Best Roulette Strategies To Maximize Your Winnings

August 5, 2024
16 Minute Read

Online Roulette is one of the most iconic and popular casino games of all time. It’s known for its combo of simplicity and endless possibilities— no matter how many times you play, no two games are the same.

And with so many variants and gameplay tips out there, it can be hard to decide on how you want to play, even if you have a lot of experience. This article will help you find your perfect roulette strategy and explore this classic game in a new way.

Getting Started with Roulette Strategy

Before diving into specific strategies, it’s essential to grasp the basics of roulette. The game revolves around a spinning wheel with numbered pockets, a small ball, and a betting table. You place bets on where you think the ball will land once the wheel stops spinning. There are different types of bets you can make, including:

  • Inside Bets: Bets placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers. Examples include straight-up (single number), split (two numbers), street (three numbers), and corner (four numbers).
  • Outside Bets: Bets placed on larger groups of numbers or characteristics. Examples include red or black, odd or even, and dozens (first 12 numbers, second 12, etc.).

Types of Roulette Strategy

When it comes to roulette, strategies generally fall into two main categories: Progressive Roulette Strategies and Non-Progressive Roulette Strategies.

Each category has its own unique approach to betting, and understanding the difference can help you find the strategy that best suits your style and goals.

  • Progressive Roulette Strategy: Progressive strategies are all about adjusting your bet size based on your wins or losses. The most common form involves increasing your bet after a loss. The aim is to recover losses and hopefully make a profit when you eventually win. These strategies can be exciting and potentially profitable, but they can also be risky since you might end up betting large amounts if you’re on a losing streak. Some examples we’ll explore later on include the Martingale, Paroli, and D’Alembert strategies.
  • Non-Progressive Roulette Strategy: Non-progressive strategies, on the other hand, are all about consistency. Instead of changing your bet size based on wins or losses, you stick to a consistent bet amount. These strategies focus on minimizing losses and making small, steady gains. They’re great if you prefer a more relaxed and less risky approach to the game. The Andrucci system, 1-3-2-6, and Oscar’s Grind strategies are great examples.

Basic Roulette Strategies

European Roulette Strategy

European roulette is preferable due to its lower house edge of 2.70%, compared to American roulette. The single zero on the wheel significantly improves your chances.

American Roulette Strategy

With a higher house edge of 5.26% due to the double zero, this version requires more conservative strategies. The reason for that is that the increased house edge can mean higher potential losses.

A close-up view of a roulette wheel with the spinner in focus in the foreground. In the background, a group of people, elegantly dressed, are gathered around a casino table, engaging in the game. The atmosphere is warm and luxurious, with soft lighting and chandeliers creating a sophisticated ambiance. The image captures the excitement and allure of a high-end casino environment.

French Roulette Strategy

French roulette includes unique rules like “La Partage” and “En Prison”. This can return half your bet or leave it in play for the next spin if the ball lands on zero, reducing the house edge to 1.35% for even-money bets.

Roulette Dozens Strategy

Betting on dozens (groups of 12 numbers) can offer balanced risk and reward, providing decent payouts while covering a significant portion of the table.

Roulette Columns Strategy

Similar to the dozens strategy, betting on columns involves wagering on one of the three columns on the table, each containing 12 numbers.

Black and Red Roulette Strategy

A simple strategy ideal for beginners, where you bet on either red or black. This even-money bet offers a nearly 50/50 chance of winning.

Best Roulette Winning Strategies

Martingale Roulette Strategy

The Martingale strategy is one of the most well-known and straightforward betting systems in roulette. In it, you double your bet after every loss, with the idea that you will eventually make up your losses and even get some winnings.

For example, if you start with a €15 bet on even and lose, you then bet €30 on the next spin, and so on. Once you score, you return to your original bet. Though beginners can experiment with this strategy, it’s more suitable for experienced players. After all, you already need to have developed a bigger budget since the Martingale system is considered riskier.

Of course, you also need to be cautious of losing streaks. It’s never a good idea to chase them, so if you end up losing multiple times in a row, it may be time to take a break. You can always come back to the game later.

