Split Bet in Roulette: What Is It & What Are the Payouts?
Roulette offers a wide range of betting options, each with its own rules and potential returns. If you’re getting to know the layout, a split bet is one of the first inside bets worth understanding.
Knowing how to place a split bet, where it fits among other betting options, and what potential payout it offers can help you make more informed choices at the table.
Below, you’ll find a clear breakdown of what a split bet is, how it works on the roulette layout, the payout it provides, how it compares to other bets, and the odds associated with it.
Read on to learn more.
What Is a Split Bet in Roulette?
A split bet is a wager that touches two numbers at the same time. The chip sits on the shared line between the numbers rather than staking each separately.
For example, placing a chip along the line between 8 and 11 covers both. If the ball lands on either, the bet wins. Only numbers that are directly next to each other horizontally or vertically are eligible. Diagonal neighbours do not qualify.
This gives a basic picture. Further detail on how it operates on the layout and around the zero (or zeroes) comes next.
How Does a Split Bet Work on the Roulette Table?
Roulette numbers form a grid of three columns. As mentioned, a split bet uses the dividing line between two numbers that share a side. This principle applies across the grid and near the zero position.
On European layouts, zero can be paired with 1, 2, or 3. On American tables, 0 can be paired with 1 or 2, and 00 with 2 or 3. A 0 and 00 split is not available since they do not share a side. Diagonal combinations anywhere on the grid are also not valid splits.
Layouts may vary slightly depending on the casino or studio, so it is useful to check the grid before placing a bet, particularly near the top row with zero and double zero.
Roulette Split Bet Payouts Explained
A successful split bet typically pays 17 to 1. If you choose to play with £1, a win returns £17 in winnings plus your £1 stake. A £5 split would return £85 in winnings, plus your stake.
This potential payout is the same on both European and American wheels. It sits between other common inside bets: a successful straight-up bet covering one number typically pays 35 to 1, while a successful street bet on three numbers typically pays 11 to 1. Generally, the more numbers a bet covers, the lower the payout.
Understanding these figures can help you compare split bets with other options on the layout.
Which Numbers Can You Cover with a Split Bet?
Any two numbers that share a side on the layout can form a split. Pairs like 7 and 8 or 14 and 17 are eligible, but numbers meeting only at a corner, such as 2 and 5, are not.
The zero positions have specific pairings depending on the wheel type, as noted earlier: European tables allow 0 with 1, 2, or 3; American tables allow 0 with 1 or 2, and 00 with 2 or 3. Beyond this, every valid split follows the same rule: two adjacent numbers joined by a chip on the shared line.
Inside Bets vs Outside Bets: Where Does the Split Bet Fit?
Roulette wagers are divided into inside and outside bets. Inside bets, which include splits and straight-ups, focus on individual numbers or small groups within the grid. They offer higher potential payouts but are less frequent than the broader outside bets.
Outside bets, such as red or black, or odd or even, cover larger sets of numbers and typically pay at lower rates. A split is firmly in the inside category, covering two numbers while offering a payout that usually sits in the mid-range of inside bets.
It may help to visualise the split’s placement on the table or screen before choosing to play.
How to Place a Split Bet Step by Step
If you’re interested in placing a split bet, it is fairly straightforward once you know where to position it. Identify two neighbouring numbers to cover. Select a chip value that fits your budget, then place the chip along the line separating the two numbers. That single chip now represents a wager on both.
In online roulette, you usually click to confirm the bet before the round starts. At a physical table, the dealer will announce when betting ends. If either number comes up, a win typically pays 17 to 1 plus the stake.
It is important to keep your play within limits and avoid spending money needed for essentials. Support and guidance are available at GambleAware if you ever feel concerned about gambling.
Understanding the Odds and House Edge on Split Bets
On European roulette, there are 37 pockets. A split covers 2 of these, giving roughly a 5.4 percent chance of winning. On American roulette, which has 38 pockets, the probability is about 5.3 percent.
The difference between the potential payout and what it would be at true odds results in a built-in edge for the house. For a European split, the fair return would be 17.5 to 1 based on 2 in 37, but the typical payout remains at 17 to 1, producing an edge of 2.7 percent. On an American wheel, the fair return is 18 to 1 for 2 in 38, while the usual payout stays 17 to 1, resulting in a 5.26 percent edge.
These figures are similar across inside bets of the same wheel type, so once you understand them for a split, you have a solid reference point for other inside wagers.
If you choose to play roulette, always do so with responsible gambling practices in mind, and never wager more than you are willing to lose.
Play Roulette Online at Mr Luck
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If you’d like to see what we offer at Mr Luck, you can create an account, deposit some funds to play with and explore our roulette tables when it feels right for you.
*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.
**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.