How to Win at Roulette

Best Roulette Strategies

Betting strategies are very popular among roulette players. And not only among players. Many mathematicians and enthusiasts try to invent new and new systems. In the past, there was also very often software that was designed to predict the results of online roulette. Which was, of course, nonsense. Now are roulette strategies and betting strategies crucial and extremely popular amongst players who want to win in roulette. These are the best roulette strategies and betting systems:

Martingale Roulette Strategy

Grand Martingale Roulette Strategy

Labouchere Roulette Strategy

D'Alembert Roulette Strategy

Fibonacci Betting Strategy

James Bond Betting Strategy

3/2 Roulette Betting System

Types of Roulette Betting Strategies

In roulette, betting strategies are often categorized into two main types: progressive and non-progressive. Each approach has its philosophy and method for how bets are placed and adjusted over time. Understanding these strategies can help you decide how you might want to approach your betting in games of chance.

Progressive Betting Strategies

Progressive betting strategies involve adjusting your bet size based on the outcome of previous rounds. These strategies can be further divided into two categories: positive and negative progression systems.

• Positive Progression Systems: In these systems, you increase your bet after a win and decrease it after a loss. The idea is to capitalize on winning streaks while minimizing losses during a losing streak. An example of a positive progression system is the Paroli betting system, where you double your bet after each win, to win three consecutive bets before returning to the original bet size.
• Negative Progression Systems: These systems involve increasing your bet after a loss and decreasing it after a win. The rationale is to recover losses with a win on a higher bet. However, this can be riskier as it might lead to significant losses if a losing streak continues. The Martingale system is a well-known negative progression system, where you double your bet after every loss, to recoup previous losses and gain a small profit when you finally win.

Non-Progressive Betting Strategies

Non-progressive betting strategies involve betting the same amount regardless of the outcome of previous rounds or altering your bets not based on wins or losses but on other criteria. These strategies focus on consistent bet sizing or vary bets based on analytical or predetermined systems rather than an attempt to adjust to winning or losing streaks. Examples include:

• Flat Betting: This is the simplest form of non-progressive betting, where you consistently bet the same amount on each round. This method is favoured for its simplicity and lower risk, as it does not require a large bankroll to sustain long-losing streaks.
• Physical Systems: Strategies like betting on specific sectors of the roulette wheel after analyzing which areas are hit most frequently. These strategies don't follow a progressive betting pattern but rather rely on physical or empirical observations.

Pros and Cons

• Progressive strategies can offer the chance for significant rewards during winning streaks, especially with positive progression systems. However, negative progression systems can be very risky, potentially leading to large losses.
• Non-progressive strategies are generally considered safer and are easier to manage from a bankroll perspective. They provide a more consistent betting experience but might not offer the same level of excitement or potential for large wins in a short period as progressive strategies.

Choosing between progressive and non-progressive betting strategies depends on your risk tolerance, bankroll size, and overall gambling goals. It's crucial to remember that no betting strategy can overcome the house edge in the long run, and responsible gambling practices should always be a priority.

❗ Before we dive into the best roulette strategies, we want to say that there is no roulette strategy that guarantees you a win or long-term winnings. There is no way how you can beat the house edge by just adjusting the size of the bet. But these systems and strategies are a good tool to minimise the losses on roulette if you combine them with smart roulette play.

Martingale Roulette Strategy

The Martingale system remembers a lot. It is probably the oldest roulette betting system that has been formulated to beat the casino. It is also the most used system for beginners who are betting on bets such as red/black, even/odd or small/large.

Martingale is based on multiplied bets after a loss. In other words s In the case of a loss, the next bet is twice as much as the previous one. It is based on the assumption that if you multiply the bet after each loss, as soon as the win comes, you will be plus one unit.

Suppose you bet $ 5 on black. If you lose, your next bet will be $ 10. If the ball lands on red again, then you should bet $20. At this point, if you are at $ 15 ($ 5 + $ 10). When you win the third bet, you get $ 20, which will cover your loss. And you'll still be $5 in extra.

The beauty of this system is, that if you end your gaming session with the win. You will have net profit for every win*initial bet. If you look at the table, there are 10 rounds and 4 wins. The initial bet is $5, so the profit from these 10 rounds will be $20.

Remember, while the Martingale system seems appealing due to its simplicity and the apparent guarantee of eventually recouping losses, it's risky. It requires an infinite bankroll, has no impact on the house edge, and can quickly escalate the amount at risk for a relatively small return. Moreover, all casinos have table limits that can prevent the system from being played indefinitely.

