The RANDBETWEEN function is used in Google Sheets to generate a random integer between two whole numbers.
To produce a random decimal, consider using the RAND. Get your copy of these examples in a live Google Sheet.
Contents
Purpose
This function returns a random integer between two specified amounts.
Syntax
=RANDBETWEEN(low, high
)
low
– The lowest possible number of the random rangehigh
– The highest possible number of the random range
Similar Functions
RAND – Generates a random decimal
RANDARRAY – Generates an array of random numbers
Insert Math Symbols (Add-On)
Example Use of the RANDBETWEEN Function
The RANDBETWEEN function requires two inputs.

Typing =RANDBETWEEN(3,87)
into a cell returns a random integer between 3
and 87
. In this case, the number is 18
.
Live Examples in Sheets
Go to this spreadsheet for examples, along with RAND and RANDARRAY that you can study and use anywhere you want.
Notes
- The output of RANDBETWEEN changes whenever the spreadsheet changes or reloads (like TODAY, NOW, RANDARRAY, and RAND).
- If you want the output to be static, consider using Copy and then Paste special as a value.
- Avoid using too many RANDBETWEEN functions in your spreadsheet, as it can slow it down with the extra recalculations.
- To force the random number to be recalculated more frequently, go to the File -> Settings -> Calculations, then change the setting from On change to On change and every minute or On change and every hour.