Online Roulette: Everything to Know About Playing Roulette Online

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Online roulette is one of the most popular casino games played by players using a UK-licensed casino. It is enjoyed more than any other, aside from slots. The UK Gambling Commission produced figures that showed 36% played virtual roulette in 2023, with a further 29% playing live roulette.

It is a simple game on the surface, which has helped boost its popularity. It is a game that can also produce potentially large wins when players are lucky and make the right type of bets. With simplicity, modern twists, and potentially lucrative rewards, it remains a casino game with an undeniable reputation.

This guide will provide readers with everything to know about the game. It will cover everything about the three main variants that can be found at UKGC-licensed casinos, identifying how they should be played as well as the pros and cons of each one. The guide will also provide details regarding strategies that can be used to maximise win potential.

A brief history lesson about roulette’s origin will also be provided. At the same time, the BestOdds experts will cover how players should find a live roulette option to play safely, as well as give guidance on the terms players may hear for the very first time.

Continue reading to be a master of online roulette and acquire informed knowledge that can potentially help elevate any further experience that is enjoyed when hitting the virtual tables of this popular casino game.

Core Roulette Variants Available to UK Players

At an online casino regulated by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), it is common to find three variants of online roulette being offered. These are:

• American Roulette
• European Roulette
• French Roulette

Each variant will differ slightly in terms of the wheel and/or bets that can be made, although the premise of the game remains the same. Players must predict where the ball will land on the wheel by placing bets on the table that correlate to the pocket. Different bets can be placed, which are covered later.

It is essential to recognise that many live roulette variants exist in the UK, which are adaptations of the classic casino game. Software providers like Evolution, Pragmatic Play, and Playtech have each created titles that feature modern twists to enhance the entertainment available in these versions.

American Roulette

American Roulette is a widely played online roulette variant, especially popular among UK players. Its most distinctive feature is the presence of an additional pocket on the wheel: the double-zero (00). The American Roulette wheel has 38 numbered pockets in total—numbers 1 to 36, a single zero (0), and a double zero (00).

This extra pocket significantly impacts the game’s odds and house edge. The inclusion of the double zero increases the house edge to 5.26%, which is notably higher than the 2.7% found in European Roulette. This means that, on average, players are expected to lose more per bet in American Roulette compared to its European counterpart.

Despite the higher house edge, American Roulette remains popular for its faster pace and greater variety of betting options, such as the unique “Five Number Bet” (covering 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3), which is not available in other variants. The table layout also differs, with outside bets typically located on one long side of the table.

European Roulette

The most popular form of roulette in the UK, European Roulette, accounts for more than 80% of UK RNG tables when found at UKGC-licensed casinos. It is the variant that is most recognisable, having often been used in popular culture, such as TV shows, films, and video games.

European Roulette is the classic and most popular version of roulette, recognised for its single zero (0) pocket. The wheel features 37 numbered pockets—numbers 1 to 36 and a single green zero. This design results in a lower house edge of 2.7%, making it more favourable for players compared to American Roulette.

The absence of the double zero not only improves the odds for players but also makes the game’s layout slightly simpler. European Roulette tables typically split outside bets between two long sides, and the game pace is generally a bit slower than American Roulette.

The payouts remain the same as in American Roulette, but the improved odds make European Roulette the preferred choice for many players, especially those employing betting strategies.

French Roulette

A less popular alternative, French Roulette closely resembles European Roulette in wheel design, featuring 37 pockets. However, what sets French Roulette apart are its special rules. These are La Partage and En Prison. These rules apply to even-money bets (such as red/black, odd/even):

• La Partage: If the ball lands on zero, half of your even-money bet is returned, cutting your losses in half.
• En Prison: If the ball lands on zero, your even-money bet is “imprisoned” for the next spin. If your bet wins on the next spin, your original stake is returned; if not, it is lost.

These rules reduce the house edge on even-money bets to just 1.35%, making French Roulette the most player-friendly variant in terms of odds. The table layout also differs slightly, with bet names and sections often presented in French and a racetrack for call bets.

