Roulette is one of the most recognizable table games in Las Vegas, built around a simple premise: predict where the ball will land after the wheel spins. With the spin of a wheel and the clink of a ball as it bounces between pockets, roulette creates anticipation around a simple question: Where will the ball land? With wagers ranging from individual numbers to larger groups of numbers, roulette offers different probabilities and payouts depending on the bet.

This guide explains how roulette works, the different types of bets, and what to know before playing.

Understanding the Basics of Roulette

The objective of roulette is straightforward: bet on where the ball will land after the wheel spins. Depending on the bet, you can wager on a single number or a group of numbers, such as red or black, odd or even, or a range of numbers. Payouts depend on the type of wager. A standard straight-up wager on a single number pays 35:1.

Roulette wheels come in several variations. European roulette has 37 pockets: numbers 1-36 and a single 0. American roulette traditionally has 38 pockets: numbers 1-36, 0, and 00. Triple-zero roulette adds a 000 pocket for 39 pockets total. The number of zero pockets affects the probability and house edge, so check the wheel before placing a wager.

At a traditional roulette table, players place chips on the betting layout to indicate their wagers. Table minimums and chip values can vary by casino and table. You then control where on the board you place your chips.

The dealer, also called a croupier, spins the wheel, oversees wagering, and settles winning and losing bets.

Types of Roulette Bets

There are several bets that players can make on a roulette table. These bets are divided into 2 categories: inside bets and outside bets.

Inside bets are placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers within the main numbered section of the roulette layout. Because these bets cover fewer pockets, they generally have a lower probability of winning on a single spin but offer higher payouts.

• Straight Up: Covers 1 number and pays 35:1
• Split: Covers 2 adjacent numbers and pays 17:1
• Street: Covers a row of 3 numbers and pays 11:1
• Corner: Covers 4 adjoining numbers and pays 8:1
• Six Line: Covers 2 adjacent rows for a total of 6 numbers and pays 5:1

Depending on the wheel and layout, additional inside bets involving the zero pockets may also be available.

Outside bets cover larger groups of numbers and generally have a higher probability of winning on a single spin than inside bets, but they offer lower payouts. Common outside bets include:

• Red or Black: Pays 1:1
• Odd or Even: Pays 1:1
• Low (1-18) or High (19-36): Pays 1:1
• Dozens (1-12, 13-24, or 25-36): Pay 2:1
• Columns: Cover 12 numbers and pay 2:1

The 0, 00, and 000 pockets are not included in standard red/black, odd/even, high/low, dozen, or column bets.

Roulette Odds and House Edge

A bet that covers more numbers has a higher probability of winning on a single spin but generally offers a lower payout. Covering fewer numbers produces a lower probability of winning but a higher payout. A higher payout doesn’t mean a wager has better overall odds.

On a standard double-zero American roulette wheel, most bets carry a house edge of approximately 5.26%. On a single-zero European wheel, the standard house edge is approximately 2.70%. This difference comes from the number of zero pockets on the wheel, while the standard payouts remain the same.

Each spin is independent. Previous results don’t determine where the ball will land on the next spin, and no betting system can guarantee a win.

Roulette Table Etiquette

The roulette table can be one of the most exciting spots in the casino, but there are some basic table procedures and etiquette to follow.

First, it’s important to listen to the croupier. Once the croupier announces “No more bets,” additional wagers can’t be placed for that spin.

It’s also key to respect the game marker. This is the clear plastic token the croupier places on the winning number. When the token is on the board, players cannot touch any chips on the board (or put any new chips down). Once the croupier removes the marker, it is safe to reach for the chips.

Finally, be kind. Don’t obstruct the croupier. If you’re asking them to set down chips for you, be polite. Tipping the dealer is optional and should be based on your preference.

Bankroll Management for Roulette

Roulette is a game of chance, and no betting system can guarantee a win. Before playing, set a budget and stick to it. Don’t chase losses or wager money you can’t afford to lose.

Taking breaks can also help keep play recreational. Set limits before you begin, pay attention to how much you’ve wagered, and know when to walk away, whether you’re winning or losing.

The Vegas Roulette Experience

Playing roulette in a Las Vegas casino is a sensory experience. You can’t help but marvel as the ball whizzes around the top of the bowl in which the roulette wheel sits as it spins. When the ball slows down, it drops toward the wheel and makes a clinking sound as it hits the metal separating each of the number pockets.

Of course, player reactions usually are epic, too. Roulette regulars love cheering on their numbers, and when players have big wins, it’s not uncommon for them to scream.

With a variety of wagers and the anticipation of every spin, roulette remains a recognizable part of the Las Vegas casino experience. Once you understand the wheel, betting layout, payouts, and basic table etiquette, you'll be better prepared to follow the action the next time you visit a roulette table.