Roulette Column Strategy: A Guide to Smarter Betting

A column bet refers to a type of outside bet in roulette. Column bets are a popular wager for roulette players due to their sizable payout and relatively good odds. That makes column bets a popular addition to many betting strategies. In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know about column bets, their odds and payouts, and how to use the roulette column strategy to improve your chances of winning when playing roulette online at Instant Casino. 

What Is the Roulette Column Bet?

One of the first things you’ll see on a roulette table are the 36 numbers on the roulette wheel divided into three columns of 12 numbers each: 1 to 34, 2 to 35, and 3 to 36. However, the sequence of numbers on the columns found on a roulette table isn’t laid out consecutively. Instead, the roulette columns are divided into the following sets of numbers:

• First column: 1, 4, 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 22, 25, 28, 31, and 34
• Second column: 2, 5, 8, 11, 14, 17, 20, 23, 26, 29, 32, and 35
• Third column: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30, 33, and 36

The columns remain the same whether you play American roulette or European roulette—the zeros do not affect the numbers on each column.

Under each column is a box displaying “2 to 1.” Placing casino chips in any of these boxes on the designated betting area means you’re betting on the outcome of the ball landing on any corresponding number within the said column. A winning bet pays out at a 2 to 1 clip. 

For instance, if you wager $1 on the second column and the ball lands on the number 35—which belongs to the second column—you win $2. 

In essence, a roulette column bet is a wager on the three aforementioned vertical columns of numbers on the designated roulette table betting layout. Each column contains 12 numbers, excluding zero and double zero in European and American Roulette, respectively. A column bet may also be referred to as a “dozen bet”—in principle, a dozen bets are identical to column bets.

How the Roulette Column Strategy Works

The roulette column strategy involves wagering on one of the three columns on the betting layout. Here’s how the roulette column strategy works in practice: 

1. Select a column. Choose one of the three columns on the roulette betting layout. 
2. Place your bet. Wager on the chosen column by placing chips underneath the box corresponding to your selected column.
3. Wait for the dealer to spin the wheel. The dealer will then spin the roulette wheel and introduce the ball.
4. Wait for the outcome. If the ball lands on a number within the corresponding column, your wager wins a 2:1 payout. Otherwise, you lose your stake entirely. 

Here are the main differences between using the roulette column betting system from other approaches:

• Wider coverage of numbers. The roulette column strategy covers a larger portion of the roulette wheel covering 12 numbers compared to the regular number bet (also known as straight bet) or placing straight bets on number groups. This boosts players’ chances of a win at a reduced potential payout. 
• Lower payout. Winning column bets pay out at a 2:1 rate, which is lower compared to a straight bet which pays out at a 35:1 rate, but higher than even money bets that pay out at a 1:1 rate.
• Moderate risk. Compared to other betting approaches, the roulette column strategy involves a moderate level of risk. While your chances of winning may be higher due to the greater coverage, they are offset by the greater risk of potential losses.

Understanding the Odds and Payouts 

The odds of a column bet equate to 32.43% in European roulette, which implies a house edge of 2.70%. On the other hand, American roulette features slightly lower odds due to the existence of zero and double zero, reducing the odds to 31.58% and increasing the house edge to 5.26%.

The 2:1 payout and second-highest probability have column bets figured in a variety of roulette betting systems and roulette strategies. This includes the roulette 1st and 3rd column strategy, which involves betting on both first and third columns to boost players’ chances of winning by covering a wide array of numbers on the roulette wheel. We will discuss these betting systems in the succeeding sections. 

Likewise, it’s important to mention that column bets do not cover all the numbers on a roulette wheel—they only cover numbers in the aforementioned columns, whose payouts are based on the probability of hitting those numbers. Column bets are ideal for individuals who wish to have a higher chance of winning in exchange for smaller, yet more consistent payouts. 

