Free Entry vs Paid Entry: What’s the Difference?

When entering an online prize competition in the UK, you’ll often see two ways to take part:
free entry and paid entry.

This naturally raises questions:

• Are free and paid entries treated the same?
• Why would anyone pay if free entry exists?
• Does paid entry give better odds?

Let’s break it down clearly.

Why UK Prize Competitions Offer Free Entry

In the UK, legitimate prize competitions must ensure that payment is not the only way to enter.

This requirement exists to:

• Protect consumers
• Prevent competitions being classed as gambling
• Ensure fair access for everyone

That’s why reputable platforms provide a free entry route, usually via postal entry.

What Is Free Entry?

Free entry allows participants to enter a competition without paying.

Typically, free entry:

• Requires sending a postal entry with specific details
• Must meet the same rules and deadlines as paid entry
• Is treated exactly the same as a paid entry once accepted

Importantly, free entries are not secondary or inferior.
They are valid entries with the same chance of winning.

What Is Paid Entry?

Paid entry is simply a convenience option.

Instead of using post, participants can:

• Enter online
• Answer the skill-based question
• Purchase one or more tickets instantly

Paid entry exists because:

• It’s faster and easier
• It allows multiple entries in one action
• It suits people who prefer digital participation

Crucially, payment does not buy a better chance per entry — it just allows more entries if chosen.

Are Free and Paid Entries Treated Differently?

No.

Once a free or paid entry is accepted:

• Both go into the same entry pool
• Both must have passed the skill requirement
• Both have an equal chance per entry

UK standards require that:

• Free entries are not disadvantaged
• Paid entries are not prioritised

Any platform that suggests otherwise should be avoided.

Why Do People Choose Paid Entry?

People choose paid entry because it offers:

• Speed and simplicity
• Immediate confirmation
• The option to enter multiple times easily

It’s about convenience, not advantage.

Common Myths About Free Entry

❌ “Free entry has worse odds”

False. Odds are the same per entry.

❌ “Free entries are ignored”

False. All valid entries must be included.

❌ “Free entry is just a formality”

False. Free entry is a legal and practical requirement.

How to Know If a Competition Is Fair

A trustworthy competition platform will clearly explain:

• How to enter for free
• How paid entry works
• That both entry types are treated equally
• Where full Terms & Conditions can be found
• Transparency here is a strong sign of legitimacy.

The Bigger Picture: Choice and Fairness

Offering both free and paid entry achieves balance:

• Free entry ensures fairness and access
• Paid entry offers convenience and flexibility
• Skill-based rules maintain legitimacy

Together, they create a system that is transparent, compliant, and participant-focused.

Final Thoughts

Free entry and paid entry are not competing systems — they serve different needs.

What matters is that:

• Skill determines eligibility
• Rules are clear
• Entries are treated equally

Understanding the difference helps you enter confidently and choose the method that suits you best.