Roulette is a classic casino game that offers a variety of betting options, but not all bets are created equal. Some bets provide reasonable odds, while others are outright terrible. In this guide, we’ll explore the worst bet in roulette, why you should avoid it, and which bets offer better value.
The Worst Bet in Roulette: The Five-Number Bet
The five-number bet, also known as the basket bet, is the worst wager you can place in roulette online. This bet is exclusive to American roulette, covering the numbers 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3. While it may seem like an interesting option, the odds are heavily stacked against you.
Why Is the Five-Number Bet So Bad?
- High House Edge: The five-number bet has a staggering 7.89% house edge, which is significantly worse than the standard 5.26% house edge in American roulette.
- Low Winning Probability: The bet covers only 5 out of 38 numbers, giving you a 13.16% chance of winning.
- Unfair Payout: The payout for this bet is 6 to 1, which does not fairly compensate for the low odds.
Better Alternatives to the Five-Number Bet
If you’re looking to improve your odds at roulette, consider these alternative bets:
1. Even-Money Bets (Red/Black, Odd/Even, High/Low)
- House Edge: 5.26% (American) / 2.70% (European)
- Why It’s Better: These bets cover nearly half the numbers on the wheel, offering close to a 50% chance of winning (excluding the zeroes).
2. European Roulette Over American Roulette
- House Edge: 2.70% (European) vs. 5.26% (American)
- Why It’s Better: European roulette has only one zero, reducing the house edge and improving your long-term chances.
3. French Roulette with La Partage or En Prison Rules
- House Edge: 1.35% (on even-money bets)
- Why It’s Better: These rules refund half of your even-money bets if the ball lands on zero, cutting the house edge in half.
Worst Roulette Bets Based on Odds of Winning
While the five-number bet is the worst overall due to its high house edge, other bets also have poor winning probabilities:
- Straight-Up Bets (Single Number): 35 to 1 payout, but only a 2.70% chance of winning (European) or 2.63% (American).
- Split Bet (Two Numbers): 17 to 1 payout, with a 5.41% chance (European) or 5.26% (American).
Final Thoughts: Avoiding the Worst Bet in Roulette
If you’re serious about playing roulette with the best possible odds, avoid the five-number bet at all costs. Instead, stick to even-money bets, opt for European roulette, and take advantage of La Partage or En Prison rules whenever possible. While roulette is always a game of chance, making smarter bets can extend your playtime and improve your overall experience.
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