Build a Virtual Pinball Machine on a Budget
A practical guide to creating your own arcade cabinet without breaking the bank
How to build a Virtual Pinball Machine and still keep your wife
I may have narrowed my target audience here a bit. If you aren't married then you could assume that the above means that virtual pinball machines can be expensive. The virtual pinball cabinet is the only thing in the arcade that I obsessed over more than the Secret bookcase door (It's technically a secret doorway bookcase but I really think that sounds dumb, roll with me on it).
In reality, virtual pinball tables range from $700 to over $10,000. Even do it yourself builds can cost upwards of $5,000. NOT TODAY folks. While I will leave the full DIY build instructions to extremely capable people like Michael J Roberts and TheWayOfTheWrench, I am going to share my process and how I was able to build a fully capable, 4k 120hz blazing fast Virtual pinball machine with real pinball parts and Surround Sound feedback (don't worry these terms will quickly become staples in your brain).
Before I get to that, there is some lengthy and necessary topics to cover for those who decided that they want a virtual pinball machine but have yet to decide how to obtain one.
Ultimate 4K Virtual Pinball Guide 2025: Build or Buy?
Hey pinball enthusiasts, Jeremy here from TheCraftyCatsman.com! Welcome to my DIY speakeasy arcade. In this video, we're diving deep into the world of Virtual Pinball Machines. DIY Virtual Pinball Machines, AtGames and Arcade1up Virtual Pinball Machines, Flat pack kits and more.
This hobby is one of my favorites and the community is bursting at the seams with helpful people and talented creators. I created this video as a labor of love to help steer you in the right direction. There's more to come so Tenderly Tap the Like button and subscribe to stay up to date on this growing segment of our channel!
📽️ Video Chapters:
- 0:00 - Introduction
- 1:34 - What is Virtual Pinball?
- 2:44 - Virtual Pinball: Common Terms
- 2:54 - Surround Sound Feedback (SSF)
- 4:06 - Direct Output Framework (DOF)
- 4:34 - DOF HD vs SD Side by Side Comparison
- 4:44 - Refresh Rate
- 5:06 - Resolution
- 5:30 - CPU / GPU Requirements
- 6:23 - Building vs Buying Overview
- 7:01 - Buying Options: AtGames and Arcade1up
- 7:32 - Buying Options: Cabinet Builders
- 9:23 - Building a Cabinet: Flat Pack Kits and more
- 11:19 - Building a Cabinet: Electronics
- 11:46 - Building a Cabinet: Programming
- 12:10 - Building a Cabinet: Wrap up
- 12:45 - Building a Cabinet: Tips
- 13:42 - Resources
🔗 Useful Links and Resources:
- Visit TheCraftyCatsman: DIY Basement Speakeasy Arcade Bar
- Virtual Pinball Machine Guide: Tips When Deciding to Build or Buy
💸 Pinball Discounts:
- VirtuaPin: VirtuaPin - Paul at VirtuaPin is creating some exciting discounts and new bundle deals just for this release.
- PinOne Mini Controller: PinOne Mini Controller
- German Gaming Supplies: German Gaming Supplies - for my German friends
📺 Recommended Channels and Creators:
- Way of the Wrench
- Nailbuster
- Michael J Roberts
- TerryRed
- VPForums
- VPUniverse
🙏 Pinball Table Creators:
VPW (Virtual Pinball Workshop), JP Salas, TerryRed, Rothbauerw, Ninuzzu, Bord, Knorr, Loserman76, 32assassin, Javier, Flupper, UnclePaulie, TastyWasps, Joe Picasso, Apophis, Tomate, Sixtoe, Fleep, nFozzy, Xenonph, Hauntfreaks, ClarkKent, EBisLit, BorgDog, Herweh, Mussinger, Rascal, Solters, Ahr1man, Franck Hollinger, Antonio Ortuno Nicolas
🙏 Special Thanks:
- John Thomsen: VirtuaPin Flat Pack Kit Video
- Joe Marsello: VirtuaPin Cabinet Video
- Emil: For the invaluable insights and for allowing us to feature his content.
- Speedyballs: For showcasing the LED Matrix upgrade.