Grand Martingale Roulette Strategy

The Grand Martingale betting system is a variation of the traditional Martingale system that aims to not only recover losses but also generate a higher profit on the first win after a series of losses. In the Grand Martingale, you not only double your bet after a loss, but you also add an extra amount equal to your initial bet. This increases the potential payout but also increases the risk significantly.

Let's illustrate the Grand Martingale system with a table, assuming an initial bet of $5:

The Grand Martingale system requires an even larger bankroll than the standard Martingale to sustain the increased bet sizes and faces the same limitations, such as table betting limits and the potential for rapid bankroll depletion. It's designed for those willing to take on greater risk for the chance of a higher payout on a win following a loss.

Labouchere Roulette Strategy

The Labouchere system requires pencil and paper (which the casino is very happy to provide free of charge). It starts by selecting any number of consecutive numbers, let's say 1-2-3-4-5 (you can choose any amount of numbers). Each number in a row represents the number of units and the sum of numbers (in our case 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 = 15 units) are the expected winnings.

Here's how the Labouchere system works. The first bet is the sum of the first and last number of the series, in our case, it is 6 units (1 + 5). The results can be only two. You can win 6 units or lose them.

If you lose the bet, the bet amount is added to the end of a series of numbers, so our lineup now looks like this: 1-2-3-4-5-6. Another bet is again the sum of the first and last number of the new sequence, which is a total of 7 units.

However, if the first bet wins, the player cuts the first and last number in the row. The new one is the following: X-2-3-4-X and the next bet is 6 units (2 + 4).

As you can see, this system is very simple. After each win, you cut out the first and last number in the row, after you lose the value of your last bet at the end of your row. Your next bet is always the sum of the first and last numbers.

The objective of this roulette betting system is to remove all numbers from the series. If a player can do this, he wins an amount equal to the sum of all numbers in the series (in our case 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 + 5 = 15 units). The main argument for this system is the fact that you remove two numbers when you win, but you only add one when you lose. But what they do not tell you is that the number you are adding is higher than the sum of the two removed.

The problem with this system is clear. If there are several losses, the number series will go up and losses will increase. In this case, you don’t hit the table betting limits as fast as with Martingale, but like other roulette betting systems, this is a long-term loss.

D'Alembert Roulette Strategy

The D'Alembert system is a betting strategy used primarily in roulette but can also be applied to other betting scenarios. It's considered a safer alternative to the Martingale system. The D'Alembert strategy involves increasing your bet by one unit after a loss and decreasing your bet by one unit after a win. The idea is that you'll eventually balance out wins and losses, assuming an equal number of wins and losses over time.

Let's illustrate the D'Alembert system with a simple table, assuming a starting bet of $10 and a unit increase or decrease of $10. We'll apply this to a series of 10 rounds:

This betting system is favored by some because it generally involves smaller fluctuations in bet size compared to more aggressive strategies like the Martingale or Grand Martingale, making it a more conservative approach to managing a betting bankroll. However, like all betting systems, it doesn't guarantee a profit and should be used with caution, considering the potential for long sequences of losses or wins that can impact the effectiveness of the strategy.

Fibonacci Betting Strategy

The Fibonacci betting system is based on the famous Fibonacci sequence, where each number is the sum of the two preceding ones. This sequence starts with 0 and 1, but for betting purposes, the sequence typically starts with 1. So, the beginning of the sequence looks like this: 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21, and so on.

In the context of betting, particularly in roulette, the Fibonacci system is used as a way to manage bets, particularly on even-money bets like red/black, even/odd, or 1-18/19-36. Here's how it works:

• After a loss, you move one step forward in the Fibonacci sequence to increase your bet.
• After a win, you move two steps back in the sequence for your next bet.
• If you win when betting the first 1 in the sequence, you just start over since there's no place to move back.

This system aims to recoup losses through a series of wins, not just a single win as with the Martingale system. It's considered less aggressive than Martingale but still carries a risk, as long losing streaks can still deplete your bankroll.

Let's see an example with a table for 10 rounds, assuming an initial bet of 1 unit (let's say $10 for simplicity), following a simplified version of the sequence:

This betting system offers a more structured approach to managing bets compared to simply doubling after a loss. However, it's important to remember that no betting strategy can overcome the house edge in casino games, including roulette. The Fibonacci system, like others, should be used with caution and within the limits of your entertainment budget.

James Bond Betting Strategy

The James Bond betting strategy is a fixed betting system used in roulette. It's designed for use in the short term and is famed for its association with the fictional spy. This system involves placing bets on a majority of outcomes to increase the chances of winning in each spin. It's typically applied to European Roulette, which has a single zero and 37 slots.

