Roulette Numbers Guide: Strategies & Odds
Whether you're a seasoned gambler or someone about to take your first turn on the roulette wheel, understanding roulette numbers is key to making informed decisions at the table.
There are plenty of theories floating around the internet about the supposed significance of roulette numbers (seriously, Google it and see for yourself), so let's break down the strategy, 'science', and superstition behind roulette numbers and their effect on your odds of winning.
How Roulette Numbers Work
Before diving into betting strategies and 'lucky' numbers, allow me to explain the numbers on the roulette wheel itself. The first step is understanding the two main versions of roulette and their respective layouts:
- European Roulette: Features 37 pockets, numbered 0 to 36.
- American Roulette: Features 38 pockets, numbered 0 to 36, plus a 00.
(I can hear the experts shouting at their screens, "What about triple zero roulette?" - relax, I'll get to it)
The sequence of the numbers is anything but random. They’re strategically placed to balance low and high numbers, red and black, and odd and even.
Here’s a quick table comparing both versions:
| Type of Wheel | Total Numbers | Zeros | House Edge | Probability of Hitting a Single Number |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| European Roulette | 37 | 1 | 2.70% | 1 in 37 (2.70%) |
| American Roulette | 38 | 2 (0, 00) | 5.26% | 1 in 38 (2.63%) |
So, why does this matter? Even if you're not familiar with roulette, you can see the difference in house edge between the two versions of the game. This margin, despite seeming small, makes a huge difference over time.
This means that you should always opt for European Roulette if you are playing roulette online or in the casino.
Triple Zero Roulette
'Triple Zero Roulette' is a version of roulette played on a wheel that has 39 pockets numbered from 1 to 36, with a single zero, double zero, AND a triple zero. The table layout mirrors this.
This means that the house edge increases to 7.69%, making it more favorable to the house than American Roulette.
Best Roulette Numbers to Bet On
Roulette is random by design, and there is no guarantee that one number will appear more often than another. However, that hasn't stopped some players from attaching significance to certain numbers, and some have even gained 'legendary' status in certain localities.
Let’s explore the best roulette numbers according to popularity and history:
| Number | Reason for Significance |
|---|---|
| 17 | Statistically, it’s no more likely to hit than others. But it's smack in the center of the betting grid and provides a natural symmetry for some players. |
| 7 | Universally regarded as a 'lucky' number across cultures. It’s pure superstition, but many gamblers swear by it. |
| 8 & 11 | Seen as lucky in Asian and Western numerology, respectively. |
| 23 | The number gained fame in conspiracy theories and even roulette lore, appearing in some big wins. |
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PLAY GAMEHot Numbers vs. Cold Numbers
Hot and Cold numbers are numbers determined by players to be either those that land frequently or less often. Like many other roulette strategies, this isn't based on mathematical probability or any science, but rather rooted in 'feel'.
- Hot Numbers: These are numbers that have hit more frequently in a session or over time. Some players chase them, thinking they’re on a streak.
- Cold Numbers: Numbers that haven’t come up in a while. Some bettors choose them, hoping they’re 'due' to land.
The '23 Enigma'
The 23 Enigma is the belief in conspiracies that involve the number 23, and the significance that this number has taken on. This is a well-used trope in popular fiction and movies, but has also gained traction among conspiracy theorists and internet sleuths.
Roulette Bets on Specific Numbers
Understanding your roulette betting options at the table can help tailor your number strategy. In particular, inside bets are combination bets for groups of numbers, as well as the 'straight' bet, which is betting on a single number.
| Bet | Description | Payout |
|---|---|---|
| Straight-Up Bet | Betting on a single number. | 35 to 1. |
| Split Bet | Covers two adjacent numbers. | 17 to 1. |
| Street Bet | Covers three numbers in a row. | 11 to 1. |
| Corner Bet | Covers four numbers that form a square. | 8 to 1. |
| Six Line Bet | Covers two adjacent rows of three numbers. | 5 to 1. |
Each of these roulette bets allows you to leverage your favorite numbers in various ways, balancing risk and reward.
Roulette Betting Strategies Using Numbers
Want to go beyond guessing? Number-based strategies can give structure to your game. They don’t guarantee wins, but they do help manage risk and optimize play.