👥 Join the Community:
- Visual Pinball Addicts
- Virtual Pinball and VPin Cab Builders
- Virtual Pinball Custom LED Effects (VPCLE)
- World of Virtual Pinball
How to Build a Modern Virtual Pinball Machine, on a Budget
Abstract
The Journey…
I spent years and countless hours of deliberation on this virtual pinball machine. The fantastic thing about this hobby is that you can enter at whatever stage you are comfortable. From building the entire virtual pinball machine from scratch to purchasing fully built and assembled virtual pinball cabinets that use real pinball parts.
I will not attempt to explain the build process because that has been done by remarkable people that are more capable than me (google MJR, TheWayOfTheWrench) there are also extensive and extremely helpful forums that very likely have answers to questions that you may have along the way, including troubleshooting.
There are dozens of decisions to make, and deciding which path to walk was one of the most daunting parts of the entire process. In fact, the plethora of information available can be overwhelming and sometimes confusing. This is because the hobby has existed for over a decade and it is regularly changing. Advice from a few years ago may actually cause more harm than good, I have come across many situations where a complicated workaround was explained in great detail but further research showed that some smart person wrote the solution into code and a much simpler solution existed.
The goal of this post is to summarize the years of research that I put into my machine, to provide an overview of the current options for Virtual Pinball Machines along with their pros and cons. Most importantly, I will attempt to outline what I consider to be fundamental needs for a modern machine, as well as my opinion on things that are optional or not necessary.
I hope that this information helps you make an educated decision on what to do with your own machine. Their is no "right way" to build a virtual pinball machine and budgets for the project are often all over the map. I will also pepper in some "clever" ways to cut down on costs, without sacrificing what I feel to be necessities given the recent developments of Virtual Pinball.
THE THREE PILLARS
WOODWORKING
Creating the physical cabinet either from scratch or from a kit
- ● Cabinet construction
- ● Material selection
- ● Precise measurements
- ● Finishing techniques
ELECTRONICS
Installing displays, computer, buttons, and feedback systems
- ● Multi-display setup
- ● Control circuits
- ● Tactile feedback
- ● LED lighting
SOFTWARE
Setting up simulation engines, ROMs, tables, and specialized effects
- ● Visual Pinball setup
- ● Table configuration
- ● DOF integration
- ● Launcher systems
Each area requires different skills, and the depth of involvement depends on your chosen approach. Pre-built machines minimize your involvement but at a higher cost, while DIY maximizes customization at the expense of complexity.
CHOOSE YOUR PATH
Buy Pre-Built
Fully assembled machines ready to play
- Price: $700-$10,000+
- Pros: Ready to play, no assembly needed
- Cons: Higher cost, limited customization
- Best for: Those prioritizing convenience
Flat-Pack Kit
CNC-cut cabinet parts that you assemble
- Price: $1,100-$6,100
- Pros: Precise cuts, simplified build process
- Cons: Still requires electronics assembly
- Best for: Those with limited woodworking tools
DIY Build
Design and build from raw materials
- Price: $500-$5,000
- Pros: Full customization, lowest cost
- Cons: Requires tools and skills
- Best for: Makers and woodworking enthusiasts
Buying a Virtual Pinball Machine: Assembled
The Assembled world of Virtual Pinball is as diverse as the ethics of the people that sell them. Below we are going to discuss three (3) categoies of retail Virtual Pinball Machines. Click the image (on the first two) to see the systems.
AtGames Legends Pinball
The Assembled world of Virtual Pinball is as diverse as the ethics of the people that sell them. Below we are going to discuss three (3) categoies of retail Virtual Pinball Machines. Click the image (on the first two) to see the systems.
Cabinet Builders
CNC cut precision – $500 – $7,000+
This is a remarkable space filled with a plethora of options. Cabinet builders like Virtuapin offer options to suit your taste and their standard dimensions allow for easy vinyl customization.
My advice here is to research the seller heavily. I mention Virtuapin a number of times on this page because of my interactions with them. Other sites offer flashy machines but have a poor reputation for customer service that I witnessed first hand.
Tip: Avoid MDF, email the manufacturer and see how responsive they are.
