Restored vs Refurbished Pinball Machines: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between restored and refurbished pinball machines is essential for collectors and buyers alike. While both terms suggest improved condition, they represent distinct levels of work, originality, and value. In this guide, we break down what each term means, what to expect when buying, and how to choose the right option for your home, arcade, or investment.
When shopping for a pinball machine, terms like “restored” and “refurbished” are often used interchangeably—but they carry important differences for buyers. Understanding what sets them apart can help you make the best decision for your home or arcade.
What is a Refurbished Pinball Machine?
A refurbished pinball machine has been cleaned, repaired, and tested to ensure it functions properly. Key features include:
Replaced rubbers and bulbs
Repaired electronics and wiring
Cleaned and waxed playfields
New displays or MPU boards
Functional but may retain some cosmetic imperfections
Refurbished games are ideal for buyers who want reliable machines at lower costs, and they often come with optional warranties.
What is a Restored Pinball Machine?
A restored pinball machine typically undergoes a more comprehensive overhaul, aiming for a like-new or collector-grade finish. This process may include:
Complete cabinet repaint or decal replacement
Playfield touch-ups or full restoration
Chrome-plating or powder coating hardware
Upgraded displays and sound systems
Extensive cosmetic detailing
Restored machines are often priced higher and appeal to collectors or those seeking showpieces for their game rooms.
Which Should You Choose?
If you’re focused on functionality and affordability, a refurbished machine is the best value. If you’re looking for flawless aesthetics and long-term collectability, a restored machine might be worth the investment.
At RefurbishedPinballShop.com, we clearly label our inventory and work closely with customers to help them find the right machine—whether fully restored or expertly refurbished.
Why Choose Refurbished Pinball Machines?
Choosing a refurbished pinball machine is a smart investment for both personal and commercial settings. Professionally refurbished machines are fully inspected, repaired, and play-tested to ensure long-term reliability. With new rubbers, LED upgrades, fresh waxed playfields, and modern MPU or driver boards, these machines deliver the experience of a new game without the new price tag. Buying refurbished also contributes to sustainability by giving vintage machines new life.
Review the machine’s restoration history: Know what’s been upgraded or replaced.
Check for warranty availability: Ask about included support and post-purchase service.
Inspect quality via photos or in-person visits: Confirm cosmetic and mechanical condition.
Clarify shipping options and timelines: We’ll help arrange affordable and secure delivery.
Shop from trusted sellers: RefurbishedPinballShop.com is a leading source in 2025 for reliable and affordable machines.
Top Refurbished Pinball Machines for Sale in 2025
Below is a curated list of the best refurbished pinball games available in 2025. These machines blend playability, collector value, and strong market demand.
1. Medieval Madness Royal Edition
One of the most sought-after pinball machines of all time, the Medieval Madness Royal Edition features enhanced LED lighting, custom callouts, and upgraded mechanical features. This title is beloved for its humorous theme, interactive castle, and multiball mayhem. Refurbished units come with updated displays and modern MPU boards.
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2. Jurassic Park Custom Pro Edition (Stern)
A modern classic, the Jurassic Park Pro Pinball Machine is a hit among new players and seasoned fans. Refurbished versions often include upgraded audio, custom artwork, and enhanced lighting packages. It’s a thrilling title with dinosaur-themed missions, chaotic multiball, and challenging ramps.
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3. Black Knight 2000
One of Williams’ most iconic machines, Black Knight 2000 delivers fast-paced gameplay with dual-level playfields and a legendary soundtrack. Refurbished units often include LED conversions, cabinet touch-ups, and upgraded power boards.
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4. Ghostbusters Premium (Stern)
Based on the beloved film franchise, Ghostbusters Premium Pinball features unique magnetic slingshots, custom toys, and ghost-catching modes. Refurbished units from RefurbishedPinballShop.com are professionally cleaned, play-tested, and come with new rubbers, bulbs, and MPU upgrades.
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5. Dirty Harry (Williams)
Dirty Harry is a strong late-’90s title with fun modes, classic Clint Eastwood audio, and a large magnet-assisted playfield. A great game for collectors, especially when fully serviced.
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6. Bally Black Rose
For pirate-themed fun, Black Rose delivers a unique experience with its cannon shot feature and interactive ramps. A fully refurbished Black Rose from RefurbishedPinballShop.com includes LED lighting, cleaned mechs, and updated software.
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7. Terminator 2: Judgment Day
This machine is one of the first to incorporate a dot matrix display and voiceovers by Arnold Schwarzenegger. Refurbished models include new boards, reconditioned playfields, and new lighting kits.
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8. Centaur II (Bally)
A dark, fantasy-themed game with a cult following, Centaur II is prized for its artwork and advanced (for its time) multiball gameplay. A refurbished Centaur II is a showcase piece in any collection.
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9. The Getaway: High Speed II (Williams)
Packed with action, The Getaway includes a supercharger loop and high-speed police chases. A refurbished version includes new rubbers, fresh decals, and LED lighting upgrades.
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10. Batman Forever (Sega)
Bright, colorful, and filled with ramps, Batman Forever is an underrated gem. With a large dot matrix display and fun gameplay, refurbished models stand out thanks to full lighting kits and new boards.
What Sets RefurbishedPinballShop.com Apart
Every machine we offer is:
Professionally serviced and cleaned
Play-tested extensively during private events
Fully functional with new boards, rubbers, and lighting
Available for local inspection and nationwide shipping
Backed by limited warranty options on select titles
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We assist with shipping logistics and continue to support our customers, even years after purchase. While older machines are generally sold as-is, we do our best to include repair support and limited coverage where possible.
Final Thoughts
With an ever-growing demand for refurbished arcade and pinball machines, 2025 is the perfect time to invest in a piece of gaming history. Whether you’re adding to a private game room, launching an arcade, or buying your first machine, RefurbishedPinballShop.com offers the best selection of used pinball machines for sale—meticulously restored and ready to play.
Explore top titles like Medieval Madness, Jurassic Park, Black Knight 2000, and more. Get in touch to schedule a showroom visit or browse current inventory online.
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