If you want to make the most out of the Martingale system, use it for even-money bets, such as red/black or odd/even, where the probability of winning is close to 50%.

All in all, it’s a great starting point for those looking to explore progressive betting systems. But, you do need a level-headed approach and a good understanding of when to walk away.

Grand Martingale Roulette Strategy

The Grand Martingale strategy is an even more aggressive version of the traditional Martingale system. You not only double your bet after a loss but also add an additional amount equal to your original bet.

To use the same example as before, if you bet €15 and lose, you would bet €45 on your next spin, instead of just €30.

The concept is the same as in the traditional system, but with the goal to make up for losses more quickly and with bigger wins.

This strategy is perfect for high rollers. It’s not for the faint-hearted, as the bets can escalate quickly, but it can be very rewarding if you’re lucky enough to win after just a few rounds.

Like the standard Martingale, the Grand Martingale is best suited for even-money bets, and it’s crucial to set strict limits on how much you’re willing to risk.

Reverse Martingale Roulette Strategy

As you may have guessed by the name, the Reverse Martingale system (also known as the Paroli) involves doubling your bet after every win instead of every loss. This system focuses on making the most out of your winning streaks, while minimizing losses.

After a loss, you return to your initial bet size. This strategy is less risky than the traditional Martingale because you’re essentially playing with your winnings rather than chasing losses.

The Reverse Martingale is perfect for those who enjoy riding the highs and are willing to accept that streaks will eventually end. It’s particularly effective for those who want to experience the excitement of increasing stakes without the stress of potentially high losses.

D’Alembert Roulette Strategy

Compared to the Martingale system, the D’Almbert roulette strategy is more not as aggressive. You also need to increase your bet after every loss, but only by one. As well as that, you need to decrease your bet by the same amount each time you win.

Eventually, your wins and losses will balance out, giving you a chance to win more without risking much. If you like controlled and steady gameplay, this is the best roulette strategy for you. It’s also suitable for those who don’t have much experience with roulette.

Reverse D’Alembert System

Similarily to the Martingale and Reverse Martingale system, this strategy flips the D’Almebrt concept. So, you’d increase your bet after each win, and decrease it after each loss.

The assumption here is that wins will come in clusters, so the goal is to capitalize on that. If you already have some experience with casino games like roulette, then this might be the perfect strategy for you. It’s all about your confidence in being able to hit consecutively.

Andrucci Roulette Strategy

Based on the idea of “hot numbers,” the Andrucci strategy involves observing the wheel for frequent numbers and betting on them. In fact, many roulette games display the hot numbers for you, making this strategy easier to execute.

You should follow the Andrucci strategy for around 30 to 37 spins. Bet only on the hot numbers to increase your chances of winning based on the trends of the game.

If you have an analytical nature and like spotting patterns, then this is your strategy. But, if you’re a new player, it may be better to start with a more conservative approach.

Fibonacci Roulette Strategy

Using the Fibonacci sequence (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, etc) means you move one step forward in the sequence after a loss. And after a win, you move two steps back.

This can help you recover your losses gradually, without risking any big losses in the long run. It’s a methodical way to manage your budget and extend your gameplay, while not being as aggressive as some other strategies.

Reverse Fibonacci Roulette Strategy

You’ve guessed it— Instead of moving forward in the sequence after a loss, you move forward after a win. And instead of moving backwards after a win, you do so after a loss.

Much like the Fibonacci sequence aims to minimize losses, the Reverse strategy aims to maximize wins. It’s a more cautious approach than the traditional one, making it more appealing to those who want to minimize the risk of losing entirely.

Paroli Roulette Strategy

Labouchere System

Also known as the cancellation system, the Labouchere strategy involves setting a target profit and adjusting your bets based on a sequence of numbers. You cross off numbers from the sequence as you win, aiming to complete the sequence for a profit.

For example, if you want to win €10, you can come up with a sequence like 1-2-3-4. Now, bet the sum of the first and last numbers in your chosen sequence. In this case, that would be €5 (1 + 4). If your bet is successful, then cross out these numbers. Continue betting with the sum of the new first and last numbers in the sequence.

