We’ve all been there—eyeing that adorable plushie or shiny prize inside the claw machine, thinking “This time, I’m gonna win!” But more often than not, the claw seems to have a mind of its own, dropping your prize just before you grab it. While claw machines can feel impossible to beat, there are actually a few tricks that can up your chances of snagging that coveted prize. With just a few simple claw machine hacks, you can turn the odds in your favor. Ready to become a claw machine pro? Let’s dive in!

1. Pick Easy-to-Reach Prizes

This is probably the easiest tip on the list, but it’s also one of the most important! If you’re after a buried prize, the claw will likely struggle to get a good grip. Instead, go for toys that are sitting on top of the pile or closer to the edges. Why? Because the claw won’t have to dig through other items to reach your target, and the chances of it locking onto the prize will be much higher.

Here’s a quick trick: scan the machine and look for toys that are lying flat or have plenty of space around them. Avoid tightly packed toys or anything wedged between other prizes. The more space the claw has to maneuver, the better!

2. Watch Before You Play

You might be tempted to jump right into the action, but a little patience goes a long way. Take a moment to watch other players try their luck first. This will give you a good sense of how the claw behaves. Is it holding onto prizes tightly, or does it let go quickly? Some machines are programmed to have stronger grips after a few failed attempts. So, if you see someone come close to winning but just miss, you might be in the sweet spot for the next try.

This hack works especially well on machines with a set “payout” system. These machines are designed to only let players win after a certain amount of money has been fed into them. Watching others can help you get a feel for when the machine is due for a win.

3. Aim for Loops or Tags

Many plush toys in claw machines come with loops or tags, and here’s a little secret: those are way easier to grab than the toy itself! Instead of going for the center of the plush, try to position the claw to snag the loop or tag. The claw can sometimes struggle to hold onto the soft, round body of a plush toy, but loops and tags provide a much more reliable grip.

If your target doesn’t have a visible loop or tag, look for toys with pieces that stick out—like ears, arms, or legs. These give the claw something extra to grip, and you’ll have a better chance of lifting the prize out of the machine.

4. Double Tap Trick

This claw machine hack is one of the most effective if the machine allows it! Many claw machines are designed to let you press the drop button twice. The first tap makes the claw descend, and the second tap snaps the claw shut faster. By double tapping, you can force the claw to close more quickly and grip the prize tighter before it has a chance to slip away.

Not all machines allow this, but it’s worth trying! The next time you’re at a claw machine, press the drop button twice and see if the claw closes more securely. If it works, you’ve just unlocked a powerful hack to increase your chances of success.

5. Play When the Machine is Full

Timing can make all the difference. Claw machines that have just been refilled with prizes offer a much better chance of winning. Why? Because the toys aren’t tightly packed together yet, and there’s more open space for the claw to get a good grip. Machines that are full also tend to have more desirable prizes sitting on top, making them easier to grab.

If you notice a machine that’s been recently restocked, seize the opportunity! You’ll have more room to maneuver the claw, and you’re more likely to win a prize in the early rounds. Plus, freshly stocked machines often have newer and more attractive prizes that can be hard to resist.

Bonus Tip: Know When to Walk Away

Okay, this might not sound like a “hack,” but it’s just as important. Claw machines are designed to make you want to keep playing, but knowing when to walk away can save you a lot of frustration (and money!). If you’ve tried several times without success or if the machine just doesn’t seem to be gripping well, it’s okay to move on. There are plenty of other machines out there, and not every one will be rigged for success.

Wrapping Up

Claw machines are designed to be tricky—but they don’t have to be impossible! With these five proven claw machine hacks, you can significantly boost your chances of winning that plushie, gadget, or collectible. The next time you find yourself staring down a claw machine, ready to take on the challenge, you’ll have these smart strategies in your back pocket. Good luck, have fun, and may your claw-grabbing skills be strong!