The Complete Slot Machine Buyer's Guide: What to Know Before You Buy

Buying a slot machine is not like buying a television or a piece of furniture. It is a 275-pound piece of commercial equipment that was engineered to run nonstop in a casino. When you bring one home, you are getting an incredibly well-built entertainment device — but you need to go in with the right information.

We have sold thousands of machines since opening our doors in Kingman, Arizona in 1992. In that time, we have helped everyone from first-time buyers who just want something fun in the basement to serious collectors with dedicated game rooms housing a dozen machines. This guide covers everything we wish every buyer knew before making their first purchase.

Step 1: Check Your State's Laws

Before anything else, confirm that private ownership is legal in your state. The United States breaks down into three categories.

Thirteen states allow unrestricted ownership with no age requirement on the machine. These include Arizona, Nevada, Texas, Ohio, and Alaska among others. You can own any machine regardless of when it was made.

Twenty-eight states allow ownership of machines that are 25 or more years old. In 2026, that means any machine manufactured in 2001 or earlier. This covers the vast majority of machines we sell, including all IGT S2000 machines, most Bally Game Makers, early Williams Bluebirds, and all mechanical reel machines.

Nine states prohibit private ownership entirely. These include Indiana, Connecticut, South Carolina, Tennessee, Hawaii, Nebraska, Wisconsin, New Jersey, and Louisiana. We cannot ship to these states.

We verify legal compliance on every order. If you are in an age-restricted state, we confirm the machine's manufacture date and provide documentation.

Step 2: Understand the Types of Machines

Slot machines fall into several broad categories. Understanding the differences will help you choose what is right for your space and your taste.

Mechanical Reel Machines (Reel Spinners)

These are the classic slot machines with physical spinning reels. You pull the handle or press the spin button, and three or more reels physically spin and stop. The satisfying click-click-click of stopping reels is what most people picture when they think of a slot machine.

Examples include the IGT S2000 with games like Double Diamond, Red White and Blue, and Blazing 7s. Also includes older machines like the IGT S-Plus and some Bally reel machines.

Pros: Authentic feel, mechanical satisfaction, simpler operation, easier to maintain, classic look.

Cons: Limited game variety per machine (usually one game per machine), smaller payline options, no video bonus rounds.

Video Slot Machines

These use a video screen to display virtual reels and bonus features. They offer more paylines (often 20 to 50), animated bonus rounds, second-screen features, and more complex game play.

Examples include WMS Bluebird machines with games like Wizard of Oz and Zeus, Konami video slots, and Bally Alpha video platforms.

Pros: More game variety, exciting bonus features, better graphics, often multi-game capable.

Cons: More complex electronics, potentially more expensive repairs, larger cabinets, can feel less authentic to purists.

Video Poker Machines

These play draw poker, usually with multiple game variations available on a single machine. The IGT Game King is the gold standard here, offering 50 or more poker and slot games on one platform.

Pros: Skill element to gameplay, many game variations, excellent for poker enthusiasts, strong replay value.

Cons: Different appeal than traditional slots, smaller audience.

Multi-Game Machines

These platforms offer multiple games selectable from a menu. You get variety without buying multiple machines. The IGT Game King, Bally Game Maker, and various multi-game platforms fall in this category.

Pros: Maximum variety, great value, one machine does the work of many.

Cons: Higher purchase price, more complex software, some purists prefer dedicated single-game machines.

Upright vs. Slant-Top

This describes the physical cabinet style. An upright machine stands on its own with the screen at eye level — think of a tall refrigerator-shaped cabinet. A slant-top has the screen angled toward you at waist level and requires a stand or base cabinet to bring it to comfortable height.

Uprights are self-contained and take up a standard footprint. Slant-tops offer a more ergonomic playing angle and are the newer casino standard, but they need that extra stand.

Step 3: Know the Manufacturers

Not all slot machines are created equal. Here is what you need to know about the major manufacturers.

IGT (International Game Technology)

The 800-pound gorilla of the slot machine world. IGT makes more machines than anyone else and has for decades. Their S2000 platform is the most popular home machine ever. They also make the Game King video poker platform and the AVP/Trimline video slot series.

IGT machines are reliable, well-documented, and have the widest parts availability of any manufacturer. If you are a first-time buyer, an IGT machine is the safest choice.

