The number of stuffed animals a typical toy crane machine can hold varies significantly, but a common range is between 50 to 150 plush toys. Several key factors determine this capacity. Primarily, the physical size of the machine's prize compartment is the main constraint. A standard, single-claw arcade cabinet might comfortably hold 70-100 medium-sized stuffed animals. Larger, deluxe models or those with wider glass enclosures can sometimes accommodate over 150 items.

The size of the stuffed animals themselves drastically affects the total count. Machines filled with small, 6-inch plush toys will hold far more than those stocked with large, 15-inch ones. Furthermore, how the prizes are arranged plays a role. Operators often strategically stack and layer toys to create an appealing, full display and to control game difficulty. A tightly packed machine may hold more but make prizes harder to dislodge, while a looser setup holds fewer but might increase win potential. So, while the average is a helpful guideline, the exact number in any given crane game depends on its design, the plush toy dimensions, and the operator's setup strategy.