Darts Machine Cost: A Complete Guide to Commercial Prices and Weekly Profits

Introduction

Walking into a bar and hearing the satisfying thud of a dart hitting the board is a staple of nightlife culture. But for venue owners and event planners, the question isn't just about fun—it's about finance. Whether you are looking to install a coin-operated machine to boost dwell time in your pub or renting a unit for a corporate tournament, understanding the economics of dart machines is critical.

The market for commercial dart machines is diverse, ranging from affordable home-style electronic boards to high-end, network-connected arcade systems like the Arachnid Galaxy 3. The costs can vary wildly, as can the potential returns. This guide cuts through the noise to provide you with concrete price points, profitability models, and maintenance realities, ensuring you make an investment that hits the bullseye.

How much does a commercial dart machine cost?

The cost of a commercial dart machine depends heavily on whether you are buying new or used and the specific brand technology involved.

New Commercial Machines:
A brand-new, arcade-quality electronic dart machine typically costs between $4,000 and $7,500. High-end models, such as the Arachnid Galaxy 3, often retail at the higher end of this spectrum (around $4,300 to $6,000) because they include advanced features like online global leaderboards, built-in cameras for remote play, and dual "flip" targets that switch between 15-inch and 13-inch board sizes.

Used & Refurbished Machines:
For those on a tighter budget, the used market offers significant savings. You can generally find refurbished commercial units for $1,000 to $2,500. These machines are often retired from league play but are still fully functional. According to industry listings from suppliers like Arcades Market, refurbished workhorses like the Arachnid Galaxy 2 or Shelti Eye 2 often sit in the $1,200 to $2,400 range.

Are coin-operated dart machines profitable?

Yes, coin-operated dart machines can be highly profitable, serving as a "passive" revenue stream that also drives secondary sales.

The direct profitability comes from "coin drop" (or bill acceptor/card swipe) revenue. However, the indirect profitability is often more valuable. Dart machines encourage groups to stay longer, which directly correlates with increased food and beverage sales. A standard game of cricket might last 10-20 minutes, keeping a group of four occupied and ordering drinks.

Furthermore, running leagues is a proven strategy to guarantee profitability. By hosting weekly league nights, venue owners ensure a consistent crowd on typically slow nights (like Tuesdays or Wednesdays), guaranteeing both machine revenue and bar tabs.

How much revenue can a dart machine generate per week?

Revenue varies by location, foot traffic, and whether the venue hosts a league.

Low-Traffic / Casual Play: In a standard bar without a league, a single machine might generate $50 to $100 per week.
High-Traffic / League Venues: In a busy venue or one that hosts active leagues, a single machine can generate $150 to $200+ per week.

According to data from Neofuns, a well-placed machine in a busy location can consistently bring in around $200 weekly. Over a month, this totals roughly $800, meaning a used machine costing $2,000 could theoretically pay for itself in just 3-4 months of peak operation.

What is the price difference between home and commercial dart boards?

The price gap between home and commercial boards is massive, reflecting the difference in build quality and technology.

Home Electronic Boards: These typically cost between $50 and $250. They are made of lighter plastic, run on batteries or simple AC adapters, and are designed for occasional, low-impact use. They often lack the durability to withstand thousands of games or spilled drinks.
Commercial Arcade Machines: These start at $2,500+ (new). The premium price pays for:
 Durability: Heavy-duty, impact-resistant cabinets (often 100+ lbs).
 Serviceability: Modular components allowing for easy repair of stuck segments or broken sensors.
 Coin-Op Mechanisms: Built-in bill validators and coin mechs.
 Networking: Internet capabilities for remote play and global rankings.

How much does it cost to rent a dart machine for an event?

For short-term events like corporate parties, weddings, or trade shows, you generally pay a flat daily rental fee rather than a revenue share.

Daily Rental Rate: Expect to pay between $100 and $250 per day.
 Service Inclusions: This price usually includes delivery, setup, and breakdown.
Example Rates: Local event rental companies often list packages where a standard electronic dart game is around $99 - $150, while a premium LED-lit arcade cabinet like a Galaxy 3 might command $225+.

Prices can fluctuate based on location and whether you are renting multiple arcade units as a package.

