Roulette Strategy: When to Bet on Zero and Why It Matters
Roulette is a well-known game in many casinos due to its straightforward rules and variety of betting options. Many players focus on common bets like red or black, and odd or even. However, there is a single green zero on the layout, which may be overlooked but plays an important role in the game.
This article looks closely at zero on the roulette table, explaining what makes it different and why some players include it in their betting. Read on to learn more.
Why Zero Matters More Than Most Players Think
The green zero is distinct from the other numbers. A standard European roulette wheel has 37 pockets—numbers 1 to 36 in red or black, and one green zero. This single green pocket changes the odds for every bet at the table.
Outside bets such as red, black, odd, or even lose if the ball lands on zero. The chance of hitting zero on a European wheel is 1 in 37, approximately 2.70%. This small chance affects how all bets perform.
Zero creates the ‘house edge’ in roulette. In European roulette, this edge is about 2.70%. American roulette includes an additional double zero (‘00’), which increases the house edge to about 5.26%. In the UK, both land-based and online venues usually offer the European version, but it could be a good idea to check the table or game rules, as some variants differ.
The presence of zero influences every bet and plays a central role in the game’s structure. Considering zero’s effect may potentially help you decide how to approach your bets.
When Should You Bet on Zero in Roulette?
Some players place bets on zero to cover the whole wheel or when placing a straight-up bet, which means betting on a single number. Others may include zero when placing split or corner bets that involve zero and neighbouring numbers.
You might also add a smaller bet on zero alongside outside bets such as red or black. This approach can partially reduce losses if the ball lands on zero.
Online roulette games sometimes offer special bets like “racetrack” or “neighbour” bets. These options cover zero and nearby numbers in one wager.
Including zero in your betting spreads your possibilities but does not change the fact that each spin is random.
Players should always remember to gamble responsibly and within their means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
How Likely Is Zero to Land on a Spin?
On a European wheel with 37 pockets, each pocket has an equal chance of being selected. The chance of zero landing is 1 in 37, or about 2.70%.
Over many spins, zero might appear around two or three times every 100 spins, though actual results can vary.
When playing online, it could be useful to check which roulette version you are using. American roulette features 38 pockets, including zero and double zero, making the chance of a single zero approximately 2.63%.
Rules and odds are typically shown in each game’s help or paytable section. These resources can provide further details on wheel types and betting probabilities.
Does the Wheel Type Change Your Chances on Zero?
The type of wheel does affect your chances. European roulette is standard in the UK, with a single zero and a 1 in 37 chance of zero appearing. Some online tables may use American roulette, which has 38 pockets, including zero and double zero. This reduces the probability per zero slightly and increases the house edge.
It could be helpful to check the paytable or game rules before playing to see which wheel is in use and how it affects bets.
Knowing the wheel type may help you consider which bets to place. European roulette’s single zero usually offers better odds compared to the American version.
Best Times to Include Zero in Your Betting Pattern
Zero can be included in straight-up bets, which pay 35 to 1. Some players choose to spread bets across the table, adding splits or corners around zero to include neighbouring numbers.
Adding a smaller bet on zero alongside outside bets can also help reduce losses if zero is the result.
Some online games offer “neighbour” bets, covering zero and numbers on either side of it in one bet. Checking the rules or table layout may clarify how these bets work.
Ultimately, whether to bet on zero depends on your preferences and what you find enjoyable at the table.
How Much Does Zero Pay Compared to Other Bets?
A straight-up bet on zero pays 35 to 1. For example, a £1 bet on zero would return £36 if it wins.
Other bets offer lower payouts but cover more numbers. Red or black bets pay 1 to 1, split bets (covering two numbers) pay 17 to 1, and corner bets (covering four numbers) pay 8 to 1.
Both land-based and online games in the UK clearly display payout tables, making it straightforward to check what each bet offers.
Is Betting on Zero Worth It Long-Term?
In the long term, a straight-up bet on zero has the same expected return as any other single number on a European wheel. With a 1 in 37 chance and a payout of 35 to 1, the return is shaped by the house edge.
This corresponds to a Return To Player (RTP) of about 97.3%, meaning that for every £100 wagered, the average return is £97.30 over time.
No bet, including zero, provides an advantage over the house. The odds are designed to reflect the built-in house edge.
If you wish to explore different game versions or paytables, game information pages offer detailed descriptions to assist in making informed decisions.
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**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.