Why Payouts Differ on European vs American Wheels
If you've ever played roulette at a Philippine casino or online, you've probably noticed two main types: European and American. The key difference? The number of zeros. European roulette has a single zero (0), while American roulette adds a double zero (00). That extra pocket changes everything—especially your payouts and the house edge.
On a European wheel, there are 37 pockets (1-36 plus 0). On an American wheel, there are 38 pockets (1-36 plus 0 and 00). This means the odds of hitting any single number are 1 in 37 for European and 1 in 38 for American. But here's the catch: the payout for a straight-up bet is the same on both wheels—35 to 1. So you're getting paid as if there were only 36 numbers, but the wheel has 37 or 38. That's where the house edge comes in.
For Filipino bettors, understanding this difference is crucial. Whether you're playing at a land-based casino in Manila or an online site, choosing the right wheel can significantly impact your long-term results. Let's break down the payouts and what they mean for your bankroll.
Quick Checklist: Payouts for Common Bets
Before you sit down at a table or open an online lobby, run through this quick checklist of standard payouts. These are the same on both European and American wheels, but the odds of winning differ due to the extra zero.
- Straight up (single number): 35 to 1
- Split (two numbers): 17 to 1
- Street (three numbers): 11 to 1
- Corner (four numbers): 8 to 1
- Six line (six numbers): 5 to 1
- Column or dozen (12 numbers): 2 to 1
- Red/Black, Odd/Even, 1-18/19-36: 1 to 1
These payouts are identical on both wheels. The difference lies in the probability of winning. For example, a straight-up bet on a European wheel has a 1/37 chance of winning, while on an American wheel it's 1/38. That may seem small, but over hundreds of spins, it adds up.
Many PH bettors focus only on the payout amount, but smart players also consider the odds. A bet with a high payout but low probability might not be worth it if the house edge is higher. Let's see how the house edge differs between the two wheels.
House Edge: The Hidden Cost of American Roulette
The house edge is the casino's built-in advantage. For European roulette, it's 2.7%. For American roulette, it's 5.26%. That's nearly double! How do we get these numbers? It's simple math.
On a European wheel, the true odds of hitting a single number are 1 in 37, but the payout is 35 to 1. The difference between true odds and payout odds is 2/37, which equals 5.4%? Wait, that's not right. Actually, the house edge is calculated as (37-35)/37 = 2/37 ≈ 5.4%? No, that's not correct either. Let's do it properly: The expected value for a $1 straight-up bet on European roulette is (1/37)*35 - (36/37)*1 = 35/37 - 36/37 = -1/37 ≈ -2.7%. So the house edge is 2.7%.
For American roulette, with 38 numbers, the expected value is (1/38)*35 - (37/38)*1 = 35/38 - 37/38 = -2/38 ≈ -5.26%. So the house edge is 5.26%.
This means that for every PHP 1,000 you bet on American roulette, you can expect to lose about PHP 52.60 over time. On European roulette, you'd lose only PHP 27. That's a significant difference, especially if you play regularly.
Some American wheels offer a special rule called "en prison" or "la partage" on even-money bets, which can reduce the house edge to 2.63% or 1.35% respectively. But these are rare, especially in Philippine casinos. Most American tables here don't offer them, so the 5.26% edge stands.
Payout Comparison Table: European vs American
To make it crystal clear, here's a side-by-side comparison of the most common bets, their payouts, and the house edge on each wheel. Use this as a quick reference when you're at the table or playing online.
Bet TypePayoutEuropean House EdgeAmerican House EdgeStraight up35:12.70%5.26%Split17:12.70%5.26%Street11:12.70%5.26%Corner8:12.70%5.26%Six line5:12.70%5.26%Column/Dozen2:12.70%5.26%Even-money1:12.70%5.26%As you can see, the payout for each bet is identical, but the house edge is consistently higher on the American wheel. This means that over time, you'll lose more money playing American roulette, regardless of your bet selection.
Some bettors think they can outsmart the system by choosing specific bets, but the house edge remains the same for all standard bets on each wheel. The only exception is the five-number bet on the American wheel (0, 00, 1, 2, 3), which has an even worse house edge of 7.89%. Avoid that bet at all costs.
The Five-Number Bet: A Trap on American Wheels
The five-number bet, also known as the "basket bet," is only available on American roulette. It covers 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3. The payout is 6 to 1, but the true odds are 33 to 1? No, let's calculate: There are 5 winning numbers out of 38, so the probability is 5/38. The payout is 6 to 1, meaning you get 6 units profit plus your original bet back. The expected value for a $1 bet is (5/38)*6 - (33/38)*1 = 30/38 - 33/38 = -3/38 ≈ -7.89%. So the house edge is 7.89%, much higher than the standard 5.26%.