Cabinet Capitalists
Controversial: $500 – $10,000+
The online world of assembled Virtual Pinball Machines is riddled with good natured hobbyists making beautiful machines as well as darker corners of the web where retailers sell fully loaded machines, capitalizing on the years of work that hobbyist programmers put in to make the games. In my research some sellers know full well that they are doing wrong and some do not.
It is easy to stumble on kits like this and be none the wiser, it wasn't until I dove deep into the programming that I realized that sellers like this are a problem.
The lesson here is that the people that make the virtual pinball games can not sell you those games. The program that runs these games is also free. Therefore, it is a heavy point of contention when an online Virtual Pinball Manufacturer pre-packages their pinball machine with software and games as it then turns this hobby into a for profit business, risking the entire ecosystem.
Popular sites that host developer made games like VPForums.org and VPUniverse.com make the above message known and broadcast it in bold all over their sites.
This is a necessary section to talk about because it is inevitable that you will come across one. We are currently reviewing sellers of fully assembled Virtual Pinball machines – This section will be updated as soon as we have a list of sellers that are willing to sell their machines without software pre-loaded (trust me, you will thank me for that once you get fully invested in the hobby)
How to Build a Modern Virtual Pinball Machine, on a Budget
Building a Virtual Pinball Machine with a Kit
Virtual Pinball cabinet building can be broken down into three distinct categories.
Woodworking STEP 1
The first is the woodbuilding portion. Building a cabinet requires power tools and precise measurements. If you have basic powertools and an ability to follow along then I still recommend that you build, not buy your cabinet frame. People like TheWayOfTheWrench have went through the build process in fascinating detail, so much so that it's not worth me posting my own DIY build instructions. Check him out on YouTube and watch a few of his videos, it will give you an idea for the level of detail that is required for the project.
Don't go jumping just yet you click happy cat, I will say that I disagree with his use of a 1080P playfield monitor. While 4k 120hz displays will require a better GPU to run, I was able to snag a used x80j 4k 120hz tv for $200. I will get into that more below. Besides that, study his videos – he is a teacher and it shows. The videos are easy to follow and will really help summarize all of what is out there.
PRO TIP: If you watch TheWayOfTheWrench's videos and decide that building the cabinet frame is not for you, then go for a pre-built kit.
There are plenty of small businesses that will CNC cut your virtual pinball cabinet from plywood for a price but in my research the best option is a widebody flat pack from Virtuapin.
I prefer Virtuapin because their customer service is stellar. Paul (the owner) always answers the phone and is happy to talk through things. He is one of the original people in the space and has a tremendous amount of knowledge to share. Virtuapin also sells cabinet kits that can be useful in your build (buttons, legs, etc…). They also sell "fully trimmed" options that take care of most of the build work for you (you will still need to do all of the electronics).
Electronics STEP 2
Woodworking isn't the only requirement for this build, in fact it only accounts for about half of the work. The electronics and programming side is arguably more arduous than the woodworking. It is one of the main reasons I almost chickened out on the project.
CONFIDENCE BOOST: I did not feel like I was qualified to do the work required to get the system to work but after watching a lot of the videos from TheWayOfTheWrench I decided that I could follow along and get it done.
I encourage you not to shy away from the project for fear of the electronic side….the community has everything you need laid out in very plain and easy to follow instructions. Don't be that scaredy cat posting every little question on the forums, do some googling and I am confident that you will be able to figure things out.
Programming STEP 3
Ah, the gift that keeps on giving. Downloading software and adding tables is truly the gift that keeps on giving. The community is constantly releasing new and updated tables and functions – if any of you are reading this, thank you for your efforts!
The overarching message here is that you will spend time getting the tables that you want to work. The majority of builders agree that this is a right of passage and a true way to get into the mechanics of the table, allowing you to tinker to your hearts desire.
For example, after you download a new table you can also choose the media for it (the backglass, wheel art, topper etc). Further, you can edit how the table actually looks (tilt, position, etc…). This level of detail is exactly why I created the acrylic light that I mentioned above.
Saying there is a "darker side" to programming is a bit of an overstatement but it should be mentioned. Aside from the wonderful world of tinkering there is some level of maintenance associated with programing. From time to time you will adjust screen positions, your DMD may randomly end up on the wrong screen and you will have to move it to the right place again. These tweaks are minor and average out to about 2-3 minutes of prep before play (some may have streamlined this better, but that's my average).
