A Pick 4 Straight/Box wager typically costs $1. This specific play type combines the benefits of both straight and box plays into a single wager, offering multiple ways to win.
Understanding the Pick 4 Straight/Box Wager
A Pick 4 lottery game involves selecting four digits from 0000 to 9999. Players can choose from several play types, each with different odds and payout structures. The "Straight/Box" option is a popular choice because it provides a balance between winning big with an exact match and having more chances to win if the numbers match in any order.
- Straight Play: To win a straight play, your four chosen numbers must match the winning numbers in the exact order they are drawn. For example, if you pick 1234, you only win if the lottery draws 1234.
- Box Play: A box play wins if your four chosen numbers match the winning numbers in any order. For example, if you pick 1234, you would win if the lottery draws 1234, 1243, 1324, 1342, 1423, 1432, 2134, and so on, depending on the number of unique digits.
- Straight/Box Play: This is a combined wager where your single ticket acts as both a straight play and a box play.
- If your numbers match the winning numbers in exact order, you win the higher "Straight" prize.
- If your numbers match the winning numbers in any order (but not exact), you win the "Box" prize, which is typically smaller than the straight prize.
The Cost of a Pick 4 Straight/Box
The cost for a Pick 4 Straight/Box wager is standardized. This specific combined play type is set at a fixed price.
| Play Type | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Straight | Numbers must match in exact order. | $1 |
| Box | Numbers can match in any order. | $1 |
| Straight/Box | Wins Straight prize for exact match; Box prize for any order match. | $1 |
Why Choose a Straight/Box Play?
Choosing a Straight/Box play offers a strategic advantage for many players:
- Increased Chances of Winning: You have more ways to win compared to a pure Straight play, as you're covered for both exact and non-exact order matches.
- Dual Payout Potential: You aim for the higher Straight prize but have the fallback of a Box prize if your numbers are drawn in a different sequence.
- Single Wager Convenience: It simplifies the betting process by combining two play types into one, making it easy to manage your lottery participation.
For instance, if you play 1234 Straight/Box:
- If 1234 is drawn, you win the Straight prize.
- If 4321, 2134, or any other permutation of 1234 is drawn, you win the Box prize.
While the cost of the play itself is consistent, the specific prize amounts for Straight and Box wins can vary depending on the lottery jurisdiction and the payout structure for different digit combinations (e.g., unique digits, pairs, triples).