Bally Technologies

Now part of Scientific Games, Bally has been making gaming machines since the 1930s. Their Alpha series of video machines offers stunning graphics and popular game themes. The Game Maker multi-game platform is excellent for buyers who want variety.

Bally machines tend to have slightly higher-end construction and aesthetics. They cost a bit more but the build quality justifies it.

WMS (Williams Gaming)

WMS built some of the most creative and entertaining video slots ever made. Their Bluebird and Bluebird 2 cabinets house games with elaborate bonus features and licensed themes. If you want a machine with exciting bonus rounds and creative gameplay, WMS is the way to go.

The downside is that WMS machines can be more complex to service and parts are somewhat less available than IGT.

Aristocrat

An Australian company that has gained massive US market share. Known for games like Buffalo, 5 Dragons, and various linked progressive themes. Their Mark VI and Viridian cabinets are well-built and popular.

Konami

Yes, the same Konami that makes video games. Their slot machines feature clean designs and popular themes. Good mid-range option with solid reliability.

Ainsworth

Another Australian manufacturer with growing US presence. Known for quality construction and entertaining game themes. Good value in the mid-range pricing.

Aruze

Japanese manufacturer with some unique cabinet designs. Less common in the US home market but produces quality machines.

Step 4: Understand What Refurbished Means

Every machine we sell has been refurbished. This is not the same as used. Here is what our refurbishment process involves.

Cleaning and Inspection

Every machine is completely disassembled. The cabinet is cleaned inside and out. All components are inspected for wear, damage, or impending failure.

Component Replacement

Anything worn or questionable gets replaced. This commonly includes light bulbs, button switches, door gaskets, and coin mechanism parts. Bill validators are tested and rebuilt if needed.

Electronics Testing

The main board, game board, and all electronic subsystems are powered up and tested. Error codes are cleared. Memory batteries are checked and replaced if low. Power supplies are tested under load.

Display Calibration

CRT monitors are adjusted for brightness, focus, and color. LCD screens are checked for dead pixels or backlight issues.

Game Testing

Every machine is played through multiple cycles to verify correct operation. Payouts are verified against the pay table. All features and bonus rounds are triggered and tested.

Cosmetic Restoration

Cabinets are touched up where needed. Chrome is polished. Glass panels are cleaned. Decals are replaced if damaged. The goal is a machine that looks good and operates perfectly.

After refurbishment, every machine is play-tested for a minimum of several hours before being approved for sale.

Step 5: Space and Electrical Requirements

Physical Dimensions

A typical upright slot machine measures approximately 20 inches wide, 22 inches deep, and 42 to 52 inches tall depending on the model. With a slant-top on a stand, total height is similar.

You need at least 24 inches of width to accommodate the machine, and ideally 30 inches so you can open doors for service access. Depth should allow at least 6 inches behind the machine for air circulation and cable access.

Weight

Most machines weigh between 200 and 350 pounds. An IGT S2000 weighs approximately 275 pounds. Video machines with larger cabinets can approach 350 pounds. Make sure your floor can handle the weight — any standard residential floor will, but if you are putting it on a second floor, keep it near a wall rather than the center of the room.

Electrical

All machines run on standard 110V/120V household current (standard US wall outlet). They draw between 2 and 5 amps depending on the machine. A dedicated 15-amp circuit is recommended but not required. Use a quality surge protector.

Do not plug a slot machine into a power strip with other high-draw devices. Give it its own outlet or share only with low-draw items like lamps.

Heat and Ventilation

Slot machines generate some heat, particularly older CRT-equipped models. Allow at least 6 inches of clearance behind and 3 inches on each side for airflow. Do not put them in enclosed cabinets or closets without ventilation.

Noise

Slot machines make noise. Spinning reels click, coins drop into the tray (if coin-operated), and speakers play music and sound effects. Most machines have a volume control. In coin mode, the hopper payout is the loudest component. In free-play mode, machines are much quieter since there is no coin handling.

Step 6: What Is Included With Your Machine

When you buy from us, here is what comes with your machine.

• The complete machine with all components installed
• Power cord
• Keys (all locks keyed alike for convenience)
• Bill validator (accepts $1, $5, $10, $20 bills)
• Coin handling mechanism (hopper, acceptor)
• All original glass panels and displays
• Operating manual or instruction card where available
• Certificate of manufacture date (for age-restricted states)
• 1-year warranty on parts and labor guidance
• Free lifetime tech support by phone

Stands for slant-top machines are sold separately. Tokens are available for purchase if you prefer them over quarters.

