Why use this picker?
- Supports weights to bias your draw while keeping probability ratios clear.
- With replacement (duplicates allowed) and without replacement (no repeats).
- Optional seed for reproducible results you can verify later.
- Shareable URLs plus JSON/CSV exports for longer lists.
How to use (3 steps)
- Enter items and weights (paste is OK).
- Choose the number of draws and the mode.
- Copy results or copy a shareable URL.
Draw instantly
Weighted draw tool
Edit your list and settings, then draw. Auto draw keeps results fresh while you tweak inputs.
Paste items in any of these formats: item, 2 · item 2 · item | 2. Lines starting with # are ignored.
Result
Probability table
Audit log
How to use this weighted randomizer fairly
This page is best when you can explain why each item has its weight. Start by deciding whether every entry should have equal chance or whether raffle entries, priority scores, or ticket counts should change the odds.
Weights vs equal chance
If everyone should have the same odds, use the same weight for every row or switch to a plain random picker. Use weights only when the probability ratio itself is part of the rule, such as raffle tickets, priority levels, or inventory balancing.
Raffle and giveaway setup
For raffle-style draws, keep one row per participant and set the weight to the number of entries they earned. That keeps the list auditable and makes it easy to explain why one name had a larger chance than another.
Why the seed matters
Turn on the seed when you need a reproducible draw for moderation, classroom review, QA, or a public giveaway record. The same list, settings, and seed should produce the same result again, which is why the share URL is useful for verification.
Worked examples
For a giveaway, enter one participant per line and set weights like Alice | 5, Ben | 2, Chloe | 1. For a priority queue, use larger weights for the cases that should surface more often, but keep the ratio small enough that low-priority items still appear when appropriate.
What the share URL preserves
The share URL keeps the current list, draw count, replacement mode, and seed state. Use it when another person needs to review the exact setup instead of just the winner names.
Frequently asked questions
What is a weight in a weighted random picker?
A weight is a probability ratio. If A has weight 2 and B has weight 1, A is twice as likely to be drawn.
Is this the same as a weighted randomizer or raffle picker?
Yes. The tool works as a weighted randomizer for giveaways, raffles, and priority-based draws. Enter one item per line and use larger weights for higher odds.
What happens with weight 0?
Items with weight 0 stay in your list but will never be selected. Enable the advanced option if you want to display them in the probability table.
Can I reproduce the same result?
Yes. Turn on the seed option and keep the same seed. You can also copy the URL to share the same setup.
What if the share URL is too long?
If your item list is long, the URL can become long too. Use Export JSON for a portable alternative.
What should I do first on this page?
Start with the minimum required inputs or the first action shown near the primary button. Keep optional settings at defaults for a baseline run, then change one setting at a time so you can explain what caused each output change.