The Most Common Roulette Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
For hundreds of years, people have been captivated by the roulette wheel as they place their bets and anxiously await the sound of the clattering ball and the sight of the winning number.
However, such a marvelous game still carries its rules, meaning that mistakes can be made. Roulette mistakes can be costly, just as in any game. We'll go over the top roulette mistakes, how to prevent them, and what's truly the best way to play roulette for UK players.
Mistake #1: Playing on the Wrong Roulette Wheel
Online roulette comes in varying formations and wheels, with the most played versions being the American and European games. These online casino games use identical rules, bets, and payouts. But whereas the European version of the game has 37 pockets, the American wheel has 38, thanks to the additional 00 sections. This is what makes all the difference.
In European roulette, the odds of winning a straight-up bet is 1:37. Conversely, the odds are longer in the American version at 1:38, despite most online casinos placing it at 1:35 on both wheels. The extra pocket on the American wheel evidently increases the house edge. This game has a higher rate at 5.24% house edge compared to the European wheel’s 2.70%. That’s a massive difference for games that use the same rules, bets, and payouts.
But surprisingly, the European version isn't even the best roulette game. Always aim for the French wheel if available, which offers a tantalisingly low 1.35% house edge, despite using the same layout and rules as the European game. The key is that the French wheel uses the player-friendly La Partage and En Prison rules. However, for obvious reasons, many online casino sites don’t offer this version of roulette.
Mistake #2: Relying Solely on Even Money Bets
It’s normal for beginners to place all their hopes of winning a roulette bet on even-money wagers. This is perfectly justified considering that bets such as odd/even, high/low, and red/black have almost a 50% chance of winning. To be more precise, you’ll enjoy 48.60% odds on the European wheel and 47.40% on the American version.
But statistically speaking, players will still lose money even if they stick to even-money wagers in roulette. The casino will still win more than 50% of the time, which is bad news for your bankroll. Therefore, playing even-money bets will suffice if you want to register small wins here and there. But don’t expect to add anything substantial to your bankroll with these bets.
Mistake #3: Not Using a Betting Strategy Wisely
You’ll find many articles advising roulette players to use betting systems to improve their chances of winning. But the truth is that some advice can be misleading, giving players false hopes only to get disappointed at the casino. A betting system is more of a bankroll management tool than a guaranteed winning strategy. Put simply, they don’t improve the odds of winning at all.
However, incorporating a betting system into your bankroll management strategy can be beneficial. Consider this; the Martingale system advises you to double your stake after a loss in roulette. If you have a £500 daily budget, set a £1 or £5 base amount to give the betting system room to withstand a long losing streak.
Below is an example:
- Bet £5 and lose, meaning you’re down £5.
- Bet £10 and lose, meaning you’re down £15.
- Bet £20 and lose, meaning you’re down £35.
- Bet £40 and lose, meaning you’re down £75.
- Bet £80 and win, meaning you’re up £5.
- Now revert to the initial £5 bet.
As you can see, this strategy ensures players cover their lost wagers with a single win. Things can even get juicier with two back-to-back wins. However, using a betting system requires a substantial bankroll to withstand the shocks of losing ten or so bets. And it's best played on the even-money bets.
Mistake #4: Not Setting Clear Bankroll Limits
Most beginners do not budget for their casino sessions. These players would just check their wallets and hit the casino at the right time. But this sets you up for failure because budgeting for your roulette game will ensure you know how much you win or lose. Remember that responsible gambling is about betting money you can comfortably afford to lose at the casino.
But as good as bankroll management is, don’t expect to win something substantial from the game with a £50 budget. As mentioned before, you’ll need a considerable bankroll to implement your betting strategy perfectly. Expert players recommend having a bankroll size 1,000x larger than your standard bet size. So, if you’re a £1 bettor, have at least a £1,000 bankroll, although a £500 budget for £1 bets would do.
Don’t forget to set stop-loss or win limits. A stop-loss limit is a losing cap on the player’s bankroll. For instance, you can have a stop-loss order of 20% on your £1,000 budget. This means calling it a day after losing £200. Leaving the casino after adding an amount to your initial budget is also advisable. Just call it quits while still ahead.
Mistake #5: Missing Out on Online Casino Bonuses
One advantage online casino players in the UK have over their land-based counterparts is the abundance of bonuses and promotions. The best online roulette casinos welcome newcomers with match deposit bonuses, no-deposit bonuses, and reload bonuses. Loyal roulette players also receive frequent cashback and tournament invitation treats.
As a new roulette player in the UK, make the most of these promotions. Playing roulette online can be costly, with the average player making at least 300 spins per hour. The more spins you play, the more you're likely to lose due to the house edge. Fortunately, online casino bonuses can help extend your bankroll by allowing you to place free online roulette bets.
However, whichever bonus you claim, always read the terms and conditions carefully. Some casinos may impose unrealistic wagering requirements, such as a 70x playthrough for a £500 deposit bonus. Additionally, the casino might specify qualifying games, bonus validity periods, and maximum bet limits.
Mistake #6: Not Exploring Live Casino Games
Beginners often rush into playing roulette games, and RNG titles are readily available. While there's nothing wrong with playing RNG games, live roulette titles offer a unique experience. Social players will particularly enjoy the ability to chat with the dealer and other players, creating a more lifelike atmosphere. Live variants also provide in-game statistics for hot and cold bets/numbers, results history, and more.
