Thinking about buying a pinball machine for your home, business, or collection? Whether you’re a first-time buyer or upgrading your current setup, the process can feel overwhelming with so many options, price points, and hidden costs.
That’s why the experts at House of Pinball created this 10-step checklist to guide you through every key decision — from choosing the right machine to making a smart investment and avoiding common mistakes.
Let’s help you buy your perfect pinball machine for sale with confidence.
✅ 1. Set Your Budget (Don’t Forget Hidden Costs)
Pinball machines vary widely in price depending on age, condition, and model tier:
- Used Machines: $2,500 – $6,000
- New Pro Models: $6,500 – $7,500
- Premium Machines: $8,000 – $9,500
- Collector’s/LE Models: $10,000 – $15,000+
💡 Budget Tip: Don’t forget to factor in shipping, setup, tax, and future maintenance.
👉 Related: Hidden Costs to Consider Before You Buy a Pinball Machine
✅ 2. Choose Between New or Used
➤ New Machines:
- Warranty-backed
- Latest tech & features
- No wear and tear
➤ Used Machines:
- Lower price
- Great for first-timers
- May require minor repairs
👉 At House of Pinball, we offer both brand-new and fully refurbished pinball machines for sale with inspection reports and lifetime support.
✅ 3. Pick the Right Manufacturer
Some of the most trusted pinball manufacturers include:
- Stern Pinball – Best selection of modern titles
- Jersey Jack Pinball – Immersive gameplay & beautiful builds
- American Pinball – Unique layouts and new themes
- Spooky Pinball – Limited-run collectibles
🎯 Stern is the most common choice for new buyers due to reliability, variety, and support.
✅ 4. Understand Game Tiers: Pro vs. Premium vs. LE
Pro Models:
- Affordable
- Fewer mechanical features
- Great for home use
Premium Models:
- More toys & features
- Enhanced gameplay
- More immersive
Limited Edition (LE):
- Collector value
- Unique art & numbering
- Higher price tag
👉 Related: Understanding Pinball Machine Tiers: Pro, Premium, LE
✅ 5. Define Your Play Style & Theme Preference
Ask yourself:
- Do you want fast-paced competitive gameplay or laid-back fun?
- Do you prefer classic themes (like Batman 66, Godzilla, Star Wars) or newer indie titles?
- Is the game for kids, adults, or both?
🎮 Expert Tip: Check gameplay videos on YouTube or play the title in-person at local arcades before buying.
✅ 6. Inspect or Research Machine Condition (If Buying Used)
If buying used:
- Ask for detailed photos
- Request playfield close-ups
- Check for burnt LEDs, ghosting, or coil damage
- Confirm firmware/software version
- Ask if it’s home-use only or from a commercial environment
At House of Pinball, all used machines undergo a 45-point inspection and come with warranty protection.
✅ 7. Choose a Trusted Seller
Avoid online scams or Facebook groups with zero transparency. Instead, buy from:
✅ Licensed retailers
✅ Established pinball distributors
✅ Sellers offering support, service & parts
⚠️ Red Flags:
- No warranty or returns
- No physical address
- Pushy sales tactics
- Vague product descriptions
👉 Related: Where to Buy a Pinball Machine: Trusted Sellers & Red Flags
✅ 8. Ask About Warranty, Support & Delivery Options
A reputable seller will offer:
- Warranty on parts and electronics
- Delivery & setup support
- Ongoing maintenance or part replacement
🏠 House of Pinball offers:
- Nationwide shipping
- White-glove delivery available
- Phone/text support
- Parts and service access
✅ 9. Plan Space & Power Setup
Before delivery:
- Measure your space: Most pinball machines are approx. 27” wide x 55” deep x 76” tall
- Make sure doorways and staircases are wide enough
- Have a grounded outlet nearby (standard 120V)
📦 Pro Tip: Leave space around the machine for easy maintenance access.
✅ 10. Buy with Confidence (And Play!)
Once you’ve:
- Set your budget
- Chosen your theme & model
- Verified the condition
- Picked a trusted seller
…it’s time to order your dream pinball machine!
🎉 Congrats — you’re about to become a pinball owner.
🛒 Browse Pinball Machines for Sale at House of Pinball
At House of Pinball, we stock:
- ✅ New Stern Pro, Premium & LE machines
- ✅ Jersey Jack & American Pinball titles
- ✅ Refurbished used machines with warranty
- ✅ Spare parts, accessories & service
Whether you’re a first-timer or serious collector, we’ll help you find the perfect pinball machine for sale.