Roulette Table – Layout, Variations, and Betting Explained

The roulette table is the betting surface where players place wagers in the game of roulette. Whether you're in a land-based casino or playing online, understanding how the roulette table is structured and how to place your bets is essential for success.

This article provides an in-depth look at roulette table layouts, the differences between table types, and the various bets you can make.

Roulette Table Layout Overview

A roulette table includes two main components:

The wheel

– Where the ball lands to determine the winning number

The betting layout

– Where players place their chips to make predictions


The betting layout is printed on a felt surface and divided into inside and outside sections, each allowing for different betting options with distinct payout ratios.

Inside vs. Outside Bets

Inside Bets

These are placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers.

  • Straight up – Bet on a single number

  • Split – Bet on two adjacent numbers

  • Street – Bet on a row of three numbers

  • Corner (Square) – Bet on four numbers in a square

  • Six line – Bet on two adjacent rows (six numbers)

Inside bets offer higher payouts but lower odds of winning.

Outside Bets

Placed on broader categories.

  • Red or Black – Predict the color

  • Odd or Even – Predict the nature of the number

  • High or Low – Numbers 1–18 or 19–36

  • Dozens – Groups of 12 numbers

  • Columns – Vertical sections of the layout

Outside bets offer better chances of winning, but lower payouts.

European vs. American Roulette Table

European Roulette Table

  • 37 pockets on the wheel (numbers 1–36 and one zero)

  • Single zero space on the layout

  • Lower house edge: 2.70%

  • Preferred by players for better odds

American Roulette Table

  • 38 pockets (numbers 1–36, 0, and 00)

  • Double zero included on the layout

  • Higher house edge: 5.26%

  • More common in North American casinos

The presence of the extra "00" on American tables affects the layout slightly and increases the casino's advantage.

How to Use a Roulette Table

  1. Exchange cash for chips – Each player gets chips of a unique color.

  2. Place bets on the layout – Use inside or outside bets as desired.

  3. Wait for the dealer to spin the wheel – The ball will land on a winning number.

  4. Payouts are made based on bet types and results – Losing chips are collected.

Timing is crucial. Bets must be placed before the dealer announces "no more bets."

Top 3 Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the difference between the roulette wheel and roulette table?

The wheel determines the outcome by spinning the ball. The table is where players place their bets and organize their wagering options.

2. Is the American roulette table harder to win on than the European version?

Yes. The American table includes an extra "00," increasing the house edge and reducing player odds compared to the European version.

3. What are the best bets to place on a roulette table?

Outside bets like Red/Black or Odd/Even offer the highest probability of success. However, inside bets like straight-up bets offer higher payouts with greater risk.

Conclusion

The roulette table is more than just a surface to place bets—it's a structured and strategic part of the game that influences your playing experience and potential outcomes. Understanding the layout, the types of bets, and the variations between European and American tables can significantly improve your game.

Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, mastering the roulette table is key to making informed decisions and enhancing your enjoyment of this classic casino game.

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