Your goal is to cross out all the numbers in your sequence while getting your target profit. This strategy is great for spicing up any game of roulette, especially if you’ve been playing for a while.

A roulette table with a spinning wheel in the foreground, surrounded by players placing their bets. The background features a beautifully decorated Christmas tree with twinkling lights, adding a festive atmosphere to the casino setting. The players are dressed in formal attire, contributing to the elegant and celebratory ambiance of the scene. The focus is on the game and the holiday spirit, highlighting the blend of excitement and festivity.

James Bond Roulette Strategy

Cover a large portion of the wheel with the James Bond strategy for a chance to win more frequently. The gist of this strategy is that you need to bet on a specific combination of numbers.

For example, let’s say your total bet is €200. €140 of that would go on high numbers (19 to 36), €50 on numbers between 13 and 18, and the final €10 on zero.

Aside from covering more than half the table, this strategy is famously used by James Bond, hence the name. So if you want a bit of flair or to feel like a movie star, test it out!

1-3-2-6 Strategy

With this betting system, you can capitalize on short winning streaks. Essentially, your bet size follows the number sequence. Each time you win, you move on to the next number and change your bet accordingly.

Once you complete the sequence, you start all over again. The main appeal is that you only stake your initial bet— every other bet is made from your winnings.

Oscar’s Grind

If you want to gradually accumulate winnings, then Oscar’s Grind is the right strategy for you.

Let’s say you start with betting €10. The goal is keeping your bet at that amount until you win. Then, once you win, you double your bet. So in this case, you raise it to €20. That way, you’re essentially only wagering your initial bet, as everything else comes from the winnings.

Factors Affecting Roulette Betting Strategy

Roulette Betting Limits

Table limits can impact the effectiveness of various strategies, especially progressive ones like Martingale. That’s because they often require higher budgets to cover the potential betting losses. That’s why you should always set your budget, stick to it, and pick a strategy that works well with it.

Roulette Game Type

As you may already know, different roulette variants have different house edges. If you want to challenge yourself, go for American roulette as it typically has a house edge of 5.26% due to the double zero.

And if you want to play it safe, go for French roulette with its 1.35% edge thanks to the rule that you get half your bet back if the ball lands on zero (La Partage). Those who want something in between will find the right balance with European roulette and its 2.70% house edge.

Roulette Bet Choice

Choosing the right type of bets to match your strategy is crucial. For example, even money bets are more suitable for progressive strategies, while inside bets might be better for non-progressive strategies.

How to Choose the Best Roulette Strategy for You

Before you commit to a roulette strategy to win your next round, you should take a look at some key factors for making the right decision for you.

How Much Are You Willing to Risk?

Determining your risk tolerance is the first step in finding your strategy. After all, some betting systems are more aggressive than others and can come with higher potential losses.

  • High-Risk Tolerance: If you’re someone who enjoys the thrill of big wins and doesn’t mind the possibility of substantial losses, aggressive strategies like the Martingale or Grand Martingale might be appealing. Both of them involve doubling your bets after losses. This can result in a quick loss recovery, but also caries the risk of overstepping your budget or comfort during losing streaks. Another high-risk option could be the Andrucci strategy, which relies on hot numbers and can involve larger bets on specific numbers.
  • Low-Risk Tolerance: If you prefer to keep things steady and minimize losses, conservative strategies like the D’Alembert or Oscar’s Grind might suit you better. These systems focus on gradual gains and have less risk of sudden, large losses. For example, with the D’Alembert, you’re only increasing or decreasing your bets by one at a time, making it easier to manage and less likely to escalate quickly.

Staying on Top of Your Budget

How much you’re willing to spend also influences what the best strategy for roulette is for you.

