How Does a Claw Machine Work? | Claw Machine Mechanics Explained
How Does a Claw Machine Work?
A claw machine is a coin-operated amusement device that allows players to maneuver a motorized claw over a prize field and attempt to grab a prize. From the outside it looks simple — but inside, a claw machine is a precisely engineered system of mechanical, electronic, and software components working together. At Hiclawcrane, we manufacture and supply claw machine kits and components, so this guide explains how a claw machine works from a factory perspective.
Direct Answer
A claw machine works by using a joystick-controlled gantry system to position a motorized claw over a prize, then dropping the claw to attempt a grab. The mainboard controls claw strength, timing, and payout settings. A coin acceptor validates payment and triggers gameplay. The operator sets the claw strength to control how often prizes are won.
The Main Components of a Claw Machine
1. Gantry System (X/Y/Z Axis)
The gantry is the movement system that positions the claw over the prize field. It operates on three axes:
- X-axis — left and right movement, controlled by the joystick
- Y-axis — forward and backward movement, controlled by the joystick
- Z-axis — the claw drops down and returns up when the player presses the button
Gantry sizes range from compact (25.7cm) for small machines to full-size (71cm) for commercial arcade machines. The gantry is typically made from stainless steel or standard steel rails with motorized carriages.
2. Mainboard (Control Board)
The mainboard is the brain of the claw machine. It controls:
- Claw strength — how hard the claw grips on the way down (strong grab) and on the return journey (weak hold)
- Timing — how long the player has to position the claw
- Payout settings — some mainboards include a "guaranteed win" counter that increases claw strength after a set number of plays
- Coin validation — communicates with the coin acceptor to authorize gameplay
- Display output — drives the score display and lighting effects
Modern mainboards use LCD screens for easy operator configuration. Hiclawcrane kits are available with both standard and LCD mainboards.
3. Claw Mechanism
The claw is a motorized gripper attached to the Z-axis cable. When the player presses the drop button:
- The claw descends on the Z-axis
- The claw fingers open as it descends
- At the bottom of the drop, the claw closes with the programmed grip strength
- The claw rises back up, holding whatever it grabbed
- The gantry returns to the prize chute position and releases the claw
Claw grip strength is the primary mechanism operators use to control payout rate and machine profitability.
4. Coin Acceptor
The coin acceptor validates coins (or tokens) inserted by the player. It uses optical sensors and size/weight detection to verify each coin. When a valid coin is detected, it sends a signal to the mainboard to authorize one play. Commercial machines typically use dual coin acceptors for higher throughput.
5. Joystick and Buttons
The joystick sends directional signals to the mainboard, which drives the X and Y axis motors. The push button triggers the Z-axis drop sequence. Some machines include a second button for additional functions such as extending play time.
6. Power Supply
The power supply converts AC mains power (100–240V) to the DC voltages required by the mainboard, motors, and lighting. A stable power supply is critical for consistent motor performance and claw strength.
7. Prize Sensor
A prize sensor at the prize chute exit detects when a prize has been successfully dropped. This signal is used by the mainboard to log wins and, on some configurations, reset the guaranteed win counter.
8. Lighting and Display
LED running lights, a flash board, and a display board create the visual arcade experience. These are driven by the mainboard and are included in most commercial kits.
How Claw Strength Works
Claw strength is the most important operator setting on any claw machine. Most mainboards allow two separate strength settings:
- Strong grab strength — the grip force applied when the claw first closes at the bottom of the drop
- Weak hold strength — the reduced grip force applied as the claw rises back up
By setting a high strong grab but low weak hold, the claw picks up a prize but drops it before reaching the chute — creating the appearance of a near-miss. This is the standard commercial configuration for controlling payout rate.
How the Guaranteed Win Feature Works
Many commercial mainboards include a guaranteed win (or "strong play") counter. The operator sets a number — for example, every 15th play. On that play, the mainboard automatically increases claw strength to near-maximum, making it very likely the player wins. This feature keeps players engaged and complies with amusement regulations in some markets.
Claw Machine Sizes and Their Differences
| Gantry Size | Typical Use | Prize Type | Coin Acceptors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25.7cm (mini) | Countertop, home, small arcade | Candy, capsule toys, small plush | × 1 |
| 53cm (mid-size) | Home arcade, small venue | Medium plush, mixed prizes | × 2 |
| 71cm (full-size) | Commercial arcade, FEC | Large plush, all prize types | × 2 |
DIY Claw Machine Kits vs Complete Machines
A DIY claw machine kit includes all the internal components — gantry, mainboard, coin acceptor, claw, power supply, and wiring — but does not include the cabinet. The operator builds or sources their own cabinet and installs the kit. This is the most cost-effective option for operators who want to build custom machines or expand their fleet at lower cost.
A complete claw machine includes the cabinet, all internal components, and is ready to operate after basic setup.
Compare DIY kits vs complete machines in detail →
Frequently Asked Questions
Can operators control how often the claw machine pays out?
Yes. Operators adjust claw strength settings on the mainboard to control payout rate. Most commercial machines also include a guaranteed win counter that ensures a win every N plays.
Why does the claw sometimes drop the prize on the way up?
This is intentional in most commercial configurations. The mainboard applies a strong grip on the way down but reduces grip strength on the return journey, causing the claw to drop prizes before reaching the chute. This is how operators control profitability.
What voltage do claw machines use?
Most modern claw machines use a universal power supply (100–240V AC), making them compatible with electrical standards worldwide without an adapter.
How hard is it to build a DIY claw machine kit?
With the right kit and instructions, most builders can assemble a claw machine in a few hours. Hiclawcrane kits include an electronic instruction manual and wiring diagrams. Our technical support team is also available for assistance.
What is the difference between a standard mainboard and an LCD mainboard?
An LCD mainboard includes a screen that displays settings, play counts, and diagnostics, making it easier for operators to configure and monitor the machine. A standard mainboard uses button-based configuration without a display.