Europe’s two biggest transnational lotteries, EuroMillions and Eurojackpot, compete for the attention of millions of players across the continent. While both games offer life-changing jackpots and exciting gameplay, they differ significantly in their rules, odds, and prize structures. Furthermore, understanding these differences can help you make an informed decision about which lottery best suits your playing style and expectations.
This comprehensive comparison examines every aspect of both lotteries, from jackpot sizes and winning odds to participating countries and ticket costs. Moreover, we’ll analyze the key factors that set these European giants apart and help you determine which game offers the best value for your lottery investment.
Quick Overview: The European Lottery Landscape
EuroMillions launched first in 2004, establishing itself as Europe’s premier lottery with massive jackpots that can reach €250 million. Meanwhile, Eurojackpot emerged in 2012 as a competitive alternative, offering more frequent smaller jackpots and better overall winning odds. Both lotteries have grown tremendously, attracting players from across Europe and beyond.
Interestingly, these lotteries serve different markets with minimal overlap in participating countries. This strategic positioning allows both games to thrive while offering distinct advantages to European lottery enthusiasts. Additionally, recent rule changes in both games have made them more attractive and competitive.
Detailed Comparison Table
| Feature | EuroMillions | Eurojackpot |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | February 2004 | March 2012 |
| Number Format | 5/50 + 2/12 | 5/50 + 2/12 |
| Jackpot Odds | 1 in 139,838,160 | 1 in 139,838,160 |
| Overall Winning Odds | 1 in 13 | 1 in 32 |
| Starting Jackpot | €17 million | €10 million |
| Maximum Jackpot | €250 million | €120 million |
| Ticket Price | €2.50 (£2.50) | €2.00 |
| Prize Tiers | 13 tiers | 12 tiers |
| Draw Days | Tuesday & Friday | Tuesday & Friday |
| Draw Location | Paris, France | Helsinki, Finland |
| Participating Countries | 9 countries | 19 countries |
Jackpot and Prize Analysis
When comparing jackpot potential, EuroMillions clearly leads with larger prizes. The game’s €250 million cap significantly exceeds Eurojackpot’s €120 million maximum, making it attractive for players seeking the biggest possible wins. Additionally, EuroMillions starts each jackpot cycle at €17 million, providing more substantial entry-level prizes compared to Eurojackpot’s €10 million starting point.
However, Eurojackpot compensates with more frequent mid-range jackpots and faster prize growth. Since its launch, the game has demonstrated consistent jackpot progression, often reaching significant amounts more quickly than EuroMillions. Furthermore, the €120 million cap is reached more frequently, providing regular opportunities for massive wins.
Prize distribution also differs significantly between the games. EuroMillions offers 13 prize tiers compared to Eurojackpot’s 12, providing more ways to win. Nevertheless, the overall odds favor different strategies – EuroMillions rewards players with more frequent smaller wins, while Eurojackpot requires more patience but offers decent secondary prizes.
Odds and Winning Chances
Remarkably, both lotteries share identical jackpot odds of approximately 1 in 139.8 million, making the top prize equally challenging to win in either game. This similarity stems from their identical number formats requiring five main numbers from 1-50 plus two supplementary numbers from 1-12.
The significant difference emerges in overall winning odds. EuroMillions provides much better chances of winning any prize at 1 in 13, compared to Eurojackpot’s 1 in 32. This means EuroMillions players experience wins more frequently, even if many are smaller amounts. Consequently, EuroMillions offers more excitement and engagement for regular players who enjoy frequent wins.
Conversely, Eurojackpot’s structure means longer periods between wins but potentially larger amounts in lower tiers. This appeals to players who prefer less frequent but more substantial secondary prizes. Moreover, both games offer reasonable odds for significant prizes in their middle tiers.
Countries and Accessibility
Geographic availability represents another crucial difference between these European lotteries. EuroMillions operates in 9 countries: United Kingdom, France, Spain, Austria, Belgium, Ireland, Luxembourg, Portugal, and Switzerland. This established network has been stable for years, focusing on Western European markets.
In contrast, Eurojackpot spans 19 countries, including Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, and Sweden. This broader reach reflects the game’s strategy to capture emerging European markets and provides access to more diverse player populations.
Interestingly, Spain participates in both lotteries, while most other countries offer exclusive access to only one game. This geographic distribution means many European players have access to only one of these lotteries, making location a determining factor rather than personal preference.
Ticket Prices and Value
Cost considerations favor Eurojackpot with tickets priced at €2.00 compared to EuroMillions’ €2.50 (£2.50 in the UK). This 20% price difference becomes significant for regular players who purchase multiple tickets or play consistently over time. Additionally, the lower price point makes Eurojackpot more accessible to budget-conscious players.
However, value assessment requires considering more than just ticket price. EuroMillions’ higher cost reflects larger starting jackpots, better overall winning odds, and more prize tiers. Furthermore, many EuroMillions participating countries offer additional games like Millionaire Maker in the UK, providing extra value for the higher ticket price.
When calculating cost per potential win opportunity, EuroMillions offers better value due to its superior overall odds. Nevertheless, Eurojackpot provides more affordable entry to life-changing jackpots, making it attractive for occasional players focused primarily on the top prize.
Recent Changes and Future Outlook
Both lotteries have undergone significant updates to maintain competitiveness and player interest. EuroMillions increased its jackpot cap from €200 million to €250 million, while maintaining its established draw schedule and country participation. These changes aim to create even more spectacular jackpots and media attention.
Meanwhile, Eurojackpot implemented major changes in 2022, adding Tuesday draws, expanding Euro numbers from 10 to 12, and increasing the jackpot cap from €90 million to €120 million. These modifications represent the game’s most significant evolution since launch, designed to enhance player engagement and prize potential.
Looking ahead, both lotteries continue expanding their digital presence and exploring new markets. Online play has become increasingly important, especially post-pandemic, with both games investing heavily in user-friendly platforms and mobile applications. Additionally, both lotteries regularly introduce special draws and promotional events to maintain player interest.
Which Lottery Should You Choose?
The decision between EuroMillions and Eurojackpot depends largely on your playing style, location, and priorities. Choose EuroMillions if you prefer more frequent wins, larger maximum jackpots, and don’t mind paying slightly more per ticket. The game suits players who enjoy regular engagement and excitement from frequent smaller wins. If you want to play EuroMillions online – you can do it here at Lottomat.
Opt for Eurojackpot if you prioritize lower ticket costs, broader country participation, and don’t mind waiting longer between wins for potentially larger amounts. This lottery appeals to patient players focused primarily on life-changing jackpots rather than frequent small prizes. To play Eurojackpot online lottery – join Lottomat today.
Ultimately, both lotteries offer legitimate paths to massive wealth with identical jackpot odds. Your geographic location may determine availability, but where both are accessible, personal preference and playing style should guide your choice. Moreover, many experienced players participate in both games to maximize their chances and enjoy the unique benefits each lottery provides.
Ready to Play European Lotteries?
Whether you choose EuroMillions, Eurojackpot, or both, remember to play responsibly and within your budget. Both games offer exciting opportunities for life-changing wins, but success requires patience and realistic expectations. Most importantly, treat lottery playing as entertainment rather than investment, and never spend more than you can afford to lose.