Buyer’s guide

How to choose a pinball machine.

Everything that matters before you buy: new vs used, size and weight, room and power, gameplay, manufacturers, shipping, warranty and care.

By tcoculick@gmail.com · updated September 7, 2026

New vs used

New machines ship with manufacturer warranty, current code and no wear. Pre-owned machines cost less and, when properly refurbished, play as well; what you give up is warranty length and the guarantee of a pristine cabinet. We label condition on every listing and photograph the actual used unit.

Ask for playfield close-ups on any used machine. Wear near the flippers and inserts tells you most of the story.

Machine dimensions & weight

A modern full-size machine stands roughly 76 inches tall with the backbox raised, 29 inches wide and 55 inches deep, and weighs 250 to 300 pounds; exact figures for each machine are on its product page as a diagram, pulled from the manufacturer sheet.

Backboxes fold and legs remove: the crated cabinet is what needs to pass your doorways and stairs.

Space requirements

Plan the footprint plus about three feet in front to stand and play, and clearance behind for the power cord and the backbox tilt. Two machines side by side need a few inches between cabinets for the side rails.

Measure the narrowest point on the delivery route, not the room.

Electrical requirements

Machines run on a standard household outlet. Draw is modest, but give the machine its own circuit or at least avoid sharing with high-draw appliances. Voltage and power draw are listed per machine in the specification table.

A quality surge protector is cheap insurance for the electronics.

Gameplay & number of players

Every machine supports up to four players taking turns. Depth of rules varies: modern titles have long mode structures and online leaderboards; classics are faster and more immediate. Consider who plays: kids and guests love clear objectives; enthusiasts value rule depth.

Pro, Premium and LE editions of the same title can differ in ramps, toys and lighting. Compare before choosing.

Manufacturer differences

Manufacturers differ in build approach, display technology, code update cadence and parts availability. Product pages list the manufacturer specification; the brand pages list what we carry from each.

Parts availability matters most for classics. Ask us before buying a rare title.

Shipping & delivery

Machines ship crated by freight carrier. The carrier calls to schedule a curbside appointment; threshold or white-glove options are shown at checkout where available. Inspect the crate on arrival and note any damage on the delivery receipt.

Have two people available on delivery day, or choose an assisted option.

Warranty, returns & care

New machines carry manufacturer warranty; every machine carries our dealer warranty [dealer warranty term]. Returns follow the Return Policy. Routine care keeps a playfield fast for decades: cleaning, waxing, changing balls and rubbers.

Read the Warranty and Returns pages before purchase; they are linked on every product page.

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