Roulette Bets & Payouts Explained
Introduction
Understanding roulette bets and payouts is the foundation of playing smart. Every spin of the wheel offers dozens of possible wagers, each with its own risk level, probability, and reward. Knowing how inside and outside bets work allows you to manage your bankroll wisely and enjoy the game without surprises.
💡 Want to calculate your exact chances? Try our Roulette Odds Calculator and Roulette Payouts Calculator.
Types of Bets in Roulette
Inside Bets (high risk, high reward)
- Straight Up – bet on a single number (highest payout, lowest odds).
- Split – bet on two adjacent numbers.
- Street – bet on three numbers in a row.
- Corner (Square) – bet on four numbers that form a square.
- Line (Six Line) – bet on six numbers across two rows.
Outside Bets (lower risk, safer for beginners)
- Red / Black – bet on color.
- Odd / Even – bet on number type.
- High / Low – 1–18 or 19–36.
- Dozen – choose 12 numbers (1–12, 13–24, 25–36).
- Column – bet on one of the three vertical columns.
Roulette Payout Table
| Bet Type | Numbers Covered | Payout | Probability (European) | House Edge |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Straight (1) | 1 | 35:1 | 2.70% | 2.70% |
| Split (2) | 2 | 17:1 | 5.40% | 2.70% |
| Street (3) | 3 | 11:1 | 8.10% | 2.70% |
| Corner (4) | 4 | 8:1 | 10.80% | 2.70% |
| Line (6) | 6 | 5:1 | 16.20% | 2.70% |
| Column (12) | 12 | 2:1 | 32.40% | 2.70% |
| Dozen (12) | 12 | 2:1 | 32.40% | 2.70% |
| Red/Black | 18 | 1:1 | 48.60% | 2.70% |
| Odd/Even | 18 | 1:1 | 48.60% | 2.70% |
| High/Low | 18 | 1:1 | 48.60% | 2.70% |
👉 Use our Roulette Payouts Calculator to test these bets with your own stake.
Inside vs Outside Bets
- Inside bets are riskier, but payouts are significantly higher. For example, hitting a straight bet (35:1) can skyrocket your winnings.
- Outside bets cover a larger part of the wheel, making them safer and more consistent, but with smaller returns.
American vs European Roulette Payouts
| Variant | Zeros | House Edge | Best Choice For |
|---|---|---|---|
| European | 1 (0) | 2.70% | Beginners, casual players |
| American | 2 (0 and 00) | 5.26% | Risk-takers, higher variance fans |
💡 Quick tip: If you want better odds, always go for European or French roulette.
Tips for Choosing Bets
- Beginners should focus on outside bets for balanced play.
- Advanced players may combine inside and outside bets to create hybrid strategies.
- Always calculate your odds and potential payouts before placing real money bets → Roulette Odds Calculator.
Conclusion
Mastering roulette bets and payouts gives you confidence at the table. Whether you prefer safer outside bets or high-risk inside bets, knowing the numbers behind them lets you make smarter choices.
👉 Ready to try? Browse Live Roulette Tables
Roulette Bets & Payouts Explained FAQ
What is the highest paying bet in roulette?
The straight-up bet (on one number) pays 35:1, but it has only a 2.7% chance in European roulette.
What is the safest bet?
Even-money bets like Red/Black or Odd/Even, since they cover almost half of the table.
Do payouts differ between American and European roulette?
The payout ratios are the same, but the house edge is higher in American roulette because of the extra double zero (00).
Can I guarantee a win in roulette?
No, roulette is a game of chance. Strategies can help manage risk, but outcomes are random.
How can I quickly check payouts?
Use the Roulette Payouts Calculator to instantly see profits, returns, and odds for every bet.