Every roulette player eventually faces the same question: Should I go for inside bets with higher payouts or outside bets with better odds? The answer depends on how you balance risk and reward — and what kind of player you are.
Let’s break down the differences, the probabilities, and what each option means for your bankroll.
Understanding the Basics
A standard roulette wheel has 37 pockets (in European Roulette) or 38 (in American Roulette). Players can place bets on individual numbers, groups of numbers, or colors. These are divided into two main categories: inside bets and outside bets.
What Are Inside Bets?
Inside bets are wagers placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers located inside the numbered grid on the roulette table. They carry higher payouts but lower odds of winning.
| Inside Bet Type | Description | Payout | Odds (European) |
| Straight Up | Bet on a single number | 35:1 | 2.7% |
| Split | Bet on two adjacent numbers | 17:1 | 5.4% |
| Street | Bet on a row of three numbers | 11:1 | 8.1% |
| Corner (Square) | Bet on four numbers forming a square | 8:1 | 10.8% |
| Line (Double Street) | Bet on two rows of three numbers (six total) | 5:1 | 16.2% |
When to Use Inside Bets:
If you’re a risk-taker who enjoys high volatility, inside bets can deliver big wins. However, expect longer losing streaks — they require patience and a steady budget.
What Are Outside Bets?
Outside bets are placed around the edge of the table layout. These bets cover larger sections of the wheel, offering lower payouts but higher odds of winning.
| Outside Bet Type | Description | Payout | Odds (European) |
| Red/Black | Bet on the ball landing on red or black | 1:1 | 48.6% |
| Odd/Even | Bet on whether the winning number will be odd or even | 1:1 | 48.6% |
| High/Low | Bet on 1–18 (low) or 19–36 (high) | 1:1 | 48.6% |
| Dozens | Bet on one of three dozens (1–12, 13–24, 25–36) | 2:1 | 32.4% |
| Columns | Bet on one of three vertical columns | 2:1 | 32.4% |
When to Use Outside Bets:
If you prefer smaller, steadier wins and want longer play sessions, outside bets are your best friend. They’re ideal for beginners or anyone focusing on bankroll preservation.
Comparing Risk and Reward
Here’s a quick comparison to help visualize the trade-off:
| Category | Win Probability | Payout Potential | Risk Level | Ideal For |
| Inside Bets | Low (2.7–16%) | High (5:1 to 35:1) | High | Risk-takers |
| Outside Bets | High (32–49%) | Low (1:1 to 2:1) | Low | Cautious players |
The key difference is that inside bets offer excitement and higher returns but can drain your bankroll quickly. Outside bets, meanwhile, deliver consistency and more chances to recover losses.
Combining the Two: A Balanced Approach
Many experienced players combine both inside and outside bets in one session. For example:
- Place a few inside bets for potential high payouts.
- Cover part of your bankroll with outside bets for stability.
This hybrid approach keeps the game exciting while cushioning the losses from riskier wagers.
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European vs American Roulette Odds
One more important factor is the roulette version you play.
- European Roulette (single zero) has a house edge of 2.7%.
- American Roulette (double zero) increases it to 5.26%.
That difference means even the smartest strategy performs better on European tables. Whenever possible, choose European or French versions for fairer odds.
Final Thoughts
Inside bets bring the thrill of a big win, but they also come with long dry spells. Outside bets, on the other hand, give you steady engagement and a longer playtime.
In the end, the best option depends on your risk tolerance and playstyle. If you enjoy the adrenaline rush, inside bets keep things exciting. If you’d rather play smart and steady, outside bets will help your bankroll last much longer — making roulette not just about luck, but balance and discipline.
