Roulette Strategy Guide
Although roulette is essentially a game of chance, plenty of strategies are designed to help your gameplay. With such a wide variety of tactics available, you’re sure to find a strategy that suits your style and goals.
This guide will explore the four most popular roulette betting systems and highlight a few other intriguing alternatives. Our analysis will help you decide which approach best matches your experience level and budget.
Table of Contents:
- What Are Roulette Strategies?
- How Do Roulette Strategies work?
- European, American, French roulette strategies
- How to Choose the Best Roulette Betting System
- Martingale Roulette Strategy
- Roulette Labouchere System
- Paroli Strategy
- Roulette D’Alembert Strategy
- A List of Alternative Roulette Betting Strategies
- Roulette Split Bet Strategy
- The 150 Strategy Roulette
- Roulette Column Strategy
- Black & Red Roulette Strategy
- Roulette Dozens Betting Strategy
- 666 Roulette Strategy
- James Bond Roulette Strategy
- Roulette Tier Bet
- The Reverse Martingale Strategy
- Oscar’s Grind Roulette Strategy
- The Fibonacci Roulette Strategy
- Andrucci Strategy
- The Constant Bet Strategy
- Roulette D’Alembert Strategy
- 3/2 Roulette Strategy
- Roulette Hedging Strategy
- Romanosky Roulette System
- Kavouras Roulette Betting Strategy
- Roulette Strategies FAQ
What Are Roulette Strategies?
Good question, especially given roulette is a game of chance. Roulette strategies play according to a set and predetermined sequence of bets, hoping to build a beautiful bankroll.
In roulette, and other table games for that matter, mathematicians have always gravitated to wagering systems that work with probabilities, chaos theory and more. Even a non-math savvy gambler enjoys the intricacies of trying to find an edge and beat the house. Why do we enjoy a good roulette strategy? It can help players set goals, stay off tilt, and keep those emotions in check when winning and losing swings occur. Afterall, your main strategy in roulette and casino games should always be to have fun, but of course, winning is fun too!
How Do Roulette Strategies work?
Roulette strategies work with probabilities, payouts and positions covered on the betting grid. They can be both a non progressive strategies and aggressive, so players should always make note of their bankroll situation before engaging in one. As systems, they’re based on longer sessions of play and can help players keep their emotions in check by sticking to predetermined bets and wager sequencing while at the roulette table. Keeping decisions outside of the adrenaline packed play is key here!
The essence of progressive roulette strategies is upping your wager after each spin. Depending on whether you win or lose the round, this can go place gradually or in a different way. They frequently include sticking to a betting pattern; the Martingale, D'Alembert, Fibonacci, and Labouchere are a few of the most well-known betting patterns.
Progressive techniques frequently require a substantial bankroll and include some element of risk.
Non-progressive techniques have a lower learning curve but still carry some risk. A non-progressive strategy often involves placing the same wager each round regardless of the result.
European, American, French roulette strategies
You’ve got your three roulette wheels, European, American and French, with the key difference being the 0 factor. All host the same numbers, 1-36, but the Americans went and added an additional 00 pocket just to spice things up (especially their house edge). How does this affect roulette strategies? Well, it’s just one more thing to consider when you’re using odds.
Take the 150 Strategy for example - for both the European and French wheel, this system leaves only three numbers uncovered, but playing the American wheel leaves four exposed. And to boot, while French and European wheels are the same numerically, the French, as they tend to do, use a slightly different betting layout to consider.
How to Choose the Best Roulette Betting System
With numerous roulette strategies available, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. To make your decision easier, here are some simple tips that will help you find a strategy suited to your budget, experience, and playing style.
- Consider Your Betting Style: Think about how you like to bet. Some systems are perfect for low-stakes players, while others cater to those who prefer playing with larger amounts. Identifying your comfort level with risk can help you narrow down your options.
- Understand the Rules of Each System: Before diving in, make sure you fully grasp how each strategy works. A thorough understanding will help you apply the system effectively and avoid costly mistakes.
- Experiment with Different Strategies: Testing a strategy and realising it’s not for you is okay. Don’t hesitate to switch tactics if a particular system doesn’t suit your style or expectations.
- Practice for Free: Many online casinos offer free roulette games, allowing you to test various systems without risking your bankroll. This is a great way to gain confidence and find the strategy that fits you best.
Finally, regardless of the system you choose, responsible bankroll management is key. It will help you maintain control, keep the game fun, and ensure a more sustainable and enjoyable roulette experience.
