For many people playing EuroMillions in the UK, the prize tiers may seem a bit puzzling at first, especially the difference between matching 2 main numbers and 1 main number plus 1 Lucky Star.
This blog post explains these outcomes, the broader prize table, low-tier wins, and common myths that might confuse people.
Results are random and never guaranteed. If you choose to play, do so within your own financial limits.
Read on to learn more.
What Do 2 Numbers Or 1 Number And 1 Lucky Star Mean On EuroMillions?
On a EuroMillions ticket, each line consists of five main numbers and two Lucky Star numbers. During the draw, five main numbers and two Lucky Stars are selected.
If your line includes two of the main numbers, then you’ve matched two numbers. If your line includes one main number and one Lucky Star, then you’ve matched 1 main number and 1 Lucky Star.
These match types correspond to tiers in the EuroMillions prize system. Not every match automatically results in a payout. Some combinations are recognised as winning tiers, while others are not.
How EuroMillions Prize Tiers Work In The UK
Prizes depend on how many main numbers and Lucky Stars you match. They range from modest payouts up to the jackpot for matching all five main numbers plus both Lucky Stars.
The current UK EuroMillions prize breakdown is:
- 5 main numbers + 2 Lucky Stars – Jackpot
- 5 main numbers + 1 Lucky Star – £130,554.30
- 5 main numbers – £13,561.20
- 4 main numbers + 2 Lucky Stars – £844.70
- 4 main numbers + 1 Lucky Star – £77.80
- 3 main numbers + 2 Lucky Stars – £9.10
- 3 main numbers + 1 Lucky Star – £7.30
- 3 main numbers – £6.00
- 1 main number + 2 Lucky Stars – £4.30
- 2 main numbers + 1 Lucky Star – £3.60
- 2 main numbers – £2.50
- UK Millionaire Maker – £1,000,000
Here, matching 2 main numbers is a recognised winning combination, paying £2.50. Matching 1 + 1 Star does not appear as a paid tier. Some other low-tier combinations that include Lucky Stars, such as 1 main number + 2 Lucky Stars (£4.30) or 2 main numbers + 1 Lucky Star (£3.60), might result in small payouts.
Is 2 Numbers Better Than 1 Number And 1 Lucky Star?
Under the current UK system, matching 2 main numbers results in a small cash payout, whereas matching 1 + 1 Star does not.
Although these amounts are modest, the payout is issued if the combination occurs. Lucky Stars influence some low-tier payouts, but just matching one Lucky Star with one main number might not be sufficient for a prize.
So, if you are checking your ticket hypothetically, matching 2 main numbers in a line would be “better” in the sense that it results in an official cash amount, while matching 1 + 1 Star does not.
Do These Prize Tiers Pay Cash Or Free Entries?
All UK EuroMillions prizes are paid in cash. Low-tier prizes such as matching 2 main numbers (£2.50) and 2 numbers + 1 Star (£3.60) are not substituted with free entries.
How winnings reach you depends on the ticket type:
- Online tickets: Funds are usually credited directly to your National Lottery online account. You might withdraw them or use them for future plays.
- Retail tickets: Small prizes may be claimed directly at a retailer, subject to limits. Larger amounts require following the National Lottery claim process.
All payouts are tax-free, so the amount listed in the official breakdown is what you would receive.
Common Misunderstandings About EuroMillions Low Prizes
Some common misconceptions include:
- “Matching 1 main number and 1 Lucky Star always pays.” This is incorrect. Matching 1 + 1 Star is not listed as a winning tier. By contrast, matching 2 main numbers pays £2.50, and combinations such as 1 main number + 2 Lucky Stars (£4.30) or 2 main numbers + 1 Lucky Star (£3.60) might result in recognised payouts.
- “All wins are substantial.” Low-tier amounts are intentionally modest and unlikely to offset the cost of multiple tickets over repeated draws.
- “Lucky Stars always increase the payout.” Lucky Stars are relevant for some prize tiers, but matching one along with a single main number might not result in a prize. Certain combinations, like 1 main number + 2 Lucky Stars or 2 main numbers + 1 Lucky Star, are exceptions.
Understanding these distinctions may help avoid disappointment when hypothetically checking tickets.
Support is available if playing stops feeling comfortable. Organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware provide free, confidential guidance.
Understanding how matching 2 main numbers and matching 1 + 1 Star outcomes are treated helps clarify the lower end of the EuroMillions prize table and gives a clearer picture of some of the smaller tiers.
*All values (Bet Levels, Maximum Wins, etc.) mentioned in relation to this game 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.