Roulette is one of the most recognizable and beginner-friendly games on the casino floor. Its mix of simplicity, fast action, and suspense makes it a go-to for both casual players and seasoned gamblers. Whether you're sitting at a table in Las Vegas or logging into an online casino, roulette offers a fun, easy-to-follow experience.
This beginner’s guide breaks down the basics—from understanding how the wheel works to learning the most common betting options. If you're new to the game and want to feel more confident before placing your first chip, you're in the right place.
At its heart, roulette is a game built on pure chance. The goal? Predict where a small ball will land after spinning around a wheel. Before each round, players place bets on the layout — choosing specific numbers, groups of numbers, colors, or odd/even outcomes. Once all bets are in, the dealer spins the wheel and drops the ball. When the ball settles into a pocket, winning bets are paid based on its final position.
What makes roulette so appealing is how easy it is to get started. But understanding the betting layout and knowing the types of bets you can place will go a long way in helping you enjoy the game — and potentially win more often.
The roulette wheel is where all the action happens. It features 36 numbered slots, alternating between red and black. In addition, there’s a green 0 — and in the American version, a green 00 as well. That extra zero increases the house edge slightly compared to the European version.
Unlike a simple number line, the wheel’s numbers are arranged in a non-sequential, alternating pattern to balance out the odds. Understanding how the layout is designed can help you spot betting trends and make more informed decisions.
The roulette table might look complicated at first, but once you understand the layout, it’s surprisingly simple. The table mimics the wheel’s numbers and offers a range of betting areas divided into two categories: inside bets and outside bets.
Inside bets are placed on specific numbers or small clusters of numbers found in the center section of the table. These bets come with longer odds, but they also offer the highest payouts. Here are a few common types:
These bets are perfect if you’re chasing bigger wins and don’t mind the extra risk.
Outside bets are placed around the outer edge of the layout and focus on broader outcomes. These bets have a better chance of winning, though they pay less than inside bets. Common outside bets include:
Because of their higher probability, outside bets are a great starting point for beginners or anyone who prefers a steadier pace of play.
Getting into roulette is easier than it looks. Follow these simple steps to understand how the game flows—from getting chips to collecting your winnings.
Start by heading to an open roulette table and exchanging your cash for special roulette chips. These aren’t the same as regular casino chips—they’re color-coded so the dealer (and other players) can tell everyone's bets apart. You’ll be assigned your own color that’s only valid at that specific table.
Before placing your first bet, check the table's minimum and maximum limits. They’re usually posted on a sign near the wheel.
Once you have your chips, it’s time to make your bets. Just place them directly on the table layout—whether you're picking individual numbers, betting on red or black, or trying a combination.
For inside bets (specific numbers or groups), place your chips squarely on the number or line. It’s okay to stack your chips on top of others if space is tight. If you’re unsure about where to place your chips or can’t reach, ask the dealer for help—they’re there to keep things smooth and fair.
After all bets are placed, the dealer will spin the wheel and roll the ball in the opposite direction. As the ball slows down, all eyes are on where it lands.
When it stops in a pocket, the dealer will place a small marker (called a “dolly”) on the winning number and begin clearing the table—removing losing chips and paying out the winners based on the payout odds of each bet.
Ready to wrap up your session? Just let the dealer know you want to cash out. They’ll swap your roulette-specific chips for standard casino chips, which you can use at other tables or redeem at the cashier’s cage.
Heads-up: Don’t walk away with your colored roulette chips. They can’t be used at any other table or cashed out unless you convert them first at the same table where you played.
Roulette gives players a wide range of betting options—from high-risk, high-reward single numbers to safer bets that cover half the wheel. Here’s a clear breakdown of the most popular bets and how the payouts work.
These are bets placed on individual numbers or small clusters on the number grid. The odds of winning are lower, but the rewards are bigger.
Straight-Up Bet
Pick a single number by placing your chip right on it.
Payout: 35 to 1
Split Bet
Covers two side-by-side numbers. Place your chip on the line between them.
Payout: 17 to 1
Street Bet
Covers three numbers in a horizontal row. Place your chip at the edge of the row.
