At Pinballs.com, we maintain an extensive inventory of Stern pinball machines, featuring the latest releases alongside popular titles across Pro, Premium, Limited Edition, and specialty models. Our selection includes iconic themes from Star Wars and Marvel franchises to classic rock legends like Metallica and Led Zeppelin, ensuring there’s a perfect machine for every enthusiast. As an authorized Stern dealer, we offer professional installation services to ensure your new pinball machine is properly leveled, calibrated, and ready for optimal gameplay. Our partnership with Stern Pinball – the world’s oldest and largest producer of real arcade-quality pinball machines – means you receive factory-backed warranties, genuine parts, and access to the industry’s most innovative gaming technology, backed by our team’s decades of combined experience in pinball sales and service.

Stern Manufacturing History

Stern Pinball Inc. stands as the last remaining major manufacturer of arcade-quality pinball machines in the world, carrying forward a legacy that stretches back to 1977. Founded by Gary Stern, whose family has been involved in the coin-operated amusement industry since the 1930s, Stern Pinball emerged during pinball’s golden era and has successfully navigated the industry’s evolution through changing entertainment landscapes. Based in Elk Grove Village, Illinois, Stern has produced over 50,000 pinball machines and continues to innovate with cutting-edge technology while honoring the mechanical artistry that defines the pinball experience.

Throughout its history, Stern has secured licenses with the entertainment industry’s biggest names, creating officially branded machines featuring properties from major studios including Disney, Marvel, Lucasfilm, Universal, and Warner Bros. The company’s commitment to quality craftsmanship is evident in every machine, which undergoes rigorous testing and features hand-assembled components built to withstand decades of play. Under Gary Stern’s continued leadership, the company has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, introducing multiple model tiers – Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition – to serve collectors and casual players alike. Today, Stern Pinball machines are found in homes, arcades, and entertainment venues across the globe, representing the gold standard in pinball manufacturing and ensuring the art form continues to thrive for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between Stern’s Pro, Premium, and Limited Edition models?

Stern offers three main tiers to suit different budgets and preferences. Pro models provide the core gameplay experience with essential features at the most accessible price point. Premium models include enhanced artwork, additional playfield features, upgraded lighting packages, and exclusive game modes that aren’t available on Pro versions. Limited Edition models are produced in smaller quantities and feature the most elaborate cabinet artwork, premium trim, numbered plaques, exclusive translites, and often include special collectible components. All three versions share the same basic game code and rules, but Premium and LE models offer expanded gameplay depth and visual appeal for serious collectors.

Do Stern pinball machines require special maintenance?

Stern pinball machines are built for durability but do benefit from routine maintenance to ensure optimal performance. Basic care includes regular cleaning of the playfield glass, occasional waxing of the playfield surface, and checking rubber rings for wear. Most owners can handle these simple tasks themselves. More technical maintenance – such as switch adjustments, flipper rebuilds, or electronic troubleshooting – may require professional service every few years depending on usage. Stern machines use modern solid-state electronics that are generally reliable, and replacement parts are readily available through authorized dealers. We recommend keeping your machine in a climate-controlled environment away from direct sunlight to preserve the cabinet artwork and playfield components.

Can I customize or upgrade my Stern pinball machine after purchase?

Absolutely! One of the great advantages of owning a Stern pinball machine is the active aftermarket community and availability of upgrades. Popular modifications include LED lighting kits to replace standard bulbs, custom side art or cabinet decals, upgraded speaker systems, and decorative playfield toys or mods created by third-party manufacturers. Stern also releases code updates throughout a game’s lifecycle that add new features, modes, and balancing improvements – these can often be downloaded and installed via USB. Many owners enjoy personalizing their machines with custom shaker motors, undercabinet lighting, or themed accessories that enhance the playing experience. We can advise you on compatible upgrades and connect you with reputable modification suppliers to help you create your perfect machine.