Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about our free online name spinner and random name picker.

How does a random name picker work?

When you spin, your browser draws a random angle using crypto.getRandomValues(). The wheel turns a set number of full rotations plus that angle, then slows to a stop. Whichever segment sits under the pointer on the right, at 3 o'clock, is the winner. Because every segment is the same size, every entry has the same chance.

Is the name spinner free to use?

Yes. There is no account, no trial and no paid tier. Every feature on the site, including customization, images and share links, is available to everyone. The site is supported by advertising.

What are the best uses for a name wheel spinner?

Teachers use it to call on students and set the order of presentations. Streamers and small businesses use it to draw giveaway winners on camera. Teams use it to assign tasks or pick who goes first, and friends use it to settle dinner and movie choices. The tool pages linked in the footer are set up for each of these, with tips for running them well.

How do I use the wheel spinner?

Type or paste your entries into the input field, one per line, and click the wheel or press Space. In the winner window you can close the result, or remove the winner so they cannot come up again. Turn on auto-remove to do that automatically, and check the Results tab for every winner so far in the session.

Is the random selection truly fair?

Yes. The stopping angle comes from crypto.getRandomValues(), the browser function used for security keys, not Math.random(). Each spin is independent, so the same name can come up twice in a row. That is how real randomness behaves, like a coin landing heads twice. To prevent repeats, remove each winner or turn on auto-remove.

How many names can I add?

There is no fixed limit. Each line you add becomes one equal segment. Labels get smaller as the wheel fills, so past roughly a hundred entries the wheel is harder to read from a distance. To give one entry better odds, add it more than once.

Is my data private and secure?

Your entries, title, settings and segment images are saved in your browser's local storage and are not uploaded to us. A share link from Copy link contains your entries inside the link itself, so share it only with people who should see them. The only thing the site records is a running count of spins. Advertising and analytics cookies are described in the privacy policy.

Can I customize the spinner?

Yes. Open Customize to pick from 24 color schemes, change the pointer and center colors, put an image in the center or on individual segments, set the spin duration from 1 to 60 seconds, and choose 3 to 12 full rotations per spin. You can also switch the tick and winner sounds on or off separately. All settings are saved in your browser.

Does it work on mobile devices?

Yes. It runs in the browser on phones, tablets and computers, with nothing to install. Tap the wheel to spin on a touch screen. For a classroom screen or projector, use full-screen mode from the top bar and press Space or Enter to spin.

Does it need an internet connection?

The page needs a connection to load. Once it is open, spinning happens entirely in your browser, so a brief drop in connection will not interrupt a spin. Reloading the page, opening a share link or switching tool pages needs the connection back.

Is there an age limit or sign-up required?

No. There is no age limit, and no sign-up or account creation is required. The tool is suitable for all ages and can be used immediately. It's popular in schools, at home, and in professional settings.

Can I use this for commercial purposes?

Yes. You may use Namespinner.app for commercial purposes including giveaways, raffles, contest winner selection, and business activities. Please review our Terms and Conditions for full details on permitted use.

Can I close the ads?

We rely on ads to keep the website free for everyone. We show fewer ads than most similar sites and allow you to close ads for the duration of your session. Click "Close" next to the ad area and they will disappear until you refresh the page. See ourAds Policyfor more details.

Still have questions?

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