Daily lottery games like Pick 3 and Pick 4 offer better odds than massive jackpots because the pool of numbers is smaller (digits 0-9). However, understanding the difference between “Straight” and “Box” plays is key to managing your win rate.
This calculator determines the exact number of combinations for your selected numbers and shows you the true mathematical probability of winning.
Straight vs. Box: What’s the Difference?
The difficulty depends on the specific digits you choose.
Pick 3 Example
- Straight (Exact Order): You play “1-2-3”. You only win if the draw is exactly 1-2-3.
Odds: 1 in 1,000.
- Box (Any Order): You play “1-2-3”. You win if the draw is 1-2-3, 3-2-1, 2-1-3, etc.
Odds: 1 in 167 (6-Way Box).
Note: If you pick numbers with duplicates (e.g., “1-1-2”), a Box bet has fewer combinations (3-Way Box), paying more than a 6-Way but less than a Straight.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which pays more: Pick 3 or Pick 4?
Pick 4 pays significantly more because it is 10 times harder to hit. The odds of a Straight Pick 3 are 1 in 1,000. The odds of a Straight Pick 4 are 1 in 10,000.
What is a “Straight/Box” bet?
This is a 50/50 split wager. Half your money goes on the Straight bet, and half goes on the Box bet. It acts as insurance: if you match the numbers but not the order, you still win the Box portion.