EU Resale Value Analysis (2025)
If you’re browsing for a pinball machine for sale, you’ve likely asked:
“Is this a fun hobby or a smart investment?”
The answer? It can be both.
At House of Pinball, we’ve sold, restored, and appraised hundreds of machines across Europe. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly:
- How pinball machines hold their value
- Which models appreciate over time
- What factors drive resale prices
- How to choose a machine that brings both fun and financial value
Let’s dig into the numbers.
💸 1. Do Pinball Machines Hold Their Value?
Yes—many used pinball machines not only retain value, but some increase in price over time.
Unlike modern electronics or arcade machines that depreciate quickly, pinballs are mechanical collectibles with limited production runs. That makes them valuable to both players and collectors.
📈 Real-World Example:
The Addams Family (Bally, 1992)
- Original Price: ~€3,000 (1990s)
- Used Price in 2025: €6,500 – €10,000
- ROI: Over 100% in value, even after decades of use
📊 2. EU Resale Value Trends (2020–2025)
Top Gainers in the European Market:
| Pinball Title | 2020 Avg. (€) | 2025 Avg. (€) | 5-Year Gain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medieval Madness (Williams) | €7,000 | €11,000 | +57% |
| Godzilla Pro (Stern, 2021) | €5,200 | €6,500 | +25% |
| Iron Maiden Pro (Stern, 2018) | €4,500 | €6,000 | +33% |
| Monster Bash Remake (CGC) | €6,800 | €9,000 | +32% |
💡 Limited Editions (LE) and discontinued models usually see the fastest growth.
🧠 3. What Makes a Pinball Machine a Good Investment?
Here are the factors that boost a machine’s long-term value:
✅ Rarity
Limited editions, discontinued runs, or classic titles often skyrocket in value.
✅ Theme
Titles based on cult movies, rock bands, or pop culture (e.g. Jurassic Park, AC/DC, Star Wars) tend to have a wider appeal.
✅ Condition
Original playfields, restored cabinets, and low wear add resale value.
✅ Brand Reputation
Machines from Stern, Bally/Williams, Jersey Jack, or Chicago Gaming Company are most sought-after.
✅ Collector Demand
The stronger the fan base, the higher the resale price. Games like Twilight Zone and Attack from Mars always have eager buyers.
🚀 4. Investment vs. Enjoyment: How to Choose the Right Machine
Not every pinball machine is a cash cow—but the best investment is one you’ll enjoy playing.
Here’s how to shop smart:
| Investment Goal | Buy This Type | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Hold Value | Classic Bally/Williams machines | Timeless gameplay, collector-loved |
| Appreciation Potential | Stern Limited Editions | Smaller runs, higher demand |
| Entry-Level + Fun | Stern Pro (Used) | Affordable, easy resale |
| Rental/Business Use | Durable commercial titles | High play count, strong ROI |
👉 View our latest pinball machines for sale across Europe here
💡 5. Cost vs Return: How Profitable Is It?
🔍 Sample Investment Case:
You buy a Stern Jurassic Park Pro (2020) for €5,800.
In 2025, similar used models sell for €6,800.
That’s a €1,000 gain—not including the 5 years of gameplay fun.
Now compare that to:
- A flat-screen TV: worth half in 2 years
- A new smartphone: nearly worthless in 3 years
💥 With pinball, you’re buying entertainment and equity.
🛠️ 6. What About Maintenance?
Yes, pinballs require care—but think of it like maintaining a classic car.
- Annual maintenance cost: ~€100–€250
- Basic upkeep includes: Cleaning, rubber changes, occasional part replacement
- Resale tip: Well-maintained machines sell faster—and for more
📦 All machines from House of Pinball come with:
- Maintenance guide
- Toolkit
- 12-month warranty
🔄 7. Can You Resell Easily in Europe?
Absolutely. The European pinball market is growing fast thanks to:
- Collector communities
- Online resale platforms
- Trade-ins with reputable dealers
- Home arcade trends post-pandemic
🏆 At House of Pinball, we also:
- Accept trade-ins
- Offer consignment selling
- Buy back selected models
🧮 8. Realistic ROI Expectations
| Machine Type | Avg. ROI After 3–5 Years |
|---|---|
| Classic Collector Models | 30% – 80% |
| LE/Discontinued Machines | 25% – 50% |
| Pro/Standard Editions | 0% – 20% (Hold value well) |
| New Release (Mass market) | -10% to +10% (Short term) |
Note: Value depends on condition, market trends, and how well the machine is maintained.
🤝 Why Buy from House of Pinball?
We don’t just sell machines—we sell long-term value and trust.
Here’s what makes us Europe’s trusted source:
- ✅ Carefully inspected & restored machines
- ✅ Transparent pricing and resale insights
- ✅ Trade-in & upgrade options
- ✅ Delivery across Europe
- ✅ 12-month warranty & lifetime support
- ✅ Curated investment-grade machines in stock
📦 Ready to explore?
👉 See our full range of pinball machines for sale here
✅ Final Verdict: Is a Pinball Machine a Good Investment?
Yes—if you buy the right model, from the right seller, and care for it.
With a limited supply, growing demand, and nostalgic charm, a pinball machine can be both a source of fun and a solid long-term asset.
If you’re ready to buy smart, play hard, and possibly profit—we’re here to help.