Building your own claw machine is more achievable than most people think — especially with a complete DIY kit that includes all the core components pre-matched and ready to assemble.
What You Need to Build a Claw Machine
- Gantry (53cm, 71cm, or 96cm depending on cabinet size)
- Mainboard with adjustable claw strength and prize probability settings
- Power supply (110V or 220V depending on your market)
- Coin acceptor or bill acceptor
- Joystick and buttons
- Wiring harness and speaker
- Cabinet (custom-built or purchased separately)
Step 1: Choose Your Gantry Size
The gantry determines the machine's footprint and prize capacity. 53cm suits compact bar-top setups; 71cm is the commercial standard for most arcade locations; 96cm is for high-traffic venues with jumbo prizes.
Step 2: Select Your Payment System
Coin acceptors are simpler and lower cost. Bill acceptors increase revenue per play and are recommended for standalone arcade locations without a token system.
Step 3: Wire the Components
A color-coded wiring harness makes this straightforward. Connect the mainboard to the power supply, claw motor, joystick, coin/bill acceptor, and speaker following the included wiring diagram.
Step 4: Configure the Mainboard
Set claw strength, game timer, and prize probability via the mainboard menu. These settings directly affect your revenue per play and player experience. Most commercial operators start with a mid-range claw strength and adjust based on prize weight.
Step 5: Test Before Opening
Run 10–20 test plays to verify claw grip, coin acceptance, and prize drop mechanics before placing the machine in a live location. Check that the claw releases cleanly and the prize chute is unobstructed.
How Long Does It Take?
With a complete kit and basic mechanical skills, most operators assemble a claw machine in 2–4 hours. Color-coded wiring and a detailed manual significantly reduce build time.
What Prizes Should You Use?
Once your machine is built, prize selection is the next key decision. Candy and snack prizes are popular for their low cost and high visual appeal. Read our guide: Best Candy and Snack Prizes for Claw Machines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I build a claw machine without technical experience?
Yes. A complete DIY kit includes color-coded wiring and a step-by-step manual. Most operators with basic mechanical skills complete the build in 2–4 hours without prior experience.
What is the best gantry size for a first claw machine?
The 71cm gantry is the most popular choice for first-time commercial operators. It fits standard prize sizes, has strong visual impact on the floor, and is compatible with both coin and bill acceptors.
Do I need a special power supply to build a claw machine?
You need a power supply that matches your local voltage — 110V for North America, 220V for most of Europe, Asia, and Australia. Always confirm the voltage before ordering.
What is the difference between a coin acceptor and a bill acceptor?
A coin acceptor accepts tokens or coins and is lower cost and easier to maintain. A bill acceptor takes paper currency directly, which increases convenience for players and typically results in higher revenue per session.
Can I buy replacement parts if something breaks on my DIY claw machine?
Yes. All components in Hiclawcrane kits are available individually as spare parts, including mainboards, claws, coin acceptors, and wiring harnesses. Browse our arcade spare parts collection.
Skip the Build — Buy Factory-Direct
Prefer a fully assembled machine? Browse our claw crane machines — CE/FCC certified, wholesale pricing, ships to 30+ countries.
Ready to build? Browse our complete DIY claw crane machine kits — 53cm, 71cm, and 96cm options available at wholesale pricing with full component compatibility.