  • Big budget If you have a sizeable bankroll, you have the flexibility to experiment with various strategies, including those that might require higher bets or a more aggressive approach. For instance, the Grand Martingale strategy can be more viable for you, as it allows you to withstand a series of losses without quickly depleting your funds.
  • Smaller budget: For those with a limited bankroll, it’s crucial to choose strategies that conserve your funds and offer longer playing time. Strategies like the Paroli or the 1-3-2-6 system are excellent choices here, as they involve positive progression and generally lower stakes. These strategies allow you to make the most of winning streaks while limiting potential losses. Both of them involve mostly betting with your winnings after your initial bet.

Identifying Your Playing Style

Your playing style, or how you like to experience the game, can also influence what the best strategy for playing roulette is for you. Do you enjoy a methodical approach, or are you more spontaneous and looking for excitement?

  • Methodical Players: If you enjoy a structured approach and like to stick to a plan, strategies like the Fibonacci or Labouchere systems might suit you well. These strategies require careful tracking and a disciplined approach, appealing to those who appreciate the analytical and mathematical mind.
  • Spontaneous Players: If you prefer a more relaxed and less regimented experience, simpler strategies like the Red/Black or Dozens bets can offer a straightforward and enjoyable way to play. The James Bond strategy could also be a good fit, as it provides balanced coverage and a cinematic flair.

Experimenting with Multiple Strategies

Though answering the questions above can provide valuable insight, one of the best ways to find the strategy that suits you is through experimentation. Try out different strategies during your playing sessions and see how they feel. Start with small bets to minimize risk while you’re learning.

Keep a journal or notes on your experiences with each strategy. Document your wins, losses, and how each strategy made you feel. Did you feel anxious with the Martingale’s rising bets? Did the Labouchere system’s complexity add to your enjoyment, or did it feel like too much work? Reflecting on these experiences can help you pinpoint what you enjoy and what doesn’t work for you.

Soon enough you’ll find a roulette strategy you’re completely comfortable with and will take your game to the next level. The best part is that you don’t even have to stick to the same strategy forever. Once you get bored or outgrow it, start experimenting again and find your new favorite.

Our Top Tips for How to Win at Roulette

  • Understand the Odds: Know the house edge and probabilities for different bet types.
  • Manage Your Bankroll: Set limits and stick to them to avoid significant losses.
  • Choose European or French Roulette: These versions offer better odds due to their lower house edge.
  • Practice Patience and Discipline: Stick to your strategy and don’t chase losses.
  • Know When to Walk Away: Set a profit target or loss limit and leave the table when you reach it.

Conclusion

In this guide, we’ve covered all of the major progressive and non-progressive betting strategies and explored how they fit different skill levels and budgets.

It’s important to remember that even though these strategies can improve your overall success rate, none of them guarantee winning. Roulette is a dynamic casino game based on luck, after all.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best roulette strategy for beginners?

The Black and Red strategy is simple and ideal for beginners due to its even-money nature and ease of understanding.

How does the house edge affect roulette strategies?

The house edge determines the casino’s advantage. Lower house edges (like in European and French roulette) provide better odds.

Can I consistently win at roulette using a strategy?

While strategies can improve your chances, roulette is ultimately a game of chance, and no strategy guarantees consistent wins.

What are the risks of using aggressive betting strategies?

Aggressive strategies like Martingale can lead to significant losses, especially if you encounter a long losing streak. That’s why it’s important to know when to stop chasing losses and walk away.

How do I manage my bankroll when playing roulette?

Set a budget for your gaming session, stick to it, and avoid chasing losses. Use a strategy that aligns with your budget. You can also use responsible gambling tools to stay on top of your bankroll.

Are there specific strategies for different types of roulette (European, American, French)?

Yes, different versions of roulette have varying house edges and roulette rules, impacting the effectiveness of certain strategies.

How do betting limits impact the effectiveness of roulette strategies?

Betting limits can restrict your ability to recover losses with progressive strategies, making it crucial to choose tables with appropriate limits.

Is the Martingale strategy effective?

The Martingale strategy can be effective in the short term but carries high risk due to the potential for substantial losses during long losing streaks.

Tom Middleton

Tom is a crypto gambling expert with more than a decade of experience in the industry and Master’s Degree in Journalism. He has written thoroughly researched guides and reviews for several major publications.

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