Payout: 11 to 1
Corner (Square) Bet
Covers four numbers that meet at one corner. Place your chip at the shared corner point.
Payout: 8 to 1
Six-Line Bet
Covers two neighboring rows (six numbers total). Place your chip on the line shared between the two rows.
Payout: 5 to 1
Outside bets cover larger sections of the board. They don’t pay as much as inside bets, but your chances of hitting one are higher.
Red or Black
Choose whether the winning number will land on a red or black space.
Payout: 1 to 1
Odd or Even
Bet on whether the number will be odd or even.
Payout: 1 to 1
Low or High
Covers either 1–18 (low) or 19–36 (high).
Payout: 1 to 1
Dozens
Pick one of the three groups of 12 numbers: 1–12, 13–24, or 25–36.
Payout: 2 to 1
Columns
Bet on one of the three vertical columns on the table layout.
Payout: 2 to 1
Note: If the ball lands on 0 (or 00 in American roulette), all outside bets lose.
Some European roulette tables offer rules that soften the blow when you make an even-money bet and the ball lands on 0:
Always check the specific rules at the table before playing—especially online or in international casinos.
In addition to the main betting layout, many European-style roulette tables offer an advanced betting option called the racetrack. Shaped like an oval, the racetrack layout mirrors the physical wheel and allows players to place bets on specific sections of it—not just the numbers on the felt.
These bets are often called call bets or announced bets, and they’re especially popular with experienced players who like targeting certain zones of the wheel.
Also known simply as “Tiers,” this bet covers a third of the roulette wheel, specifically the numbers that sit opposite the zero. It’s one of the most frequently used racetrack bets because it offers broad coverage using a simple structure.
This is a great option for players who want to cover a lot of ground on the opposite side of zero without betting on individual numbers.
The “Orphans” bet includes the numbers that aren’t part of the other racetrack sections. They’re spread out across two different parts of the wheel, making this a more scattered—yet strategic—choice.
This bet appeals to players who want to hedge against the other more commonly bet zones.
This is the largest racetrack bet, covering almost half the wheel. It includes the numbers closest to zero and is a favorite for players who believe the ball will land in the area surrounding that green pocket.
Despite the larger investment, the coverage makes this a popular choice among high-stakes or strategy-focused players.
This type of bet lets you select one number and automatically bet on the two numbers on either side of it on the wheel—for a total of five numbers.
This is a flexible option for players who want to cover a specific zone based on wheel layout—not the table grid.
Racetrack bets are perfect for players who want to focus their wagers on sections of the physical wheel, rather than just rows or groups of numbers on the table. They’re fast, efficient, and offer a more refined approach to roulette strategy—especially for those who follow patterns or believe in wheel bias.
Heads up: Not all tables support racetrack or call bets, especially in American roulette. Be sure to ask the dealer or check the layout before diving in.
Roulette comes in multiple formats—each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re drawn to the fast, solo pace of electronic roulette or the lively energy of a classic table, it helps to know what sets them apart. Here’s a side-by-side look at two popular versions: Touchbet Roulette and Traditional Table Roulette.
Touchbet Roulette is a modern twist on the classic game. Instead of crowding around a table, players use personal touchscreen terminals connected to a live or automated wheel. The rules stay the same—but the gameplay is fully digital.
Touchbet roulette blends convenience with real-game action—great for anyone who enjoys digital efficiency with real-world outcomes.
Traditional roulette is all about the full casino experience. You’re at a live table, placing physical chips, and watching a real dealer spin the wheel. Many players find the social and sensory aspects more satisfying than screen-based versions.
There’s no “better” version—just different experiences. Touchbet is all about speed, ease, and solo comfort, while traditional roulette offers a richer, more social atmosphere. Try both and see which style fits your vibe.
When you sit down at a roulette table in any U.S. casino, knowing how to act is just as important as knowing where to place your chips. Good etiquette helps keep the game moving, avoids misunderstandings, and ensures a better time for everyone involved—from first-timers to regulars.