Is it better to rent or buy a dart machine for a bar?

This decision depends on your capital, risk tolerance, and desire for control.

Buying (Pros & Cons):
 Pros: You keep 100% of the revenue. You have total control over pricing and league schedules.
 Cons: High upfront cost ($3k-$6k). You are responsible for all maintenance and repairs. If the machine breaks Friday night, it's your problem.

Renting / Profit Sharing (Pros & Cons):
 Pros: Low or no upfront cost. The "operator" (vending company) handles installation, maintenance, and repairs.
Cons: You split the revenue. A common split is 50/50, though some deals might be 70/30 in favor of the operator if they provide premium equipment and manage leagues.
Leasing: Some operators offer a fixed lease (e.g., $10-$20 per day) rather than a revenue split. This is better if you expect high revenue, as your cost is capped.

Verdict: If you are new to darts, profit sharing is safer. It minimizes risk and brings in an experienced operator to run leagues. If you have an established dart crowd and technical know-how, buying offers a better long-term ROI.

What are the ongoing maintenance costs for electronic dart machines?

Electronic dart machines are generally robust, but they do require regular upkeep to maintain player satisfaction.

Annual Parts Budget: Plan for $100 - $300 per year.
 Common Repairs:
 Dart Tips: Soft tips break constantly. You will need to dig broken tips out of the board segments regularly.
Matrix/Sensor Sheets: The pressure-sensitive mat behind the target wears out over time and costs $50-$100 to replace.
Segments: The plastic target blocks eventually crack or get stuck, requiring replacement kits (approx. $30-$50).
Service Calls: If you cannot fix it yourself, a technician might charge $50-$100 per hour for labor.

Regular cleaning and tip removal are the most important free maintenance tasks to prevent costly damage.

How much does a Shelti or Arachnid dart board cost?

These are the two heavyweights of the industry. Here is a breakdown of their pricing tiers:

Arachnid (The Industry Leader):
Galaxy 3 (New): ~ $4,300 - $6,000. Features dual flip boards (13" & 15"), cameras, and online play.
Galaxy 2 (Refurbished): ~ $1,500 - $2,500. The classic workhorse found in many dive bars. Reliable but lacks modern online features.
Spider 360 (Home Commercial Series): ~ $2,000 - $3,000. A bridge between home and pro, often used in lighter commercial settings.

Shelti (The durable Alternative):
Shelti Eye 2 (New): ~ $3,500 - $4,000. Known for its "fold-in-half" hinged design which makes it easier to transport and move through narrow doorways.
Shelti Eye 2 (Used/Refurbished): ~ $1,200 - $2,500.
 Comparison: Shelti machines are often praised for their specific "Tavern Tested" target durability and transportability, while Arachnid is often preferred for its advanced software and league network.

What is the average return on investment (ROI) for a dart machine?

The ROI for a purchased dart machine is generally very positive, often achieved within the first year.

ROI Calculation Example:
 Initial Investment: $3,000 (Good condition used machine or mid-range new).
 Weekly Revenue: $100 (Conservative estimate).
 Monthly Revenue: $430.
 Less Maintenance: -$20/month.
 Net Monthly Profit: $410.

Payback Period: ~$3,000 / $410 = 7.3 months.

In a busy bar generating $200/week, the payback period drops to under 4 months. Even with a profit-share model, since your investment is zero, your ROI is technically infinite—you are simply trading floor space for pure profit (plus the extra drink sales).

Conclusion

Investing in a commercial dart machine is rarely a gamble. Whether you choose the path of ownership with a shiny new Arachnid Galaxy 3 or opt for a low-risk profit-share model with a refurbished Shelti, the math works in your favor. Beyond the coins dropped in the slot, the real value lies in the atmosphere: creating a social hub that keeps patrons drinking, cheering, and coming back for "just one more game."

References

 Arcades Market—Shelti & Arachnid Pricing
 Neofuns - Dart Machine Revenue & Maintenance Insights
 Video Amusement - Galaxy 3 Rental Information
 Reddit r/BarOwners - Revenue Discussions
 Home Leisure Direct - Profit Share Models
 Game Room Shop - Arachnid Galaxy 3 Features & Cost