How to Build a Modern Virtual Pinball Machine, on a Budget
Diving All In on a Virtual Pinball Machine Build
A test of your skillsets with a hugely rewarding payoff.
Virtual Pinball Machine – Build From Scratch
If you are considering this, then you are a risk taker. There is no other reason to be on this page of TheCraftyCatsman unless you are on the fence about this very decision. Our strays regularly walked the fences of Philadelphia but rest assured they made it to their destination. Yeah, this is a shameless cat metaphor themed website, get used to it.
A full build will test your skillset, from woodworking to electronics this was hands down the most complicated "home" project that I haven taken on. It was hidden bookcase door levels of stepping out of my comfort zone paired with a whole new fear of low voltage electronics. In the end, I will confidently assure you that the resources are there for you to get this done.
IMPORTANT: A full build allows you to take your time and save the most amount of money while getting the virtual pinball machine that you want. Be warned, this is not a weekend job. This project took months with many intricate rewarding steps.
See below for my biggest tips as well as things that I learned along the way.
How to Build a Modern Virtual Pinball Machine, on a Budget
Virtual Pinball Cabinet Building: Displays
Playfield: 42-43" 4k 120hz
Update: Since posting this my 43″ X85J kicked the bucket. I went into hyper drive research and even had two of the top choices in my cabinet testing them as side by side as can be. Because of this, I decided to create a separate page discussing the playfield choice that I made and why.
BackBox: 32" 1080P
Recommendation: Any used 32″ 1080p
Once again, these are deals that you have to be patient on. Instead of searching for "32 inch 1080p" tv, search for all 32″ tvs and pay attention to the model number. If the model number isn't listed just ask!
Often sellers are looking to dump these smaller TVs as they are not in high demand. They may not even check to see what the resolution is. A seller that promotes a 32″ 1080p tv likely wants to get a premium price. I grabbed a LG 32″ 1080p tv for $25 because it was missing the stand and had some scratches on the frame. These are two things that do not matter in a backbox.
DMD: Full DMD
Recommendation: 1920×1080 15.6″
Purists will say go with a real DMD for the virtual pinball machine while modernists will swear by a full DMD. In my opinion it is better to use a full 1920x1080p DMD screen. Full screen DMDs can replicate the dimensions of a real DMD but a real DMD can never go full screen.
Real DMDs will look more authentic but I don't think that detail is worth the sacrifice. TerryRed (and others) have developed some beautiful games that utilize a full screen DMD.
eBay Warning:
This was one of my most frustrating purchasing experiences. Multiple sellers on eBay sold me one model but shipped another. Often lower resolution and most importantly incompatible with the control board that I was using. I paid a bit of a premium for Amazon sold products but everything came correct and working on the first try. eBay may help you cut this cost by $20 but in my opinion it just isn't worth it. Save money elsewhere.
Topper Very unnecessary
Someone bought me the topper hardware for Christmas, otherwise I would likely have did without one. Toppers are cool but completely unnecessary as they don't serve any functional purpose during gameplay. They look great as an unecessary addition to your virtual pinball machine though!
I am running this 1920×515 display, it has a solid build quality and the image is clear.
Full DMD, Control Board
The control board is a critical component for connecting your DMD display to your system. Make sure to get a compatible controller for your specific display model.
Look for boards that support both HDMI and VGA inputs for maximum flexibility.
FULL DMD, Power Supply
Don't overlook the power supply for your DMD display. You'll need a reliable power supply that provides clean, steady power to avoid display issues.
This power supply has been tested and proven to work reliably with the recommended Full DMD setup.
HD Matrix Cool Addition
I upgraded to a HD Matrix for my LED DOF configuration. These LED effects are far from necessary but in my opinion truly add to the immersion and excitement of the game. There are SD and HD matrix's available, the above image is a snippit from my HD matrix.
The dense LED matrix allows for some awesome custom graphics. The Virtual Pinball Custom LED Effects (VPCLE) group on Facebook is run by the creators of HD Matrix Displays. I strongly suggest that you join that group. Say hi and tell 'em TheCraftyCatsman sent you!