Comparison of Online Roulette Variants

The following table highlights the three online roulette variants and shows how they differ from each other:

Feature	American Roulette	European Roulette	French Roulette
Wheel Pockets	38 (0, 00, 1–36)	37 (0, 1–36)	37 (0, 1–36)
Zero Pockets	2 (0, 00)	1 (0)	1 (0)
House Edge	5.26%	2.7%	1.35% (even-money bets)
Special Rules	None	None	La Partage, En Prison
Table Layout	One long side for bets	Two long sides for bets	French terms, racetrack
Player Odds	Lowest	Higher	Highest (even-money bets)

How to Play Roulette – A Step‑by‑Step Guide for Total Beginners

Players who wish to begin playing live roulette must create an account at a safe and trusted online casino. Several simple steps must be taken. These include:

1. Choosing a UKGC-licensed Casino

Players must select a casino that has been licensed by the UK Gambling Commission. This will ensure they remain safe and protected from potentially harmful gambling. Choose one of those that have been recommended by BestOdds to use one of the best ones.

2. Create an Account & Complete KYC Checks

Once a casino has been selected, players must create an account with the site. They should complete all of the requested steps by following the instructions the operator provides. It is also highly recommended to complete all Know Your Customer (KYC) checks and verification to enable streamlined experiences regarding future potential withdrawals.

3. Claim the Welcome Bonus (if desired)

All the top online casinos in the UK will offer a welcome bonus as part of the sign-up process. Players can choose if they want to claim it or not; some will be applied automatically. Not all welcome bonuses will be playable with live roulette, so check the terms and conditions as wagering requirements and game contributions may impact a chosen game’s value.

4. Make a First Deposit

Before playing an online roulette game, players must add funds to their casino account. The best online casinos will offer various methods, affording players convenience when making a deposit. Players should deposit an amount they are comfortable losing using a method they are familiar with and know how to use. A minimum deposit will usually be required, which will be specified by the casino.

5. Finding the Roulette Games

Once a deposit has been successfully made, players are ready to play. To find a roulette game, they can either look for ‘live casino’ options or go to a section that includes ‘table games’. Some casinos may offer a search feature, while others may utilise a filter. Use these to assist in finding a roulette variant to play.

6. Selecting a Game & Setting Bet Size

Once a game has been selected, players will see the title being loaded. The game’s interface will appear, which will allow players to place bets. Before doing this, it is essential to set the bet size. It is recommended to keep these as low as possible, as this will prolong a session and keep the bankroll flowing.

7. Placing a Bet

After the bet size has been adjusted, players can place bets on the table. Several different bets can be made, which is why it is essential to read the rules before playing. As a general rule of thumb, it is recommended to place inside/outside bets, as these have a better percentage of winning compared to other bets.

8. Watch the Game Unfold

Bets must be placed within a specific time period. This can depend on the variant of online roulette being played. Once the time expires, the wheel will be spun. If playing live roulette, a human dealer will do it, whereas a computerised game will do it automatically using a Random Number Generator (RNG). Once the wheel has finished spinning, the result will be displayed by showing which pocket the ball landed in.

9. Repeat the Process

The game will return to the betting table where players can place another bet if they wish to continue. The exact process will repeat itself until players decide to leave or have no more funds to wager with. It can be a good idea to review the game history section while playing, as this provides an overview of the last few bets, potentially helping players make informed decisions about future bets.

10. Withdrawing Funds

Players who have funds that can be withdrawn should exit the game, log in to their casino account, and make the request. This can be found within the Cashier area, or there may be a dedicated withdrawal button. Simply follow the instructions provided by the casino, ensuring you use the same payment method used for the deposit (if applicable) to facilitate a smooth process. All transactions may be subject to a processing period, and each method may have its own timeframe for completing withdrawals.

Inside vs Outside Bets – Odds, Payouts & Practical Examples

Online roulette has two main types of bets. These are ‘Inside’ and ‘Outside’ bets. Each of these offers different odds, resulting in different payouts. They also include a varying level of risk, which players must be aware of when placing these bets.

• Inside Bets: Specific numbers or small groups of numbers on the inner section of the table, offering higher payouts but lower chances of winning.
• Outside Bets: Cover larger groups of numbers, such as red/black or odd/even, providing better odds of winning but with smaller payouts.

