Odds of Hitting the Same Roulette Number X Times in a Row
Ever watched a roulette game and seen the same number land twice?
It might seem unusual, but it can happen.
In this blog, we’ll look at how likely it really is for a number to repeat on a European roulette wheel, which has 37 numbers in total.
We’ll use simple explanations, easy maths, and real examples to break down the chances of seeing a number appear two, three, or even more times in a row. Whether you’re just curious or learning how roulette works, this guide will help you understand how rare repeat numbers actually are.
Is It Possible to Hit the Same Roulette Number Repeatedly?
Yes, it is possible, but the chances of it happening are low. European roulette wheels have numbers from 0 to 36. Each spin is separate from the one before. This means the outcome of one spin has no effect on the next.
Every number has the same chance of landing each time: 1 in 37. So, while repeats can happen, they are simply rare outcomes in a game based on random results.
If, for example, the number 21 appears in one round, there is still only a 1 in 37 chance it will appear again on the next spin. The game doesn’t “remember” the last number.
As the number of repeats increases, the probability of it happening again decreases rapidly.
Can Dealers Control Where the Ball Lands?
No, they can’t. In UK-licensed casinos, whether online or in-person, dealers (also known as croupiers) follow strict procedures. When spinning the ball, they must follow a set pattern—launching it in the opposite direction to the wheel. This helps keep the game fair.
No part of a dealer’s role involves aiming for a specific number. The wheel’s spin, the ball’s bounce, and its final position is unpredictable. This makes it nearly impossible to influence the result.
In online roulette, you might play a live dealer game or a digital version using software. Either way, the outcomes are either generated by a Random Number Generator (RNG) or by a real wheel. Both methods are tested and approved by independent bodies under the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC).
What Are the Chances of the Same Number Landing Twice?
Let’s say you pick the number 10. On a European roulette wheel, the chance of landing on 10 for one spin is:
- 1 in 37
To land on 10 again on the next spin, the chance is still:
- 1 in 37
To find the probability of hitting the same number twice in a row, you multiply the probabilities:
- (1/37) x (1/37) = 1/1,369
That means, on average, the same number may come up twice in a row once in every 1,369 spins.
This doesn’t mean it will definitely happen after 1,369 spins—it simply reflects how rare that outcome is.
Odds of the Same Number 3, 4, or More Times in a Row
Hitting the Same Number 3 Times in a Row
Using the same calculation method:
- (1/37) x (1/37) x (1/37) = 1/50,653
This means you might see the same number three times in a row roughly once in every 50,653 spins.
It’s a rare event, and for many players, it may not occur during casual or short-term play.
Odds of 4 Straight Roulette Hits on One Number
Multiply once more:
- (1/37)^4 = 1/1,874,161
That’s almost 1.9 million spins for this kind of streak to occur, on average. So while not impossible, it’s extremely uncommon.
What Are the Chances of 5 or 10 Consecutive Hits?
Let’s go further:
- 5 in a row: (1/37)^5 = 1/69,343,957
- 10 in a row: (1/37)^10 = 1/4,808,584,372,417,850
These are statistical probabilities. In practice, streaks this long are so unlikely that most players will never see them happen. These numbers highlight how roulette results are random and not tied to previous outcomes.
Why Back-to-Back Numbers Feel More Common Than They Are
Seeing a number repeat can stick in your memory because it feels unusual. This is called selective recall—you remember the rare events more clearly and forget the common ones.
With many spins over time, repeats can and do happen. But they are not indicators of a pattern. Roulette outcomes don’t follow a memory or a streak. The chance of each number coming up stays the same on every spin.
Online vs Offline: Does It Affect Repeat Number Odds?
Whether you play in a physical casino or on a UK-regulated online platform, the odds remain the same for European roulette.
- Land-based tables use a physical wheel and ball.
- Online roulette may use either a live-streamed wheel or software with RNG.
Both formats are designed to produce fair and random outcomes. UKGC-licensed operators must follow strict rules to protect players and ensure game integrity. You can usually find details about how the game works by checking the rules or help section.
Do keep in mind, there are different types of roulette. For example, American roulette has 38 numbers, including a double zero (00), which slightly increases the house edge and therefore decreases your chances of winning.
Is There Ever a Pattern to Consecutive Roulette Results?
It might feel like certain numbers or colours come up more often, but these are random results. Roulette is not designed to produce patterns.
Players may spot potential “streaks” on display boards (like red coming up several times in a row), but these are not signs of future outcomes. There is no built-in pattern or strategy that can predict results on a properly regulated European roulette wheel.
Some betting systems try to track past spins, but these do not change the actual chances of any number landing. Each spin is independent and doesn’t depend on what came before.
Play Roulette Online at Ivy Casino
Ivy Casino also offers a wide range of online slots, alongside its roulette games.
Our platform is easy to navigate, making it simple for players to browse through available options. Whether you’re logging in to your account, or joining as a new player, you can explore Ivy Casino’s game library and see what’s available.
All games operate under UKGC regulation, so fairness and transparency are prioritised.
Remember, roulette and slot games are games of chance. Outcomes are not predictable, and wins can’t be guaranteed. Set limits that suit your budget, and only gamble if it’s something you’re comfortable with.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins etc.) mentioned in relation to these games 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.