Types of Arcade Prize Machines: Claw, Clip and String Cutter

01Choose the mechanism from the merchandise

Choose a claw machine for a prize that can be gripped loose in a bed, a clip prize machine for merchandise with an approved hanging attachment, and a string cutter for an approved suspended-prize arrangement. A claw machine is also commonly sold as a crane game. These are different loading and delivery tasks: the prize must fit the entire path from display to customer collection, whichever cabinet you shortlist.

The Compact Single Claw uses a claw above a loose prize bed, the Magic Box 28-Clip displays hanging merchandise on a circular clip assembly, and Lucky Cut has a cutting mechanism above its prize chamber. These three layouts call for different packages and refill routines. Allowable prize loads and the collection path need to be matched to the chosen version.

02Use this prize-format decision tree

Take one sample through the branches below. A yes answer identifies a candidate mechanism, not an approved configuration. If two branches fit, retain both candidates until a demonstration shows the complete prize path. If none fit, change the packaging or select a different machine rather than assuming a setting will solve a mechanical mismatch.

• Can the prize sit loose in a bed, be engaged by the proposed claw and travel through the outlet without damage? If yes, shortlist a claw model for a sample test.
• Does the prize have a supplier-approved hanging attachment that remains intact during display and releases cleanly? If yes, shortlist a clip model.
• Can the prize use the approved cord and suspension arrangement, with its load safely retained before the cutting cycle? If yes, shortlist a scissor model.
• For locked compartments, separate redemption or special handling, identify that collection mechanism in the quote as well as the visible prize display.

03Compare the loading and collection requirements

A claw comparison needs the claw assembly, bed geometry and usable outlet dimensions. A clip comparison needs attachment requirements, load limits, spacing and a refill method. A scissor comparison needs the cord specification, suspension limits and reset steps. Use a complete loading-to-collection demonstration to see where the prize travels and where staff intervene.

Smart Industries' Ker Plop opens a prize clip with a timed actuator; its Mega Prize links a string-cutting action to a prize door. The contrast is useful when comparing offers: a successful release may drop the prize directly into an outlet or trigger a separate collection step. Include that step in the specification for your chosen model.

04Keep the game rule separate from the hardware

Review the exact version's player sequence, price-to-credit mapping, play duration and operator settings alongside the mechanism. These determine what the customer buys and what staff can adjust. The proposed game rules, prize values and customer disclosures also belong in the destination review.

Clip positions describe display stock; player stations describe places to play. Compare compatible merchandise, usable stations and refill work separately. Choose the mechanism that delivers your intended merchandise through a repeatable process customers can understand.

05Build a prize-based quotation shortlist

Use one quotation line per prize family: sample identifier, dimensions, mass, surface or attachment, candidate mechanism and destination. Add machine quantity and venue constraints. The response should identify the proposed mechanism version, the sample demonstration and any open prize or payment requirement.