# randomElement() Returns a random element of the collection. ``` func randomElement() -> Self.Element? ``` ## Return Value A random element from the collection. If the collection is empty, the method returns `nil`. ## Discussion Call `randomElement()` to select a random element from an array or another collection. This example picks a name at random from an array: ``` let names = ["Zoey", "Chloe", "Amani", "Amaia"] let randomName = names.randomElement()! // randomName == "Amani" ``` This method is equivalent to calling `randomElement(using:)`, passing in the system’s default random generator. > Complexity: O(1) if the collection conforms to > `RandomAccessCollection`; otherwise, O(*n*), where *n* is the length > of the collection. --- Copyright © 2026 Apple Inc. All rights reserved. | [Terms of Use](https://www.apple.com/legal/internet-services/terms/site.html) | [Privacy Policy](https://www.apple.com/privacy/privacy-policy)