With that in mind, the best live roulette titles are from Evolution Gaming, Pragmatic Play, Playtech, Microgaming, Ezugi, and NetEnt. These games feature sharp HD or 4K graphics and multiplier features to enhance payouts. Evolution's XXXtreme Lightning Roulette is a prime example, offering payouts boosted by up to 2,000x. Playtech's Quantum Roulette is another option with a maximum multiplier of 500x.
However, don't get carried away, as these multipliers primarily apply to straight-up bets, which are harder to hit and come with longer odds. Furthermore, live casino games often don't qualify for bonus use. Therefore, enjoy these games for entertainment, much like you would in a land-based casino. Note that minimum bet limits can be as low as £0.10.
Mistake #7: Chasing Losses
This guide has touched upon playing online roulette with betting systems like Martingale, Paroli, Fibonacci, and others. However, don't let these systems dictate your gameplay. Some players keep hoping that their next wager will be a winning one, helping them recoup their losses with a win or two.
This is a dangerous roulette mistake because nothing is guaranteed. No one, not even the dealer, can be certain if the next bet will result in a win. Roulette is a game of chance, so each number has an equal probability of appearing on any given spin. For this reason, know when to stop playing and try your luck another day. Setting a stop-loss limit will undoubtedly help you manage this.
Mistake #8: Playing at the Wrong Online Casino in the UK
The final, and certainly not least, mistake beginners make is playing at the wrong online casino. The iGaming industry is rife with scam gambling sites that entice unsuspecting players with attractive bonuses and extensive game libraries. Players often only realise their mistake when it's too late, after the casino has defrauded them or refused to pay out their winnings.
Thankfully, you can often spot a scam casino. Verify if the website is licensed and regulated in the UK. This ensures that licensed casinos offer players fair, transparent, and secure services.
Once you've confirmed an online casino is legitimate for UK players, check its reputation. Visit platforms like AskGamblers.com and Trustpilot to see player reviews regarding the casino's services, such as payouts, customer support, bonuses, and more. And yes, you can choose from the well-researched options here at OnlineCasino Rank.
Avoiding Common Roulette Mistakes for UK Players
Here are some crucial roulette tips to help you avoid these common pitfalls:
- Learning the Rules: UK players should take time to familiarise themselves with the game's rules and odds before wagering any real money. Making informed decisions is key to managing your funds effectively throughout your gameplay.
- Developing a Betting Strategy: UK players need roulette strategies to keep their spending under control. Although the Martingale, Fibonacci, and D'Alembert methods are popular, it's essential to remember that relying solely on betting systems won't always guarantee success.
- Setting Limits: It's important to decide how much you're willing to spend before you start playing. This way, you won't be tempted to chase losses and can relax and enjoy online roulette without worrying about your bankroll.
- Focusing on Probability, Not Superstition: Remember that each new spin is independent of previous ones. Make your choices based on statistics and likelihood, not on flawed logic or gut feelings.
- Choosing the Right Roulette Variant: European and French roulette are better choices than American roulette due to their lower house edge. In the long run, this will improve the player's odds of winning.
How to Choose the Best Online Roulette Sites in the UK
Before we wrap up these tips and tricks, here's how to choose the best online roulette site for a great gaming experience:
- Licensing and Regulation: Always ensure a trustworthy gambling authority, such as the UK Gambling Commission, has issued the online roulette casino with the appropriate licenses and regulations before playing for real money.
- Game Variety: Reputable online casinos offer European, French, and American roulette. However, look out for other original and creative variations of roulette.
- Mobile Compatibility: A good online roulette site should allow you to play on the go, offering a mobile-friendly version or a dedicated app.
- Bonuses and Promotions: While safety is paramount, casinos should also provide bonuses and promotions to make the experience more exciting. Expect offers like cashback, deposit bonuses, and no-deposit bonuses.
- Customer Support: It's best to choose a site with excellent customer service for any queries or issues. Many sites now offer support in multiple languages.
Final Thoughts for UK Roulette Players
In summary, roulette is an exciting casino game that can provide hours of entertainment. By understanding common roulette mistakes and taking steps to avoid them, UK players can enhance their gaming experience and improve their chances of winning.
To play roulette online effectively, UK players should choose the right online casino, learn the rules, and practice sufficiently to fully enjoy the game.
FAQ
What are some common mistakes to avoid when playing roulette?
Common roulette errors include not understanding the rules, betting without a plan, chasing losses, relying on hunches, and choosing the wrong roulette variant. Always gamble responsibly.
How can I prevent making mistakes in roulette?
To improve your roulette game, learn the rules thoroughly, develop a betting strategy, set limits for your spending, focus on the odds rather than gut feelings, and pick the right roulette version for you. Remember to gamble responsibly.
Are there any strategies to help avoid common roulette errors?
Strategies like the Martingale, Fibonacci, and D'Alembert can help you manage your bankroll and make informed bets. However, no strategy guarantees a win. Always gamble responsibly within your limits in the UK.
Do new roulette players often make mistakes?
Yes, new players frequently make mistakes because they lack knowledge of the rules, betting systems, and odds. Learning the game and using strategies can reduce the chance of errors. Always set a budget and stick to it.
What are the biggest mistakes to avoid when playing roulette in the UK?
Avoid chasing losses, believing in betting myths, or playing American roulette (which has a higher house edge). Focus on learning the rules, setting limits, and playing European or French roulette to improve your chances. Remember, when the fun stops, stop.