Step 7: Our Warranty and Tech Support

1-Year Parts Warranty

Every machine we sell comes with a full 1-year warranty. If any component fails during normal use within the first year, we send you the replacement part at no charge. This covers electronics, mechanical components, displays, and power supplies. It does not cover physical damage from drops or mishandling.

Free Lifetime Tech Support

This is what separates us from other sellers. Buy a machine from us, and you can call us for help anytime — whether it is one month or ten years after purchase. Our technicians have decades of combined experience with every platform we sell.

Most issues can be resolved over the phone in under 15 minutes. We will walk you through diagnostics, part replacement, and error code clearing. If you need a part after the warranty period, we sell them at cost.

Step 8: Red Flags When Buying Elsewhere

If you are considering buying from someone other than an established dealer, watch for these warning signs.

No Warranty Offered

Any seller confident in their product will offer at least some warranty. No warranty means they do not stand behind what they sell.

Cannot Verify Manufacture Date

If a seller cannot tell you exactly when a machine was made, they either do not know what they have or are being evasive. This matters for legal compliance in age-restricted states.

Stock Photos Instead of Actual Machine Photos

You should see photos of the specific machine you are buying. Stock photos hide condition issues.

Unusually Low Prices

If a price seems too good to be true, the machine likely has undisclosed problems. A working, refurbished machine has a market value. Significantly below that suggests issues.

No Physical Location

Be wary of sellers with no showroom or verifiable business address. A legitimate dealer has a physical location you can visit or verify.

Pressure to Pay by Wire Transfer or Cryptocurrency

Legitimate businesses accept credit cards and standard payment methods that offer buyer protection.

No Tech Support

A machine without tech support is a machine that will eventually become a 275-pound paperweight. These are complex devices and you will need help at some point.

Step 9: How to Order From Us

Our process is straightforward.

Browse and Select

Look through our current inventory online or call us to discuss what you are looking for. We have 334 machines in stock and can usually match you with exactly what you want.

Verify Legality

We confirm your state allows the machine you are selecting. For age-restricted states, we verify the machine meets the age requirement.

Payment

We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, and bank transfers. Full payment is collected at time of order.

Preparation and Shipping

Your machine is final-tested, cleaned, and prepared for shipping. We shrink-wrap it to a pallet and schedule pickup with our freight carrier. Typical ship time is 2 to 5 business days after order depending on our current volume.

Delivery

LTL freight delivers to your curb with liftgate service. Transit time is 3 to 10 business days depending on distance. You will receive tracking information and a delivery appointment window.

Setup

Unwrap, position, plug in, and play. We include setup guidance and are available by phone if you need help.

Common Questions We Hear

Can I change the game theme later?

On some platforms, yes. IGT S2000 machines can be converted to different themes by swapping the game chip and reel strips. This is a straightforward process. Multi-game machines already have multiple themes built in.

Do I need to keep it stocked with coins?

No. Every machine we sell can be set to free play mode. Press a button to add credits without inserting anything. Many customers prefer this since it eliminates coin handling and reduces noise.

Can I adjust the payout percentage?

On most machines, the payout percentage is determined by the game chip and cannot be changed by the owner without swapping chips. The factory-set percentages are typically between 92 and 98 percent, which provides entertaining play.

How long do these machines last?

Decades. We regularly service machines from the 1980s and 1990s that are still running perfectly. In a home environment with moderate use, a well-maintained machine will outlast you.

What if something breaks?

Call us. We provide free lifetime tech support. Most issues are minor — a bulb, a stuck coin, an error code that needs clearing. We walk you through the fix over the phone. If you need a part, we stock them and ship quickly.

Can I have multiple machines on one circuit?

One machine per standard 15-amp circuit is recommended. Two machines on a 20-amp circuit is usually fine. Avoid putting three or more on a single circuit as the cumulative draw can trip the breaker, especially during simultaneous hopper payouts.

Do I need internet for the machine to work?

No. Slot machines are completely self-contained. They do not need internet, network connections, or any external service. Plug into power and play.

How loud is a slot machine?

With volume at medium and in free-play mode, comparable to a television at normal volume. In coin mode during payouts, the hopper dropping coins into the tray is noticeably louder — similar to a coffee grinder for a few seconds. Volume is adjustable on all machines.