How online roulette compares to the real thing

Roulette is a game of constant suspense. Always waiting to see where the little white ball will stop. Some people say that online games are not fair and that it is better to play in a physical casino. Others say the opposite! But what is the reality? Isn't it possible to maximise your chances of success by playing roulette? Let's find out.

Gameplay: Virtual vs Real

Playing roulette on the internet offers a different but equally exciting sensation. The environment changes, but the rules remain the same. Choose between the comfort of playing from anywhere and the authentic, human atmosphere.

There are two categories of online roulette: games with random number generators (RNG) and games with live dealers.

RNG: Play against software that simulates the drawing of the ball. It's fast, convenient and you can play at any time. The games follow one another without interruption, and there's no waiting. Perfect for players in a hurry!

Live dealer: Interact with a real dealer via streaming video, like on live dealer provider Evolution Gaming. It's more immersive, but you have to respect the session times. It recreates the atmosphere of a real casino with a touch of modern technology.

In a physical casino, you are faced with a real wheel and a real ball. The experience is both physical and convivial, but it is subject to the constraints of opening hours, the distance you have to travel and, sometimes, the crowds. Many players enjoy the real contact with the chips and the thrill of seeing the ball spin live in front of their eyes.

Odds and RTP: Who offers the best odds?

Roulette odds depend on the variant you choose:

• European Roulette: 1 zero, house edge of 2.70%.
• American roulette: 2 zeros, house edge of 5.26%. It is therefore less favourable to the player.

Online casinos often offer a more advantageous rate of return to the player, known as RTP. Particularly with variants such as French roulette, for example. It is possible to increase your chances of profitability with rules such as "La Partage" or "En Prison". The house edge can be as low as 1.35% on single bets.

Some platforms provide statistics on previous draws. These statistics provide a useful overview for fine-tuning your strategy. Remember, though, that roulette is first and foremost a game of chance.

Game mechanics: Similarities and differences

The basic rules are the same, no matter where you play: you bet on a number, colour or combination, then the ball is rolled.

Online: The animations are smooth, and you can see the stats in real time. Some games let you save your favourite bets so you can come back to them more quickly.

Physical: You handle chips and watch the croupier in action. The atmosphere is more social, but you don't have the same analysis tools. Bets are often made within a limited timeframe, and you have to keep up with the pace of the group.

Payment structures: Simple or complex?

Payouts are the same in both formats:

• Full number: 35:1 payout
• Horse (two numbers): 17:1 payout
• Transversal (three numbers): 11:1 payout
• Square: 8:1
• Column or dozen: 2:1
• Red/Black, Even/Odd, Miss/Pass: 1:1

Welcome bonuses, free spins and cashback programmes are common in online gaming. These promotional offers can provide more playing time or mitigate potential losses.

In a physical casino it's more complicated to get these kinds of benefits. They are often limited to VIP members. The big bettors also often have them to thank them for their investment. However, some establishments may offer extras such as free drinks or meals.

Accessibility: Play when you want, where you want

This is the biggest advantage of online gambling. Play 24/7 from your computer or smartphone. Wherever you have a screen and an internet connection. Roulette is always at hand, whether you're at home, on the underground or on holiday.

Physical casinos have fixed opening hours, and you have to travel. If you don't live near a casino, it can be expensive and time-consuming to get there. The desire to go must be strong.

Atmosphere: Virtual or real?

Atmosphere is a matter of taste:

Online: you play in a calm environment, at your own pace. No outside pressure, no noise, unless you add it yourself with music or ambient sounds.

Physical: The atmosphere is electric. Lights, laughter, chip noise, interaction with staff and other players. This can make the experience more intense, but also more stressful if you prefer to play solo.

Security and fairness: Can we trust online casinos?

It's only human to ask the question: are online games rigged? The Malta Gaming Authority and the UK Gambling Commission supervise gaming platforms. And it's fair to say that they have very strict rules. So you can rest assured. Their random number generators (RNGs) are regularly checked by independent bodies. Everything is in place to guarantee fair results.

This feeling of insecurity is less present with a live dealer. You have a person in front of you with whom you can follow every move in real time.

In a physical casino, you see everything live, which reassures many players. The physical aspect often inspires more confidence.