This bet is a classic trap for inexperienced players. It looks appealing because it covers five numbers, but the payout doesn't compensate for the risk. If you see this bet on an American wheel, skip it. Stick to the standard bets with a 5.26% house edge if you must play American roulette.
In the Philippines, some casinos might offer this bet, but it's not common. Online casinos that use American wheels often include it, so be aware. Always check the betting layout before placing your chips.
Which Wheel Should PH Bettors Choose?
The answer is simple: always choose European roulette if it's available. The lower house edge means your money lasts longer, and you have a better chance of walking away with a profit. In Philippine casinos, European roulette is widely available, especially in high-limit areas. Online, you'll find both, so check the game description before you play.
However, there are a few things to consider:
- Availability: Some casinos only offer American roulette, especially in smaller establishments. If that's your only option, adjust your strategy and bankroll accordingly.
- Minimum bets: European tables sometimes have higher minimums. If you're on a tight budget, you might be forced to play American. In that case, stick to even-money bets and avoid the five-number bet.
- Online vs land-based: Online casinos often have a wider selection, so you can easily find European roulette. Land-based casinos in Manila, Cebu, and Clark usually have both, but the American wheel might be more prominent on the main floor.
If you're serious about roulette, make European your default. The 2.7% house edge is already tough to beat, but it's far better than 5.26%.
Payouts on Even-Money Bets: The En Prison Rule
Even-money bets (red/black, odd/even, high/low) pay 1 to 1 on both wheels. But on European roulette, some tables offer the "en prison" rule. If the ball lands on zero, your even-money bet is not lost immediately. Instead, it's "imprisoned" for the next spin. If it wins, you get your bet back (no profit). If it loses, you lose your bet.
This rule reduces the house edge on even-money bets from 2.7% to 1.35%. That's a huge improvement. Some casinos offer "la partage," where you lose only half your bet if zero hits, which also reduces the house edge to 1.35%.
In the Philippines, these rules are not always available. Some high-end casinos might offer them, but you need to ask. Online, you can find European roulette variants with these rules, so look for them. If you play even-money bets often, it's worth seeking out tables with en prison or la partage.
American roulette doesn't have these rules, so your even-money bets are lost entirely if 0 or 00 hits. That's another reason to avoid American wheels.
Practical Tips for PH Bettors: Maximizing Value
Now that you know the differences, here are some practical tips to get the most out of your roulette sessions in the Philippines:
- Always check the wheel type: Before buying in, look at the layout. If you see a 00 pocket, it's American. If only 0, it's European. Online, read the game rules.
- Stick to European: Even if the minimum bet is slightly higher, the lower house edge will save you money in the long run.
- Avoid the five-number bet: On American wheels, this bet has a 7.89% house edge. It's a sucker bet.
- Use even-money bets wisely: If you must play American, stick to even-money bets and hope for a 0 or 00 to not hit. On European, look for en prison or la partage.
- Set a budget: Roulette is a game of chance. Decide how much you're willing to lose and stick to it. Don't chase losses.
- Play for entertainment: Don't expect to beat the house. The house edge ensures the casino profits over time. Play for fun, not as a way to make a living.
Remember, the payout amounts are the same, but the odds are not. Choosing the right wheel is the simplest way to improve your expected value.
Final Thoughts: Payouts Are Equal, Odds Are Not
When you compare European and American roulette, the payouts for each bet are identical. A straight-up bet pays 35 to 1 on both wheels. But the presence of the double zero on the American wheel increases the house edge from 2.7% to 5.26%. That's a massive difference for regular players.
For Filipino bettors, the choice is clear: play European roulette whenever possible. It's available in most Philippine casinos and online. If you're stuck with an American wheel, avoid the five-number bet and consider reducing your bet size or playing less frequently.
Use the checklist in this article to quickly assess any roulette game you encounter. Know the payouts, understand the house edge, and make informed decisions. That's how you stretch your bankroll and enjoy the game responsibly.
Now that you're equipped with this knowledge, head to your favorite casino or online platform and put it to use. Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favor—or at least, less against you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is American roulette better than European roulette for Filipino players?
No, European roulette is better for players because it has a lower house edge (2.7% vs 5.26%). The payouts are the same, but you have a better chance of winning on European wheels.
What is the payout for a straight-up bet in roulette?
A straight-up bet pays 35 to 1 on both European and American wheels. However, the odds of hitting a single number are 1 in 37 on European and 1 in 38 on American.
Can I find European roulette in Philippine casinos?
Yes, most major casinos in Manila, Cebu, and Clark offer European roulette. Online casinos also have a wide selection. Always check the wheel type before playing.
What is the five-number bet and should I avoid it?
The five-number bet covers 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3 on American roulette. It has a house edge of 7.89%, making it one of the worst bets. It's best to avoid it.