Both bet types will contribute equally to the house edge that can be found across all variants. It will vary depending on the roulette variant, so it’s essential to understand how these differences impact betting strategies that may be used to try and maximise win potential.

Bet Type	Numbers Covered	Payout	True Odds (European)	House Edge (European)	True Odds (American)	House Edge (American)	True Odds (French)	House Edge (French) *
Straight Up	1	35:1	2.70%	2.70%	2.63%	5.26%	2.70%	2.70% / 1.35%
Split	2	17:1	5.41%	2.70%	5.26%	5.26%	5.41%	2.70% / 1.35%
Street	3	11:1	8.11%	2.70%	7.89%	5.26%	8.11%	2.70% / 1.35%
Corner	4	8:1	10.81%	2.70%	10.53%	5.26%	10.81%	2.70% / 1.35%
Six Line	6	5:1	16.22%	2.70%	15.79%	5.26%	16.22%	2.70% / 1.35%
Red/Black	18	1:1	48.65%	2.70%	47.37%	5.26%	48.65%	2.70% / 1.35%
Odd/Even	18	1:1	48.65%	2.70%	47.37%	5.26%	48.65%	2.70% / 1.35%
High/Low	18	1:1	48.65%	2.70%	47.37%	5.26%	48.65%	2.70% / 1.35%
Dozen	12	2:1	32.43%	2.70%	31.58%	5.26%	32.43%	2.70% / 1.35%
Column	12	2:1	32.43%	2.70%	31.58%	5.26%	32.43%	2.70% / 1.35%

*The house edge in French Roulette will drop to 1.35% when even-money bets have been made because of the special rules that can be found in this variant (La Partage/En Prison).

Practical Examples of Bet Types

Straight Up Bet on 17 (£1 Example)

Place £1 on number 17.

• European/French Roulette: If 17 hits, £35 is returned (plus £1 stake), totalling £36. If not, £1 is lost.
• American Roulette: Same payout, but the odds of hitting are slightly lower due to the extra 00 pocket.
• Win: Profit = £35
• Lose: Loss = -£1

Red Outside Bet (£5 Example)

Place £5 on red.

• European Roulette: If a red number hits, £5 (plus stake) is won, totalling £10. If black or zero, £5 is lost.
• French Roulette: If zero hits, you get half your bet back (La Partage), so you lose only £2.50.
• American Roulette: Same as European, but with slightly lower odds due to the double zero.
• Win: Profit = £5
• Lose: Loss = -£5 (European/American), -£2.50 (French, if zero hits)

Roulette Odds & RTP Explained

Every online roulette variant comes with a built-in house edge, which is the casino’s statistical advantage over players. This house edge ensures that, over thousands of spins, the casino will always hold a small profit margin.

RTP (Return to Player) is the flip side of house edge. RTP is a percentage that indicates to players how much of their total bets they can expect to recover over a long period of play. For example, if a game has an RTP of 97.30%, you’d expect to get back £97.30 for every £100 wagered, in the long run.

House edge is simply the percentage of every bet that the casino expects to keep over time. For instance, a 2.7% house edge means the casino keeps £2.70 for every £100 bet, on average.

Standard RTP and House Edge Figures

French Roulette is the most player-friendly, followed by European, with American offering the lowest returns due to its extra double-zero pocket. The standard figures are:

• European Roulette: RTP 97.30% (House Edge 2.70%)
• French Roulette: RTP 98.65% (House Edge 1.35% on even-money bets, thanks to the La Partage rule)
• American Roulette: RTP 94.74% (House Edge 5.26%)

Identical Math Models for Both Online and Live Roulette Variants

Both RNG (Random Number Generator) and Live Dealer roulette games use the same mathematical principles for odds, RTP, and house edge. The only difference is how results are generated.

RNG games use certified algorithms, while live games use real wheels and dealers. In the UK, both formats are rigorously tested and certified for fairness by independent agencies such as eCOGRA, GLI, iTech Labs, and BMM Testlabs.

Using independent bodies ensures that the published RTP and odds are accurate and that game outcomes are genuinely random, thereby guaranteeing fairness to both players and casinos through transparency.

