Roulette outside bets are the safety net for players of all levels who understand the classic wheel game’s wagering structure. The betting table of roulette is divided into an outer and inner section. Your choice of wager determines the possible payout you can get and the win probability. Outside bets are often favored because they are considered lower risk than inside bets. However, the payouts are lower.
This casino guide highlights all the roulette outside bets, comparing their odds, payouts, and risk levels across different variants to inform your wagering decisions. Make all types of roulette work for you!
Roulette Outside Bets: Odds, Payouts & Guide
Roulette outside bets are low-risk wagers on the outermost sections of the European and American variants’ betting table. They cover larger groups of numbers rather than individual pockets, improving winning chances. With the right roulette outside bets strategy, it’s possible to get steady, cumulative returns over time.
The table below highlights the five types of outside wagers, the odds for each roulette bet and the associated risk level.
| Outside Bet Type | Numbers Covered | Payout | Hit Probability (EU/US) | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red/Black | 18 | 1:1 | 48.65% / 47.35% | Low |
| Odd/Even | 18 | 1:1 | 48.65% / 47.37% | Low |
| High/Low | 18 | 1:1 | 48.65% / 47.37% | Low |
| Dozens | 12 | 2:1 | 32.43% / 31.58% | Medium |
| Columns | 12 | 2:1 | 32.43% / 31.58% | Medium |
Roulette Outside Bets Risk Ladder
The associated risk level of roulette outside bets varies by the numbers covered:
Lowest Risk Level: Even-Money Bets
The roulette outside bets’ minimum payout is 1:1, available on even-money wagers. It covers half the numbers on the roulette wheel, giving players almost 50% chances of winning.
Even money bets include:
Red/Black: The roulette outside bets payout for a wager on red or black pockets is 1:1. For example, if you wager $10 on red and the ball lands on 7 (red), you win $10 profit.
Odd/Even: Wager on odd or even numbers following the American roulette rules to get a 1:1 return. Let’s say you bet on even numbers, and the ball lands on 20, you win.
High/Low: is a bet on low numbers (1-18) or high numbers (19-36). For example, a $10 high bet wins on 23 but loses on 12 or green (0 or 00).
Mid-Risk Level: Dozens and Columns Bets
Dozens and Columns bets are considered mid-risk outside bets. The numbers cover one-third of the roulette wheel, with about a 32% chance of winning, but the payout is increased to 2:1.
Dozens: Target the first (1-12), second (13-24), or third (25-36) dozen. For example, if you wager $30 on the second dozen over three spins and it hits twice, that’s a win ($60), despite one miss.
Columns: Cover each of the three vertical columns of 12 numbers. For example, you place a $15 bet on the second column, which includes numbers like 3,6,9, and so on. If the ball lands on 6 (a second column number), you win $30.
Outside vs. Inside Bets: Differences at a Glance
| Outside Bets | Inside Bets |
|---|---|
| Cover 12–18 numbers | Cover 1–6 numbers |
| Pay 1:1 or 2:1 | Pay 5:1 to 35:1 |
| Low to medium volatility | High volatility |
Impact of Game Variations on Roulette Outside Bets
The house edges connected to roulette outside bets differ by game variant. Single-zero roulette (European variant) offers better odds, with a zero on its wheel and a casino’s advantage of about 2.7%. In American Roulette, featuring double zeros (00), the house edge increases to 5.26%.
The less common variant, French Roulette, offers the lowest house edge (about 1.35%) through its La Partage or En Prison rules. The principle states that if the ball hits zero, you only lose half your even-money bet or hold it for the next spin.
Overall, outside bets still offer better odds than inside bets in roulette.
Simplified Strategy Tips for Roulette Outside Bets
Here are strategic roulette outside bets tips to improve your gameplay.
- Flat Betting: Wager the same amount every spin to control losses.
- Low-Risk Systems: Place strategic roulette bets using progressive betting systems such as Martingale, D’Alembert, Paroli, or Fibonacci to optimize your bets.
- Place Even-Money Bets: They have the lowest risk.
Outside Bets: Taking Roulette for a Spin
Outside bets in roulette are the best wagers for conservative gameplay. However, while volatility is low, the house edge remains unchanged. Therefore, always manage your bankroll and use wagering strategies.
FAQs
What are outside bets in roulette?
Outside bets are made on the table’s outer sections, covering many numbers. They have high odds of winning and pay out at lower rates.
Can you bet on green in roulette?
No, green numbers (0 or 00) are not included in outside bets.
What should you bet on roulette?
Focus on outside bets, especially even-money bets like Red/Black or Odd/Even.
Which outside bet has the best odds in roulette?
Even-money bets (Red/Black, Odd/Even, High/Low) offer nearly 50% winning odds.
Are outside bets better for beginners?
Yes, outside bets suit beginners due to lower volatility and simple options.
Do outside bets work the same in European and American roulette?
Yes, but American roulette’s 00 increases the house edge slightly.
Do outside bets hit more often than inside bets?
Yes, outside bets land more often as they cover more numbers than inside bets.