Roulette is one of the most iconic and approachable games in any casino. With its fast pace, simple rules, and mix of luck and excitement, it appeals to both first-timers and longtime gamblers. Whether you’re pulling up a seat at a casino in Atlantic City or spinning the wheel online from home, roulette offers an easy and engaging way to dive into casino gaming.
This beginner guide will walk you through the fundamentals—from how the wheel works to the different types of bets you can place. If you’re just getting started and want to play with confidence, you’re in the right spot.
At its core, roulette is a game of chance. The goal is simple: guess where the ball will land after the dealer spins the wheel. Players place chips on the table to bet on specific numbers, ranges of numbers, colors (red or black), or whether the result will be odd or even. Once bets are placed, the wheel spins, the ball drops, and wherever it lands determines the winning bets.
What makes roulette especially appealing for beginners is how easy it is to learn. Still, knowing how the betting grid works and understanding your options can help you enjoy the game more—and maybe even walk away with a win.
The roulette wheel is divided into 36 numbered slots, alternating between red and black. There’s also a green zero—and in American roulette, an additional green double zero (00). That second zero increases the house edge, which is why many players prefer the European version with only a single zero.
The number layout on the wheel isn’t in sequential order. Instead, it’s designed in a specific pattern to create balance and unpredictability. While this doesn’t affect outcomes—every spin is random—it’s helpful to understand how the layout works when choosing your bets or watching for patterns over time.
At first glance, a roulette table might seem overwhelming—but once you know how it’s laid out, it becomes much easier to follow. The betting grid mirrors the numbers on the wheel and is divided into two main betting areas: inside bets and outside bets.
Inside bets focus on specific numbers or small groups of numbers in the central part of the table layout. These bets are riskier due to their lower odds of hitting—but if you win, the payouts are much bigger. Here’s a breakdown of the most common inside bet types:
These bets are great for players who enjoy a bit more excitement and are willing to take on extra risk for the chance at a larger payout.
Outside bets are placed on the perimeter of the table and cover larger sets of numbers. While the payouts are lower, these bets offer a higher probability of winning—making them ideal for newer players or those who prefer steadier gameplay. Here are the most common outside bet types:
If you’re just starting out, outside bets offer a smoother entry into roulette by giving you more frequent wins and less volatility.
Roulette might seem fast-paced and complex at first, but it’s one of the easiest casino games to learn. Below is a simple walk-through of what to expect your first time—from getting chips to walking away with your winnings.
Head to an open roulette table and exchange your cash for roulette-specific chips. These chips are different from standard casino chips—they’re color-coded so the dealer knows which bets belong to which player. Each person gets a unique color that’s only valid at that particular table.
Before betting, take a quick look at the table’s posted limits (minimum and maximum bet amounts). These are usually displayed on a placard near the wheel.
Now it’s time to put your chips down. You can bet on a single number, red or black, odd or even, or several numbers at once. Just place your chips directly onto the table layout in the appropriate area.
If you're making inside bets (on individual numbers or small groups), your chips should go directly on the number or on the lines between them. If there’s a crowd and space is tight, it’s fine to stack chips or ask the dealer to help place your bet.
The dealer won’t spin the wheel until everyone’s bets are in, so take your time—but don’t wait too long. Once betting is closed, the dealer will call it out clearly.
With bets locked in, the dealer spins the wheel in one direction and rolls a small white ball the opposite way. The suspense builds as the ball slows and bounces before settling into one of the numbered pockets.
Once it lands, the dealer places a small marker (called a dolly) on the winning number. Then they’ll clear losing bets from the table and pay out the winners based on each bet’s payout odds.
When you're ready to leave the table, let the dealer know you’d like to cash out. They’ll exchange your colored roulette chips for standard casino chips, which you can then use at other tables or bring to the cashier to cash in for money.
Important: Don’t walk away with your roulette chips—they’re only valid at the table where you received them and can’t be cashed out anywhere else until exchanged.
Roulette offers a mix of high-risk, high-reward bets and safer options with more consistent results. Understanding the different bet types—and how much they pay—is key to making smarter decisions at the table. Below is a breakdown of the most common roulette bets, grouped into inside and outside categories.
These bets are placed on specific numbers or tight number groupings on the roulette layout. They don’t win often, but when they do, the payouts are high.
Outside bets cover larger groups of numbers and give you better odds of winning. Payouts are lower, but wins are more frequent—ideal for beginners or anyone looking for longer play sessions.
Important: If the ball lands on 0 (or 00 in American roulette), all outside bets lose—unless special rules apply.
Some European roulette tables include special rules that reduce losses on even-money bets when the ball lands on 0:
Tip: Always check the table rules—especially if you’re playing online or at an international casino.
While most roulette action happens on the standard table layout, European-style games often include an extra feature called the racetrack. This oval-shaped section mimics the layout of the actual roulette wheel and lets players bet on groups of numbers that sit next to each other on the wheel itself, not just the betting grid.
These are known as call bets or announced bets—they’re especially popular with seasoned players looking to target certain zones with precision.
Also known simply as Tiers, this bet covers about one-third of the wheel, specifically the numbers directly opposite the zero pocket.
This is a great option for players who want to cover a large section of the wheel without betting on individual numbers one by one.
