Curious about outside bets in roulette but not sure where to start? You’re not alone — the table layout and betting options can look overwhelming at first.
Outside bets offer a simpler way to play, covering larger groups of numbers instead of single pockets. This guide explains what they are, how the odds and payouts work, and which bets players often choose, all in clear terms so you can follow along easily.
Ready to get into it? We’ll begin with the basics and build up from there, so you’ll know what to expect at the table.
What Are Roulette Outside Bets?
Roulette outside bets are placed on the perimeter of the betting table and cover broader categories of numbers rather than specific single numbers. Because each outside bet covers more numbers, wins tend to occur more often than with inside bets, though individual payouts are smaller.
Common outside bets include:
- Colours (red or black)
- Parity (odd or even)
- Ranges (high 19–36 or low 1–18)
- Dozens (1–12, 13–24, 25–36)
- Columns (the three vertical columns of twelve numbers)
These bets suit players who prefer steadier results and simpler decisions, since they require less precision than betting on a single number. Keep in mind that the zero or zeros on the wheel are not covered by most outside bets, which affects the overall odds and means the house retains an edge. Play responsibly and be aware of the risks before placing wagers.
Types Of Outside Bets In Roulette
Below are the common outside bets and what they cover. Each has its own area on the table, so they are quick to find and place. Outside bets are generally lower risk than single-number bets and pay out at lower rates, which makes them useful for players who prefer steadier returns.
Red or Black
A wager that the winning pocket will be one of the red or black slots. Each colour covers 18 numbers on a standard single-zero wheel. This bet pays even money, with the zero resulting in a loss for both outcomes.
Odd or Even
A bet on whether the winning number will be odd or even. The zero does not count for either outcome. Like red or black, this is an even-money bet and is often chosen by players seeking balanced risk.
High or Low
This covers either the low numbers (1–18) or the high numbers (19–36), again excluding zero. It also pays even money, and is simple to follow for those who prefer straightforward choices.
Dozens
A bet on one of three groups of twelve numbers:
- 1–12
- 13–24
- 25–36
Dozens give broader coverage than a single-number bet while offering a higher payout than even-money bets. They are useful for players who want a middle-ground option between risk and reward.
Columns
A wager covering one of the three vertical columns on the table, each containing 12 numbers. Column bets function like dozens in terms of coverage and payout, but they let you target the table layout differently.
Each of these options simplifies decision-making and lets you tailor how aggressive or conservative you prefer to play. Remember that the house edge remains regardless of the bet type, and you should only gamble responsibly.
How Do Outside Bets Compare To Inside Bets?
Inside bets are placed on individual numbers or small clusters in the centre of the table and offer larger payouts because they cover fewer outcomes. These bets tend to be higher volatility: you risk more per spin and wins are less frequent, but when they come they pay out at higher multiples.
Outside bets, by contrast, cover broader groups and therefore return wins more often but for smaller amounts. They are lower volatility, producing a steadier flow of smaller wins that can help sustain play for longer periods with the same bankroll.
This structure affects how a session feels:
- Inside bets can produce big, infrequent wins, creating sharp swings in your balance.
- Outside bets give a steadier rhythm of smaller wins, leading to more predictable short-term results.
Which you choose depends on whether you prefer occasional larger returns or more frequent, modest results. Your choice should also reflect your risk tolerance, betting strategy and how long you want to play, because neither option changes the casino edge.
What Are The Odds & Payouts For Each Outside Bet?
Here’s an overview for European single-zero roulette, which is common in UK play. Specific tables may vary, so always check the rules where you are playing.
Red or Black
Covers: 18 numbers each
Payout: 1 to 1
Odds of winning: 18/37 (about 48.6%)
These are even-money bets, so a win returns your stake plus an equal amount. They are among the lowest-variance options on the table, meaning wins are relatively frequent but individual payouts are smaller.
Odd or Even
Covers: 18 numbers each
Payout: 1 to 1
Odds of winning: 18/37 (about 48.6%)
Like red or black, odd or even bets offer steady chances of winning and straightforward payouts. They are useful for players who prefer simpler risk profiles rather than large, infrequent wins.
