What Is a Roulette Split Bet? Payouts and Odds Explained
Roulette can seem a bit confusing at first, especially if you’re new to casino games. One of the terms you might come across is the split bet, which isn’t as complicated as it sounds.
You might notice different types of bets across online and land-based casinos, and each comes with its own set of odds and payouts. Understanding what these mean could potentially help you make clearer choices at the table.
This guide looks closely at split bets in roulette, explaining what they are, how they work, and when they might suit your approach. Read on to learn more.
What Is a Roulette Split Bet?
A roulette split bet is a type of inside bet that covers two numbers at once. Instead of placing your chips on a single number, you put a chip on the line that sits between two neighbouring numbers on the betting layout. If either of those numbers hits, the bet pays.
Neighbouring here means the numbers that touch on the table layout, not necessarily numbers that sit next to each other on the wheel. For example, 8 and 11 share a border on the felt, as do 20 and 23, even though they are not consecutive numbers.
Split bets are easy to spot on both physical and digital tables. The felt shows clear borders between number squares, and online versions highlight the shared edge when you hover or tap, so you can see exactly where your chip needs to go.
If you do decide to try your hand at roulette, remember to do so responsibly and within your means; never wager more than you can afford to lose.
How Does a Split Bet Work?
As with all inside bets, a split has a simple condition: it wins if the ball lands on either of the two numbers you have covered. You place the chip on the shared edge of those numbers, and the bet is settled after the spin.
Roulette tables are usually European or French, which have a single zero, or American, which adds a double zero. That small difference changes how many pockets are on the wheel and therefore the chance of any specific bet winning. The way a split is placed stays the same, but the probability shifts slightly with the wheel type.
If you are playing online, game pages list the rules, bet limits, and payout table. It might be worth a quick look before you start, especially if the layout includes features such as racetrack views or favourite bet shortcuts.
Roulette Split Bet Payouts and Odds
A split bet pays 17 to 1. So, a £1 split that wins returns £17 in winnings plus your £1 stake. This rate is standard across roulette, whether you are playing in a casino or online.
The chance of winning depends on the wheel. In each case, the payout for a split remains 17 to 1, but the probability changes with the number of pockets.
European vs American Roulette Odds
European roulette has 37 pockets, numbers 1 to 36 plus a single zero. A split covers 2 of those 37 outcomes, which is a probability of 2 in 37, or just over 5.4%.
American roulette has 38 pockets because it adds a double zero. The split still covers 2 outcomes, so the probability becomes 2 in 38, or about 5.26%.
These fixed payouts and probabilities are what create the house edge. On a European wheel, it is 2.7% for all standard bets, including splits. On an American wheel, it is higher because of the extra double zero.
When Should You Use a Split Bet?
A split bet suits situations where you want targeted coverage without going all-in on a single number. If two numbers you like sit next to each other on the layout, a split lets you back both with one chip placement and one stake.
It may also appeal to people who enjoy picking individual numbers but prefer a little more coverage than a straight-up bet. The trade-off is straightforward: the payout is lower than a single-number bet, but your chance of a result is higher because two outcomes will pay.
Compared with broader group bets, splits keep the focus on specific numbers and offer a higher return when they land. Some players use them to build small clusters on the felt, combining a few splits around a favourite area. If you do that, it could help to keep an eye on your total stake per spin and use limits that suit your budget.
Is a Split Bet Worth It Compared to Other Inside Bets?
Inside bets vary by how many numbers they cover and the payout they offer. A straight-up bet covers one number and pays 35 to 1, which is the highest return but with the lowest chance of winning on a single spin. A split covers two numbers and pays 17 to 1, sitting neatly between precision and coverage.
If you prefer a wider net, a street bet covers three numbers in a row and pays 11 to 1, while a corner covers four numbers in a block and pays 8 to 1. As coverage increases, payouts go down.
Whether a split feels worth it depends on how you like to play. If you enjoy pinpointing specific parts of the layout but still want a bit more reach than a single number, a split is a natural fit. If you prefer more frequent smaller returns, streets and corners may feel more comfortable. If you would like to see these options side by side, the game rules on each table lay them out clearly.
Explore Roulette Games on Ivy Casino
If you’re thinking about trying roulette, Ivy Casino has a dedicated section with a broad choice of games. You might start with classic European roulette, or explore other versions if you want to see how different layouts feel. Each table is easy to find through the site’s clear menus, so you can browse at your own pace.
Game rules are displayed for every table, including payouts, bet types, and limits. Whether you are on desktop, tablet, or mobile, the lobby is straightforward to navigate. We offer safer gambling tools such as deposit limits and self exclusion for you to manage your play in line with your preferences and budget.
Ivy Casino is licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC), and the games are independently tested. If split bets sound like your style, feel free to head to our roulette lobby and put what you have learned into practice on a table that suits you. Always keep responsible gambling practises in mind.
**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.
*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.