Claw Machine Hire
A branded claw machine is one of the most effective ways to draw a crowd at product launches, retail activations and brand events. Visible prizes, skill-based gameplay and near-miss mechanics keep participants coming back while pulling in spectators.
Claw machine hire is available across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, with national deployments by Exponential Games for clients including Louis Vuitton, Adidas and NAB.
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Prize Ball Close-Up
How It Works
Participants take turns controlling the claw to attempt to pick up a prize from inside the machine. Using the joystick and drop button, players position the claw before releasing it in an attempt to secure a prize.
The familiar gameplay is easy to understand, while the skill-based challenge encourages repeat attempts and builds natural crowd interest.
For events, this format provides a structured way to distribute prizes or branded merchandise while maintaining high visibility and measurable participation.
Specifications
Dimensions & Footprint
- 90cm (W) × 85cm (L) × 195cm (H)
- Weight: 140kg
Power Requirements
- 240V standard power (10A)
- Power consumption: 2 amps
Gameplay Configuration
- Claw strength configurable prior to delivery
- Win rate to be agreed in advance
- Outcomes remain skill-dependent and cannot be guaranteed
- Settings are fixed during the event and not user-adjustable
Setup & Delivery
- Setup time: approx. 15 minutes (excludes travel distance from vehicle to setup location)
- Requires protection from rain and direct sunlight
- Flat, stable ground required for setup
- Access dimensions (packed down): 90cm (W) × 85cm (L) × 195cm (H)
- Control panel can be removed for narrower access however this needs to be arranged prior so our team have the appropriate equipment.
*Stairs, soft ground (e.g. grass) or difficult access must be advised in advance. Solutions may be available with prior planning.
Operation Modes
- Free Play
- Coin Play
- Token Play
- Tap ’n Go (additional costs apply)
Branding Options
- Standard Branding Package
The standard package includes branding to the external top and bottom panels on the left, front and rear-facing surfaces.
This provides strong brand visibility in most event environments while maintaining the classic claw machine aesthetic. - Rear Panel Branding (Optional)
If the machine is positioned in a free-standing environment where the rear is exposed, additional rear panel branding can be applied to ensure 360-degree brand coverage.
This option is recommended for open floorplans and exhibition spaces. - Internal Mirror Branding (Optional)
The internal rear mirror panel can be branded to create depth and reinforce campaign messaging inside the prize chamber.
This is particularly effective when the machine is used as a hero feature or when prize visibility is a key campaign element. - Full Wrap Option
For maximum visual transformation, the entire external surface of the machine can be fully wrapped in custom artwork, covering the machine’s structural framing and panels.
A full wrap delivers a completely unified branded appearance, ideal for high-impact campaigns and hero installations.
During consultation, we’ll recommend the branding configuration that best suits your campaign objectives and venue layout.
To understand how the branding process works — see The Exponential Process.
FAQ
Is this a claw machine or a skill tester?
The machine is commonly referred to as a claw machine, skill tester, claw crane or toy grabber. While the names vary, they describe the same interactive prize game format.
Participants use joystick controls to position a mechanical claw over a visible prize before lowering it to attempt a retrieval. Its clear mechanics, visible prizes and spectator appeal have made it one of the most recognisable arcade-style games used at events and promotional installations.
What prizes work best in the claw machine?
The claw mechanism is designed to retrieve items it can securely grip and lift. For the most consistent and positive participant experience, we recommend uniform 10cm prize balls, as their round shape allows the claw fingers to wrap around the surface effectively.
Plush toys also perform well, as the machine is traditionally engineered for soft, compressible items.
Boxed products and rigid packaging can be used, but may produce less consistent results depending on size, weight and edge profile. If you are considering custom merchandise or promotional items, we recommend sharing details in advance so we can confirm suitability and provide guidance.
How is the claw machine filled and can it be refilled during the event?
The machine is supplied ready for loading prior to the event. We provide access keys so your team can open the prize compartment to load or replenish prizes as required.
For longer activations or high-traffic events, refilling during operation is straightforward and can be managed by event staff or a supervisor.
If you prefer, our team can also manage prize loading as part of your booking arrangement.
Can the claw strength be adjusted?
Yes. The claw can be pre-configured prior to delivery to influence overall difficulty and prize distribution across the event.
Difficulty is typically set within broad ranges — commonly described as easy, medium or hard — depending on the type of event and desired participant experience. Because the machine operates as a skill-based game, individual outcomes cannot be guaranteed and exact win ratios are not fixed.
For most corporate and promotional events, we generally recommend an easier setting to encourage engagement, energy and positive brand interaction.
Does the machine require supervision?
The machine can operate independently in free-play, coin, token or Tap ’n Go modes. For high-traffic public events, supervision is recommended to manage participant flow and prize restocking.
Is it suitable for outdoor events?
The claw machine is suitable for indoor use and covered outdoor environments. It must be protected from rain and direct sunlight and requires a flat, stable surface.
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