The RTP and house edge of a live roulette game can typically be found in the title’s information panel. It is recommended to look at this before placing a bet, as it can give players an indication of what to expect and allow them to make a decision about whether to place a bet or seek an alternative title to play.

The History of Roulette – From 18th‑Century France to UK Phones

Roulette is a game that has been a staple of casinos in the UK and around the world for centuries. It emerged with humble beginnings before evolving into the technologically advanced game it is today.

The game’s origins are in France, with it believed to have been first created in the late 18th century, with 1796 often credited as the game’s initial beginnings. Many believe the Roulette wheel was invented by a French physicist, inventor, and mathematician named Blaise Pascal, with the proto wheel being known as “Roly Poly”. It first rose to prominence and was recorded in writing in La Roulette, ou le Jour.

It was not until the 19th century that the game was further adapted and began to resemble the roulette that players know today. In the German town of Bad Homburg, the Blanc brothers (François and Joseph) invented the single-zero wheel. This would then spread to Monte Carlo before reaching the United States. In the U.S., the game was further adapted to provide players with an American version of roulette.

This is where the double-zero pocket was introduced. The game’s popularity did not take off until the 20th century, especially in locations such as the United Kingdom and the United States, where casino gaming is extremely popular. In the UK, the 1960 Betting & Gaming Act helped to make the game more popular as casinos began to be legalised.

In the later stages of the 20th century and the early 21st century, technology began to have a significant influence on the game. Microgaming introduced the first RNG wheel in 1996, allowing players to play roulette online.

In 2006, the UIGEA (Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act of 2006) expanded live roulette options as Evolution began to provide live-streamed, high-definition variants to the U.S. and beyond, utilising studios that feature human dealers.

With the technological advances experienced, players in the UK are no more than three taps away from accessing whatever live roulette variant they want, helping to solidify this casino game’s popularity with the market.

Popular UK Roulette Variants Beyond the Classics

Online roulette is available in various forms, with different variants utilising technology in different ways to provide new experiences to players. Gone are the days when each game was standardised in the same way.

Although possible to play in the classic way, software providers like Evolution, Pragmatic Play, and Playtech have used technology to create unique mechanics, provide innovative features, and add further excitement to make live roulette more attractive than ever.

Below are just some of the most popular UK roulette variants possible to play at the top UKGC-licensed casinos:

Lightning Roulette (Evolution)

Arguably one of the most popular and recognisable forms of online roulette, Lightning Roulette has changed the standard live roulette experience by adding random multipliers of up to 500x on straight-up bets.

During each round, one to five “Lightning Numbers” are struck, offering massive payout potential if a single-number bet lands on one of them. Standard straight-up wins pay 29:1, but hit a Lightning Number and the stake could be multiplied dramatically, introducing extra volatility and excitement. The game’s visually striking studio and wide betting range make it a hit with both casual and high-stakes players.

Quantum Roulette

Playtech’s Quantum Roulette is another variant that has proven to be exceptionally popular with British casino players. It has similar multipliers to Evolution’s Lightning Roulette, mirroring the 500x max win potential that can be obtained when players successfully land the right number on a straight-up bet.

Streamed from a London studio, each spin made in Quantum Roulette will have up to five numbers that can receive a multiplier. Special features, such as Quantum Boost or Quantum Leap, can further enhance these values.

Standard straight-up bets pay 29:1, but the chance to land a huge multiplier adds significant volatility and appeal for those seeking bigger thrills, with a wide range of bets possible.

Immersive Roulette

Following European Roulette game rules, Immersive Roulette stands out for its production, as it allows players to feel they are standing in a physical casino and playing while at a table.

The game focuses on offering an exceptional atmospheric experience, and it succeeds in doing so. The multiple camera angles and high-definition visuals create a sense of drama and realism unmatched by standard roulette streams.

In addition to the cinematic quality of the game, Immersive Roulette also offers players a simplistic gameplay experience that suits all playing styles and needs. It is a title that remains very high on the list of top live roulette variants for British players when using a UKGC-licensed casino.

