Simple Machines Games — Predict, Watch, Understand
These free simple machines games let a child predict what the machine will do, watch it happen, and see why. Levers, pulleys, ramps and gears all share one big idea — they trade force for distance — and the fastest way to feel that is to guess, then watch the beam tip or the load rise. No ads, no sign-up.
Predict which side of the lever drops, or where to push for the least effort — then watch the beam tip and see why.
Predict the effort to lift a load with one, two, or three pulleys — more pulleys mean less force, but more rope to pull.
Predict the push needed up a steep ramp versus a gentle one — a gentler slope needs less force but a longer push.
Predict which way the last gear turns, and which gear spins faster — meshed gears turn opposite ways and small gears spin faster.
The one big idea
Every simple machine trades force for distance. Push a load up a gentle ramp and you use less force, but over a longer path. Add pulleys and you pull with less force, but you pull more rope. That trade is why these machines feel like they give you a superpower — and seeing it, rather than being told, is what makes it stick.
More science games
Explore the full set on the science games hub, including gravity games.
Common questions
What are the simple machines?
A simple machine is a basic device that makes work easier by changing the size or direction of a force. The classic six are the lever, the wheel and axle, the pulley, the inclined plane (ramp), the wedge, and the screw. These games cover the lever, pulley, ramp and gears (a kind of wheel and axle).
How do simple machines make work easier?
They trade force for distance. A gentle ramp lets you raise a load with less force, but you push it a longer way; a pulley system lets you lift with less force, but you pull more rope; a lever lets a small push far from the pivot lift a big load close to it. You never get something for nothing — you swap a big force over a short distance for a small force over a long one.
What age are these simple machines games for?
Roughly ages 9–12 (grades 4–7), and each game shows its grade band. Levers and gears suit grades 4–6; the force-ratio modes of pulleys and ramps reach into grades 5–7. The predict-and-watch format means no reading-heavy instructions.
Are the simple machines games free?
Yes — free, no ads, no in-app purchases and no sign-up, running in any browser.