Roulette is one of the most popular casino games, known for its spinning wheel and variety of betting options. If you're new to roulette, understanding the different bets you can place is key to enjoying and potentially succeeding at the game.
A split bet is a straightforward wagering option that allows you to cover two neighbouring numbers (as they appear on the table, not the wheel) with a single bet. This could be a useful strategy to diversify your chances of winning without spreading your bets too thin.
In this blog post, we'll break down what a split bet is, how the payouts work, and offer some simple strategies that some players choose to use while playing roulette. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of how to make a split bet and whether it fits into your overall roulette strategy.
What Is a Split Bet In Roulette?
A split bet in roulette is a way to place a bet on two numbers at the same time. You do this by putting your chip on the line that separates the two numbers on the roulette table. This means you're betting on the ball landing on either of the two numbers on the wheel.
For example, if you want to bet on the numbers 5 and 6, you place your chip on the line between these two numbers. This is different from a straight-up bet, where you only bet on one number and place your chip directly on that number.
Split bets are popular because they offer a slightly better chance of winning than betting on a single number, but still offer one of the highest payouts available in roulette (second only to the straight-up bet).
Understanding how split bets work can help you better navigate the different betting options available in roulette and allow you to make better-informed decisions on what bets best suit your preferences and budget. In the next sections, we'll explore the payouts for split bets and some simple strategies to consider.
Roulette Split Bet Payout
If you place a split bet in roulette, you're betting on two numbers at once. This impacts both your chances of winning and the potential payout you could receive.
The payout for a split bet is 17 to 1. This means if you bet £1 and either of your chosen numbers comes up, you'll win £17, plus you'll get your original £1 bet back.
This payout is higher than even-money bets like red or black (which payout at even money) but lower than a straight-up bet on a single number, which pays 35 to 1.
The reason for the 17 to 1 payout is because you're covering two numbers out of the 37 or 38 possible outcomes, depending on whether you're playing European (37 numbers) or American (38 numbers) roulette.
Understanding how the payout works helps you decide if a split bet is worth placing for you. It's an option for players looking to cover more numbers than a single number bet while still having a chance at winning one of the higher possible payouts in the game.
In the next section, we'll discuss some strategies you can use when incorporating split bets into your roulette gameplay.
Roulette Split Bet Strategy
Many players incorporate split bets into their roulette strategies, it can be used in conjunction with other bets or on its own. Here are some simple strategies to consider:
Combine with Other Bets
To cover more numbers and increase your chances of one of your bets winning in a round, you can combine split bets with other types of bets. For example, you might place a few split bets along with some outside bets like red/black or odd/even. This way, even if your split bet doesn't win, you might still get a payout from your other bets.
Manage Your Bankroll
It's important to decide how much you're willing to risk before you start playing. Split bets offer better payouts than even-money bets but still have one of the lowest chances of winning. Set a budget and stick to it. Factor in the different types of bets available, as well as their respective odds and potential payouts, when deciding how to play. This way, you can enjoy the game and lower the chances of you placing excessive bets.
By using these strategies, you can make smarter split bets and enjoy a more balanced approach to roulette.
However, it's important to know that no matter what strategy you choose to use, even if it's the Martingale system, Labouchere, Fibonacci, or another, winning is never guaranteed. The house edge is fixed and cannot be altered no matter what strategy or betting system you choose to implement.
Roulette Split Bet Odds
Understanding the odds of a split bet in roulette is important for making informed decisions.
In European roulette, there are 37 numbers on the wheel, including a single zero. When you place a split bet, you cover 2 of these numbers. This means your odds of winning are 2 out of 37, which is approximately 5.41%.
In American roulette, there are 38 numbers because of the additional double zero. Here, a split bet covers 2 out of 38 numbers, giving you odds of approximately 5.26%.
These odds are better than a straight-up bet, where you only have a 1 out of 37 (or 1 out of 38) chance of winning. However, the odds are lower compared to outside bets like red/black or odd/even, which cover nearly half the numbers on the wheel.
Knowing these odds helps you weigh the risk and potential reward of your bet. Remember, gambling is meant as a form of entertainment, so be sure to play responsibly by always sticking to your budget and accepting that the outcomes are random and unpredictable.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game are subject to change at any time. Game features mentioned may not be available in some jurisdictions.