clash-royale – What Are the Differences Between Being Home and Away in Clash Royale?

EDIT: Following the recent update as of 03/05/2016 the current chest cycle can be found HERE

Original Answer: The comments are right, and apparently also is the reddit post.

It is pre-determined when you get a drop by this updated list (to include new chests). I just got a giant, so I know exactly where in the list I am, and can start logging from there. Few things to note:

1. Having no free space, but wining a battle, moves you to the next chest. So In theory you can always get golden and above.

2. The list might get updated or the entire system scrapped by Supercell at any time, given they are the developers and can do whatever they please.
3. Having gone trough the list, it starts over from 9.

A win would push you forward in the cycle, regardless if you have a free slot or not. That's a win where trophies exchange place (eg. not against clan-member in a friendly match)

EDIT: What I've just red on this FAQ is having full chest slots and wining does not progress you on the list

Yes, but only so much.

1. It enables you to give cards in exchange for experience and coins
2. More importantly it enables you to receive cards back. And people tend to give, if they have received. My clan leader gives quite a lot (and receives quite a lot too)
3. It enables you to play against real players for practice and not loose any trophies - sort of training against clan members.

Also a small community. You can ask for advice on the game and outside of it :D (Depending on the clan though)

It was quite difficult to find an English speaking clan before the global launch. It should be fine now.