The Two Categories of Roulette Bets
Every bet in roulette falls into one of two categories: inside bets and outside bets. Inside bets are placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers. Outside bets cover larger portions of the wheel and pay out less but win more frequently. Understanding both is essential before placing a single chip.
Inside Bets
Inside bets offer higher payouts because they cover fewer numbers. Here is a breakdown of each type:
| Bet Type | Numbers Covered | Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Straight Up | 1 specific number | 35:1 |
| Split | 2 adjacent numbers | 17:1 |
| Street | 3 numbers in a row | 11:1 |
| Corner (Square) | 4 numbers in a square | 8:1 |
| Six Line | 6 numbers (2 adjacent rows) | 5:1 |
Straight Up Bet
You place a chip directly on any single number, including 0 (and 00 in American roulette). This is the highest-paying bet on the table at 35:1, but it wins the least often.
Split Bet
Place your chip on the line between two adjacent numbers on the layout. If either number hits, you win at 17:1.
Street Bet
A chip placed at the end of a row of three numbers. Covers all three numbers in that row, paying 11:1.
Corner Bet
Place a chip at the intersection of four numbers forming a square on the layout. Pays 8:1.
Six Line Bet
Covers two adjacent rows of three, totaling six numbers. Pays 5:1.
Outside Bets
Outside bets cover large sections of the wheel. They win more often but pay less. These are popular choices for beginners and conservative players.
| Bet Type | What It Covers | Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Red / Black | All red or all black numbers | 1:1 |
| Odd / Even | All odd or all even numbers | 1:1 |
| Low / High | 1–18 or 19–36 | 1:1 |
| Dozen | 1–12, 13–24, or 25–36 | 2:1 |
| Column | One of three vertical columns | 2:1 |
Note: Outside bets do not cover 0 (or 00 in American roulette). When the ball lands on zero, all outside bets lose, which is the primary source of the house edge on these wagers.
European vs. American Roulette: Does It Affect Bets?
The bet types are the same in both versions, but the house edge differs significantly:
- European Roulette has one zero (37 pockets). House edge: ~2.7%
- American Roulette has two zeros (38 pockets). House edge: ~5.26%
American roulette also offers a Five Number Bet (0, 00, 1, 2, 3) paying 6:1 — but this bet actually carries the highest house edge on the table and is best avoided.
Announced and Called Bets
Some roulette tables (especially French and European versions) offer special bets that cover sections of the physical wheel rather than the betting layout:
- Voisins du Zéro — covers the 17 numbers closest to zero on the wheel
- Tiers du Cylindre — covers 12 numbers on the opposite side of the wheel
- Orphelins — covers the 8 numbers not included in the above two groups
These are typically available in live dealer roulette games and add an extra dimension to your betting options.
Choosing Your Bets Wisely
No roulette bet changes the fundamental house edge — every spin is independent. However, your choice of bet affects how your bankroll fluctuates. Even-money outside bets offer steadier, smaller swings. Inside bets are volatile but offer big wins on lucky spins. Match your bet type to your session goals and budget, and always play the European wheel when given the choice.