How to pick a random name
- Type or paste your names into the box, one per line.
- Choose how many names to pick.
- Press Pick a name. The winner or winners appear above.
Your list is saved in your own browser so it is still there next time. It is never sent to our server.
Fair picking, every time
Each name has exactly the same chance. Picks use your browser's cryptographic random number generator, and a name can't be chosen twice in the same draw. Duplicates in your list count as extra entries, so only list a name once unless you want it to have better odds.
Ideas for using a name picker
- Giveaways and competitions: choose one or more winners from a list of entrants.
- Classrooms: pick who answers next, who leads a group, or who presents first.
- Teams and meetings: choose who takes notes, who goes first in stand-up or who buys the coffee.
- Family and friends: pick who chooses the film, who washes up or who gets the front seat.
Remove names after they are picked
Tick Remove picked names from the list to take each winner off the list automatically. Pressing Pick again then chooses from the people who have not had a turn yet, which is perfect for working through everyone fairly.
Need to pick between just two?
Use the decision maker coin or who goes first. For a number draw, use the random number generator.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the random name picker fair?
Yes. Every name has an equal chance and picks are made with your browser's secure random number generator.
Is my list of names stored anywhere?
Only in your own browser. Nothing is sent to our server.
Can I pick more than one winner?
Yes. Set how many to pick and the tool chooses that many different names.
Can the same name be picked twice in one draw?
No. Each name can only appear once per draw unless it is listed more than once.