What are inside bets in roulette?

Roulette is a game of strategy and chance, offering a variety of betting options that cater to different playstyles. Among these, inside bets stand out for their high payouts and increased risk. These bets are placed on specific numbers or small groups of numbers within the main betting grid, making them an exciting choice for players looking for bigger wins. Let’s explore everything you need to know about inside bets, their types, and how to use them effectively.

What Are Inside Bets?

Inside bets refer to wagers placed directly on specific numbers or small clusters of numbers on the roulette layout. Unlike outside bets, which cover larger sections of the wheel (e.g., red/black, odd/even), inside bets provide higher payouts but come with lower odds of winning.

Inside bets are best suited for players who prefer higher-risk, higher-reward strategies, as these wagers offer more significant payouts compared to broader outside bets.

Types of Inside Bets

Each type of inside bet has its own risk-reward ratio. Here’s a breakdown:

Straight Up Bet (Single Number Bet)

Explanation: A bet placed on a single number (e.g., 17).
Bet Placement: The chip is placed directly on the chosen number.
Payout: 35:1
Risk Factor: Very high (probability: 2.7% in European roulette, 2.63% in American roulette).
Best For: Players who like big wins and are comfortable with long losing streaks.

Split Bet (Two Numbers)

Explanation: A bet covering two adjacent numbers (e.g., 17 and 20).
Bet Placement: The chip is placed on the line between two numbers.
Payout: 17:1
Risk Factor: High (probability: 5.4% in European roulette, 5.26% in American roulette).
Best For: Players seeking better odds than a straight-up bet but still aiming for high returns.

Street Bet (Three Numbers)

Explanation: A bet on three consecutive numbers in a horizontal row (e.g., 19, 20, 21).
Bet Placement: The chip is placed on the outer edge of the row.
Payout: 11:1
Risk Factor: Moderate to high (probability: 8.1% in European roulette, 7.89% in American roulette).
Best For: Players looking for a middle ground between high payouts and reasonable hit frequency.

Corner Bet (Four Numbers)

Explanation: A bet covering four numbers that form a square (e.g., 10, 11, 13, 14).
Bet Placement: The chip is placed at the intersection of the four numbers.
Payout: 8:1
Risk Factor: Moderate (probability: 10.8% in European roulette, 10.53% in American roulette).
Best For: Players who want better coverage while still aiming for solid payouts.

Five-Number Bet (Exclusive to American Roulette)

Explanation: A bet on 0, 00, 1, 2, and 3.
Bet Placement: The chip is placed on the corner of 0, 00, and 1.
Payout: 6:1
Risk Factor: Very high (probability: 13.16%, but with the worst house edge of 7.89%).
Best For: Not recommended due to its high house edge.

Line Bet (Six Numbers)

Explanation: A bet on two adjacent rows (e.g., 25-26-27 and 28-29-30).
Bet Placement: The chip is placed on the outer edge where two rows meet.
Payout: 5:1
Risk Factor: Lower than other inside bets (probability: 16.2% in European roulette, 15.79% in American roulette).
Best For: Players who want decent coverage while still securing high payouts.

Summary of inside bets : payout & probabilities

Type of Bet	Bet Placement	Payout	Probability (European/American)
Straight Up Bet (Single Number Bet)	A single number (e.g., 17).	35:1	2.7% / 2.63%
Split Bet (Two Numbers)	Two adjacent numbers (e.g., 17 and 20).	17:1	5.4% / 5.26%
Street Bet (Three Numbers)	Three consecutive numbers in a horizontal row (e.g., 19, 20, 21).	11:1	8.1% / 7.89%
Corner Bet (Four Numbers)	Four numbers that form a square (e.g., 10, 11, 13, 14).	8:1	10.8% / 10.53%
Five-Number Bet (Exclusive to American Roulette)	0, 00, 1, 2, and 3.	6:1	13.16%
Line Bet (Six Numbers)	Two adjacent rows (e.g., 25-26-27 and 28-29-30).	5:1	16.2% / 15.79%

Why Choose Inside Bets?

Inside bets cater to players who prefer:

✅ High payouts: The potential winnings are much higher than outside bets.

✅ Focused betting: Instead of covering large sections, you pinpoint specific numbers.

✅ Excitement and thrill: The riskier nature of these bets makes the game more intense.

However, they also come with notable drawbacks:

⚠️ Lower hit frequency: Winning is less frequent, which can lead to long dry spells.

⚠️ Bankroll volatility: Due to the high risk, managing your funds carefully is crucial.

⚠️ Not beginner-friendly: Inside bets require a solid understanding of probabilities and risk management.

How to Use Inside Bets Strategically

To maximize your chances with inside bets, consider the following tips:

Bankroll Management: Inside bets have a low probability of hitting, so avoid going all-in on a single spin.
Mix Bets for Coverage: Combining a street bet and a corner bet can provide better coverage while maintaining a strong payout.
Use Patterns: Some players follow hot numbers or specific sections of the wheel to guide their betting strategy.
Avoid the Five-Number Bet: If you’re playing American roulette, steer clear of this bet due to its poor odds.
Try a Progressive Strategy: Systems like the Martingale can be adapted for inside bets, but they require discipline and a good bankroll.

Conclusion

Inside bets in roulette provide some of the most exciting and high-reward betting opportunities. While they come with greater risk, their payouts make them an attractive option for players looking to win big. Whether you're placing a single number bet for a huge payout or covering six numbers with a line bet, understanding these wagers will help you make strategic choices at the roulette table.