Site icon Badboy Pinball — Your Home of Premium

BUYING GUIDE

Buying a pinball machine is about more than just choosing a specific model. Every machine plays differently and appeals to different types of players. That’s exactly why we take the time to offer honest, practical advice.

Whether you’re looking for your first pinball machine, want to expand an existing collection, or already have a specific model in mind – we’ll help you make the right decision.

Our aim isn’t simply to sell you any old pinball machine. What’s far more important is that you make a decision you’ll be happy with in the long term.

Which pinball machine is the right one?

First-time buyers in particular often worry about choosing the wrong theme or the wrong model. These concerns are completely normal. After all, you don’t buy a pinball machine every day.

The good news is that, in practice, there’s rarely a single perfect choice. Almost every modern pinball machine offers years of fun and develops its own unique character over time.

What’s more, our experience shows that pinball machines often turn out to be quite the collector’s item. It’s not uncommon for one machine to turn into two or three. And even if a pinball machine is swapped for another model after a few years, for many owners this is simply part and parcel of the hobby.

That’s why, when advising you, we don’t focus on which pinball machine is objectively the best. What matters far more is which pinball machine best suits you, your tastes and your expectations today.

This is how we’ll find the right pinball machine together

The right theme

Which theme will keep you excited in the long run? Music, film, fantasy, horror or action – it’s often precisely this that determines which pinball machine people will still enjoy playing years later.

The right conditions

As well as the pinball machine you’d like, your budget, available space and the planned location also play a part. Together, we’ll look at which models suit your needs and preferences.

The right model

Many pinball machines come in different versions. We explain the differences and help you find the right one. Potential accessories may also play a part in your decision.

Pinball machine inspection prior to delivery (NIB check)

To ensure your new pinball machine arrives in the best possible condition,

we usually check new units for obvious technical and visual issues before dispatch. To do this, the Flipper is unpacked, set up and subjected to a functional test.

This pre-delivery check allows us to identify and resolve most instances of potential transport damage, manufacturing defects or technical issues before dispatch. This ensures that your Flipper is ready to play as soon as possible upon arrival.

What is checked during the NIB check?

  • Visual inspection of the cabinet, backbox and playfield
  • Check for transport and packaging damage
  • Functional testing of key game mechanics
  • Test run and check of basic functions
  • Check for obvious visual defects

Many customers appreciate the added peace of mind that comes with a tested machine. Other pinball enthusiasts, however, prefer the original factory packaging and would like to unpack their pinball machine themselves for the first time. Of course, your pinball machine can also be shipped in its unopened original packaging . If you would like a New-In-Box (NIB) unit, please let us know.

Regardless of which option you choose, we’ll be on hand to help with any questions or technical issues even after delivery. Whether by phone, email, photos or video call, we’ll help you find a suitable solution quickly.

I’ve never owned a pinball machine before. Which model is best for beginners?

There is no such thing as the perfect beginner’s pinball machine. What matters far more is that the theme, the feel of the game and the level of difficulty suit your personal preferences.

Many first-time buyers worry about choosing the wrong model. In our experience, this worry is usually unfounded. Regardless of the theme, modern pinball machines offer hours of fun and grow with your skills.

Together, we’ll look at which models suit your interests, your budget and your expectations. That way, you’ll find a pinball machine that brings you joy not just on the first day, but for years to come.

How much does a new pinball machine cost?

Prices for new pinball machines vary depending on the manufacturer, model and specifications. New machines currently start at around $7,000 to $8,000. Models with particularly high-end specifications can cost significantly more.

As part of our consultation, we’d be happy to show you which machines suit your budget and what the differences are between the individual models.

Can I try out different pinball machines before buying?

Yes. In our showroom, you can try out selected models in person and compare them side by side.

This is often more helpful when making a purchase decision than technical specifications, videos or reviews. Many pinball machines look similar in photos, but in practice they differ significantly in terms of gameplay, rules and the dynamics on the playfield.

A visit in person allows you to explore different themes and game concepts and find out which pinball machine you enjoy the most. We’re happy to answer any questions and provide personalised advice.

Do I need any prior knowledge to own a pinball machine?

No. Modern pinball machines are just as suitable for beginners as they are for experienced players. We’ll help you get started and are happy to answer any questions you may have.

What happens if I decide I'm interested in a different model later on?

This happens more often than many people realise. For many pinball enthusiasts, the hobby evolves over time. Often, the collection is expanded or a machine is later swapped for a different model.

That’s why you shouldn’t worry too much about whether you’re making the ‘perfect’ choice when selecting a machine. In our experience, there’s rarely just one ‘right’ pinball machine. Almost every model has its own charm and offers years of fun.

What’s more important is that you choose a pinball machine that suits your taste, your budget and your expectations today. Even if your interests change later on, that’s not a mistake – it’s just a normal part of the hobby.

How much space does a pinball machine take up?

Most pinball machines require roughly the same floor space as a large desk. However, in addition to the actual dimensions, factors such as transport routes, door widths, stairwells and sufficient space for playing should also be taken into account.

You can find detailed information on dimensions, weights and space requirements on our ‘Pinball Dimensions and Weight’ page . We’d also be happy to help you assess the conditions at your installation site in advance.

Can my pinball machine be delivered directly to my home?

Yes. There are various delivery options available.

On request, we offer a personal delivery service including assembly, alignment and instruction. We’ll deliver the pinball machine directly to the installation site, set it up with you and answer any initial questions you may have about the machine. This service is priced individually depending on the distance.

Alternatively, you can collect your pinball machine from us yourself. We’ll be happy to assist you with helpful tips on transport and explain the key features and special functions of your new machine.

Of course, delivery by a freight forwarder is also possible. In this case, the machine will be delivered to the agreed delivery address. Transport to the premises and assembly are then the responsibility of the recipient.

We’d be happy to advise you in advance on which option is the best solution for your situation.

What happens if you have any questions or encounter any problems after your purchase?

We’re always happy to be on hand to help, even after your purchase. Especially with a new pinball machine, questions often arise about how to use it, settings, accessories or possible upgrades.

Should a technical problem ever arise, we’ll be happy to help you troubleshoot it. Many issues can be quickly resolved over the phone, by email, using photos or via video call. Our aim is for you to enjoy your pinball machine for a long time to come and to ensure you’re never left on your own if you have any questions.

Do you have any questions?

We’d be happy to help you find the right pinball machine.

 

Request advice here
Exit mobile version