How does the random name picker work?

Type your options or names, one per line. Press "Draw a winner" and the animated draw fairly selects a random winner.

Can I draw multiple winners?

Yes! Switch the mode to "Multiple winners" and adjust the number of winners. All winners are shown at once.

Can the same name be drawn twice?

By default, yes. If you want winners to be excluded from being drawn again, tick the "Remove winners from the draw" option.

What can the random name picker be used for?

Choosing competition winners, drawing a seating order, splitting teams, assigning chores, picking a pizza topping or any fair selection.

Random Name Picker

Draw one or multiple winners from any list. Enter names, spin the wheel and get a random winner instantly.

Options to pick from (5)Remove winners from pool

Options to pick from

AliceBobCharlieDaveEve

This random name picker draws a winner or several winners from any list, fairly and transparently. It suits settling contests, forming groups and anything where names or options need to be chosen at random.

How the calculator works and what it’s for▾

How the draw works

You enter a list of names or options, and the tool selects from them at random so that every entrant has an equal chance of being chosen. You can draw one winner or several at once.

The selection is unbiased and does not favour the start or end of the list, so the outcome is fair to everyone.

What the picker is used for

Typical cases include drawing winners for social media contests, splitting students or colleagues into groups, and assigning turns and tasks. It replaces drawing names from a hat with a quick, repeatable method.

Drawing several winners is handy when there are multiple prizes to give out at the same time.