It is for this reason that the column bet is among the most popular bets for players besides even-money bets such as black or red, odd or even, and high or low numbers, all of which refer to 18 numbers on the roulette wheel that pay at a 1:1 clip. Column bets are also popular because they don’t require any strategy or any prior knowledge of roulette gameplay apart from the luck of the spin. They offer a good alternative to even money bets, as they pay out more than the latter without exposing them to the lower probability and higher house edge of bets that involve a single number or numbers lower than 12. It’s also important to remember that all roulette bets are based on pure chance.

The following is a table of roulette bets, payouts, and their odds of hitting depending on the roulette variant for reference:

Exploring the Roulette 1st and 3rd Column Strategy

The 1st and 3rd column strategy refers to a popular betting system in roulette involving placing bets on the first and third columns in the designated betting area. The concept behind this strategy is that you increase your chances of winning by betting on both columns since you cover a broader scope of numbers on the roulette wheel. 

This betting system involves you wagering on the first column (which includes numbers 1, 4, 7, 10, 13, 16, 19, 22, 25, 28, 31, and 34), and the third column (which includes numbers 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30, 33, and 36). You may choose to place one wager on both columns or split your wager between both columns.

However, like all betting strategies, the 1st and 3rd column strategy doesn’t guarantee wins because it doesn’t change the inherent house edge built into the game of roulette. All betting systems are ultimately based on probability.

The 2 Column Roulette Strategy

Betting on two out of the three columns in roulette is called the 2 column roulette strategy. It is a popular betting system used by players who wish to boost their chances of winning while keeping a tight rein on balancing the potential risks and rewards on each spin.

Betting on two columns means you cover 24 numbers out of the 37 available numbers on a European roulette wheel or 38 available numbers on an American roulette wheel. Essentially, you cover two-thirds of the potential winning outcomes, greatly boosting your chances of winning compared to betting on a single number in exchange for a lower payout (2:1 compared to 35:1)

It must be noted that this betting strategy is more appropriate for players with larger bankrolls since the strategy involves placing two separate wagers on each spin, instead of just one number. The 2 column roulette strategy offers a good balance between moderate risk and a slightly higher payout compared to even-money bets, managing risk by covering as many numbers as possible. As with the 1st and 3rd roulette betting strategy, the 2 column strategy focuses on smaller, more consistent wins instead of going for the big win on a single bet.

How does it work? Simply place two equally sized wagers on two out of the three columns. If the ball lands on any number on the two columns, you lose one bet and win the other, equating to a net gain equal to your original stake size. Some players use both betting systems with a progressive betting system that adjusts their stake size based on wins and losses—but be forewarned that progressive betting strategies can lead to major losses if your luck turns the other way.

Tips for Maximizing Success with Roulette Column Betting Strategy

If you wish to succeed and turn a profit in roulette, Instant Casino is the destination for you with a variety of roulette variants for you to play—and playing smart will give you a lot of perks. Here are some tips to increase your chances of winning when you hit the roulette tables at Instant Casino.

Learn the ins and outs of roulette before you play

This piece of advice is applicable to every casino game. Before you place your first real money wager, you need to understand the basics of playing roulette. While the premise of the game is simple, knowing your way around the betting layout can be the difference between a winning or losing session. 

Here’s a quick rundown on roulette. Each game begins by placing your betting chips in the spaces on the designated betting layout. This would either be inside bets or outside bets. Outside bets tend to have a higher chance of winning at lower payouts, while inside bets are more risky yet offer higher payouts in return. Once the dealer has closed the betting window, the roulette wheel is spun and the ball is thrown. Once it lands on a specific number, any winning bets are paid out, and losing wagers are garnished. If you’re in luck, the ball will have landed on the number, column, or bet you have wagered on. It’s a good idea to start at the table minimum and focus on outside bets such as columns or even-money bets until you get the hang of it. 

Diversify your palette of bets

Roulette is a game of pure luck. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to diversify your bets and play the field. No two spins are typically alike, betting on your lucky number or betting on numbers that have previously paid out isn’t the best decision if you’re looking to win. To extract the most value out of your bankroll, consider spreading your bets on outside bets and several numbers to give you better odds of winning, extend your playing time, and make the game more enjoyable. 

