How Many Spanish Christmas Lottery Tenths Should You Buy? Budget and Odds
Quick answer: There is no right number: it depends on your budget. The key is that only different numbers improve your odds. With 1 number you have a 1 in 100,000 chance of El Gordo; with 10 different numbers, 1 in 10,000. Several tenths of the same number do not improve your odds, they only multiply the prize if it wins.
By the Serviloto team, Lottery Office no. 40 in Málaga (Spain).
Different numbers or the same number
If you buy tenths of different numbers, you cover more numbers and your odds go up. If you buy several tenths of the same number, the odds stay the same but you win more if that number comes up. Many people combine both: a repeated “family” number plus a few different ones.
How the odds change
This table shows the odds of winning El Gordo and of winning any prize depending on how many different numbers you play:
| Different numbers (€20 each) | Spend | Odds of El Gordo | Odds of any prize (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | €20 | 1 in 100,000 | 15% |
| 3 | €60 | 1 in 33,333 | 39% |
| 5 | €100 | 1 in 20,000 | 56% |
| 10 | €200 | 1 in 10,000 | 81% |
How to set a Christmas budget
- Decide in advance how much you will spend in total on the Christmas Lottery.
- Count the tenths that come from work, associations and family.
- Remember the refund only gives back your stake.
- Treat the lottery as a leisure expense, not an investment.
Share to play more numbers
One way to cover more numbers without spending more is to share tenths or shares with others: you play more different numbers, although the prize is split.
Frequently asked questions
How many Christmas tenths do people buy?
There is no typical number: it depends on each person’s budget. It is best to set a limit before buying.
Do more tenths improve your odds?
Only if they are different numbers. Several tenths of the same number do not improve the odds, only the prize.
What are the odds of winning something with 10 different numbers?
About 81%, counting the refund, which only returns your €20.
Is it better to play one number or several?
Several different numbers give better odds; repeating one number gives a bigger prize if it wins. It depends on your preference.
How can I play more numbers without spending more?
By sharing tenths or shares with family, friends or colleagues.
Play responsibly
The lottery is a game of chance. Always play within your budget and only if you are 18 or over. Information and support are available at jugarbien.es.
