Understanding the Layout of Roulette Wheel Numbers
Step into the dynamic realm of roulette wheel numbers! Spanning from 0 to 36, the numbers on a roulette wheel create the foundation for the excitement and uncertainty which grips players with every spin. So join us and discover the answer to questions like how many numbers are on a roulette wheel, and more.
Why is the roulette wheel made the way it is?
The design of the roulette wheel is a result of careful consideration of both tradition and mathematical principles. Dating back to its invention in the 18th century, the roulette wheel has undergone various refinements, leading to the layout we see today. Its construction serves multiple purposes:
Balanced Odds: The distribution of numbers on the wheel aims to create a balanced game with equal chances of winning various types of bets. The alternating red and black pockets, along with the even and odd numbers, contribute to this balance.
House Edge: The inclusion of one or two green pockets (0 and 00 in American roulette or just 0 in European roulette) gives the casino its statistical advantage, known as the house edge. These green pockets ensure that not all bets are paid out at true odds, allowing the casino to make a profit.
Randomness: The arrangement of numbers on the wheel is designed to maximise randomness. Each spin is independent, and the wheel’s design minimises any patterns or biases that could favour certain outcomes. The sequence of numbers on a standard roulette wheel is as follows: 0, 32, 15, 19, 4, 21, 2, 25, 17, 34, 6, 27, 13, 36, 11, 30, 8, 23, 10, 5, 24, 16, 33, 1, 20, 14, 31, 9, 22, 18, 29, 7, 28, 12, 35, 3, 26, alternating between red and black numbers, with the exception of the 0, which is typically green.
Historical Evolution: The modern roulette wheel has evolved from earlier versions with inconsistent layouts. The standardisation of the wheel’s design was driven by the need for fairness and consistency in the game.
Aesthetic Appeal: The roulette wheel’s design adds to the visual allure of the game. Its vibrant colours and symmetrical layout contribute to the overall ambience of the casino.
Roulette Wheel speeds
Roulette wheel speed is a critical element in the game, influencing the outcome of each spin. The rotation speed of the wheel, along with the ball’s velocity, determines where the ball will ultimately land. Casinos carefully control wheel speeds to maintain fairness and prevent predictability.
Random Rotor Speed
In some casinos, particularly those with automated or electronic roulette wheels, the rotor speed, which determines the wheel’s spin rate, can be programmed to vary randomly between spins. Random rotor speed prevents players from trying to time their bets based on the wheel’s previous spins.
Online Roulette
Online roulette faithfully replicates the experience of playing at a physical casino, complete with virtual roulette wheels and betting interfaces. In an online casino, players can choose from various roulette variants, including European, American, and live dealer roulette with real-time video streaming, and a wide range of betting options. In all but live dealer roulette, the outcome of the spin is decided by an RNG (Random Number Generator), the same as in online slots. The great thing about online roulette is the huge range of variants of the game that are available, such as Lightning Roulette, XXXtreme Lightning Roulette, and Age of the Gods Roulette, all with their own bonus rounds and twists to gameplay.
European Roulette
European roulette is a popular variant of the classic casino game known for its favourable odds compared to American roulette. In this version, the wheel features 37 numbered pockets, including a single green zero (0) pocket.
European Roulette Table and Bets
The European roulette table is designed with simplicity and elegance. Players can place various bets, including inside bets and outside bets. Inside bets involve wagering on specific roulette table numbers or combinations of numbers within the main grid of the table, while outside bets cover broader categories like colours, dozens, or columns. The European roulette table layout has only a single zero pocket, which lowers the house edge and enhances players’ chances of winning.
American Roulette
American roulette, another popular roulette variant, is known for its distinctive double zero (00) pocket on the wheel. This additional pocket impacts the game’s odds and house edge compared to European roulette.
American Roulette Table and Bets
The American roulette table closely resembles its European counterpart but includes an extra double zero (00) pocket. This addition increases the house edge, making it slightly less favourable for players. Like in European roulette, players can place inside and outside bets on the table.
French Roulette
French roulette, often considered the original version of the game, offers a distinct set of rules and bets. It features a single zero (0) pocket on the wheel, aligning it with European roulette.
French Roulette Table and Bets
The French roulette table is notable for its unique betting options and the use of French terms on the layout. Two special rules, “La Partage” and “En Prison,” further enhance the player’s advantage by minimising losses on even-money bets when the ball lands in the zero pocket.
Which one is best?
Determining which version of roulette is the “best” depends on individual preferences and priorities. Each variant—European, American, and French—offers its unique characteristics and odds, making them suitable for different types of players. Here’s a summary to help you decide which one might be the best fit for you:

European Roulette
Advantages: It has a lower house edge due to a single zero (2.70% house edge), making it more favourable for players.
Consider If: You prefer better odds and straightforward gameplay.
American Roulette
Advantages: Slightly faster gameplay, but…
Disadvantages: Features an additional double zero, increasing the house edge (5.26%) significantly.
Consider If: You appreciate a faster pace but don’t mind the higher house edge.
French Roulette
Advantages: Shares the same favourable odds as European roulette (2.70% house edge) and offers unique rules like “La Partage” and “En Prison” that can minimise losses on even-money bets.
Consider If: You want the best odds and enjoy the added rules that can benefit your bets. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a more immersive experience.
Ultimately, the “best” version of roulette depends on whether you prioritise better odds, specific rules, a faster pace, or other aspects of gameplay. It’s also worth noting that personal preference plays a significant role. Some players enjoy the simplicity of European roulette, while others appreciate the extra layer of strategy offered by French roulette. To determine which one suits you best, consider your gaming style and goals when choosing among these roulette variants.
Roulette Wheel Numbers FAQs
A standard roulette wheel features a total of 37 or 38 numbers, depending on the variant. In European and French roulette, there are 37 numbers, including 0 to 36. In American roulette, there are 38 numbers, including 0, 00, and 1 to 36.
The highest number on a standard roulette wheel is 36.
On a standard roulette wheel, there are 18 red numbers. These are 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27, 30, 32, 34, and 36.
A standard roulette wheel also has 18 black numbers. These are 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 29, 31, 33, and 35.



