Electronic dart players often ask themselves whether it makes sense to purchase a cheap electronic dartboard or an expensive dart machine . For occasional hobby players, a simple electronic dartboard that can be operated with batteries or a power cable is certainly sufficient.
However, if darts is more than just a hobby for you, then it makes sense to look for a higher quality dart machine .
In this blog post, we would like to explain where you can find a used or new dart machine.
The history of dart machines
If you look at the history of darts, it becomes clear that steel tip darts were actually played long before the so-called soft tip darts. This is surprising, at least from a German perspective, given that there are still significantly more soft tip dart players in Germany than there are steel tip dart players.
It wasn't until the 1980s, when computer technology had matured, that technical aids for darts became available. The primary goal was to make darts easier for the player, i.e., the user of the machine.
Through the automatic calculation , the display of check-out paths and the display of how many darts were needed for a leg , E-Dart became more and more attractive and in the long run even overtook the original sport, steel darts.
In 1977 , the first dart machines were produced . The company, then known as Arachnid, manufactured the machines and sold them to restaurants, casinos , and private buyers .
The company is still active in the production of dart machines today – although the devices are now known under the name Bullshooter.
The history of the dart machine in Germany
In Germany, another company managed to secure market leadership. The company, called Löwen, imported around 200,000 dart machines to Germany since 1986, thus increasing the popularity of the sport in this country as well.
The importance of e-darts in Germany is demonstrated by the number of participants in the German Championships . It's not uncommon for more than 3,000 participants to attend these tournaments.
Infobox: To put the scale into perspective: While the DSAB, the association for e-dart players, has around 60,000 members , the DDV, which represents many steel dart players, has just a fifth of that.
Löwen's first dart machine hit the market in 1986. The so-called Löwen Royal Darts machine still enjoys cult status today . Over time, Löwen also produced other models specifically tailored to tournament series.
Even today, the buyer has the choice between a rather simple model or one that offers almost all the games and other features needed for an e-dart tournament.
What are the advantages of a new dart machine?
The advantages of a new dart machine are obvious at first glance. With a new product, you have the security of knowing you're getting a functioning device .
Often, used models have problems that you can't easily fix yourself. In these cases, you'll either need to call in a specialist or, with a bit of luck, find someone you know who can take care of the problem.
Anyone who buys a new machine also gets a current model. Used models , if the machine is a bit older, sometimes don't have all the configurations required today, for example, for tournaments.
Another absolutely crucial aspect is spare parts . Even with a brand new dartboard, there will come a time when the first signs of wear and tear will appear. It's important that you have quick access to spare parts and can replace them as easily as possible.
Infobox: What's particularly good is that new dart machines often come with a maintenance guarantee, meaning you won't have to worry about repairs in the first few years anyway.
What are the advantages of a used dart machine?
Of course, used dart machines also have their advantages. Especially if you don't play darts every day, but rather occasionally. A used dart machine has the advantage of costing significantly less than a new one.
The costs are usually several times lower. While a new machine typically costs several thousand euros, a used one often costs only a few hundred euros – depending on its condition.
Especially for hobbyists, it's advisable to opt for used dart machines. Those with expertise in the field can easily replace spare parts , saving a lot of money.
Which brands produce good dart machines and where can I get a dart machine?
In Germany, there are two manufacturers that enjoy a fairly high level of recognition. First, of course, is Löwen Dart, which really made dart machines popular in Germany . However, Dartslive now has a real competitor that is gaining ground.
However, Dartslive has made a name for itself more in the USA and Asia , so that the majority of the market in Germany is still equipped with Löwen Darts machines.
So, if you're thinking about purchasing a vending machine, there are several ways to find out about new or used products. For new machines, it's obviously a good idea to contact the manufacturer directly and ask for a quote. For used products, today's online platforms offer numerous opportunities to hunt for bargains.
Expert tip: It's especially worthwhile to do some research on Amazon, eBay, or Facebook if you're looking to purchase a used dart machine first. They often offer well-maintained, discarded machines that have been replaced by new models elsewhere.
What alternatives are there to the dart machine?
Of course, there are alternatives to the full-size dart machine. Electronic dart beginners, in particular, will have asked themselves during the course of this article what to do if they don't have the necessary space in their home or the budget for a large dart machine.
Of course, there's a much more cost-effective and space-saving solution here too: the electronic dartboard. In the myDartpfeil shop, for example, you can purchase the Royal dartboard for soft darts .
An electronic dartboard can be flexibly mounted on the wall and operated with batteries or a power cable. The CB90 dartboard also has the great advantage of being able to fold the board away when not in use.
There is also enough space on the folding sides to store your darts equipment .
Ready to upgrade your darts game? Discover everything you need to know about the best dart equipment and how it can boost your accuracy:
- The agony of choice: Dartboard made of cork or sisal ? An expert explains the pros and cons. Click here to find out more.
- Setting up a dart room Made easy thanks to cool tips and ideas » Click in now and create your own personal paradise at home.
- Changing and sharpening dart tips : Learn what's important and what you absolutely need to pay attention to here. Click here now!
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