Here's the basic breakdown of the James Bond strategy for a total bet of $200:

• $140 on the high numbers (19-36)
• $50 on the six numbers (13-18)
• $10 on 0 as insurance

The idea behind this distribution is that you're covering a large portion of the possible outcomes, except for numbers 1 through 12. Here's the outcome:

• If the ball lands on any number from 19 to 36, you win $80.
• If the ball lands on any number from 13 to 18, you win $100.
• If the ball lands on 0, you win $160.
• If the ball lands on numbers 1 through 12, you lose the entire $200.

Let's see how this might play out over 5 rounds:

While the James Bond betting system might seem attractive due to its structured approach and potential for regular small wins, it's important to remember that roulette is ultimately a game of chance. The system does not alter the house edge and the potential for losing on numbers 1 through 12 means that a significant loss can occur. Like all betting systems, it should be used responsibly and as part of an entertainment budget.

3/2 Roulette Betting System

The 3/2 betting system is a roulette strategy that attempts to cover a large portion of the roulette wheel with a relatively small number of chips, aiming to give the player higher chances of winning on each spin. This strategy involves placing bets on both a colour (either red or black) and a column bet that covers a different set of numbers. The name "3/2" refers to the ratio of units bet on each part of the wager.

The 3/2 system requires the player to place bets in a 3 to 2 ratio on two different types of bets: one on a colour and one on a column. Here's the breakdown:

• 3 units on a Color Bet: You choose between red or black. This covers 18 numbers (nearly half the wheel, excluding the 0 or 00 in American roulette).
• 2 units on a Column Bet: There are three column bets available on the roulette table, each covering 12 numbers. You choose one of these columns for your bet.

The idea is to select a column that complements the colour bet in terms of coverage, increasing your chances of winning on each spin.

Example of the 3/2 Betting System

Let's say you decide to use the 3/2 betting system with the following choices:

• You place 3 units on Black.
• You place 2 units on the 2nd column (which, in most standard roulette layouts, includes 8 red numbers and only 4 black numbers).

This way, you cover a significant portion of the roulette wheel as follows:

• The Black Bet: Covers 18 black numbers.
• The 2nd Column Bet: Covers 12 numbers, of which 4 are black. This means you've now covered these 4 black numbers twice but also added coverage for 8 red numbers.

In total, you have coverage on 26 out of the 37 numbers (in European roulette) or 38 numbers (in American roulette), giving you a 70.27% chance of winning in European roulette or a 68.42% chance in American roulette on each spin.

What are the Safest Bets in Roulette?

One of the critical factors that make roulette, so fun is just the amount of bets with different pay ratios and probability. As more experienced players know, in principle, bets can be divided into two main groups - Inside and Outside Bets. Inside bets are on single numbers or a small cluster of numbers. Outside bets are on large groups of numbers such as red-black bets, high-low bets, or even-odd bets.

These bets are listed on the table and are quite familiar pretty much for everyone. The safest bets in roulette are the Even bets (red-black, high-low, even, and odd).

Probability and Payout for Inside and Outside Roulette Bets

The table only includes the numbers from European roulette. Type of roulette online with only one zero. Because this has better chances in general. If possible, never play American roulette (double zero).

The Best Bets in Roulette

To know how to win at roulette, you need to know more than probability and payout to find the best roulette bets. The key factor is also the so-called House Edge or Expected Return as economists would say. House edge represents the amount casinos earn in the long run from a particular game or bet. With that logic, the key is to find a bet with the Lowest House Edge.

As you can see, every bet in roulette has the same house edge. That means that in the long run, it doesn't matter what bet you choose to use. Most players bet Even bets because of the almost 50/50 probability of winning.

Most players do not know that there is a subtype of European roulette that offers even better bets. On some French roulettes, there are two specific rules:

• En Prison house edge – 1.35%
• La Partage house edge – 1.35%

En Prison and La Partage are the best bets in roulette. There is no other combination or a single bet with better chances.

En Prison and La Partage Bet Explained

La Partage and En Prison bets are the best bets at roulette. But it is not easy to find them. Both bets have one thing in common. They apply only to Even bets (red/black, even/odd, high/low). Let’s start with the La Partage rule first.

La Partage is a French word for “sharing or dividing”. Whenever a ball lands on zero, all even bets are divided in half. The first half goes to the casino, and the other goes back to the player.

En Prison means “in prison”, and the rule works a similar way. Whenever a ball lands on zero, all active bets are marked and kept on the table. If the second roulette spin wins the original bet, the total full goes back to the player.

Best Tips on Playing Roulette

1. Practice Roulette for Free

Before diving into real money games, take advantage of free online roulette games. This no-risk environment allows you to familiarize yourself with the gameplay, try out different betting strategies, and gain confidence without the pressure of losing money.

