Choosing your numbers for jackpot games could feel like quite a daunting decision. Some people go for Lucky Dips and let a computer generate their entries. Others prefer to pick their own, sometimes using personal reasons for each choice.
There are plenty of opinions about which approach is best, which can make things confusing. If you’ve wondered whether picking your own numbers changes your chances, or if Lucky Dips truly make any difference, this article explains how each works.
Tales Of Lucky Dip Jackpot Victories
In the UK, several jackpot winners have used randomly generated selections called Lucky Dips.
For example, in October 2012, a couple from Haverhill won a €190 million (approximately £160 million) EuroMillions jackpot with a Lucky Dip ticket. Lucky Dips involve the system generating your numbers automatically, with no human input.
Each combination has an equal chance of winning. While stories about large wins with Lucky Dips receive attention, many players use this method regularly. Both new and experienced players appear among winners using Lucky Dips.
Whether your numbers are computer-generated or self-selected, the chance of winning remains the same.
How Random Are Lucky Dip Numbers?
Lucky Dips rely on Random Number Generators (RNGs), which produce number combinations without human involvement.
In the UK, both retail and online lottery providers use RNGs that are certified and audited by independent bodies. These systems meet the UK Gambling Commission’s (UKGCs) requirements to ensure fairness and randomness. This means the numbers you receive through a Lucky Dip do not follow any pattern or influence.
For example, the odds of winning the EuroMillions jackpot are approximately 1 in 139,838,160 regardless of how you choose your numbers. If you want to know more about how your lottery provider manages number selection, their website often provides information on RNG certification and testing.
What The Stats Say: Winning With Lucky Dips
For games like the UK National Lottery, all number combinations have the same odds, roughly 1 in 45 million for the main Lotto jackpot.
Data from Camelot indicates that about half of all tickets purchased are Lucky Dip entries. Correspondingly, around half of jackpot winners have used Lucky Dip tickets. This balance reflects the popularity of each method rather than an advantage in winning. There is no evidence showing that picking your own numbers increases the chances of success.
Draws are conducted independently and randomly, so the outcome does not depend on the method of number selection. This also applies to instant win games online, which use tested and approved RNGs.
Choosing Numbers - How Players Decide
Some players enjoy selecting numbers that have personal meaning, such as birthdays or anniversaries. Others opt for patterns or specific combinations that they favour. For some, choosing numbers is part of their routine.
Alternatively, many players choose Lucky Dips for the simplicity and speed they offer. Both approaches are common across the UK. Since the result is determined by chance, neither method provides an advantage over the other. Your choice depends on what you prefer when purchasing a ticket.
Whichever way you choose to play, it is important to stay within your budget and have a clear understanding of the odds involved. Always remember to gamble responsibly and within your means- never wager more than you can afford to lose.
**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.