Auto-Roulette & Speed Roulette

Auto-Roulette and Speed Roulette are designed for fast-paced play, eliminating the need for a dealer and using automated wheels to deliver up to 80 spins per hour or a new round every 25 seconds. This format appeals to players who want rapid wagering and minimal downtime between bets.

While the main appeal of the game is its quickness, players enjoy this title because it provides an entertaining European Roulette gameplay experience. It is simple to enjoy, just at a much quicker rate than all of the other variants that can be enjoyed.

Double Ball Roulette

Double Ball Roulette sees a twist on a classic roulette game with two balls being used and in play at the same time. In addition, some Double Ball Roulette variants can feature a double-zero pocket, adding further excitement to the game.

Players can win standard inside bets if either ball lands on their number (at reduced payouts, e.g., 17:1 for a straight-up), but outside bets require both balls to hit the chosen outcome, with payouts increased accordingly (e.g., 3:1 for red/black).

The rare “Double Ball Jackpot” pays a massive 1,300:1 if both balls land on the same number, making this variant one of the most volatile and unique in the market.

Live‑Dealer vs. RNG Roulette – Pros & Cons

Live‑Dealer Pros

• Real wheels and authentic casino atmosphere.
• Social chat features for interacting with dealers and other players.
• Transparent game history and the ability to watch the action unfold in real time, building trust in fairness.

Live‑Dealer Cons

• Table timeouts and set betting windows can slow down play.
• Higher minimum bets, typically ranging from £0.50 to £1 or more.
• Requires a stable internet connection and can be affected by streaming issues.

RNG Pros

• 24/7 availability, as it is possible to play at any time without waiting for a table or dealer.
• Low minimum stakes, often as little as 20p per spin.
• Turbo-spin and fast gameplay at your own pace, with no table timeouts.

RNG Cons

• Lacks human interaction and the immersive, social experience of live games.
• Some players perceive a trust hurdle, as outcomes are determined by software.
• Monotonous gameplay, as it is never really that different.

Roulette Betting Systems – A Realistic Look

Several betting strategies can be used by players when playing live roulette. There are four that are among the most popular, known as:

1. Martingale Roulette System
2. Fibonacci Roulette System
3. Labouchere Roulette System
4. D’Alembert Roulette System

It is important to note that no system alters the RNG or wheel physics of a game. A strategy should only be used for bankroll structure and to try and prolong gameplay. They cannot be used to obtain a guaranteed profit when playing.

Martingale Roulette System

The Martingale Roulette System is a strategy that involves doubling each bet made when it loses. It is a system that is based on recovering losses, although there is no guarantee that it will be successful. Once a bet is won, players will start betting from their initial stake and start again.

An example of a bet using this strategy could be:

• Bet £1 on red; if you lose, bet £2, then £4, then £8, etc.

Using this strategy for an extended period could quickly drain the bankroll, especially if losses continue to occur. There is no guarantee that losses will be recovered.

Fibonacci Roulette System

The Fibonacci Roulette System is a popular strategy used by British players. This strategy uses a system that follows a sequence of numbers that was used by an Italian mathematician called Leonardo Bonacci (commonly known as Fibonacci).

His sequence is: 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, 34, 55, 89, 144, and so on.

After each loss, players would be required to move to the next number in the sequence. After a win, players would see the sequence followed in reverse, going back two steps until another loss occurred, at which point it would revert to its initial form.

An example of a bet that could be placed using this strategy may appear as:

• Bet £1, lose; bet £1, lose; bet £2, lose; bet £3, win; bet £1, etc.

A losing streak can be impactful on a player’s bankroll just as quickly as any other strategy. An extended period of losses can see the bankroll be drained, with larger bets being placed very quickly.

Labouchere Roulette System

The Labouchere Roulette System is a strategy that involves players sticking to a plan and using a determined sequence of numbers to make a bet. The first bet will involve adding the first and last number together, with each subsequent bet following the pattern with the next two numbers.

As an example, a betting pattern may follow this structure:

• Using a sequence of 1-2-3; bet £4 (1+3), with a loss. The sequence then becomes 1-2-3-4; the next bet placed should be £5 (1+4). This will then continue until a win is achieved. Players will then return to the start and begin again.

