List of Tested Pseudo Random Number Generators

The majority of pseudo random number generators are variants of common designs. In order to keep things simple, this page only lists the major "families", while the linked pages cover the generator's history and the different implementations that have been studied.

Middle-Square Method
Possibly the oldest known way to generate random numbers. It's very low quality and really only useable as an example.

Lehmer Generator
Proposed by D. H. Lehmer in 1951, this generator would become the basis for many other PRNGs - including the infamous RANDU.

Linear Congruential Generator
An adaptation of the Lehmer generator, the Linear Congruential Generator and its variants have become some of the most popular generators used today.

Lagged Fibonacci Generator
This class of pseudo random number generator blends the Linear Congruential Generator design with some inspiration from the Fibonacci sequence.

Mersenne Twister
One of the most popular designs today, the Mersenne Twister is notable for its incredibly long periods.

Exotic and Unusual Generators
This is a collection of strange and unusual pseudo random number generators. Most are only used by a specific program, making them rare and interesting.