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Thinking about adding a burst of fun to your home, office, or pub? A basketball arcade game is like a tiny carnival squeezed into a corner — instant nostalgia, simple rules, and serious replay value. Whether you want something that serves as a social hub at parties or a revenue driver in a bar or family entertainment center, these machines are approachable for all ages. They’re compact compared with full-size hoops, often standing around 6 feet tall and taking up a 4-foot by 6-foot footprint, so they fit in basements and game rooms without turning the space into a gym. Plus, the instant feedback and competitive scoring keep players coming back for “one more round,” which makes these games great for both casual fun and coin-operated income.
Before you dive into deals, ask yourself: how will you use it and who will play it? Key features to compare include the cabinet build, scoring electronics, hoop size, ramp material, and sound system. A sturdy cabinet with reinforced corners lasts longer if you expect heavy footfall. Electronic scoreboards and adjustable difficulty settings are useful for venues that want to run tournaments or timed play. For home use you might prioritize quieter fans and lower-profile lights. Also consider power needs — some units run on standard household sockets, while commercial units might need higher draw; always check the label and plan accordingly. Think about portability too: if you plan to move it, look for models with skids or castors and a manageable weight, usually in the range of 150–250 pounds.
In the UK market there’s a mix of big-name retailers and specialist suppliers that stock basketball arcade games. The right place to buy depends on whether you want a brand-new machine, a premium commercial model, or a refurbished classic. Big online marketplaces often have the broadest selection and competitive prices, while specialist arcade suppliers offer customization, installation advice, and aftercare. Below I highlight popular outlets where shoppers commonly find good deals and support.
Amazon UK is a natural starting point thanks to its huge inventory and user reviews. You’ll find a range from compact, budget-friendly home units to higher-end commercial-style machines. The advantage? Quick comparison, verified buyer feedback, and filtering by price or feature. Remember that sellers vary: some list new stock while others sell used or imported units. If you like fast browsing and frequent deals, Amazon’s marketplace model often reveals sharp discounts, especially during seasonal sales.
Argos has long been a go-to for family gaming and often stocks branded or licensed home basketball arcade games. Their catalog is straightforward, making it easy to pick a model that fits a living room or kid’s den. Argos’ promotions can bring down the price on entry-level models, and their clear product pages help with measuring space before buying. For buyers who prefer a high-street presence and predictable pricing, Argos remains a sensible option.
Smyths Toys focuses on family and children’s entertainment, so you’ll find sturdy, child-friendly basketball arcade sets that balance durability with affordability. The emphasis is often on safe materials and easy setup. If you’re buying for kids’ parties or a family game room, Smyths carries models that are lighter and simpler to operate, and they sometimes bundle games for extra value.
eBay is excellent for hunters looking for bargains or rare vintage arcade pieces. You can pick up refurbished commercial units, import machines, or parts to repair an older hoop. The trick is to read seller histories and photos carefully: weight, condition, and whether the scoreboard is fully functional are crucial. For a tight budget or a DIY restoration project, eBay often yields the best value-per-pound buys, but expect to factor in transport and potential repair costs.
If you want pro-grade machines for a pub, arcade, or family entertainment center, specialist suppliers are the way to go. Companies like Arcade World UK and The Amusement Store offer commercial-grade gameplay, warranties, and service plans. They can advise on coin mechanisms, token systems, and robust electronics designed to handle thousands of plays. These suppliers also typically offer installation and custom branding — great for venues wanting a tailored look that fits an interior theme.
Costco occasionally stocks larger household entertainment items, including arcade-style basketball games in its larger warehouses or online club. If you have a membership, Costco can offer competitive pricing on entry-level to mid-range units, often with good return conditions and bundled warranties. For bulk buyers or commercial operators, checking wholesale and cash-and-carry suppliers can shave significant amounts off the per-unit cost.
Which model should you pick? Popular names in the arcade basketball scene include Raw Thrills, ICE (Innovative Concepts in Entertainment), and smaller European manufacturers that specialize in family-friendly rides. For home use, look at brands that emphasize compact design and straightforward setup. For commercial settings, aim for brands with replaceable parts and solid aftercare policies. A classic two-lane machine with electronic scoring is versatile and great for head-to-head play, while single-lane compact units suit cozy spaces. Think of the machine like a car: some are built for city commuting (home models), others for the open road (commercial machines), and you want the one that matches your driving style.