When you're placing bets, especially inside bets on specific numbers or combinations, stack your chips neatly and directly on your chosen spot. If your bet overlaps with someone else’s, make sure your stack is tidy and visible. This helps the dealer quickly identify who placed which bet and avoids mix-ups.
Always check the betting limits posted at the table before placing a wager. Each table has its own minimum and maximums—know them before you bet.
The dealer will clearly announce when it’s time to place your bets and when betting is closed. Once they say “No more bets,” do not touch the table. Any chips placed or moved after that point may be taken off the layout and voided.
Respecting this rule keeps the game fair and prevents disputes.
If you have a question or need clarification on a bet or payout, wait until the dealer is between spins or done paying winners. Avoid interrupting the game while it's in motion. And if a mistake happens, stay calm—dealers are trained to handle issues fairly and keep things running smoothly.
Keep your chips stacked neatly in front of you and avoid tossing or sliding them across the table. If you’re not sure how to place a specific bet, ask the dealer for help before the wheel starts spinning.
When you're done playing, wait until the round ends and politely let the dealer know you’d like to cash out. They’ll exchange your colored roulette chips for standard casino chips, which you can use at other tables or turn into cash at the cashier.
Roulette is as much about fun and atmosphere as it is about betting. Being respectful of others, following the table's flow, and playing with a good attitude makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone around you. Whether you’re there for one spin or a full session, good manners go a long way.
Roulette is one of the most recognizable and beginner-friendly games on the casino floor. Its mix of simplicity, fast action, and suspense makes it a go-to for both casual players and seasoned gamblers. Whether you're sitting at a table in Las Vegas or logging into an online casino, roulette offers a fun, easy-to-follow experience.
This beginner’s guide breaks down the basics—from understanding how the wheel works to learning the most common betting options. If you're new to the game and want to feel more confident before placing your first chip, you're in the right place.
At its heart, roulette is a game built on pure chance. The goal? Predict where a small ball will land after spinning around a wheel. Before each round, players place bets on the layout — choosing specific numbers, groups of numbers, colors, or odd/even outcomes. Once all bets are in, the dealer spins the wheel and drops the ball. When the ball settles into a pocket, winning bets are paid based on its final position.
What makes roulette so appealing is how easy it is to get started. But understanding the betting layout and knowing the types of bets you can place will go a long way in helping you enjoy the game — and potentially win more often.
The roulette wheel is where all the action happens. It features 36 numbered slots, alternating between red and black. In addition, there’s a green 0 — and in the American version, a green 00 as well. That extra zero increases the house edge slightly compared to the European version.
Unlike a simple number line, the wheel’s numbers are arranged in a non-sequential, alternating pattern to balance out the odds. Understanding how the layout is designed can help you spot betting trends and make more informed decisions.
The roulette table might look complicated at first, but once you understand the layout, it’s surprisingly simple. The table mimics the wheel’s numbers and offers a range of betting areas divided into two categories: inside bets and outside bets.
Inside bets are placed on specific numbers or small clusters of numbers found in the center section of the table. These bets come with longer odds, but they also offer the highest payouts. Here are a few common types:
These bets are perfect if you’re chasing bigger wins and don’t mind the extra risk.
Outside bets are placed around the outer edge of the layout and focus on broader outcomes. These bets have a better chance of winning, though they pay less than inside bets. Common outside bets include:
Because of their higher probability, outside bets are a great starting point for beginners or anyone who prefers a steadier pace of play.
Getting into roulette is easier than it looks. Follow these simple steps to understand how the game flows—from getting chips to collecting your winnings.
Start by heading to an open roulette table and exchanging your cash for special roulette chips. These aren’t the same as regular casino chips—they’re color-coded so the dealer (and other players) can tell everyone's bets apart. You’ll be assigned your own color that’s only valid at that specific table.
Before placing your first bet, check the table's minimum and maximum limits. They’re usually posted on a sign near the wheel.
Once you have your chips, it’s time to make your bets. Just place them directly on the table layout—whether you're picking individual numbers, betting on red or black, or trying a combination.
