The weight limit for prizes inside a toy crane machine, commonly known as a claw machine, is a crucial factor in its operation and player success. Typically, these machines are designed to handle lightweight plush toys and small novelty items. There is no single universal standard, but most common arcade-style crane machines have a functional weight limit for individual prizes ranging from approximately 100 grams to 300 grams (3.5 to 10.5 ounces).

This limit is dictated by the strength of the crane's claw mechanism and its motor. Manufacturers calibrate the claw's grip strength to securely lift prizes within this range while preventing damage to the machine or the items. Heavier prizes risk slipping from the claw or causing mechanical strain. The overall design ensures a balance between challenge and achievable wins.

Several factors influence this limit. Machine size is primary; larger commercial machines can often handle slightly heavier items than smaller countertop models. The prize material also matters; dense, compact items may hit the weight limit at a smaller size than fluffy plush toys. Furthermore, operators often mix prizes of varying weights in the same machine to create different difficulty levels.

For players, understanding that lighter, bulkier plush toys are often easier to grab than small, dense objects can improve strategy. The crane's programming usually includes a "guaranteed win" cycle or a strength setting that occasionally provides a firmer grip, which can sometimes accommodate items at the higher end of the weight limit. Ultimately, the specific weight capacity should be considered alongside the claw's grip strength and the prize's shape for the best chance of success.