Slot Machine Picker
Up to 3 reels — single or combined picks.
Built and maintained by Paul Clark, Redmoon Software · Last checked
Spin an animated slot machine to make picks the fun way, using up to three reels. Paste the same list into each reel for three independent draws from one set, or three different lists to combine into a single result — handy for picking an outfit, planning a meal, or sparking an idea.
Fill. Paste the same list into every reel for independent picks from one set, or a different list into each reel for a combined result.
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Recent results
- No history yet.
How it works
- Fill. Paste the same list into every reel for independent picks from one set, or a different list into each reel for a combined result.
- Spin. Click "Spin" to roll the reels.
- Again. Spin again whenever you want a new outcome.
About the Slot Machine Picker
Three reels, drawn independently
Each reel holds its own list and lands on its own result, and the three draws are independent of each other. The output is the combination — a top, a bottom and a pair of shoes; a protein, a side and a sauce.
Because the reels are independent, the number of possible outcomes multiplies. Five entries on each of three reels is a hundred and twenty-five combinations, not fifteen, which is the reason to use three reels rather than three separate draws.
Empty reels and shared lists
Leave a reel empty and it still shows in the machine as a blank reel, but it adds nothing to the text result — a two-list setup gives a two-part answer. The multi-wheel picker behaves the same way with an empty wheel, so in both tools a glance at the boxes before spinning is the only check.
You can paste the same list into more than one reel. The draws remain independent, so the same entry can land on two reels at once; that is fine when you want a small group with repeats allowed, and wrong when you need distinct picks.
The animation earns its place
A result that appears instantly invites an instant "no, again". A reel that visibly tumbles into position makes the outcome feel settled, which is the same reason people spin a wheel rather than roll a quiet die.
Each reel's list is saved separately in this browser, so a wardrobe or a menu set up once is still there tomorrow. There is no seed, so a spin cannot be replayed.
Frequently asked questions
When do I use one list versus three?
Each reel only draws from its own box, and an empty reel adds nothing to the result. For three independent picks from the same set, paste that list into all three reels; for a combined result, like top + bottom + shoes, give each reel its own list.
Are the reels actually random?
Yes. Each reel lands using the Web Crypto API, so the spins are unbiased rather than rigged or predictable.
What can I use the combined mode for?
Anything with parts — an outfit, a meal of starter/main/dessert, or a story prompt — where you want one item from each reel.
Are my lists uploaded anywhere?
No. The machine runs entirely in your browser and works offline; your lists never leave your device.
Related randomizers
Further reading
- Spin three reels for a random combo, not just one pick
Some choices have more than one part — an outfit, a meal, a writing prompt. Here's how a slot-machine picker draws from up to three lists at once and hands you a combined result, with all the suspense of a real spin.
- Draw a random card when you don't have a deck handy
Playing cards, jokers, or a tarot spread — an online card draw gives you a genuinely shuffled pull without a physical deck. Here's how a fair digital draw works, what 'without replacement' means, and where reversed tarot fits in.