Players who experience losing streaks using this betting strategy will quickly notice how the sequence will continue to expand, making bets potentially larger than they initially wanted. The bankroll will also need to be of a significant size if losses continue to occur and the system wants to be used.

D’Alembert Roulette System

The D’Alembert Roulette System involves players increasing their bets by one unit after a loss and decreasing them by one unit after a win, aiming for a more gradual recovery. It is a strategy that focuses on negative progression. A unit is a percentage of the player’s bankroll.

An example of the D’Alembert Roulette strategy being in play may look like the following:

• Bet £1, loss occurs; next bet £2, another loss; the next bet is £3, and if a win occurs, the next bet will be £2.

Significant losses can still occur using this strategy if a prolonged losing streak arises.

Finding the Right Roulette Strategy

Players must recognise that finding the right roulette strategy is essential. What may work for one player may not always work for another. It can depend on various factors. These include:

• Player experience
• Player budgets and bankroll
• How much risk are they prepared to take

It is essential to recognise that a roulette strategy can be used to try and maximise win potential. It cannot be used as a guarantee of winning. It does not alter or impact the RNG of a game, nor does it change how a ball may land on a wheel when playing live roulette.

Players should only use a roulette betting strategy that they are comfortable with, understand how it works, and can afford to follow. If they do not have a substantial bankroll before starting, using a particular system may not be as effective as using another.

Choosing a Safe UK Roulette Site

Live roulette should be enjoyed safely. Players must ensure they only ever use a UKGC-licensed casino, as this will enable them to protect themselves whenever engaged in a session. In addition to the licence, other aspects should be checked before signing up and making an initial deposit.

A trusted UK online casino, one that has acquired a licence from the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), will display it on its site. This is typically found in the footer of the page and is viewable on every page that is browsed. It will contain a visual seal/logo, while there will be a licence number that can be checked and verified.

Players should also verify the payment methods offered when searching for a secure online UK roulette casino. Deposits and withdrawals should be possible with reputable and trusted options. It should also be possible to make payments using e-wallets and digital solutions, as these offer the fastest transactions. They also show that the casino is complying with strict Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.

Games should have their RTP rates published. They should be available before clicking on the game (usually in the thumbnail when hovered over) or available in the game’s panel. If it cannot be found, it might not be a trustworthy title.

UK casinos offering live roulette should also display that they have their games tested for fairness by independent organisations. Typically located in the footer alongside the licence information, seals and certificates from bodies such as eCOGRA, GLI, iTech Labs, and BMM Testlabs should be identifiable.

The UKGC places an emphasis on responsible gambling. UKGC-licensed casinos must provide their players with safer gambling tools that are accessible and easily located. The best UK online roulette sites will have built-in tools, which may consist of deposit limits, reality checks, and GAMSTOP integration.

Bonuses & Promotions Specific to Roulette

The top UK online live roulette casinos may offer specific bonuses and promotions that players can use to further the entertainment obtained with this casino game. They may come in various shapes and sizes.

Every bonus needs to be understood fully before being used. Players must do this by reading the terms and conditions carefully before claiming. If they do not, then they may not be able to benefit from the promotional offer as initially intended.

Some examples of bonuses may look like:

• Wager‑free live cashback (e.g., 10 % on net losses).
• Table‑game contribution rates in welcome bonuses (usually 10 %–15 %).
• Tournament leaderboards that track the Straight‑Up wins multiplier.

We recommend reading our Casino Bonus page to learn more about what to look out for and how to use a promotion when claiming one effectively.

Mobile Roulette & Tech Considerations

Mobile play has become an extremely popular method for players to enjoy live roulette gaming. These devices offer convenience and accessibility, allowing players to access online roulette within seconds.

Software developers have ensured the casino game is compatible and optimised for mobile play, using the HTML5 technologies that web browsers use to run programs. Additionally, the touchscreen technology and haptics used in modern smartphone devices enable players to interact with the screen by touching it to place bets and spin the roulette wheel.

Playing on a mobile device will require a strong internet connection. With games being highly advanced in terms of the technology used (such as HD streaming), it is recommended that a stable connection of at least 3 MB is available. Where possible, players should use Wi-Fi when playing for secure connections.