High (19–36) or Low (1–18)
Covers: 18 numbers each
Payout: 1 to 1
Odds of winning: 18/37 (about 48.6%)
High/low bets are another form of even-money play, covering half the non-zero numbers. They behave similarly to the other even bets in terms of frequency and payout.
Dozens (1–12, 13–24, 25–36)
Covers: 12 numbers
Payout: 2 to 1
Odds of winning: 12/37 (about 32.4%)
Dozen bets cover a third of the wheel and pay 2 to 1 on a win. They offer a balance between risk and reward, with less frequent wins than even-money bets but higher payouts when they do hit.
Columns
Covers: 12 numbers
Payout: 2 to 1
Odds of winning: 12/37 (about 32.4%)
Column bets work like dozens in coverage and payout, each column spanning 12 numbers arranged vertically on the layout. They are a common choice for players seeking middling variance.
When the ball lands on zero, outside bets lose on a single-zero wheel. This single green pocket is why the probabilities are slightly below 50 percent for even-money bets and why the house retains an edge.
These figures show how each bet balances frequency of wins against payout size, helping you choose options that suit your risk tolerance and playing style.
Which Outside Bets Are Most Popular Among UK Players?
Even-money bets — red or black and odd or even — are frequently chosen because they are easy to follow and offer straightforward outcomes. High or low bets attract players who like the same simplicity but prefer to focus on number ranges.
Dozens and columns appeal to people who want broader coverage than even-money bets but still want clearer odds than individual-number bets. Preferences often come down to personal style: some players favour predictable, low-variance play, while others mix outside bets with occasional inside bets for variety.
If you’re trying to decide where to start, think about whether you want frequent, smaller returns or the chance of a larger payout less often.
Can You Improve Your Chances With Outside Bets?
People often look for systems that promise better results, but every spin is independent and not influenced by previous outcomes. No pattern of past spins changes the probability of the next outcome. Outside bets change the distribution of your wins and losses, but they do not alter the underlying probabilities set by the wheel or the house edge.
Outside bets tend to pay out more frequently than single-number bets, but with smaller returns when they do win. This reduces short-term variance but does not improve long-term expected returns. Over many spins the same mathematical advantage for the house applies to all bet types.
A sensible approach is to set a budget and stick to it, treating bets as entertainment rather than income. Consider practical measures to manage your play, such as:
- deciding a session bankroll and a time limit before you start
- choosing a bet size that fits your bankroll and tolerances
- avoiding increasing stakes to chase losses
If you notice your play becoming stressful or difficult to control, take a break and review your behaviour. Support resources are available if you need them, including:
- self-exclusion programmes offered by operators
- betting limits and reality checks you can enable on accounts
- national helplines and charities that offer advice and support
If you are concerned about your gambling, seek help early and use the tools provided to keep play safe and responsible.
Myths About Outside Bets: Separating Fact From Fiction
Several persistent ideas about outside bets are worth addressing. One is that patterns in past spins imply future outcomes. In reality, past results do not affect future spins; each spin is an independent event.
Another myth is that any betting system can overcome the casino’s built-in advantage. Systems may change how you manage bankroll or how long you play, but they do not change probabilities. Finally, some believe that certain outside bets are inherently “safer” in a way that guarantees success; they are safer in the sense of lower variance, but they still follow the same odds explained earlier.
Knowing what is fact and what is fiction helps set realistic expectations and makes the game more enjoyable.
Glossary Of Common Outside Bet Terms
Here are concise definitions of terms you will see when placing outside bets.
Red/Black
A wager on the winning number being a red or black pocket.
Odd/Even
A bet on whether the winning number is odd or even.
High/Low
A bet that the outcome will fall in the low range (1–18) or the high range (19–36).
Dozen Bet
A wager on one of three groups of twelve consecutive numbers: 1–12, 13–24, or 25–36.
Column Bet
A bet covering the twelve numbers in one vertical column on the table.
Even-Money Bet
A term for bets that pay 1 to 1, such as red/black, odd/even, and high/low.
With these definitions and the explanations above, you should be able to read the table with confidence and choose outside bets that match the style of play you prefer.
**The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be construed as betting advice or a guarantee of success. Always gamble responsibly.