For inside bets (specific numbers or groups), place your chips squarely on the number or line. It’s okay to stack your chips on top of others if space is tight. If you’re unsure about where to place your chips or can’t reach, ask the dealer for help—they’re there to keep things smooth and fair.
After all bets are placed, the dealer will spin the wheel and roll the ball in the opposite direction. As the ball slows down, all eyes are on where it lands.
When it stops in a pocket, the dealer will place a small marker (called a “dolly”) on the winning number and begin clearing the table—removing losing chips and paying out the winners based on the payout odds of each bet.
Ready to wrap up your session? Just let the dealer know you want to cash out. They’ll swap your roulette-specific chips for standard casino chips, which you can use at other tables or redeem at the cashier’s cage.
Heads-up: Don’t walk away with your colored roulette chips. They can’t be used at any other table or cashed out unless you convert them first at the same table where you played.
Roulette gives players a wide range of betting options—from high-risk, high-reward single numbers to safer bets that cover half the wheel. Here’s a clear breakdown of the most popular bets and how the payouts work.
These are bets placed on individual numbers or small clusters on the number grid. The odds of winning are lower, but the rewards are bigger.
Straight-Up Bet
Pick a single number by placing your chip right on it.
Payout: 35 to 1
Split Bet
Covers two side-by-side numbers. Place your chip on the line between them.
Payout: 17 to 1
Street Bet
Covers three numbers in a horizontal row. Place your chip at the edge of the row.
Payout: 11 to 1
Corner (Square) Bet
Covers four numbers that meet at one corner. Place your chip at the shared corner point.
Payout: 8 to 1
Six-Line Bet
Covers two neighboring rows (six numbers total). Place your chip on the line shared between the two rows.
Payout: 5 to 1
Outside bets cover larger sections of the board. They don’t pay as much as inside bets, but your chances of hitting one are higher.
Red or Black
Choose whether the winning number will land on a red or black space.
Payout: 1 to 1
Odd or Even
Bet on whether the number will be odd or even.
Payout: 1 to 1
Low or High
Covers either 1–18 (low) or 19–36 (high).
Payout: 1 to 1
Dozens
Pick one of the three groups of 12 numbers: 1–12, 13–24, or 25–36.
Payout: 2 to 1
Columns
Bet on one of the three vertical columns on the table layout.
Payout: 2 to 1
Note: If the ball lands on 0 (or 00 in American roulette), all outside bets lose.
Some European roulette tables offer rules that soften the blow when you make an even-money bet and the ball lands on 0:
Always check the specific rules at the table before playing—especially online or in international casinos.
In addition to the main betting layout, many European-style roulette tables offer an advanced betting option called the racetrack. Shaped like an oval, the racetrack layout mirrors the physical wheel and allows players to place bets on specific sections of it—not just the numbers on the felt.
These bets are often called call bets or announced bets, and they’re especially popular with experienced players who like targeting certain zones of the wheel.
Also known simply as “Tiers,” this bet covers a third of the roulette wheel, specifically the numbers that sit opposite the zero. It’s one of the most frequently used racetrack bets because it offers broad coverage using a simple structure.
This is a great option for players who want to cover a lot of ground on the opposite side of zero without betting on individual numbers.
The “Orphans” bet includes the numbers that aren’t part of the other racetrack sections. They’re spread out across two different parts of the wheel, making this a more scattered—yet strategic—choice.
This bet appeals to players who want to hedge against the other more commonly bet zones.
This is the largest racetrack bet, covering almost half the wheel. It includes the numbers closest to zero and is a favorite for players who believe the ball will land in the area surrounding that green pocket.
Despite the larger investment, the coverage makes this a popular choice among high-stakes or strategy-focused players.
This type of bet lets you select one number and automatically bet on the two numbers on either side of it on the wheel—for a total of five numbers.
This is a flexible option for players who want to cover a specific zone based on wheel layout—not the table grid.
Racetrack bets are perfect for players who want to focus their wagers on sections of the physical wheel, rather than just rows or groups of numbers on the table. They’re fast, efficient, and offer a more refined approach to roulette strategy—especially for those who follow patterns or believe in wheel bias.
