This blog explores which roulette numbers players tend to choose most often, what people mean when they talk about “hot” numbers, and whether these choices have any real effect on the outcome. Some players stick to personal favourites, while others might follow potential patterns they’ve noticed – but is there really such a thing as the “best” number to play?
We’ll also look at the two main types of online roulette found in the UK: games that use a Random Number Generator (RNG) and those with a live dealer spinning a real wheel. Knowing the difference can help you decide which version may suit you best.
Whether you’re completely new to roulette, or just want to understand more about how some players choose their numbers, this guide offers a clear and straightforward look at how it all works in a game that’s entirely based on chance.
What Are The Most Common Numbers In Roulette?
The idea of “common numbers” in roulette usually refers to what are sometimes called hot numbers. These are numbers that have appeared more often than others within a short period of time, such as over a few dozen spins or within one gaming session. You may see charts showing which numbers have been frequent or rare in a specific game – but this does not mean they are more or less likely to appear again.
In European roulette, which is most commonly found in UK online casinos, the wheel contains 37 numbered pockets – from 1 to 36, plus a single zero (0). Each of these numbers has a 1 in 37 chance of landing on any given spin – approximately 2.70%. 
In RNG-based games, this probability remains fixed every spin. In live dealer games, the physical mechanics of the wheel are used, but randomness is still present.
Some players look for any possible patterns in these hot numbers, while others may avoid numbers that haven’t come up in a while, sometimes known as cold numbers. However, neither hot nor cold numbers affect the odds. These trends are simply the result of natural variation.
17 – A Popular Choice Among Players
The number 17 is often chosen by players. One reason may be its central location on the roulette betting layout, which makes it easy to spot. However, the number 17 has the same probability of landing as any other – about 2.70% in European roulette.
23 and 24 – Visually Appealing Positions
Numbers 23 and 24 are sometimes picked due to where they appear on the wheel. On a European wheel, they sit opposite the zero, which might make them stand out to some players. This visual placement might catch the eye, leading some to choose them more often. Still, these numbers are no more or less likely to land than any other.
7 – A Widely Chosen Number
The number 7 is one of the most frequently selected numbers in many casino games, not just roulette. This may be because it's often referred to as a fortunate number in various cultures. However, as with any number on the wheel, it has no built-in advantage. Its odds remain the same as all other single-number bets.
8 – A Cultural Favourite
For some players, the number 8 may hold personal or cultural significance. In particular, it is seen as a positive number in many Asian cultures. This has led to its popularity in roulette and other games. That said, its chances of appearing are still exactly 2.70% in European roulette, the same as every other number on the wheel.
Should You Bet On Common Numbers In Roulette?
Choosing numbers that come up more often might sound appealing. But in roulette, each spin is separate from the last.
The outcome of one spin does not influence the next. This applies to both RNG-based roulette and live dealer roulette. In both cases, there is no memory or pattern the game follows.
What this means is that betting on so-called common numbers won’t improve your chances. It may give you a sense of familiarity or comfort, but the actual odds don’t change. Each number has the same chance of winning on every spin, regardless of how often it has appeared before.
Playing Cold Numbers In Roulette - Is It A Good Idea?
Cold numbers are those that haven’t appeared in a while. Some players may choose these numbers with the idea that they are "due" to land soon. However, this belief doesn’t match how the game works. Every spin is independent. Past spins have no impact on future outcomes.
The chance of the ball landing on a specific number remains 1 in 37 in European roulette, regardless of how many times that number has or hasn’t come up recently. Playing cold numbers can be a personal choice, but it does not offer an edge or improve your odds.
What Are The Best Numbers In Roulette?
There’s no number that can be described as the best in terms of giving a better chance of potentially winning. Each one carries the same odds. What’s best is subjective and based on what matters to you. That might be a meaningful date, a pattern you enjoy placing on the layout, or even a number that simply feels familiar.
It's worth noting that roulette games may vary slightly across online casinos. Some sites offer only RNG versions, while others may feature a full library of live dealer games. You may also come across different roulette variants, such as French roulette or American roulette, which have different wheel layouts. European roulette is the most common in the UK and typically offers a slightly better house edge, due to the single zero.
Before playing, it may be worth checking the game rules and house edge. For European roulette, the house edge is around 2.70%. This is the casino’s built-in advantage, and it remains constant, no matter which numbers you pick.
Conclusion
Roulette is a random game of chance. Wins and losses can happen at any time, and no method or number choice can change the odds. If you decide to play, it’s important to set time and spending limits and stick to them. If the game stops being enjoyable, or you feel it’s affecting your wellbeing, there are tools available to help. UK-licensed online casinos offer features like deposit limits, reality checks, and the option to take breaks or self-exclude if needed.
Always make sure you’re playing with a licensed operator approved by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). This ensures the game is fair, and that you have access to safer gambling tools and support services if you need them.
*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.