Lottery odds come from simple counting. If a game draws 6 numbers from 52, there are 20,358,520 different sets of six numbers, and each board holds exactly one of them. Every set is equally likely in a fair draw.
Jackpot odds per board
| Game | Format | Top prize chance |
|---|---|---|
| Daily Lotto | 5 from 36 | 1 in 376,992 |
| Lotto, Lotto Plus 1, Lotto 5 Max | 6 from 52 | 1 in 20,358,520 |
| PowerBall, PowerBall Xtra | 5 from 50 + 1 from 16 | 1 in 33,900,160 |
| Gosloto 6/45 | 6 from 45 | 1 in 8,145,060 |
| Gosloto 7/49 | 7 from 49 | 1 in 85,900,584 |
For UK 49s the question is different, because bookmakers let you back one to five numbers. The chance that one chosen number is among the six main balls is 6 in 49, roughly 1 in 8.2.
What does not change the odds
- Hot and cold numbers. A number that came up often recently is not more likely next time. Each draw is independent.
- Quick Pick versus your own numbers. Both have exactly the same chance.
- Patterns. 1-2-3-4-5-6 is as likely as any other set, although many people avoid it, so a win would be shared by fewer players.
What does change your outcome
Only the number of boards you buy changes your chance, and every extra board costs money. Set a budget you can afford to lose. If gambling stops being fun, the National Responsible Gambling Programme helpline is free on 0800 006 008.