Cash‑Out & Verification – From Chip Stack to Bank Account

Withdrawing funds and cashing out after playing online roulette is a simple process. It can be completed quickly, although various steps must be completed to ensure a smooth process.

Players must have completed the Know Your Customer (KYC) checks and verified their identity with the casino. This will involve sharing personal details and photographic evidence of themselves. A passport, driver’s licence and a utility bill will usually suffice as ways of passing these checks.

Once the verification process has been completed, withdrawals can be made. Players must withdraw funds using the same method they deposited with (where applicable). It is essential to consider the time it takes for them to be received, as not all methods are the same. An e-wallet may be instant, whereas a bank transfer may take up to five working days.

The withdrawal process may also have limits that must be met. For instance, there may be a minimum or maximum amount that a player can withdraw over a specific period. If the player meets all the criteria, they can withdraw the desired amount to their preferred choice and receive the funds within the specified timeframe.

Responsible Gambling for Roulette Players

The UK Gambling Commission prioritises responsible gambling, mandating that all UKGC-licensed casinos follow specific rules and regulations to promote the activity safely and decrease the chances of harmful play.

Casinos have implemented various tools within their platforms, including deposit caps, time-outs, loss limits, and session reminders. These can be found within a player’s account and are easy to find. Typically, a dropdown menu or a clickable button can be used to access this area of a UK casino site.

In addition, several independent organisations and charities exist that can offer help and assistance free of charge if a player believes or recognises that they have a problem. These can include:

• GamStop – 0800 138 6518; contactable between 10am and 8pm, 7 days a week.
• GameCare – 0808 8020 133; available 24/7
• GambleAware – 0808 8020 133; available 24/7

Glossary of Key Roulette Terms

Online roulette can feature several key terms that new players may not always understand. The French Roulette variant can be particularly confusing when played, as it uses terms that are not found in American and European versions.

Some of the most common terms and phrases that may be heard when playing live roulette include:

• Bankroll: The total amount of money a player sets aside specifically for roulette play.
• Biased Wheel: A physical roulette wheel with mechanical imperfections that cause certain numbers to come up more frequently than random chance would allow.
• Column Bet: A wager covering one of the three vertical columns of 12 numbers on the table.
• Croupier: The casino employee (dealer) who operates the roulette wheel, manages bets, and pays out winnings.
• Dozen Bet: A bet on one of the three groups of 12 numbers (1–12, 13–24, or 25–36).
• Double Zero (00): The additional green pocket found only in American Roulette, increasing the house edge.
• En Prison: A French Roulette rule where even-money bets are “imprisoned” if zero lands, giving the player a chance to recover their stake on the next spin.
• House Edge: The built-in statistical advantage the casino holds over players, expressed as a percentage of each bet.
• Inside Bet: Bets placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers inside the main betting grid, offering higher payouts but lower odds.
• La Partage: A French Roulette rule where half of an even-money bet is returned to the player if the ball lands on zero.
• Outside Bet: Bets placed on larger groupings of numbers (e.g., red/black, odd/even) with higher chances of winning but lower payouts.
• RNG (Random Number Generator): Computer software that produces random outcomes for digital roulette games, ensuring fairness.
• Straight Up: A bet placed directly on a single number on the roulette table.
• Voisins: Short for “Voisins du Zéro,” a French term for a group of numbers on the wheel that are neighbours to zero, often covered with a single call bet.
• Zero (0): The green pocket on the roulette wheel that gives the house its edge, present in all roulette variants.

Main Takeaways

Online roulette is one of the most popular games in the UK. It is enjoyed by many, with only slots being the more popular choice for British gamers. Helping to boost its popularity are the three variants: American, European and French.

These three have been a classic staple of online casino gaming from the beginning, but technology has helped to bring innovations to the market. Developers like Evolution and Pragmatic Play have created classics with modern twists, introducing innovative game mechanics to the industry and further enhancing the appeal of these games.

Each variant can differ in terms of payouts provided, offering their own unique benefits and suiting different playing needs. It is essential that players recognise their preferences and play styles before playing, as this can significantly impact the experiences they have.

