Buying a pinball machine is more than a one-time purchase—it’s an investment in entertainment, nostalgia, and hobby-grade fun. But how much does pinball ownership really cost?
At House of Pinball, we’re not just here to sell you a machine—we’re here to help you make a smart, confident purchase. Whether you’re new to the hobby or expanding your home arcade, this guide breaks down the real costs of pinball ownership, including:
- The initial purchase price
- Ongoing maintenance costs
- Repair and part replacements
- Hidden expenses most first-time buyers overlook
By the end, you’ll know exactly what to expect—and what machine is right for you.
💰 1. Pinball Machine Purchase Costs
Let’s start with the big one: how much does it cost to buy a pinball machine?
🔹 New Machines
- Price Range: $8,000 – $15,000+
- Pros: Warranty, modern features, reliable electronics
- Best for: First-time buyers who want peace of mind
🔹 Home Editions
- Price Range: $5,000 – $7,000
- Pros: Smaller footprint, easier for casual play, more affordable
- Best for: Apartments, condos, and beginner collectors
🔹 Used or Refurbished Machines
- Price Range: $3,500 – $8,000
- Pros: Budget-friendly, access to classic titles
- Cons: May require more upkeep
✅ At House of Pinball, all used machines are professionally refurbished, tested, and come with a warranty—so you save money without sacrificing quality.
🧰 2. Maintenance Costs (Annually)
Pinball machines are mechanical marvels. Like any moving equipment, they need regular maintenance to perform at their best.
🔧 Common Annual Maintenance Tasks:
| Task | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Playfield cleaning supplies | $30–$50 |
| Rubber ring replacement | $20–$40 |
| Bulb/LED replacements | $10–$30 |
| Flipper tuning & coil checks | $50–$100 |
| Waxing the playfield | $10–$20 |
Total Annual Maintenance: $100–$250
If you’re hands-on, you can do most of this yourself. We offer maintenance guides and support for all customers.
💡 Tip: Keeping your machine clean and level prevents 90% of long-term issues.
🛠️ 3. Repair Costs (When Things Go Wrong)
Even well-maintained machines can break down occasionally, especially older ones. Here’s what to expect.
🔹 Common Repair Scenarios:
| Issue | Typical Cost (Parts + Labor) |
|---|---|
| Flipper mechanism failure | $100–$200 |
| Display/screen replacement | $150–$500 |
| Power supply board repair | $150–$300 |
| Coil or switch replacements | $20–$100 |
| Software updates | Usually Free |
🧑🔧 Service Calls (if done professionally):
- On-site service (hourly): $100–$150/hr
- Bench repair (in-shop): $60–$100/hr
✅ At House of Pinball, we offer in-house repairs and tech support to help keep your game running strong—even years after your purchase.
🔍 4. Hidden Costs First-Time Buyers Often Miss
Here are a few costs that often catch new owners by surprise:
📦 Delivery & Setup
- Curbside Delivery: Often included
- White-Glove Setup: $250–$400
- Stair Carry/Disassembly: May incur extra cost
🔌 Power Usage
- A typical machine uses 150–250 watts during play
- Adds $2–$5/month to your electricity bill (depending on use)
🛡️ Extended Warranty or Insurance
- Optional but helpful
- Around $150–$300/year
✅ We offer delivery across the world, with optional full-service setup to get you playing right away.
🎯 5. So, What’s the Total Cost?
Here’s a realistic annual breakdown for a first-time buyer:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (Year 1) |
|---|---|
| Machine Purchase | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| Delivery/Setup | $250 – $400 |
| Annual Maintenance | $100 – $250 |
| Minor Repairs | $100 – $300 |
| Power Usage | $25 – $60 |
| Total | $5,475 – $13,010 |
💡 After Year 1, costs drop significantly—especially if the machine is new or professionally refurbished.
🛒 Choosing the Right Machine for Your Budget
We always recommend buying what fits your budget + comfort level.
💡 First-Time Buyer Picks:
- Jurassic Park Home Edition – Compact, fun, and budget-friendly
- Star Wars Pinball Machine (Refurbished) – Iconic, high value
- Godzilla Premium (New) – For players who want depth and replayability
👉 Browse Pinball Machines for Sale
Still not sure? Talk to our team — we’ll help match you with a machine based on your space, budget, and style.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Pinball Ownership Is Worth It — If You Plan Ahead
Owning a pinball machine isn’t just for collectors anymore. With a little planning, you can enjoy the thrill of real arcade gameplay at home—without breaking the bank.
At House of Pinball, we believe in full transparency. No surprise costs. No high-pressure sales. Just real advice, great machines, and lifetime support.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- A new pinball machine costs $5,000–$15,000+
- Maintenance is affordable and mostly DIY
- Repairs are rare with newer or refurbished machines
- Delivery, setup, and occasional service are worth budgeting for
- Buy from a trusted seller to avoid hidden issues
✅ Ready to Own a Pinball Machine?
Explore our collection of pinball machines for sale, or contact us to find the right fit for your space and budget.