How much room do you need? A typical two-lane arcade basketball machine often stands about 6 feet tall and can extend 8 feet in length when accounting for the ramp and play area. Allow extra space for player movement — roughly 3 feet behind each player and a couple of feet on the sides — so the game doesn’t feel cramped. Electrical access is usually standard household sockets for smaller machines, but check power ratings for commercial models. If you’re installing a heavy unit in a high-traffic area, secure it to the floor or wall where appropriate and consider protecting the surrounding surfaces with mats to prevent scuffing. For landlords or venues, confirm any structural rules before bolting large equipment to the floor.
Deals can be tempting, but a cheap machine that breaks after a few weeks isn’t a deal at all. Look for machines with metal-reinforced hoops, solid playfield material, and reputable electronics. Warranties and available replacement parts are key indicators of a manufacturer’s confidence. Watch for seasonal promotions around holidays and gaming events, and compare seller ratings and customer photos to avoid surprises. Don’t be afraid to ask sellers about spare parts availability and calibration services — a little due diligence saves you time and pounds down the road.
Think of maintenance like tuning a musical instrument: regular tweaks keep the performance sharp. Clean the ramp and ball return frequently to avoid accumulation of dust and dirt that can affect ball roll. Check bolts and screws monthly, lubricate moving parts where recommended, and keep the electronic scoreboard dust-free for best visibility. For commercial machines, establish a simple checklist for downtime inspections so problems are caught early. Replacing worn nets, balls, and backboard seams is often inexpensive and will dramatically extend the life of your game.
Second-hand machines can be bargains, but inspect carefully. Ask the seller for photos of the internal electronics, the condition of the scoring display, and how the sensors perform. Test the cabinet for water damage, warping, or heavy dents. Verify that replacement parts are still manufactured or available — older models might have legacy components that are expensive to source. If possible, test a playthrough to check scoring accuracy and ball return speed. If you’re not confident in technical checks, consider bringing a knowledgeable friend or hiring a short inspection service; their fee may be worth the peace of mind.
Venue owners often want their games to match a theme or brand. Many specialist suppliers offer customization options: custom decals, marquee art, sound packs, and coin or token systems that match your venue’s revenue model. Customization not only improves aesthetics but can also enhance user experience — themed graphics can attract more players and create better photo opportunities for social media. Ask about logo placement, lighting tweaks, and how the supplier handles future upgrades so your investment grows with your business.
If you’re buying multiple units for a venue or looking to spread cost, many suppliers offer financing or lease-to-own options. Bulk purchases can unlock discounts from both mainstream retailers and specialist suppliers. For business buyers, consider the total cost of ownership: maintenance, spare parts, and energy consumption can all affect profitability. Running simple projections — estimated plays per day, price per play, and expected maintenance — helps gauge how quickly the machine will pay for itself.
At the end of the day, match the machine to your intended use. If the goal is casual family fun, choose a compact, quieter unit with easy assembly and low weight. If you plan to put the machine into heavy daily use in a bar or arcade, invest in a commercial-grade unit that can take knocks and has replaceable electronics and certified components. Think of the purchase as picking the right tool: a hobbyist doesn’t need a professional’s drill press, but a workshop that runs eight hours a day certainly does. Choose accordingly, and you’ll get more joy — and fewer headaches — from the purchase.
Want to bag a bargain? Sign up for newsletters from retailers, set price alerts on marketplaces, and follow specialist suppliers on social media for flash sales. Attend local trade fairs or gaming expos where suppliers often showcase demo units at lower prices. Don’t underestimate showroom models — demo units are usually well-maintained and can be heavily discounted. Lastly, negotiate — especially with independent suppliers or when buying multiple units. A friendly chat can often open doors to better terms or included extras like spare balls or a service visit.
Shopping for a basketball arcade game in the UK can be as much fun as playing one. With careful comparison between mainstream retailers and specialist suppliers, attention to space and maintenance needs, and a clear sense of how you’ll use the machine, you’ll be set to make a buy that delivers years of play. Whether you’re chasing a family-friendly corner piece or a crowd-drawing commercial machine, the right purchase should feel like the perfect slam-dunk — satisfying, exciting, and worth the investment.
| Basketball Arcade Games | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Minecraft Arcade Basketball | £ 25,- |