Martingale Roulette Strategy
The Martingale system is arguably one of the most well-known roulette strategies. Its rules are straightforward: you double your bet after each loss, aiming to recoup previous losses and turn a profit with a single win. While it might seem counterintuitive, this approach banks on the idea that a win will eventually cover all previous losses and provide a profit.
Originating in 18th-century France, the Martingale strategy was initially used in coin-tossing games. Its popularity skyrocketed with the rise of casino games, particularly roulette, where it became a go-to method for many players.
How Does The Martingale System Work?
To give you a better understanding of how the Martingale strategy functions, we've outlined some key points:
- Double Your Bet After Each Loss: If you start with a $5 bet and lose, your next bet should be $10. If you lose again, the following bet would be $20, and so on. This pattern continues until you secure a win.
- Start with the Table’s Minimum Bet: Most players begin with the lowest allowed bet, which could range from $1 to $50, depending on the game variation and table limits.
- Return to the Initial Stake After a Win: Once you win, you should reset your bet to the initial amount you started with.
- High-Risk System: The Martingale strategy is risky because bets can escalate quickly. Given the potential for high losses, this system is generally better suited for players with substantial bankrolls.
This approach can be daunting, especially for those with limited budgets, as the increasing stakes can be overwhelming. The high-risk nature of this strategy means it's most practical for players prepared to handle larger bets.
Major Pros and Cons
Before diving into the Martingale system, it’s essential to weigh both its strengths and potential downsides. Below, we’ve highlighted the main advantages and drawbacks to help you decide if this strategy suits your play style.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Simple rules | Requires a high bankroll |
| One win might recover all losses | High-risk strategy |
| Suitable for short gambling sessions | The system may not work at casinos with low betting limits |
Roulette Labouchere System
The Labouchere System, also known as the Split Martingale, is another popular choice among roulette enthusiasts.
Unlike the straightforward Martingale system, this strategy is a bit more intricate, as it involves creating a sequence of numbers that dictates your betting pattern. To place a bet, you add the first and last numbers in your sequence and wager that amount. This strategy, devised by Henry Labouchere in the 19th century, offers a structured way to manage your bets and target a specific profit.
How Does the Labouchere System Work?
The Labouchere System might seem complex initially, but it becomes pretty manageable with practice. Here’s a simple guide to get you started:
- Create Your Sequence: Begin by crafting your sequence of numbers, such as 1-1-2-3-4-3. The sequence length and numbers are entirely up to you.
- Place Your Bets: Add the first and last numbers in your sequence for each bet. For instance, using 1-1-2-3-4-3, your first wager would be $4 ($1 + $3).
- Win and Adjust: If you win, remove the first and last numbers from your sequence and bet the sum of the new outer numbers.
- Losses Add Up: If you lose, add the amount of your lost bet to the end of your sequence. This process continues until you work through all the numbers.
This strategy appeals to many roulette and blackjack players due to its engaging nature and personalization options. It also carries less risk compared to the Martingale System. However, be cautious. Losing streaks can cause your sequence to grow longer, increasing the stakes.
Major Pros and Cons
Below, you’ll find a table outlining the key advantages and disadvantages of this system: | Pros | Cons | |---|---| | Allows for adjustments | Requires a high level of concentration | | Easy to manage | Losing streaks may lead to a significant loss of funds | | Suitable for low-rollers | Stakes may become too high |
Paroli Strategy
The Paroli Strategy is a popular positive progression system frequently used by roulette enthusiasts. Unlike other strategies, this approach involves increasing your bet after each win and lowering it after a loss.
This strategy has been around for centuries, with its roots traced back to Italy. Many consider Paroli as a counter to the Martingale system, as it focuses on capitalising on winning streaks rather than chasing losses.
How Does the Paroli System Work?
The Paroli system is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for players who want to keep things simple. Here’s a quick guide on how to use it effectively:
- When using the Paroli system, double your stake each time you win. After a few consecutive wins, reset your bet back to the base amount instead of continuing to increase.
- If you lose, return immediately to your original stake.
- This system is particularly suited for beginners because it encourages disciplined bankroll management and limits excessive losses.
While the Paroli strategy carries moderate risk, its structure helps players manage their funds by resetting to the base stake after wins. However, it still depends on winning streaks to generate profit, requiring careful bet adjustments.
