You’ve found the perfect pinball machine for sale, you’re ready to buy… but then you wonder:
“What’s the real cost of owning this thing?”
That’s a smart question — and it’s one we hear all the time at House of Pinball.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or collector, understanding the hidden costs of owning a pinball machine will help you make a confident, informed decision.
In this guide, we’ll break down all the potential costs — the obvious and the not-so-obvious — so you know exactly what to expect.
💰 Upfront Costs vs. Hidden Costs
✅ What You Expect:
- Pinball machine purchase price (new or used)
🛠️ What Might Surprise You:
- Shipping & delivery
- Replacement parts
- Maintenance tools
- Electricity
- Modding & upgrades
- Repairs if you buy used without warranty
Let’s explore each in detail — and show you how to avoid overpaying.
📦 1. Shipping & Delivery Costs
Cost Range: $200 – $600 (U.S. average)
Pinball machines are heavy (200–300 lbs) and awkward to move.
Factors that affect cost:
- Distance from seller
- Curbside vs. white-glove delivery
- Stairs or difficult access
✅ Pro Tip: When you buy from House of Pinball, we offer flat-rate nationwide shipping and optional in-home setup — so no surprises.
🔌 2. Electricity Costs
Monthly Cost: ~$2–$5/month (based on usage)
Pinball machines are surprisingly efficient. Even with lights and sounds, they don’t use much power.
Usage tips:
- Turn off when not in use
- Upgrade to LED lighting (uses less power & lasts longer)
💡 Want to save even more? Ask us about energy-efficient LED conversion kits for your machine.
🧰 3. Routine Maintenance Supplies
| Item | Cost | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning supplies | $30–$50 | Yearly |
| Rubber ring kits | $30–$60 | Every 1–2 years |
| LED bulbs | $20–$100 | As needed |
| Flipper rebuild kit | $40–$80 | Every 3–5 years |
Total Estimate: $100–$200/year (less if DIY)
✅ At House of Pinball, every machine comes fully serviced — so you’re starting fresh, not with someone else’s neglected project.
🛠️ 4. Unexpected Repairs (If You Buy Cheap or Unserviced)
If you buy a pinball machine from eBay, Craigslist, or a “garage find,” be ready to open your wallet later.
| Common Repairs | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Circuit board repair | $100–$300 |
| Flipper mech rebuild | $60–$120 |
| Display screen replacement | $150–$400 |
| Power supply issues | $150–$300 |
Why It Matters:
Most hidden costs come from buying a machine that wasn’t properly inspected or serviced.
⚠️ Buying a “cheap” machine can cost you hundreds more in surprise repairs — unless you buy from a trusted source like House of Pinball.
🎮 5. Mods & Upgrades (Optional But Tempting)
Once you own a pinball machine, you might get the itch to make it your own. Modding is common in the pinball world.
| Popular Mods | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| LED lighting kits | $100–$300 |
| Custom audio packages | $150–$400 |
| Topper (themed decoration) | $200–$500+ |
| Playfield protectors | $50–$150 |
| Wi-Fi scoring or game tracking | $200+ |
The Good News:
Mods are 100% optional — but they can increase the resale value if done right.
✅ We offer pre-modded machines and professional installation — just ask!
🧱 6. Space & Setup
Not a monetary cost, but a real one:
| Machine Type | Footprint |
|---|---|
| Standard pinball | ~29″ wide x 55″ deep x 76″ tall |
| Virtual pinball | Similar, some smaller models available |
Other setup items to consider:
- Pinball machine cover ($30–$50)
- Floor protectors or rug
- Surge protector for electronics
🛒 How to Avoid the Hidden Costs: Buy Smart
Here’s the truth most resellers won’t tell you:
The biggest hidden cost is buying the wrong machine from the wrong seller.
When you shop pinball machines for sale at House of Pinball, you get:
- 🧰 Fully inspected and serviced machines
- 💵 Transparent pricing — no surprises
- 🚚 Flat-rate shipping with delivery options
- 🧑🔧 Lifetime support from real pinball techs
- 🔄 Trade-in options if you upgrade later
No gimmicks. No hidden fees. Just pinball machines that are ready to play — and ready to last.
🙋 Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Are pinball machines high maintenance?
Not really. A well-maintained machine requires minimal work — mostly cleaning and occasional part replacements.
❓ What’s the total cost of ownership over 5 years?
Expect ~$500–$800 in upkeep over 5 years for a well-maintained, reliable machine — less than a new gaming console setup.
❓ Can I do the maintenance myself?
Yes! Most owners do basic cleaning, rubber changes, and LED swaps themselves. We’ll show you how.
✅ Final Thoughts: Know the Real Costs, Then Enjoy the Game
Owning a pinball machine isn’t free — but the costs aren’t nearly as scary as some make them sound.
And when you buy smart, those hidden costs disappear.
At House of Pinball, we’ve helped thousands of customers find the right machine at the right price — without the buyer’s remorse.
So if you’re ready to get into the game…