2. Understand The Rules, Bet Types, and Odds

Knowledge is power. Take the time to learn the rules of roulette, the different types of bets you can place, and the odds associated with each. Understanding these elements deeply will help you make informed decisions and potentially increase your chances of winning.

3. Avoid Gambling Fallacies

Don't fall for the gambler's fallacy, believing that if something happens more frequently than normal during a certain period, it will happen less frequently in the future, or vice versa. Roulette spins are independent events, and the outcome of one spin does not affect the outcome of the next.

4. Try Outside Bets - Red or Black

Placing bets on Red or Black, Even or Odd, or 1-18 or 19-36 gives you almost a 50% chance of winning. These outside bets might offer smaller payouts, but they're a safer option for beginners.

5. Use Casino Bonuses

Look for casinos that offer welcome bonuses or loyalty rewards. These can provide extra funds to play with or free spins, extending your gameplay without additional cost to your own bankroll.

6. Combine Bets For Better Results

Experiment with combining bets to cover more numbers while still keeping an eye on the payout ratios. For example, place a bet on a specific number and a column or dozen that includes that number to increase your coverage.

7. Stick to Your Bankroll Management

Determine your bankroll (the total amount you’re willing to spend) before you start playing and stick to it. Never gamble more than you can afford to lose, and avoid dipping into money meant for other expenses.

8. Bet Small - Play Longer

Especially as a beginner, the goal is to gain experience without burning through your bankroll quickly. Placing smaller bets allows you to extend your playtime and enjoy more rounds of the game.

9. Always Stop When You Are Winning

It's tempting to keep playing when you're on a winning streak, but set a win limit and stick to it. This discipline helps you walk away with profits rather than losing everything back to the casino.

10. Do Not Chase Losses

Chasing losses — trying to win back what you've lost by gambling more — is a dangerous path. Accept that losses are part of the game and know when to call it a day.

Biased Roulette is another chance how to win at roulette

As the name suggests, a biased roulette produces different results than would be expected by probability theory. This can happen in two ways. Either the wheel is already defective when it is made, which then produces non-random results, or the roulette wheel wears out during play to the point that this damage causes the roulette to be biased.

Nowadays, misaligned or damaged roulettes are not very often seen. It is perhaps the only way to legally beat roulette. Casinos are well aware of this and regularly review and maintain new and used machines. However, you may encounter a deflected roulette wheel in some of the smaller casinos where roulette wheel inspections are not exactly the order of the day.

Another reason why you will rarely come across a deflected roulette wheel in casinos today is the way it is manufactured. In the past, roulette wheels were most often made of wood and laminate, materials that are more susceptible to warping over time. Today's roulette wheels are increasingly made of metals. However, even on these, there are still parts that can become damaged.

How to recognize and use a biased roulette wheel

Finding a game that gives you an edge over the casino can be harder than it first appears. After all, if the roulette wheel is too damaged and after a few dozen spins it is visible that the results are not random, the roulette owner will notice very soon and simply replace the wheel or the entire table.

However, given the relatively low house edge in roulette, even a small imperfection is enough to put the bettor in the black in the long run. Here, however, the smaller the flaw in the roulette, the more difficult it will be to detect. This can take days or weeks in such a case.

Tracking down such a roulette is quite a chore. First of all, it is necessary to observe and write down the fallen numbers. Here, the more numbers you get the better. We would like to remind you that there is no need to save. You certainly won't be able to tell a biased roulette wheel from a few dozen spins. Here, the observation may involve several hundred or thousands of spins. However, once you've established that the numbers in a particular sector fall more often than the probability indicates, it's time to bet on them.

Famous cases of biased roulettes from the past

A more obscure case where a player took advantage of imperfection on a roulette wheel and won a larger amount of money is, oddly enough, even a first. It happened back in 1873 at the Monte Carlo Casino, where Joseph Jagger managed to win £65,000 on roulette. Taking inflation into account, that amount would be around £3 million today. Perhaps nobody has won that amount of money on roulette in modern times.

Joseph Jagger often referred to as the Man Who Broke the Bank at Monte Carlo, noticed that some roulette cylinders were slightly damaged or had a misaligned axis. So he hired several people to monitor all the roulette tables in a selected casino and write down the results. After a few days, he was able to find the biased roulette wheel, and Jagger started cashing in.

However, the casino soon figured out his trick and started changing the roulette cylinders. Jagger lost some of his money, but when he realized that his advantage was irretrievably lost, he left Monte Carlo with the rest of his winnings.

Another case took place more than a century later when the enterprising Spaniard Gonzalo Garcia-Pelayo discovered a deflected roulette wheel in the Casino de Madrid and managed to win more than one million Euros on it.

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