Buying a pinball machine is an exciting investment — whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer. But before you commit, testing the machine thoroughly is crucial to avoid costly surprises and ensure you get the best value.
At House of Pinball, we understand how important it is to feel confident in your purchase. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide on how to test a pinball machine before you buy it. Our goal? To help you make an informed decision, build trust, and get you playing your dream pinball machine as soon as possible.
Why Testing Matters When Buying a Pinball Machine
Unlike many products, pinball machines are complex electromechanical devices with multiple components that can wear out over time. Without proper testing:
- You might face hidden mechanical or electrical issues.
- Costly repairs could erode your investment.
- Gameplay could be frustrating or unreliable.
Testing lets you assess condition, functionality, and playability — all essential factors when shopping for a pinball machine for sale.
The Ultimate Checklist: How to Test a Pinball Machine Before You Buy It
Follow these 10 key steps to thoroughly evaluate a pinball machine:
1. Visual Inspection: Start With the Basics
- Cabinet & Playfield Condition: Look for cracks, chips, water damage, or heavy wear on the wood and playfield.
- Artwork & Decals: Check for fading, peeling, or scratches.
- Backglass & Display: Ensure the backglass artwork is intact and the display (LED or dot-matrix) powers up without flickering or dead pixels.
2. Power It On
- Turn the machine on and observe startup behavior.
- Check if the machine boots without errors or unusual sounds.
- Verify that the attract mode and demo gameplay run smoothly.
3. Test All Buttons and Flippers
- Press every button: start, launch ball, flipper buttons, and any special feature buttons.
- Flippers should respond quickly and powerfully — weak or slow flippers are a red flag.
- Ensure buttons do not stick or require excessive force.
4. Launch and Play a Ball
- Launch a ball and observe the mechanics.
- Test ball movement: ramps, bumpers, targets, and slingshots should react reliably.
- Check for any sticky spots or slowdowns on the playfield.
5. Test Scoring and Display Functions
- Watch the score advance correctly with gameplay.
- Check all lights, inserts, and displays respond as expected.
- Verify any sound or music plays clearly and without distortion.
6. Listen for Unusual Noises
- Pinball machines make noise, but listen for grinding, rattling, or buzzing sounds that could indicate worn parts or electrical issues.
7. Check the Coin Door and Credit System
- Open the coin door and inspect switches, coin slots, and coin return mechanisms.
- Test the credit buttons or coin inputs if applicable.
8. Inspect the Backbox Components
- Look inside the backbox to check wiring, circuit boards, fuses, and connectors.
- Look for signs of water damage, corrosion, or burned components.
9. Test Multiball and Special Features
- If the game has multiball modes or special features, activate them to verify they work correctly.
- These features can be complex and costly to repair if malfunctioning.
10. Ask for Maintenance History
- Request records of previous maintenance or repairs.
- A well-maintained machine is less likely to have hidden issues.
Tips for Buying a Used Pinball Machine Online or Remotely
If you’re buying online or from a distance:
- Ask for a detailed video showing gameplay, startup, and all mechanical features.
- Request close-up photos of the playfield, cabinet, and electronics.
- Confirm the seller offers a warranty or return policy.
- Choose reputable stores like House of Pinball that thoroughly test and refurbish their machines before sale.
How House of Pinball Helps You Buy With Confidence
At House of Pinball, every machine we sell undergoes a rigorous multi-point inspection and full refurbishment when needed. Our team:
- Tests each mechanical and electronic component.
- Repairs or replaces worn parts.
- Cleans and polishes playfields and cabinets.
- Provides detailed descriptions and photos.
- Offers expert advice to match you with the right machine.
Final Thoughts
Buying a pinball machine can be one of the most rewarding purchases — but only if you do your homework. Testing the machine thoroughly before you buy helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures you get a machine that plays smoothly and reliably.
Ready to browse our wide selection of pinball machines for sale? At House of Pinball, we make it easy to find, test, and buy your dream pinball machine with complete confidence.