How to Play Roulette: Rules, Bet Types & Payout Odds Explained
Roulette is one of the most iconic casino games — and one of the easiest to learn. Whether you've never placed a bet or you're looking to understand the odds better, this guide covers the rules, bet types, payout odds, and the key differences between European, French, and American roulette.
Roulette Basics
The concept is simple: a ball spins around a wheel with numbered pockets (0-36), and you bet on where it will land. You can bet on a specific number, a group of numbers, the colour (red or black), or whether the number will be odd or even.
The beauty of roulette is its flexibility. You can play conservatively with even-money bets (red/black, odd/even) that win nearly half the time, or go aggressive with straight-up number bets that pay 35:1. Most players use a mix of bet types. You'll find multiple roulette variants with different rules and minimum bets at the casinos we recommend.
Types of Roulette
There are three main roulette variants, and the differences matter more than you might think:
European Roulette (Recommended)
37 pockets: numbers 1-36 plus a single zero (0)
House edge: 2.70%
The standard at most online casinos. One green zero pocket gives the house its edge. This is the version we recommend for most players.
French Roulette (Best Odds)
Same 37 pockets as European, but with special rules
House edge: 1.35% on even-money bets (with La Partage)
The La Partage rule returns half your even-money bet when the ball lands on zero. En Prison lets your bet "stay in prison" for the next spin instead. These rules cut the house edge in half on red/black, odd/even, and high/low bets.
American Roulette (Avoid)
38 pockets: numbers 1-36 plus zero (0) and double zero (00)
House edge: 5.26%
The extra double zero pocket nearly doubles the house edge compared to European roulette, with no additional benefit to the player. There's no strategic reason to play American roulette when European or French variants are available.
Bet Types and Payouts
Inside Bets (Higher Risk, Higher Reward)
| Bet | Covers | Payout | Win Probability (European) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Straight Up | 1 number | 35:1 | 2.7% |
| Split | 2 numbers | 17:1 | 5.4% |
| Street | 3 numbers (row) | 11:1 | 8.1% |
| Corner | 4 numbers (square) | 8:1 | 10.8% |
| Line | 6 numbers (2 rows) | 5:1 | 16.2% |
Outside Bets (Lower Risk, Steadier Returns)
| Bet | Covers | Payout | Win Probability (European) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red / Black | 18 numbers | 1:1 | 48.6% |
| Odd / Even | 18 numbers | 1:1 | 48.6% |
| 1-18 / 19-36 | 18 numbers | 1:1 | 48.6% |
| Dozen | 12 numbers | 2:1 | 32.4% |
| Column | 12 numbers | 2:1 | 32.4% |
Strategy and Tips
Unlike blackjack, where your decisions directly affect the house edge, roulette is purely a game of chance. No strategy can change the odds. That said, there are smart ways to approach the game:
- Always choose European or French over American — This single decision cuts the house edge roughly in half
- Understand the odds before you bet — A straight-up bet pays 35:1 but wins only 2.7% of the time. Outside bets win nearly half the time but pay 1:1. Match your bets to your risk tolerance
- Set a session budget and stick to it — Decide your total bankroll for the session before you start. When it's gone, stop
- Avoid progressive betting systems — The Martingale (doubling after losses) and similar systems can lead to very large losses during bad streaks. They don't change the house edge
- Take advantage of bonuses cautiously — Roulette typically contributes only 10-20% toward bonus wagering requirements, so it's not the most efficient game for clearing bonuses
- Try free play first — Most online casinos offer demo roulette. Practice placing bets and understanding the interface before playing for real money
RNG vs Live Dealer Roulette
| Feature | RNG Roulette | Live Dealer Roulette |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | Very fast (play at your pace) | Real-time (30-60 sec per spin) |
| Minimum Bet | C$0.10 - $1 | C$0.50 - $5 |
| Social Aspect | None (solo play) | Live chat, real dealer interaction |
| Availability | 24/7, always available | 24/7 at most top casinos |
| Demo Mode | Yes (free play available) | No (real money only) |
| Best For | Practice, fast sessions, small bets | Immersive experience, social play |
If you're new to roulette, start with RNG versions to learn the bet types and interface without time pressure. Once you're comfortable, live dealer roulette offers a much richer experience. Most Canadian-friendly casinos accepting Interac offer both formats with multiple table limits.
For variety, also consider trying online slots — many roulette players enjoy the different pace and bonus features that slot games offer as a complement to table game sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions
Everything you need to know about playing at Canadian online casinos
01 Is online roulette fair?
Yes, at licensed casinos. RNG roulette uses random number generators that are tested and certified by independent labs like eCOGRA and GLI. Live dealer roulette uses a physical wheel and ball — the randomness is mechanical, just like in a land-based casino. Reputable casinos publish their RTP percentages and audit certificates.
02 Which roulette version has the best odds?
European roulette (single zero) has the best standard odds with a 2.63% house edge. French roulette is even better when the La Partage or En Prison rules are in play, reducing the house edge on even-money bets to just 1.35%. American roulette (double zero) has the worst odds at 5.26%.
03 Can I use a strategy to beat roulette?
No strategy can overcome the house edge in the long run — roulette is a game of chance. Betting systems like the Martingale can help manage short-term variance, but they don't change the mathematical expectation. Play for entertainment, set a budget, and stick to it.
04 What is the minimum bet for online roulette?
RNG roulette typically allows bets from C$0.10 to C$1 per spin. Live dealer roulette minimums vary — standard tables usually start at C$1-$5, while VIP tables may require C$25-$100+. Auto Roulette and Lightning Roulette often have the lowest live minimums.
05 Can I play roulette on my phone?
Yes. Both RNG and live dealer roulette are fully optimized for mobile play at all major online casinos. The interface adapts to touchscreens — you tap the betting layout to place chips instead of clicking. Most Canadian players now play roulette on mobile.