Here are the most popular:
Martingale System
Bet on even-money outcomes (like red/black), and double your bet after every loss. Once you win, you recover all losses and gain a small profit.
✅ Pros: Simple, easy to follow.
❌ Cons: High risk, requires a large bankroll.
Fibonacci System
This strategy is based on the famous number sequence (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8…). Each bet equals the sum of the previous two.
✅ Pros: Slower progression than Martingale.
❌ Cons: Still risky if you hit a long losing streak.
Labouchère System
Also known as the 'Split Martingale', it involves a pre-set sequence of numbers (like 1-2-3-4). You bet the sum of the first and last numbers. If you win, you remove those numbers. If you lose, you add the amount you just bet to the end of the sequence.
✅ Pros: More customizable.
❌ Cons: Requires tracking and discipline.
These strategies are generally used on even-money bets, but many adapt them to inside bets or combinations that involve specific roulette numbers.
Lucky Roulette Numbers & Superstitions
Sometimes, logic takes a back seat to belief, and gamblers can be a superstitious bunch. Even high-rollers often follow specific superstitions around lucky roulette numbers, like these notable examples:
- Mike Ashley, former owner of Newcastle United, once won £1.3 million1 on roulette with a straight bet on number 17. He placed a £480,000 chip on that single number, and it hit!
- Number 7 is a mainstay for gamblers globally. It’s often the first number chosen by casual players.
- 13 is considered unlucky in Western cultures, yet some players choose to bet on it to be contrary.
- Asian players often gravitate toward 8 (which symbolizes wealth and prosperity in some cultures) and avoid 4 (which represents death).
Whether it’s numerology, dreams, or even birthday digits, lucky numbers carry personal power for many. It's always important to remember that no matter the reason behind picking a certain number, roulette is still a game of chance where the outcome is random.
The Worst Roulette Numbers to Bet On
We’ve talked about the so-called 'best' roulette numbers, but what about the worst?
Objectively, all numbers have the same chance of being selected on any given spin (in a fair game). But some are seen as unlucky or unwise based on odds or superstition:
| Unlucky Number | Reason |
|---|---|
| 13 | As mentioned, it's considered unlucky across many cultures. |
| 00 (Double Zero) | It increases the house edge in American Roulette, and doesn't fit into even/odd or red/black bets. |
| 0 (Single Zero) | While it’s vital to how the house makes its edge, it’s outside the standard even-money bet structure. Many experienced players still bet on it regularly because of the odds when it wins (35:1). |
Roulette Numbers: The PokerNews Verdict
The takeaway? Numbers aren’t inherently bad, but some increase your risk or don’t play nicely with common betting strategies.
Roulette is a fascinating mix of math and belief, but ultimately comes down to pure chance. Whether you’re chasing lucky roulette numbers, following tried-and-true roulette betting strategies, or simply trusting your gut, the key is to enjoy the game responsibly. After all, the wheel never knows your reasons for picking certain roulette numbers!
Roulette Numbers FAQs
What are the best numbers to bet on in roulette?
Numbers like 7 and 17 are popular for their perceived luck and historical wins. However, from a mathematical standpoint, every number has the same probability of hitting on a single spin.
Is there a strategy for picking roulette numbers?
While no strategy can predict the outcome, systems like Martingale, Fibonacci, and Labouchère provide structured ways to manage bets. Players also use trends, hot/cold numbers, or personal lucky numbers to guide their choices.
Do lucky numbers help in roulette?
Psychologically, yes. Players often feel more confident when betting on numbers with personal significance. But in terms of actual odds, lucky numbers don’t change the randomness of the spin.
What is the most common winning roulette number?
No number statistically appears more often over time in a fair game. That said, 17 has gained a reputation for hitting more often, though this is anecdotal, not proven.
What’s the difference between inside and outside bets on roulette numbers?
Inside bets are placed directly on specific numbers or small number groups (e.g., straight-up, split, corner), offering higher payouts. Outside bets cover broader ranges (e.g., red/black, odd/even) and offer lower risk with lower payouts.
Should I play European or American roulette for better odds?
Always choose European roulette if possible. With only one zero, its house edge is 2.7% versus American roulette’s 5.26%. That difference matters a lot over time.
Can past spins influence future results in roulette?
No. Each spin is independent. While hot and cold numbers can inform betting trends, they don't actually affect the odds.