Set a bankroll and stick to it

The thrill of the spin can make it hard to leave the game or the table, especially if you’ve been on a roll. But setting a playing budget, sticking to it and not exceeding whether you win or lose, and knowing when to cash out whether you’re at a net loss or net profit is also a win. Don’t bet what you can’t afford to lose. 

Test out roulette betting strategies 

Roulette is a game of chance—but using a strategy teaches you the discipline you need while helping improve your chances of winning. This includes the column strategy, Martingale, D’Alembert, and Paroli strategies, to name a few. Ultimately, how you choose to play is your choice. Now is as good a time as any to remember that no strategy will guarantee you a win. But if you use one, make sure you fully understand how it works and it fits your risk appetite, budget, and playing style. 

Wager on even-money bets

Even-money bets such as black/red, high/low, or odd/even offer the best chances of winning. These bets yield 1:1 payout, meaning if you bet $1 and win, you’ll win $1. If you’re just starting out, betting on black or red gives you a better way to understand the game and learn its ins and outs as you play. While even money bets offer a relatively lower payout compared to straight bets (which offer 35:1), they can pay out more consistently over the long run. The odds of winning on green spaces are significantly lower and could have you burn through your bankroll faster than you wish.

Previous results do not affect future spins

It doesn’t matter how many times you spin the wheel—the chances of the ball landing on a specific number or bet type remain the same every single time. No strategy or misconception of seeing patterns unfolding changes the odds of a bet hitting on the next spin. Bottom line: previous spins do not affect future spins.

Remember to keep it fun

When you’re playing roulette at the plethora of roulette variants available at Instant Casino, remember that the goal is to have fun. Regardless of how well you feel you are prepared or how well-versed you are in roulette, the ball will always have a mind of its own. You can’t win every single time you play a game of chance.

Conclusion

That said, if you’re looking to test out your newfound knowledge of the roulette column strategy, Instant Casino offers a first-in-class online roulette gaming experience. With first-person roulette games and exciting live dealer roulette options that take the immersive, social experience of the brick-and-mortar roulette game to you anytime, anywhere, Instant Casino is the perfect place to test out a variety of strategies and find the one that suits your play style the best. 

The key takeaway to enjoying roulette is to play responsibly regardless of whether you bet on columns, even money bets, or straight bets. Gamble responsibly, set limits for yourself in terms of time and money, and don’t exceed those boundaries. Roulette, as with all other forms of gambling, should be a fun, leisurely pastime, not a source of major stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to predict a column in roulette?

There is no way to predict what number or column is going to come up on every spin. The only thing for sure is that the ball will land anywhere from 0 to 36. It is impossible to predict the exact number due to roulette’s totally random nature where every outcome of every spin is independent of previous spins. Each number has an equal chance of landing on every spin. 

How to bet on columns in roulette?

To place a column bet, just place your betting chips at the designated betting sections on the roulette table. If the ball lands on a number in your chosen column, you win a 2:1 payout. For instance, if you bet $10 on the second column and the ball lands on number 17, you would win $20. Column bets, however, do not cover all numbers on the roulette wheel—instead, they cover numbers on a particular column and the payout will be based on the odds of those numbers landing. 

How much does a column pay in roulette?

Roulette column bets are paid out at a 2 to 1 ratio if the ball lands on any of the numbers in your selected column. 

Is there a pattern to roulette?

There is no pattern to roulette. Roulette is a totally random game of chance controlled by random number generators in online roulette games to guarantee provably fair and random results, and stringently tested to provide no predictable pattern. Random number generators also ensure that the previous spins of the wheel do not affect future spins, eliminating any chance of being predictable. While it may be entirely possible to observe numbers that appear to win or lose within a particular time frame, it doesn’t mean that there is an underlying pattern. Whether you play online roulette or at a land-based casino, every outcome is determined by pure luck and nothing else.