Heads up: Not all tables support racetrack or call bets, especially in American roulette. Be sure to ask the dealer or check the layout before diving in.
Roulette comes in multiple formats—each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re drawn to the fast, solo pace of electronic roulette or the lively energy of a classic table, it helps to know what sets them apart. Here’s a side-by-side look at two popular versions: Touchbet Roulette and Traditional Table Roulette.
Touchbet Roulette is a modern twist on the classic game. Instead of crowding around a table, players use personal touchscreen terminals connected to a live or automated wheel. The rules stay the same—but the gameplay is fully digital.
Touchbet roulette blends convenience with real-game action—great for anyone who enjoys digital efficiency with real-world outcomes.
Traditional roulette is all about the full casino experience. You’re at a live table, placing physical chips, and watching a real dealer spin the wheel. Many players find the social and sensory aspects more satisfying than screen-based versions.
There’s no “better” version—just different experiences. Touchbet is all about speed, ease, and solo comfort, while traditional roulette offers a richer, more social atmosphere. Try both and see which style fits your vibe.
When you sit down at a roulette table in any U.S. casino, knowing how to act is just as important as knowing where to place your chips. Good etiquette helps keep the game moving, avoids misunderstandings, and ensures a better time for everyone involved—from first-timers to regulars.
When you're placing bets, especially inside bets on specific numbers or combinations, stack your chips neatly and directly on your chosen spot. If your bet overlaps with someone else’s, make sure your stack is tidy and visible. This helps the dealer quickly identify who placed which bet and avoids mix-ups.
Always check the betting limits posted at the table before placing a wager. Each table has its own minimum and maximums—know them before you bet.
The dealer will clearly announce when it’s time to place your bets and when betting is closed. Once they say “No more bets,” do not touch the table. Any chips placed or moved after that point may be taken off the layout and voided.
Respecting this rule keeps the game fair and prevents disputes.
If you have a question or need clarification on a bet or payout, wait until the dealer is between spins or done paying winners. Avoid interrupting the game while it's in motion. And if a mistake happens, stay calm—dealers are trained to handle issues fairly and keep things running smoothly.
Keep your chips stacked neatly in front of you and avoid tossing or sliding them across the table. If you’re not sure how to place a specific bet, ask the dealer for help before the wheel starts spinning.
When you're done playing, wait until the round ends and politely let the dealer know you’d like to cash out. They’ll exchange your colored roulette chips for standard casino chips, which you can use at other tables or turn into cash at the cashier.
Roulette is as much about fun and atmosphere as it is about betting. Being respectful of others, following the table's flow, and playing with a good attitude makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone around you. Whether you’re there for one spin or a full session, good manners go a long way.
Whether you're heading to a casino for the first time or trying online roulette from home, it's normal to have questions. This FAQ covers the most common beginner concerns and helps you play with more confidence.
Yes, if you're located in a U.S. state that has legalized online gambling. Many regulated online casinos offer real-money roulette games like American, European, and even French versions. Always choose licensed platforms to ensure game fairness and data protection.
The main difference is the number of pockets on the wheel:
For better odds, European roulette is usually the smarter choice.
Stick with even-money bets like red/black, odd/even, or high/low. These cover almost half the wheel and offer 1:1 payouts, making them great for beginners. Set a strict budget before playing to avoid chasing losses.
In land-based casinos, check the signage near the roulette table—it shows minimum and maximum bets. Online, betting limits are displayed on the game interface or in the rules section before you start playing.
A split bet covers two adjacent numbers by placing a chip on the line between them. If either number hits, you win a payout of 17:1. It's a way to increase your coverage while managing risk.
Only briefly. Once the dealer announces “No more bets,” all wagering must stop. Any additional chips placed after that may be removed or invalidated to maintain fairness.
If the ball lands on zero, all outside bets (like red/black or odd/even) lose—unless you bet on zero specifically. Some games with La Partage or En Prison rules may refund part of your even-money bet, so always check the table rules in advance.
Roulette is a game of pure luck. The outcome is entirely random, and no skill or betting system can predict where the ball will land. That said, understanding odds and betting types can help you make smarter choices.