Major Pros and Cons
Similar to all other roulette strategies, this roulette strategy also has a set of positives and negatives.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to understand and implement | Dependent on consecutive wins for profit |
| Manages losses effectively by resetting bets | Gains are capped by resetting after a few wins |
| Provides steady gains during winning streaks | This can lead to losses during prolonged losing streaks |
Roulette D'Alembert Strategy
The D'Alembert Strategy is named after the French mathematician Jean le Rond d'Alembert, who believed that wins and losses would balance out over time. This idea forms the foundation of this popular negative progression betting system.
Using the D'Alembert Strategy involves increasing your stake by one unit after a loss and decreasing it by one unit after a win, creating a balanced approach to managing your bets.
How Does the D'Alembert System Work?
The D'Alembert System is straightforward, making it a popular choice among roulette players. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started:
- Set Your Base Bet: Choose a base bet amount that aligns with your budget. Typically, players select a small portion of their bankroll, such as 1% or 2%.
- Increase After a Loss: When you lose, increase your stake by one unit. For example, if you start with a $10 bet and lose, your next bet should be $11. If you lose again, increase it to $12.
- Decrease After a Win: After a win, decrease your stake by one unit. So, if you won with a $12 bet, your next bet should be $11.
- Set Your Stop Point: You can stop whenever you like. Many players set a profit goal or continue playing until they feel ready to cash out.
Given the nature of the D'Alembert system, it’s considered one of the safer strategies, particularly when players opt for smaller wagers.
Major Pros and Cons
Now, let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of this system. Before you decide to use the strategy, take a look at the table below for a quick overview.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Not as risky as the Martingale system | Requires patience |
| Easy to use | May lead to significant losses |
| Suitable for low-rollers | The potential for huge profit is not that significant |
A List of Alternative Roulette Betting Strategies
Roulette Split Bet Strategy
AKA, the Cheval in French roulette. Let’s recap a split bet first - it covers two adjacent numbers on the grid with one chip. It’s an inside bet offering a 17:1 payday. As a strategy, players often work with colours. A black split for example, is a method whereby you cover all adjacent black squares. Another split bet players fancy is to cover the neighbours and close numbers of frequent hitters that seem to continually pop up during your session.
The 150 Strategy Roulette
Let’s add a $ value to the title and note that the $150 strategy needs a bankroll of that amount to back it - for every wager, in each round. Yes, you read that correctly! Here’s how it plays out - $50 bet on 1-12 (first twelve), $50 on 13-24 (second twelve), and $5 on ten numbers in the third twelve, covering all numbers but three on the (European & French) wheel.
Numbers on the first and second twelve grab you 1:1 even money, while any of the ten in your last set grab you $180. It’s just those three weasels leftover that can cause you to drop $150. Note, if you’re on an American wheel, four numbers are left exposed with the additional 00 pocket in play.
Roulette Column Strategy
Similar to dozens on the board, columns cover you with 12 numbers too, for a 2:1 pay. Pick a column, cover it, and use the Martingale system to double up after each loss, and level down to your original wager after each win. With all progressive strategies, keep your bankroll in check by setting loss betting limits and know when to call it.
Black & Red Roulette Strategy
Got a favourite? Really this strategy can apply to all the outside even money bets - red/black, high/low and odd/even. It hones in on probability - for example, once a black number hits, what are the chances a black will hit again, and continue to hit? With each spin, the probability of each colour winning changes and this strategy plays on that. You can learn more about it in our Black and Red Roulette Strategy guide.
Roulette Dozens Betting Strategy
A betting bakery of fun, take your pick of one dozen on the betting grid. That’s 12 numbers for this outside bet that pays 2:1. Similar to the popular in Martingale betting strategy, you can play this strategy by doubling up your wager after each loss. Players sometimes cover one dozen, others two.
666 Roulette Strategy
Fun fact - all the numbers of the roulette wheel, 1 thru 36, add up to the number of the Beast, 666, hence the nickname Devil’s Wheel. The goal behind 666 strategy is to spread your bet long and thin, working with a less risky, but lower profit. It involves three different betting types - one outside 1/1 bet on red/black, then 7 split bets between pairs on the colour you didn’t go with (essentially covering the ‘other’ half of the wheel), and finish with 3 straight up bets on your choice of three numbers (not covered by the splits). Let’s headcount our bets - only four numbers can result in a loss here. The overall goal is to aim for small, consistent wins.