Using specific roulette strategies can help to maximise the entertainment provided, but they cannot guarantee wins. All live roulette variants use technologies to ensure they are fair, which is standard procedure at a UKGC-licensed casino.

When playing roulette, it is crucial to adopt responsible gambling practices, particularly in the era of mobile gaming. Remaining disciplined is crucial, especially when using strategies, as the bankroll can be depleted quickly if successive losses occur.

TL;DR:

• Online roulette is very popular in the UK
• The most played game aside from slots
• Classic options include American, European, and French Roulette
• Modern twists are available through technological advances
• Roulette betting strategies can be used; cannot guarantee wins
• Mobile play possible
• Only play at a UKGC-licensed casino
• Practice responsible gambling

FAQs

What is the safest bet in roulette for beginners?

The safest bet to make in roulette for beginners are ‘Outside Bets’. These bets are considered to be among the ‘safest’ to place as they offer a near 50/50 chance of a winning return (48.65% in European Roulette; 47.37% in American Roulette; 48.65% in French Roulette). These are the odds/even, red/black, and high/low bets that can be found on the table.

What payment options can I use to deposit on and withdraw money from online Roulette sites?

You can use several different payment methods at a UKGC-licensed casino to make deposits and withdrawals. The options available will depend on the casino, so be sure to check if your preferred option is available before signing up and playing.

Does autoplay affect RTP or house edge?
No, the autoplay feature will not affect the return to player (RTP) or house edge rates. These are predetermined and cannot be altered based on a player’s playing preference.

Are live‑dealer wheels ever rigged?

No, the wheel is never rigged when playing live roulette titles. There may be slight imperfections in the wheel (known as a ‘Biased Wheel’), but it is never intentionally rigged to favour the casino.

Why is French roulette’s house edge so low?

French Roulette’s house edge is so low because of special rules called La Partage and En Prison. When you make an even-money bet (like red/black or odd/even) and the ball lands on zero, La Partage returns half your stake, while En Prison gives you a second chance to recover your bet on the next spin. The edge is as low as 1.35% when these rules are played.

Is it legal to use betting systems in UK casinos?

Yes, you can use a betting system (strategy) when playing at UK casinos. There is no guarantee that they will provide a winning outcome, meaning players are free to use them at their own risk.

How do I claim half my stake back with La Partage online?
Players do not need to take any action to claim half of their stake back. When playing French Roulette with La Partage rules, simply place an even-money bet (such as red/black, odd/even, or high/low) as usual. If the ball lands on zero, the La Partage rule is triggered: the game will automatically return half of your original bet to your balance, and the other half is lost.

Can mobile data latency influence my bet timing in live roulette?
Mobile latency could be an issue when playing live roulette, especially when making bets. Each variant will have an allotted time during which bets can be placed. If the mobile connection lags, a spin of the roulette wheel could be missed.

What’s the minimum stake for 20p roulette and where can I find it?

The minimum stake to play 20p Roulette is £1. Players can place bets of 20p, but they must wager a total of £1 on each wheel spin to play the game.

How are progressive jackpot roulette wheels (e.g., Age of the Gods Roulette) different from standard ones?

Progressive jackpot roulette games will see the prize pot continue to increase with each bet that is placed until it is won. These games will be played over a network of players and casinos, which is why they continue to increase in size quickly.

Can I play Roulette for free?

Yes, it is possible to play online roulette for free. You may need to create an account with a casino to enjoy a demo version of the classic casino game.

How many Roulette variants are there?

Several roulette variants exist, although there are three that are considered the most notable. These are the American, European, and French versions of the game. Each differs from the other in various ways.

Are there different betting systems for Roulette?

Different betting systems can be used when playing roulette online. Four strategies are recognised as being the most popular. These are the Martingale, Fibonacci, Labouchere, and D’Alembert betting systems.

How to develop a Roulette betting strategy?

To develop a roulette betting strategy to follow, players should choose a system that matches their playing style and needs. Their bankroll and betting limits should be set before playing, while the rules of the betting system and how it works must also be known. Players should also recognise when it is not working and when to stop using it or quit the game.