Pinball machines aren’t just for arcades anymore. With the rise of home entertainment and nostalgic gaming, collectors and enthusiasts are now bringing the arcade home. But what if you’re working with limited space?
Don’t worry — you can own a pinball machine, even in a small apartment, condo, or townhouse. In this guide, we’ll show you exactly how to fit a pinball machine in tight spaces, what to consider before buying, and which machines are best for home collectors.
🏠 Can a Pinball Machine Fit in Your Home?
Yes, it can — and it’s easier than you might think.
Typical Pinball Machine Dimensions
Before you make any decisions, you should know the average size:
- Width: 27–29 inches
- Depth: 51–56 inches
- Height: 75–78 inches
This means a pinball machine can comfortably fit in:
- Spare bedrooms
- Home offices
- Living room corners
- Basements
- Hallway nooks
- Even closets (with some creative planning)
🧠 Planning Your Space: Key Questions to Ask
Before you hit that “Buy Now” button, consider these five space-saving questions:
1. Do You Have a Power Source Nearby?
Every pinball machine needs a standard 110V outlet. Make sure your chosen spot has one nearby (or use a power strip with surge protection).
2. What’s Your Access Point Like?
Measure doors, hallways, and staircases. Will the machine fit through your front door or basement entry? Remember, many machines can be partially disassembled for tight squeezes.
3. Is the Floor Level and Strong?
Pinball machines can weigh up to 250 pounds. A flat, solid floor is ideal to ensure stability and smooth play.
4. What’s the Room’s Purpose?
Will it be a dedicated game room? A shared space? Consider noise levels and lighting, especially if others will be using the room too.
5. Do You Need Portability?
If you’re planning to move it occasionally, consider getting caster wheels or a more lightweight home edition machine.
🧩 Space-Saving Tips for Small Homes
✅ Choose Compact or Home Edition Machines
Not all pinball machines are full-sized. Many manufacturers (like Stern or Jersey Jack) now offer “Home Editions” which are:
- Lighter
- Slightly smaller
- More affordable
Perfect for condos or apartments.
✅ Use Corners & Underused Spaces
Look for:
- Dead space behind doors
- Basement corners
- Under-stair areas
Mount shelves above the machine for storing accessories or displaying collectibles.
✅ Fold Down When Not in Use
Most pinball machines allow the backbox (top) to be folded down. This makes storage easier during a move or when you need to reclaim space.
✅ Multi-Function Rooms
Place your pinball machine in a home office, workout room, or guest room. A pinball machine adds fun without dominating the room.
🔎 Which Pinball Machine Should You Buy for a Small Space?
We’ve helped hundreds of customers at House of Pinball find the perfect machine for their home. Here are some of our top recommendations:
🥇 Best Compact: Stern Pinball Home Edition
- Dimensions are reduced for easier fit
- Same build quality as commercial versions
- Great for new collectors
🔥 Best Value: Refurbished Classic Machines
- Cheaper than brand-new models
- Often slimmer builds
- Ideal for budget-conscious collectors
🎮 Best Themed Pick: Star Wars or Jurassic Park Home Edition
- Popular titles
- Compact and family-friendly
- Holds value over time
👉 Browse Our Pinball Machines for Sale
💬 Customer Story: Small Space, Big Fun
“I live in a 2-bedroom condo and thought I’d never fit a pinball machine in. The team at House of Pinball walked me through the options, and now I have a Jurassic Park Home Edition in my office. It’s the best part of my day!”
— Rachel P.,
We’ve seen it all — and we know how to make pinball work in even the tightest spaces.
📦 Why Buy From House of Pinball?
We’re not just sellers — we’re collectors too. Here’s what you get with every purchase:
✅ Transparent pricing (no hidden fees)
✅ Expert guidance tailored to your space
✅ Nationwide delivery across Canada
✅ Optional white-glove installation
✅ Financing available on select machines
🛒 Ready to Start Your Home Collection?
Whether you have a corner in your living room or a dedicated game room, there’s a machine that fits your space, style, and budget.
Browse our handpicked Pinball Machines for Sale and take the first step toward owning your dream game.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Pinball machines fit in most small homes with proper planning
- Compact & home edition machines are perfect for tight spaces
- Measure carefully and ensure nearby power and solid flooring
- Shop with a trusted source like House of Pinball to ensure smooth delivery and setup