The Orphelins—or “Orphans”—bet includes numbers that don’t fall into the Tiers or Voisins sections. These numbers are scattered in two parts of the wheel, making this a less uniform—but still strategic—bet.
Orphelins is often used by players who want to hedge against the more common sections and cover less obvious pockets.
This is the largest racetrack bet, covering nearly half the wheel. It targets the numbers surrounding the zero, making it a favorite among players who believe the ball will land in that central zone.
The broad coverage makes this a go-to bet for high rollers and players following wheel-based strategies.
Neighbor bets let you pick a specific number and automatically cover the two numbers on each side of it on the wheel—for a total of five numbers.
This is a flexible way to target a zone on the wheel without memorizing the full racetrack structure.
Racetrack bets are ideal for players who want to target sections of the physical wheel, not just groupings on the felt. They offer:
Note: Not every roulette table offers racetrack or call bets—especially in American roulette. Always check the table or ask the dealer before planning your strategy.
Roulette isn’t a one-size-fits-all game anymore. From high-energy casino floors to quiet digital terminals, there are now multiple ways to play. Two of the most popular options are Touchbet (electronic) roulette and traditional live table roulette—each offering a different kind of experience. Let’s break down the pros, differences, and what might work best for you.
Touchbet roulette is a modern, electronic version of the game. Instead of playing at a table with a dealer, you sit at your own touchscreen terminal and place bets digitally. The wheel may be either live-streamed or automated, but the rules of roulette stay exactly the same.
Touchbet is ideal if you want the convenience of digital betting but still want a real roulette wheel determining outcomes.
Traditional roulette is the classic casino experience—you’re standing (or sitting) at a real table, using physical chips, and placing bets with the help of a live dealer. This format is more interactive and social, making it a favorite for those who enjoy the full casino atmosphere.
Live table roulette is perfect for anyone looking to soak in the full casino experience and connect with the action in a more physical way.
There’s no one “right” version of roulette—it really comes down to how you like to play. Touchbet is efficient and laid-back. Traditional roulette is social and immersive. Try both, and see which one fits your style best.
When you sit down at a roulette table in a U.S. casino, knowing how to act is just as important as knowing how to place your bets. Following basic table etiquette helps the game run smoothly, keeps misunderstandings to a minimum, and ensures a better experience for everyone—whether you’re brand new or a seasoned regular.
When making inside bets (on individual numbers or small groups), place your chips clearly and stack them neatly. If your chips overlap with another player’s, make sure they’re distinguishable. The dealer needs to see who placed what—especially when multiple bets land on the same number.
Before betting, always check the table’s minimum and maximum limits. These are usually displayed near the wheel, and sticking to them helps avoid delays.
The dealer will call out when betting is open. When they announce “no more bets,” your hands should be off the table. Placing chips after that point could result in the bet being voided.
Following this simple rule shows respect for the game and helps keep things fair for all players.
If you’re unsure about something—whether it’s a payout or how a bet works—wait until the dealer finishes the round or has a free moment. Don’t interrupt while they’re handling payouts or managing active bets.
If something goes wrong, stay calm and ask politely. Most dealers are trained to resolve issues professionally and fairly.
Don’t toss or slide your chips across the table. Instead, place them gently and keep your personal stack in front of you. If you’re not sure where or how to bet, it’s perfectly okay to ask the dealer before the wheel spins.
When you're ready to leave, wait for the current round to end and let the dealer know you’d like to cash out. They’ll convert your roulette-specific chips into standard casino chips you can take elsewhere—or redeem at the cashier window.
Roulette is a game of excitement, but also of rhythm and shared space. A little courtesy—like respecting turn-taking, not crowding other players, and maintaining a good attitude—goes a long way. Whether you’re playing one round or staying for hours, good table manners help make the experience enjoyable for everyone.
Yes—if you’re in a state that has legalized and regulates online gambling. Licensed platforms in states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan offer real-money roulette, including American, European, and sometimes French variations. Just make sure the site is fully licensed and secure. Look for certifications, encryption, and independent testing to confirm fair play.
It comes down to a single pocket—and a big difference in odds.
European Roulette: 37 pockets (1–36 + single zero), house edge ~2.70%.
American Roulette: 38 pockets (adds 00), house edge ~5.26%.
European roulette generally gives you better long-term odds.
Stick to outside bets—like red/black, odd/even, or low/high. These offer 1:1 payouts and more consistent results, making them ideal for beginners.
Tip: Set a budget in advance and avoid chasing losses.
In a casino, check the posted sign on the table. Online games usually display limits before loading or when hovering over bet areas.
A split bet covers two adjacent numbers on the layout. You place a chip on the line between them. If either hits, you win at 17:1 odds.
Yes—but only briefly. Once the dealer announces “No more bets,” you can’t place or change wagers. Late bets are ignored or removed.
Outside bets like red/black or odd/even lose unless you bet directly on 0.
In European roulette, some tables offer:
La Partage: Half your bet is returned.
En Prison: Bet is held for one more spin—win to recover.
Roulette is purely a game of chance. Each spin is random. However, playing smart (e.g., managing your bankroll, favoring lower house edge versions) helps improve your experience.