James Bond Roulette Strategy
Conceived by the Crown’s top agent himself, put into play at Casino Royale on the big screen, the James Bond or 007 strategy is a flat betting system whereby the same amount is wagered every round. Here’s how it goes: on every spin, $14 is bet on 19-36, $5 on Line bet 13-14-15-16-17-18, and $1 on 0. On the felt, 25 numbers can win while 12 can lose. You’d definitely need a Bond Girl by the name of Lady Luck to join you in order for this to pull through.
Roulette Tier Bet
Twelve is the magic number for this strategy. By covering 12 numbers on the wheel, you’ve secured wins on 1/3 of it. To make a tier bet, take your chips and cover the following split bets: 5/8, 10/11, 13/16, 23/24, 27/30, 33/36.
The Reverse Martingale Strategy
The reverse Martingale strategy is a form of roulette strategy where you will half a bet after every loss and then double it after every win. It is effectively the exact opposite of the Martingale strategy.
Oscar’s Grind Roulette Strategy
A simple system whereby you increase bets after a loss, and maintain your wager with a win. Only when a win happens after a loss do you increase your bet. Usually focusing on outside bets paying 1:1, it can be a slow progression, hence the ‘grind’ namesake, but it can also bring success if your entire bankroll can keep up and stick to it!
The Fibonacci Roulette Strategy
A mouthful of math, the Fibonacci Sequence is a strategy following a numerical system in which each number is the sum of the two preceding it. This sequence looks like this:
1 – 1 – 2 – 3 – 5 – 8 – 13 – 21 – 34 – 55 – 89 – 144 – 233 – 377 – 610 – 987
Whenever a betting round is lost, bets are increased by the last two numbers in the system. When you win, decrease it by moving it down two places. Fun fact time, this isn’t solely a roulette strategy, it's a system of play applicable to numerical trends, such as stock trading.
Andrucci Strategy
Observant like a lion on a hunt? This one’s for you. Andrucci requires observation before any bets even hit the table - say 30-40 spins so you can get a feel for how the wheel is playing out. Is it favouring red? Is there a black storm on the board? Based on Chaos Theory, it believes that even chaos can be somewhat deterministic. Identify a few numbers that are popping up frequently, straight up bet on them, and hope for the best with this long-term play.
The Constant Bet Strategy
Many roulette players unknowingly employ it since they are just trying to have fun and don't really think about how to play the game to increase their odds of leaving the casino with more money than they started with.
The same bet is repeatedly placed as part of the Constant Bet strategy. The correct type of wager and the ideal wager size must be selected in addition to this straightforward approach.
Roulette D’Alembert Strategy
Roulette D’Alembert is a relatively simple structure that focuses on players placing an even wager, like on red or black, or even numbers. They need to decide how much money they’re willing to place on their initial bet, which acts as their base unit. The reason for this is that if they win the bet, the unit is decreased by the value of that base unit. If they lose, then that unit bet is increased by the value of their base unit.
3/2 Roulette Strategy
Roulette is a game of chance but strategies exist that can improve the prospect of winning. The 3/2 Roulette System is one method players use to increase their odds of winning on every spin.
The 3/2 Roulette Strategy uses two separate bets. One bet is on the outside section and the other is on the column. Players can select any outside bet or column. The objective is to cover both portions to even out the risk.
There are several advantages to using the 3/2 Roulette Strategy. Let’s explore some of these reasons.
The Basics of the 3/2 Roulette Strategy Different sections of the roulette table provide different payouts to players. Payouts increase based on the odds of a number coming up. A number that doesn’t often come up has a higher payout than a number that is more likely to come in.
Black/red and even/odd bets (outside bets) are the most conservative in roulette. These bets pay at odds of 1/1. It is a safe way to wager on roulette for long sessions. The column bet is riskier. It pays out at odds of 2/1 and covers 12 numbers at a time. Players can choose from three different columns.
Using the 3/2 strategy, players can bet on both parts at one time. A player places three chips on black, red, even, or odd. Then, the player places two chips on one of the three columns. The aim is that enough numbers are covered to provide a profit from every spin.
Advantages and Disadvantages of the 3/2 Roulette Strategy As with all casino games, there is some risk when playing roulette, even when using a strategy like the 3/2 plan. Firstly, the disadvantage to playing roulette is that the house always has the edge. In European roulette, the house possesses an edge of 2.7%. Therefore, for every $100 wagered, the house will make $2.70. Bettors run the risk of burning through their bankroll quickly.
