How to Use the Wheel
TheNameWheel is a free random name picker that works right in your browser — no downloads, no sign-up. Here's everything you need to know to get the most out of it.
Try it now →Step-by-step guide
Add your entries
Type names one at a time in the Entries panel or switch to Bulk Edit to paste an entire list — one name per line. The wheel updates live as you type.
Spin the wheel
Click the big red SPIN button below the wheel, or click/tap the wheel itself. The wheel spins with a smooth animation and gradually decelerates to a stop.
See the winner
The segment under the red pointer is the winner. A popup announces the result with a confetti celebration. You can spin again or remove the winner and continue.
Manage your list
Use the Shuffle button to randomize order, Sort A–Z to alphabetize, or remove individual entries with the ✕ button. Switch to the Results tab to see your spin history.
Customize options
Click the gear icon to open Options. Enable Auto-Remove to automatically eliminate winners, toggle sound effects, choose spin speed (Slow / Normal / Fast), and control confetti.
Share your wheel
Click the Share button to copy a URL that encodes your wheel title and all entries. Anyone who opens the link will see your wheel ready to spin — no account needed.
Tips & tricks
Use Bulk Edit for large lists
Paste a spreadsheet column or a newline-separated list straight into the Bulk Edit tab. It's the fastest way to load dozens of names.
Explore the Gallery
Not sure what to spin? Browse the Gallery for ready-made wheels covering days of the week, dice, movie genres, trivia topics, and more.
Enable Auto-Remove for raffles
Turn on Auto-Remove in Options so each winner is automatically dropped from the list. Perfect for running fair prize draws without repeats.
Try different spin speeds
Slow mode (8 s) builds suspense in live events; Fast mode (4 s) keeps things snappy in the classroom. Change it any time in Options.
Shuffle before you spin
The order of entries doesn't affect randomness, but shuffling before a big event adds a nice theatrical touch when the audience can see the list.
Bookmark your shared link
After clicking Share, bookmark the copied URL. Next time you visit, your wheel will be pre-loaded — no re-entry required.