When to Bet on Zero in Roulette and What the Odds Are
Roulette is one of the most iconic casino games, and the green zero often stands out as a unique element that can raise questions. Unlike the red or black, or even and odd bets, zero operates a little differently.
Many players wonder when it might be worth placing a bet on zero, and what the actual chances are of it appearing. Understanding how zero fits into the game can help you make more informed decisions.
In this article, we’ll explore what makes zero special, the odds and payouts associated with betting on it, how it varies between different roulette wheel types, and when covering zero might suit your approach. Read on to learn more.
What Makes Zero Different from the Rest of the Wheel?
Zero is the single green pocket on a European roulette wheel, while all other numbers are either red or black. On an American wheel, there’s also a double zero, so two green pockets in total.
Unlike numbers that fall into outside bets such as red or black, even or odd, or high or low, zero doesn’t belong to any of these groups. When the ball lands on zero, those outside bets lose, which sets zero apart from the rest. However, players can place a direct bet on zero just as they would on any individual number.
The presence of zero is what creates the casino’s “house edge,” since it’s not included in the group bets covering red, black, or similar options.
Some roulette tables offer special rules like “La Partage” or “En Prison” that come into play when zero appears, potentially affecting even-money bets and altering the overall game dynamic.
When Should You Bet on Zero in Roulette?
Deciding whether to bet on zero is a personal choice. Some players include it in every spin, while others prefer to do so only at certain times. If you’re placing single number bets, including zero can help cover all possible outcomes—often called “covering the board.”
You might also choose to place chips on zero as part of a “neighbours” bet, which covers the numbers adjacent to zero on the wheel. Alternatively, some players consider betting on zero after it hasn’t appeared for several spins, although it’s important to remember that previous results don’t influence what happens next.
There’s no right or wrong time to bet on zero. It really depends on your own style, the betting strategy you want to follow, and how much you’re comfortable staking.
How Often Does Zero Come Up in Roulette?
On a European roulette wheel, there are 37 pockets in total, with one of these being zero. This means players have about a 1 in 37 chance, or roughly 2.7%, of zero coming up on any given spin.
In American roulette, the presence of both zero and double zero increases the total pockets to 38. As a result, the chance of the ball landing specifically on the single zero pocket is slightly lower, at around 2.6% per spin.
It’s important for players to remember that each spin is independent, whether zero appeared previously has no bearing on what will happen next.
Zero Odds and Payouts Explained
Placing a straight-up bet on zero means betting on that single green pocket, just like betting on any other individual number.
On a European roulette wheel, the chance of winning this bet is 1 in 37, while on an American wheel, it’s 1 in 38. The standard payout for any straight-up number—including zero—is 35 to 1. So, if you were to place £1 on zero and it came up, your total return would be £36 (£35 in winnings plus your original £1 stake).
Players can also place split bets involving zero and the numbers adjacent to it on the wheel. These bets tend to offer lower payouts.
If you intend to play, you might want to check the specific rules or features of the table being played, as these can affect both payouts and the types of bets available. That way, you’ll have a clear understanding of your options before placing any chips.
Is Zero More Common in European or American Roulette?
The key difference between the two versions is simple. European roulette wheels have just one zero pocket, while American wheels include both a single zero and a double zero.
This means that on a European wheel, the chance of the ball landing on zero is slightly higher, since there is only one green pocket among 37 in total. In contrast, on an American wheel with 38 pockets, the single zero appears a little less frequently due to the presence of the additional double zero.
Best Times to Cover Zero in Your Bets
If you choose to make a full spread of single number bets, including zero can help ensure you’re covering all possible outcomes on the wheel. Some players prefer to add zero as part of a “neighbours” or group bet, which covers numbers adjacent to each other on the roulette wheel—this approach is particularly popular at European tables.
Whether or not to include zero regularly in your bets is entirely up to your personal preferences and chosen betting patterns. Covering every number, including zero, gives you the broadest coverage possible. However, it’s important to remember that each spin is independent, and making responsible choices around your budget and limits is always essential.
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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.