Use a coin toss to start the game
A coin toss is the traditional, impartial way to decide who gets the first choice. Because both sides have an equal 50% chance, it is accepted as fair by players and officials alike. This online coin toss simulator gives you the same result without needing a coin in your pocket.
How the toss works in different sports
- American football: the referee tosses the coin, the visiting captain calls it, and the winner chooses to receive, kick or defend a goal.
- Association football (soccer): the toss decides which team kicks off and which end each side defends first.
- Cricket: the home captain usually tosses and the visiting captain calls. The winner chooses whether to bat or bowl.
- Rugby, hockey and tennis: the toss picks who starts, who serves or receives, or which end to play towards.
Rules vary by competition, so check your league's regulations if the result affects an official match.
Tips for a fair coin toss
- Say what the toss decides before anyone calls.
- Let the second person call, so nobody can change their mind after seeing the result.
- Agree that the first result counts. Re-tossing until you get the answer you wanted defeats the point.
Is an online coin toss as fair as a real one?
It is arguably fairer. A hand-flipped coin has a slight bias towards the side that started facing up, while our toss is decided by your browser's cryptographic random number generator. Learn more on the coin flip odds page.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I use this coin toss for an official match?
It is fine for friendly games and casual decisions. For official competitions, follow the toss procedure in your league's rules.
Who should call heads or tails?
By convention the visiting side or the person who did not flip calls it, so the result cannot be influenced after the fact.
Is the coin toss random?
Yes. Each toss uses the secure random number generator built into your browser, giving heads and tails exactly equal odds.
Can I toss more than one coin?
Yes. Choose up to 6 coins below the coin. Each is decided separately.