Wheel of Names: Random Name Picker
Paste your list of names, spin the wheel and get a fair random pick in seconds. Remove each winner, draw several names at once or split everyone into teams.
Tap the wheel, flick it, or press Ctrl + Enter
Large list: edit it in Text view.
Tip: add *3 after an entry to triple its chance, or a colour like #16A34A to colour its slice.
…This hash locks in the next result before you spin. After the spin we reveal the seed so anyone can check it.How to use the wheel of names
- Paste the names into the Entries box, one per line. Duplicates can be removed with one click.
- Choose a mode. Keep every name for repeated picks, or remove the winner each time for a fair rotation.
- Spin and the selected name appears full-size, ready to read out or show on a projector.
Built for names, not just options
- Teams tabTurn the same list into 2-50 random teams instantly, no need to copy names into another tool.
- Elimination drawsRemove each winner automatically and keep spinning until the last name is left.
- Multiple winnersDraw 3 presenters, 5 raffle winners or 10 helpers in one spin, with no repeats.
- Private by designStudent and participant names never leave your device.
- Big, clear resultsThe winner is shown in large text with strong contrast, so the back row can read it.
- Saved class listsSave each class or group and reload it next lesson in one click.
When people use a random name picker
| Situation | Recommended setting |
|---|---|
| Cold-calling students in class | Auto-remove on, so everyone gets a turn |
| Choosing a giveaway winner from commenters | Winners per spin = number of prizes, then share the fairness proof |
| Deciding the order of presentations | Winners per spin = total people (the draw order is the running order) |
| Secret Santa or gift exchange | Spin once per person with auto-remove on |
| Picking who pays, drives or chooses the movie | Keep names; add *2 to people who skipped last time |
Name wheel vs. drawing names from a hat
Paper slips can stick together, be folded differently or be seen in the hat. A digital name wheel gives every person exactly the same chance, keeps a record of every draw in the Results tab and lets you export it as a CSV file, useful when you need to show a draw was fair.
Tips for teachers and hosts
- Use first names only, or initials, if you are projecting the wheel in a public space.
- Switch to the classroom name picker for projector mode and a calmer, distraction-free layout.
- For a visible “drum-roll”, set the spin duration to 8-10 seconds under Settings.
- Need a random letter or number instead? Try the letter wheel or the number wheel.
Frequently asked questions
How do I add a list of names quickly?
Copy a column from Excel, Google Sheets or a class list and paste it into the Entries box, each line becomes one name. You can also import a .csv or .txt file; we use the first column.
Can I stop the same name being picked twice?
Yes. Tap “Remove” after each pick, or switch on “Remove winner automatically” in Settings. The wheel then shrinks until every name has been picked once.
Can I pick more than one name at a time?
Set “Winners per spin” to any number from 1 to 10. All winners are different and are listed in the order they were drawn.
Is the name picker biased towards names at the top of the list?
No. Position on the list has no effect. Each name gets an equal slice and the winner comes from a cryptographically secure random number, which you can check with the fairness proof.
Are the names I enter stored on your servers?
No. Names stay in your browser’s local storage on your device. Nothing is uploaded unless you create a share link, and even then the names travel only inside the link itself.
Is this a random name wheel or a name spinner?
Both. Some people search for a wheel picker, a name spinner or a random name generator wheel, and this page does all of it. Paste your list, spin and the pointer lands on one name. Teachers often call it a name wheel spinner or a random picker wheel; turn on auto-remove to draw names one after another without repeats.
Written and tested by Musa Tariq · Editorial Team · Last updated