Recommended Gaming PC Specs
My PC Buying Experience
I had quite the adventure buying a PC for my virtual pinball machine. I decided to go used via Amazon warehouse. The first PC was shipped without a GPU inside of it! Amazon of course took the unit back, they have always been fantastic about returns.
Virtual Pinball has evolved dramatically and newer tables are power-hungry graphic-gobbling monsters. There's a significant difference between classic tables like Attack from Mars and modern ones like Future Pinball's Star Wars - both are extremely fun but have very different hardware requirements.
While the GPU is critical, a good modern CPU is equally important because virtual pinball typically runs on a single core. My RX 6700XT handles four screens and PUP packs well, but even it struggles when all the Star Wars lights are flashing with tie fighters flying above.
PRO TIP: Wait for PC sales, then check Amazon Warehouse or Best Buy open box for deeper discounts. Run stress tests to verify performance. I paid $800 used for a PC that normally sells for over $1,200. This is a great way to save on this essential component without compromising quality.
Clicking these affiliate links supports the site at no extra cost to you. I receive a small commission from Amazon purchases made after clicking, which helps fund new content and site updates.
Full Size DMD using speaker fabric and reclaimed wood
The full size DMD screen has a plywood backing which is then layered with 2/32″ reclaimed wood. The speaker cutouts were made using speaker fabric that I bought off amazon. Navigate through the pictures below to see the different stages of the full DMD build.
Scroll to the gallery below to see the build progression from start to finish
How to Build a Modern Virtual Pinball Machine, on a Budget
Virtual Pinball Machine Building: My Build
Here are some pics, tips and tricks for different parts of my build.
Virtual Pinball Machine – Reclaimed wood cabinet
My cabinet uses 22/32 plywood at the core. I then layered with 2/32″ reclaimed wood to create the aesthetic exterior. The wood was thinned down from much thicker boards using a combination of circular saw, hack saw and a planer. The 2/32″ boards were then glued and nailed using copper nails.
This fit the design of my speakeasy arcade.
DISPLAY COMPONENTS SUMMARIZED
Your virtual pinball machine needs the right screens to create an immersive experience. Here's what you'll need for optimal visuals:
Playfield Display
Recommendation: 42-43" 4K 120Hz TV. The main playing surface display. Higher refresh rates and 4K resolution provide the smoothest ball movement and clearest visuals. Consider models like Sony X85J (used markets often have good deals).
Backbox Display
Recommendation: 32" 1080p TV. Displays scoreboard and backglass art. Resolution is less critical here than for the playfield. Used TVs work perfectly fine for this purpose.
DMD Display
Recommendation: 15.6" 1080p LCD. Displays game status, scores, and animations. Full-sized DMD displays are preferable to traditional DMD for their versatility, allowing both classic dot matrix and modern full-screen animations.
Optional: Topper Display
A decorative screen mounted on top of the backbox. While visually appealing, this is entirely optional and does not affect gameplay. Typically uses a widescreen display with 1920×515 resolution.
FEEL THE GAME: SURROUND SOUND FEEDBACK
Haptic Feedback System
The secret sauce to immersive virtual pinball
One of the most significant developments in virtual pinball is Surround Sound Feedback (SSF), which provides localized tactile feedback throughout the cabinet. This system uses exciters (specialized speakers) mounted to the cabinet frame and bass shakers to simulate the physical sensations of a real pinball machine.
SSF creates remarkably authentic experiences:
- Realistic ball rolling sounds with directional tracking
- Localized bumper impacts that you can feel
- Tactile flipper button feedback
- Vibrations for various game events
While technically optional, SSF dramatically improves immersion and is highly recommended for any serious build.
SSF COMPONENTS GUIDE
Building a top-tier SSF system requires these essential components:
Exciters
Recommendation: Dayton Audio DAEX32QMB-4
. Mount 2-4 of these small speakers to the cabinet frame to provide positional audio feedback. They create the sensation of ball rolling, flipper movements, and bumper hits in specific locations.
Check Price on Amazon
Bass Shakers
Recommendation: Dayton Audio BST-1
. Provides stronger vibrations for impacts and events. Dramatically improves the tactile feedback of the machine, creating a more authentic feeling experience.
Check Price on Amazon
Backbox Speakers
Recommendation: Logitech Z407
. Provides the main game audio. The wireless volume control and down-firing subwoofer of this model work particularly well for cabinet integration.
