Find active marketplace searches, compare completed sales, and use a serious inspection checklist before you send payment or arrange freight.
These are searches on eBay, not listings controlled or verified by this website. Check dates, locations and return terms.
Filter to machines described as working, then insist on video proof: startup, score display, ball launch, both flippers, target switches and special mechanisms. A seller's wording is not a warranty.
Search working machinesA nonworking game can suit someone with space, tools and expertise. A missing board, bad playfield or rare part can quickly exceed the saving on the purchase price.
Search project machinesMatch exact title, edition, age and condition; avoid comparing a cosmetically perfect restored game with an untested project. Sold filters are a research starting point, not a certified appraisal.
See sold search resultsPinball combines a heavy cabinet, complicated wiring and many moving parts. A machine can light up and still have dozens of faults. Whenever possible inspect in person or ask for a detailed, uninterrupted demonstration video before committing.
Local private seller: often the best opportunity to inspect the exact game and avoid shipping costs, but buyer protection depends on the transaction. Specialist dealer: may offer service history or limited coverage; request the terms in writing. Online marketplace: gives access to more titles and price comparisons, but shipping, identity and return protections deserve extra scrutiny. Compare routes in our dealer directory and buying-channel guide.
Start with sold comparables for the same machine and edition. Adjust for condition, replacement parts, modifications, delivery, warranty and repair history. A restored machine may be worth more than a project but not every claimed restoration is equal. Read our used pricing methodology.
“What does not work?” is more useful than “Does it work?” Ask for a diagnostics screen and the last service invoice, whether the machine has ever been moved or flooded, whether it has a complete keys/locks set, and how the seller will secure the backbox, legs and glass for transport. Request terms for deposit, payment, pickup and damage in writing.
Even if you find an attractive asking price, freight, local tax, stair handling, repairs and setup can change the decision. Use the all-in cost calculator. For small budgets, see what to look for under $5,000.
Affiliate disclosure: qualifying eBay purchases may earn us a commission. We do not own, inspect, insure or certify third-party machines.
Before making an offer, ask for evidence that is easy to compare across sellers. A specific request such as “Can you show the machine booting without errors, run a complete game and demonstrate all major mechanisms?” is more useful than “Is everything good?” Ask for dated photos of any repaired sections and a list of replacement parts. If the seller can't demonstrate the game, price it as an unverified machine rather than assuming small repairs.
If you find a modern machine, the manufacturer's Pro, Premium and Limited Edition treatments may use different interactive mechanisms. For older titles, original production and modern remakes can differ significantly in serviceability and value. Compare like with like using specific guides for Godzilla, Medieval Madness and Attack from Mars instead of relying solely on keywords in the marketplace title.
Keep transaction discussions and payment on the agreed platform wherever applicable, and understand that local pickup and freight transactions can have different protection rules. Confirm whether insurance covers electrical damage or only physical breakage. Photograph the cabinet before disassembly and immediately after delivery, especially the backbox, corners and glass. Our moving guide covers access issues that can derail a deal even when the machine is sound.