generally considered the best:
- Red or Black
- Odd or Even
- High or Low
These bets cover 18 numbers each (out of 37 in European roulette) and pay 1:1. While you won’t win every spin, your chances are close to 50%, minus the house edge from the zero. This makes them ideal for players who want a more predictable experience and longer sessions.
Best Bet for Bigger Wins: Straight Up Bets
If you’re chasing a big payout and don’t mind the risk, a straight up bet on a single number offers the highest return at 35:1. The odds of hitting a single number are low (1 in 37 on a European wheel), so these bets are high-risk, high-reward.
Best Bet for Balanced Risk: Dozens and Columns
Dozens and columns bets pay 2:1 and cover 12 numbers each. Your chances of winning are better than with inside bets, and the payouts are higher than even money bets. These are a good middle ground for players who want a blend of risk and reward.
Special Rules: En Prison and La Partage
Some roulette tables, especially in European casinos, offer special rules that improve the odds for 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 original bet back.
- La Partage: If you bet on even money and the ball lands on zero, you lose only half your bet.
These rules reduce the house edge on even money bets, making them even more attractive. If you’re playing at UK online casinos, check the rules to see if these options are available.
How Betting Strategies Affect Your Choices
Many players use betting systems such as the Martingale, Fibonacci, or Labouchere to manage their roulette bets. While these strategies can help structure your play, they do not change the fundamental odds or house edge.
- Martingale: Double your bet after every loss, aiming to recover losses with a win. Works best with even money bets but requires a large bankroll and can be risky if you hit a losing streak.
- Fibonacci: Increase bets according to the Fibonacci sequence after losses. This method is less aggressive than Martingale but still requires discipline and bankroll management.
- Labouchere: Create a sequence of numbers and bet the sum of the first and last. Adjust the sequence based on wins or losses. This system is more complex and also works best with even money bets.
It’s important to remember that no betting system can overcome the house edge. Use them for entertainment and structure, but don’t rely on them to guarantee profits.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Bet
Selecting the best bet in roulette isn’t just about odds and payouts. Consider the following factors:
- Personal Risk Tolerance: Are you comfortable with swings in your bankroll, or do you prefer steady play?
- Session Goals: Are you aiming for a big win, or do you want to play for as long as possible?
- Table Limits: Minimum and maximum bets can affect your strategy, especially if you use a progression system.
- Game Variant: European roulette offers better odds than American, so always choose it when available.
- Special Rules: Take advantage of En Prison and La Partage when you can for better value on even money bets.
Understanding your own preferences and the specific conditions of the table or online game will help you make the most suitable choice.
Roulette Bonuses and Promotions
Many online casino sites offer bonuses and promotions that can be used on roulette. These might include welcome bonuses, cashback offers, or special roulette tournaments. While bonuses can enhance your bankroll, always check the terms and conditions:
- Are roulette bets fully counted towards wagering requirements?
- Are there restrictions