Unlike some betting strategies, the 3/2 strategy doesn’t consider long-losing streaks. In addition, it doesn’t cover all the numbers on the table. Streaks occur in roulette, but there is no evidence that a previous spin has any effect on the next.
One of the reasons players implement the strategy is due to large potential winnings. If both wagers are successful, players can win seven units.
For example, if a player wagers $5 on black/red and columns, and both bets win, the bet pays out $35 ($5 x 7 units).
Moreover, the 3/2 Roulette Strategy allows players to cover more of the table. There is a higher potential of winning with each spin with more table coverage. One bet should win 70% of the time. Bettors can make multiple bets on each roulette spin.
Roulette Hedging Strategy
Hedging bets allow you to place multiple bets before the roulette wheel starts spinning. This is particularly useful if you're a more conservative player who is looking to minimize risk, where possible.
To get started, determine the budget and the amount you want to wager as your main bet and hedge bets on every spin.
Then, set a main bet you want to hedge against, like a specific number, range of numbers, or a combo of bets.
Select the appropriate types of hedging bets that match and align with your desired outcomes, like red/black, odd/even, high/low, or columns/dozens.
Romanosky Roulette System
The Romanosky Roulette Strategy allows players to maximize their coverage of the table. This method enables a player to cover 32 numbers using eight different units, leaving only five numbers uncovered.
The Romanosky Strategy works for American, European, and French roulette variations. The basic Romanosky Strategy is made up of 24 bets and two corner bets on numbers from the remaining 12 possibilities.
Kavouras Roulette Betting Strategy
The Kavouras bet is both unique and new compared to other online roulette and strategies.
The method was designed to cover 20 different table numbers using different bet alternatives to create a specific betting pattern. Bettors should always wager the same pattern for every round. The ability to cover over 50% of the table is one of the reasons why players use the Kavouras bet.
The aim of the bet was to include as many numbers as possible. This makes every round less volatile. It enables players to chaotically select the numbers to wager on. This is in accordance with the dynamic way in which the ball stops on the roulette wheel.
Roulette Strategies FAQ
Is there a successful roulette strategy?
In blackjack, the probabilities are in flux, changing as each card is dealt. Not so much with roulette, whereby each spin is independent of its predecessors and successors. So while there are many different strategies to play around with and try, roulette is a game of chance so you’ll always need a little lady luck on your side to sway the odds in your favour in the long run. That being said, players have had success by choosing a strategy that works well for them, sticking to it, and knowing when to call it quits and walk away (thanks Kenny).
Do roulette strategies work?
Let’s unpack this tricky question. If a strategy ‘works’ in gambling, the evidence should be in a healthy bankroll! While many roulette strategies can help you win money if you stick to them and have a bankroll that can sustain highs and lows throughout their sequence, there’s no guarantee in this game of chance as luck will always be involved. Your true goal - have fun and enjoy the ride!
Is there a good roulette strategy?
Sometimes you just have to go with the crowd, and in this case, for the ease of learning and effectiveness, try the Martingale system. Given its simplicity, it’s easy to adjust to any budget so it can be used by players of all bankrolls and experience. Got a low budget, use the system for outside 1:1 paying bets for starters. As always, take some time to recognize that roulette is, and always will be, a game of chance!
What is the most successful roulette strategy?
No strategy will perform well in 100% of the roulette games. However, Martingale strategy is the simplest to learn and try out.
What is the safest roulette strategy?
The Fibonacci Strategy is considered the safest strategy with lower risk than Martingale. However, it still requires a hefty bankroll since some bets can get very high, especially after a losing streak.
What is the best roulette strategy for beginners?
The absolute best strategy is to approach each roulette game with a sense of enjoyment and entertainment - that’s the real winning strategy! But, if you want to try one of the systems we’ve broken down, give the simple Martingale a whirl.
For beginners, simply keep your starting wager low, knowing fairly well that the strategy calls for doubling when a loss occurs.
Since you can likely see how that may build and build if a losing streak comes your way, set a limit and stay within it.
What strategy allows you to win at roulette?
There is no guaranteed way to win at roulette, and the casino always has an edge regardless of the strategy used.
However, there are several popular roulette strategies that players can use to increase their chances of winning.
Some of the most popular strategies include the Martingale, D’Alembert, Fibonacci, and Labouchere.
Roulette Strategy Black and Red
Can the Martingale and its variations help you increase your chances of winning? This article will explore the popular Black and Red Roulette Strategy.