Thunderball Prizes: Do You Win for 2 Numbers Matched?

If you’re thinking about playing Thunderball, it might help to understand how the prize structure works. One of the most common questions is whether matching two numbers is enough for a payout, or if you must match the Thunderball as well.

This blog post explains the prize tiers, how different combinations correspond to fixed amounts, how the odds fit in, and answers several frequently asked questions. By the end, you should have a clearer sense of how your results relate to the published prize table.

Read on to explore how Thunderball works and how its prize tiers are set out.

What You Can Win With Different Thunderball Matches

Thunderball uses five main numbers plus one Thunderball in each draw, and prizes are based on how many are matched in a single line.

The top prize is fixed at £500,000 for matching all five main numbers plus the Thunderball. Matching five main numbers without the Thunderball pays a lower fixed amount.

Other tiers apply to matches involving three or four main numbers, with or without the Thunderball. There are also tiers for matching only the Thunderball or the Thunderball with one or two main numbers.

Not every combination leads to a payout, and the exact requirements appear in the official prize breakdown. Checking the published results and prize table after each draw shows whether a line qualifies.

Do You Get Anything For 2 Numbers On The Thunderball?

Matching two main numbers on their own does not qualify for a prize. To receive a payout with two main numbers, the Thunderball must also be matched.

A line with two main numbers plus the Thunderball pays a fixed £10. If the Thunderball is not matched, there is no payout for two main numbers by themselves.

To confirm your result, compare your line with the official table after the draw.

How Thunderball Prize Tiers Work

Thunderball prizes sit in fixed tiers based on how many main numbers are matched and whether the Thunderball is included. The amounts do not change according to the number of winners.

Here are the current Thunderball prize tiers:

• 5 main numbers + Thunderball: £500,000
• 5 main numbers: £5,000
• 4 main numbers + Thunderball: £250
• 4 main numbers: £100
• 3 main numbers + Thunderball: £20
• 3 main numbers: £10
• 2 main numbers + Thunderball: £10
• 1 main number + Thunderball: £5
• 0 main numbers + Thunderball: £3

As shown, the Thunderball is required for several lower tiers and is necessary for the top prize. Once again, there is no prize for two main numbers without the Thunderball.

Thunderball Odds And Payouts

Because Thunderball uses fixed tiers, the odds for each outcome remain the same from draw to draw and are not altered by the number of participants.

The chance of matching all five main numbers plus the Thunderball is roughly 1 in 8 million. The odds are higher for lower tiers, including matching the Thunderball on its own or alongside one main number, which pay £3 and £5.

Fixed potential payouts mean the amount linked to each combination is known in advance. Even so, the higher tiers are unlikely to occur, so the prize table serves as a reference rather than something to anticipate.

Common Questions About Thunderball Winning Combinations

A frequent question is whether matching only the Thunderball wins anything. As noted earlier, it does—this combination pays a fixed £3.

People also often ask if matching some of the main numbers without the Thunderball results in a prize. This is true for specific tiers, including three, four, or five main numbers on their own.

Another query relates to whether more than one prize can be claimed for the same line. In practice, only the highest qualifying prize is paid; you cannot combine outcomes across tiers.

Because rules and prize amounts can change from time to time, it is always wise to check the latest official information.

If you choose to participate in a lottery draw, consider setting limits that feel comfortable and review your spending regularly. If gambling starts to affect your well-being or finances, it may help to seek support. Independent organisations such as GamCare and GambleAware offer free, confidential assistance.

_{*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.}