If you have ever browsed a casino, either in person or online, you may have noticed that roulette wheels are not all the same. Some feature a single zero, while others include two. At first glance the difference can appear minor, but once you look closely the variations become clearer.
In the UK, online casinos often include both single zero and double zero roulette. To help you compare, it could be useful to understand what sets the two formats apart. Keep reading for a clear guide that explains how single zero and double zero roulette differ.
What Is the Difference Between Single Zero and Double Zero Roulette?
Single zero roulette is also known as European roulette. The wheel has 37 pockets, with numbers 1 to 36 and a single green 0. Double zero roulette, often referred to as American roulette, has 38 pockets. These include numbers 1 to 36, one green 0, and an additional green 00.
That extra pocket may seem like a small change, but it affects the overall balance of the wheel. In single zero roulette, the chance of the ball landing on zero is around 2.7%. In double zero roulette, the combined chance of landing on either 0 or 00 is about 5.3%.
Most online versions clearly label which variant is being used, so it might be wise to check before you begin.
If you do decide to participate in roulette, remember to do so responsibly and within your means; never wager more than you can afford to lose.
How Does the House Edge Compare in Each Version?
The house edge represents the built-in advantage that the casino holds over the long term. This is one of the main differences between the two types of wheel.
Single zero roulette has a house edge of around 2.7%. In practice this means that, on average, £2.70 is kept by the casino for every £100 wagered across a large number of spins. This figure comes from the presence of one green 0.
Double zero roulette includes both a 0 and a 00. This raises the house edge to about 5.26%. Over the same £100 wagered, the expected average kept by the casino is £5.26. The additional green pocket accounts for this difference.
The figures shown are long-term averages. They are not predictions for individual sessions or guarantees of future results.
Single Zero vs Double Zero Roulette – Which Is Better for Players?
A key difference between the two versions is the number of green pockets. Single zero has one, while double zero has two. This changes the probability of each outcome.
With single zero roulette, your bet is placed among 37 possible outcomes. In double zero roulette, it is among 38. Some players prefer single zero because it carries a lower house edge, while others choose double zero because of the way it looks or feels.
Both versions follow the same main rules and both are random games of chance. No outcome can be predicted or influenced.
Why Do American and European Roulette Wheels Differ?
The difference between the two formats comes from how the game developed across continents. The single zero version originated in Europe, especially France, and became the model across much of Europe and the UK. When roulette spread to the United States, operators added an extra green pocket. This increased the casino’s edge, making it more appealing to offer.
In addition to European and American layouts, there are French-style tables. These sometimes use rules such as la partage or en prison on even-money bets. When these apply, they can reduce the edge compared with a standard European table. Wheel layouts may also differ slightly, though the range of bets remains the same.
Payouts and Odds in Single Zero vs Double Zero Roulette
Both types of wheel offer the same standard bets. These range from a straight-up bet on a single number through to splits, streets, dozens, columns, and the even-money bets such as red or black.
A straight-up bet usually pays 35 to 1. For example, a £1 stake on a single number pays £35 plus your £1 stake back if it wins. Dozens and columns typically pay 2 to 1. Even-money bets such as red/black and odd/even usually pay 1 to 1.
The payouts are the same, but the probabilities differ. On a single zero wheel there are 37 possible pockets, so the chance of a straight-up bet winning is 1 in 37. On a double zero wheel there are 38 pockets, so the chance is 1 in 38. This difference is what creates the higher edge in double zero roulette.
Where Can You Expect to Find Each Version in the UK?
In land-based casinos across the UK, single zero roulette is the standard option. This is what you will usually see on main floors and regular tables.
Online, there is a broader range of choice. Many sites provide both single zero and double zero roulette, and some also include French-style tables. The game title and wheel display typically show which version you are playing, and the rules panel confirms any additional features.
Although less common in land-based venues, double zero roulette may still be used for themed events or special sessions.
Which Game Should You Choose Based on Your Play Style?
Different players have different preferences. Some prefer smaller stakes and steady sessions, while others prefer higher-risk bets that may return larger payouts if successful.
Single zero roulette has a lower house edge than double zero, which some players find appealing. Others may enjoy the American layout, regardless of the higher edge. Both are random games, and no version removes the built-in advantage of the casino.
Online casinos usually list table limits, rules, and any special features in the game lobby. Reading this information could help you decide what feels most comfortable for you.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.