Understanding the claw strength in a toy crane machine is key to knowing your chances of winning a prize. Typically, the claw's grip power is controlled by the machine's internal programming and mechanics. Most commercial crane games operate on a predetermined cycle, often regulated by a computer board or a programmable logic controller (PLC). This programming can set the claw's grip strength to vary, sometimes offering a firm grip and other times a weaker one, often based on a set win ratio or interval to manage costs for the operator.

A common question is whether this claw strength is adjustable. The answer is yes, but usually only by the operator or owner of the machine, not the player. Operators can access the machine's settings to adjust parameters like the claw's grip pressure, the lift power, and the frequency of "strong" vs. "weak" grabs. This adjustability is a fundamental part of the business model, allowing operators to control the game's difficulty and profitability. For players, this means the experience is largely based on chance within these programmed parameters, though skill in positioning the claw can influence the outcome during a "strong" grab cycle. The mechanics involve a motor that controls the claw's open/close function and its lifting cable tension, which together determine its effective strength when it descends onto a prize.