Check Price on Amazon
Power Supply
Recommendation: Thermaltake Smart 500W
. Powers the SSF components and cabinet lighting. Provides both 5V and 12V outputs which simplifies wiring for various components.
Check Price on Amazon
Sound Card
Recommendation: StarTech 7.1 USB
. Required to output audio to multiple channels for positional feedback. USB sound cards are an easy addition if your PC doesn't have built-in 7.1 support.
Check Price on AmazonSOFTWARE RESOURCES
Essential programs and community resources that will power your virtual pinball experience.
Baller Installer
All-in-one installation package for virtual pinball
- •Simplifies software setup
- •Includes Visual Pinball and related tools
- •Regularly updated
- •Recommended for beginners
VP Forums & VP Universe
Community resources for tables and support
- •Table downloads
- •Technical support
- •Setup guides
- •Community discussions
Thump SSF
Software for controlling Surround Sound Feedback
- •Controls tactile feedback
- •Customizable settings
- •Table-specific profiles
- •Enhances immersion
TOP BUILD TIPS & LESSONS LEARNED
Insider advice for a successful virtual pinball build
Choose Widebody Design
Standard vs. widebody is an important early decision. Widebody cabinets provide more space for components and can accommodate larger playfield displays (up to 43"). Unless space is extremely limited, widebody designs offer more flexibility.
5V Instead of 6.3V Lighting
While some purists recommend 6.3V for incandescent lighting, 5V direct from the power supply is simpler and typically provides sufficient brightness. In blind tests, many users actually prefer the slightly subdued 5V lighting.
Stick to Standard Dimensions
Using standard cabinet dimensions allows for easier integration of pre-made parts, artwork, and accessories. Custom sizes can lead to complications when trying to use commercial pinball hardware.
Minimize Visible Buttons
A cleaner design limits front-facing buttons to essential controls. Place secondary buttons inside the cabinet or underneath to maintain a streamlined appearance. Typically 3 buttons on the left, 2 coin door buttons, and a launch button are sufficient.
Use Terminal Blocks
Terminal blocks provide clean, organized wiring that can be easily disconnected for maintenance or upgrades. This small investment dramatically improves the build quality and future serviceability of your machine.
Choose SSF Over Solenoids
While both provide tactile feedback, modern SSF setups offer more precise, customizable, and quieter operation than traditional solenoids. SSF is also simpler to implement with fewer mechanical components that might fail.
Practice Patience
Virtual pinball is a complex project requiring patience. When stuck, step back and consult online resources. Almost every problem has been encountered and solved by the community. Forums and build guides contain solutions to most common issues.
VIRTUAL PINBALL FAQs
Answers to common questions about virtual pinball machines
PC HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS
Virtual pinball tables have become increasingly demanding, especially newer creations with advanced visual effects. For optimal performance in 2025, aim for:
CPU
AMD Ryzen R5-5600X or Intel equivalent (or better)
GPU
RX 6700XT / RTX 3060Ti or better (for 4K playfield at 120Hz)
RAM
16GB minimum, 32GB recommended
STORAGE
1TB+ SSD (tables and media can consume significant space)
SOUND
7.1 channel support (add-on card if not built-in)
PRO TIP: When shopping, consider used or open-box gaming PCs from reputable retailers to save significantly on costs while still meeting these requirements.
JOIN THE COMMUNITY
The virtual pinball community is incredibly helpful and supportive. Connect with these resources:
Forums
- →VP Forums
- →VP Universe
- →Placeholder
Video Tutorials
- →Way of the Wrench
- →Placeholder
- →Placeholder
Before posting questions, search through existing resources as most common issues have already been addressed in detail by community members.
YOU CAN DO THIS!
Building a virtual pinball machine is a challenging but incredibly rewarding project. Despite the complexity, the resources available today make it more accessible than ever before.
Remember that this is not a weekend project - expect to spend weeks or months completing your build, especially if you're new to the hobby. Take your time, enjoy the process, and reach out to the community when you need help.
The end result will be a unique, customized pinball experience that provides years of enjoyment and a tremendous sense of accomplishment.
Join the Virtual Pinball Community
Connect with fellow enthusiasts for support and inspiration