Make smarter groups with more control
A smart group maker for teachers, teams, workshops, clubs and coaches. Paste names, make balanced groups, avoid repeat pairings, keep certain people apart and spread group leaders across groups.
- Do not group specific people together
- Avoid repeat pairings where possible
- Pairs, trios, larger groups and awkward leftovers
- Pro adds saved lists, leaders, export and print
Buddy Matcher
Create random groups in seconds.
Results
Copy, download or share your groups.
Why people use Buddy Matcher
Smart group making
Quickly create balanced pairs, trios or larger groups for lessons, activities, workshops, clubs and projects.
Random picker
Pick one person randomly when you need a quick starter, helper, answerer or volunteer.
Controlled Pro groups
Keep certain people apart, avoid repeat pairings and spread named group leaders across different groups.
Simple and private
No accounts for the free tool, no spreadsheet fiddling, and paid features only when you want them.
Upgrade from random groups to controlled groups
Free is great for quick groups. Pro is for when you need more control: keep certain people apart, avoid repeat pairings, spread leaders and save lists.
Buddy Matcher Pro
Take control of your groups — not just randomise them.
- Don’t group specific people together
- Avoid repeat pairings where possible
- Assign and spread group leaders
- Save and reuse lists
- Groups of 4, 5, 6 and custom sizes
- Export to CSV and print clean layouts
FAQ
Can I paste names from Excel or Google Sheets?
Yes. Paste one column of names straight into the box and Buddy Matcher will split them into groups.
What happens if the numbers do not divide evenly?
It balances the final groups so you do not end up with one lonely person left on their own.
Can I pick one person randomly?
Yes. Buddy Matcher includes a quick random picker for choosing one person from your list.
Can I stop certain people being grouped together?
Yes. Pro includes a “Don’t group these two” option so you can keep specific pairs apart.
Can I assign group leaders?
Yes. Pro lets you mark group leaders and spread them across different groups.
Do I need an account?
No. It works instantly in your browser. No sign-up needed for the free tool.
Is it private?
Yes. Names are stored in your browser using local storage unless and until you choose account-based Pro features.
Teacher resources
Practical guides for making student pairs and groups, reducing repeat partners, mixing friendship groups and keeping classroom grouping quick.