If you have ever bellied up to a bar and found yourself glued to a touchscreen trivia machine for an hour, you already know the appeal of a Megatouch. These countertop arcade machines were staples in pubs, restaurants, and bowling alleys for over two decades. Now that Megatouch maker Merit Industries shut its doors in 2014, collectors and home bar owners are scooping up used machines at prices that vary wildly.
I have spent the last several months digging through forum threads, eBay sold listings, dealer inventories, and classified ads to figure out exactly how much a used Megatouch costs in 2026. The short version: you can pay anywhere from $40 for a broken project machine to $1,850 for a fully refurbished late-model unit.
In this guide, our team breaks down what you should expect to pay by model, where to find machines, what to inspect before you buy, and whether a used Megatouch is still a smart pickup for your game room this year.
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Quick Answer: How Much Does a Used Megatouch Cost?
A used Megatouch typically costs between $200 and $1,850 depending on the model, condition, and whether it has been refurbished. Older CRT-based models like the Maxx series sell for $40 to $400. Mid-generation Force models range from $300 to $900. The newest Ion, Aurora, and RX units with LCD screens command $600 to $1,850 when fully reconditioned.
The sweet spot for most buyers sits around $500 to $800. In that range, you can typically land a Force Evo or Force Ion in good working condition without paying dealer refurbishment premiums. Project machines needing repair drop below $200, while dealer-refurbished units with warranties sit at the top end.
Where you buy matters almost as much as what you buy. A Facebook Marketplace find can run half the price of an eBay listing for the same model, and local pickup avoids the shipping damage risk that plagues these machines.
Megatouch Models and Their Used Prices
Megatouch machines were produced across several generations from the late 1990s through 2014. Each generation brought hardware upgrades, larger screens, and expanded game libraries. The model you choose has the biggest impact on price, so let me walk through each one.
Megatouch XL and Maxx Series (1997-2005)
The XL and Maxx lines are the oldest generations you will commonly encounter. These machines use CRT monitors ranging from 12 to 15 inches and run on older PC hardware. Models include the Maxx Diamond, Maxx Ruby, Maxx Sapphire, and the sought-after Maxx Crown Edition.
Used Maxx models typically sell for $40 to $400 depending on condition and whether they power on. A working Maxx Crown Edition in clean cosmetic shape can fetch $300 to $400. Non-working project units go for $40 to $150, which makes them popular with hobbyists who enjoy repairing electronics.
The CRT monitors in these machines are now 20-plus years old, so monitor failure is the most common issue. Replacement CRTs are getting scarce, though some owners have successfully swapped in LCD panels. If you want a reliable daily player and have zero repair experience, a Maxx is a gamble unless it has already been converted to LCD.
Megatouch Force (2005-2009)
The Force generation marked a significant hardware refresh. Models include the Force, Force Evo, and Force Edge, all featuring 15-inch screens. The Force series introduced faster processors and improved touchscreen sensitivity over the Maxx line. This is also where you start seeing both CRT and LCD monitor options.
Force models represent the best value on the used market in my opinion. They are old enough to be affordable but new enough to be reliable. A working Force Evo typically sells for $300 to $600 on eBay and through classifieds. Force Edge units with more game content run $400 to $700.
I have seen forum members report buying Force 2005 models for as little as $200 on Facebook Marketplace, while the same machine lists for $1,000-plus on eBay. That price gap reflects the shipping and dealer markup more than the machine itself. A dealer-refurbished Force Evo from AGS Arcade Game Sales runs about $1,650 with warranty.
Megatouch Ion (2009-2011)
The Ion generation brought 19-inch widescreen LCD displays and updated hardware. Models include the Ion and Ion Aurora. The larger screen and modern display technology make these more desirable for home use since the picture quality holds up better than older CRTs.
Used Ion models typically sell for $500 to $1,000 depending on condition. Refurbished units from dealers run $1,650 to $1,850. The Ion is a popular choice for home bars because the 19-inch screen feels substantial without overwhelming a countertop.
One thing to watch: parts for the Ion are harder to source than Force parts since fewer were produced and the company shut down shortly after this generation launched. If something breaks, you may need to rely on the arcade community for donor machines.
Megatouch Aurora (2011-2013)
The Aurora was Merit’s attempt to modernize the platform with a sleeker design and updated internals. Forum consensus is mixed on Aurora quality. Several long-time collectors on arcade-museum forums report that the Aurora line suffered from cost-cutting during production, and parts availability is the worst of any generation.
Used Aurora models sell for $400 to $800 when you can find them. The lower demand reflects the community’s reservations about reliability. If you find one cheap and it works, it can be a decent machine. But I would not recommend paying top dollar for an Aurora given the parts situation.
Megatouch RX (2013-2014)
The RX was the final Megatouch generation, produced right before Merit Industries closed in 2014. These machines feature 22-inch touchscreens and the most polished software of the lineup. Because they were the last models made, they have the most current game libraries and the best hardware specs.
RX models are the hardest to find and the most expensive. Expect to pay $800 to $1,500 for a used RX in working condition. The larger 22-inch screen makes them feel like a premium piece of equipment, and they are popular with collectors who want the final chapter of the Megatouch story.
Where to Buy a Used Megatouch
Finding the right machine at the right price means knowing where to look. Each marketplace has its own advantages and risks, so let me break down the best options.
eBay
eBay has the largest selection of used Megatouch machines at any given time. Prices range from $495 to $1,500-plus. The main advantage is buyer protection through eBay’s money-back guarantee. The main risk is shipping damage. These machines are heavy and delicate, and freight carriers routinely rough-handle them. If you buy on eBay, strongly prefer listings that offer local pickup.
Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist
Local classifieds are where the best deals live. I have seen forum users report finding Force models for $200 on Facebook Marketplace, while the same generation lists for $1,000 on eBay. The trade-off is that you need to inspect the machine in person before buying. Always test-play every game category before handing over cash.
Arcade Dealers
Specialty dealers like AGS Arcade Game Sales sell fully refurbished machines with warranties. A refurbished Force Evo runs about $1,650, and a Force Ion about $1,850. These prices include new power supplies, cleaned internals, tested software, and typically a one-year warranty on used units. If you want a machine that works out of the box with zero repair hassle, a dealer is the safest route.
Arcade Forums and Communities
Sites like Pinside, Arcade-Museum, and arcadecontrols.com have active buy-sell-trade sections. Forum members tend to be honest about machine condition and often price fairly since they are selling to fellow enthusiasts. This is also the best place to find project machines if you want to repair one yourself.
Used.forsale Index
The used.forsale aggregator currently tracks about 95 Megatouch listings across multiple sources. Prices there range from a few dollars for parts and accessories up to $1,500 for complete machines. The average across all listings sits around $141, though that number includes non-machine items like game cartridges and manuals.
What to Look for When Buying a Used Megatouch
Buying a used Megatouch without getting burned means knowing what to inspect. Here is the checklist our team developed after reviewing hundreds of forum posts and dealer recommendations.
Power It On and Test Every Game Category
Before anything else, plug the machine in and play it. Navigate through every game category: trivia, Photo Hunt, puzzles, card games, and arcade action titles. A machine that boots and plays one game fine may still have issues with specific game modules. Touchscreen responsiveness should be accurate across the entire screen with no dead zones.
Check the Monitor Type
LCD monitors are strongly preferred over CRTs for reliability and picture quality. CRTs in these machines are 15 to 25 years old and increasingly prone to failure. If the machine has a CRT, factor in the possibility of needing a monitor replacement. Some models were factory-equipped with LCDs, while others were converted by previous owners.
Inspect the Power Supply
Power supply failure is one of the most common Megatouch issues. Ask the seller whether the power supply is original or has been replaced. Refurbished machines from dealers typically have new power supplies installed. A failing power supply can cause random reboots, screen flicker, or complete failure to boot.
Ask About the BIOS Battery
Megatouch machines use a coin-cell BIOS battery on the motherboard. When this battery dies, the machine may fail to boot or lose its settings. Replacement is inexpensive and straightforward, but a dead BIOS battery is a red flag that the machine has sat unused for a long time. Ask the seller when it was last replaced.
Look for Dust and Overheating Signs
AGS, a leading Megatouch refurbisher, notes that many used machines sold online have never been opened up and cleaned internally. Dust-clogged fans cause overheating, which damages components over time. Pop the back panel if possible and check for dust buildup. A clean interior suggests the machine was maintained. A filthy interior means you may be buying future problems.
Verify Commercial vs Home Use
Machines that spent years in a bar or restaurant have seen heavy use. Commercial location machines accumulate wear on the touchscreen, buttons, and internal components. Home-use machines typically show much less wear. Ask the seller about the machine’s history. A clean home bar machine is almost always worth more than a bar machine in similar cosmetic condition.
Confirm Software Version
Newer software versions include more games and updated trivia content. The software version is usually displayed on the main menu or boot screen. Force and later models sometimes support software upgrades, but older Maxx models are stuck with whatever version they shipped with. If you care about trivia freshness, check the copyright year on the trivia questions.
Modern Alternatives to Megatouch
No competitor in the SERP currently covers alternatives to Megatouch, which makes this section valuable for buyers weighing their options. Since Megatouch went out of business in 2014, several modern alternatives have emerged that are worth considering.
JVL Echo
JVL is the primary competitor that survived the touchscreen arcade shakeout. The JVL Echo features a large touchscreen with hundreds of games including trivia, puzzles, and Photo Hunt-style titles. Used JVL machines sell for $800 to $2,500 depending on model and condition. The advantage over Megatouch is that JVL is still in business, meaning parts and software updates are more readily available.
Arcade1Up Countercades
Arcade1Up produces affordable countertop arcade machines, though these are joystick-and-button units rather than touchscreen devices. They retail new for $200 to $400 and offer classic arcade games rather than the trivia and puzzle library Megatouch is known for. If you want retro arcade gaming on a countertop, Arcade1Up is a budget-friendly option, but it does not replicate the Megatouch experience.
Tablet and Software Solutions
Some enthusiasts have built DIY Megatouch replacements using large Android tablets running touchscreen game compilations. This approach costs $200 to $600 depending on tablet size and gives you access to constantly updated trivia content. The downside is that you lose the authentic arcade cabinet feel and the specific game library that made Megatouch iconic.
Building a Multitouch Arcade PC
For the technically inclined, building a small-form-factor PC with a touchscreen monitor running Megatouch-style game software is another path. Total cost runs $400 to $800 for quality components. This gives you the most flexibility and upgradeability, but requires technical skill and time to set up.
Shipping and Logistics for Used Megatouch Machines
Shipping is the single biggest risk when buying a used Megatouch, especially from eBay. These machines weigh 40 to 80 pounds depending on the model, and they contain fragile electronics and glass touchscreen panels. Forum threads are full of horror stories about machines arriving with cracked screens and bent cases.
If you must ship a machine, insist on freight shipping rather than standard UPS or FedEx ground. Freight carriers handle heavy items more carefully, and the machine can be strapped to a pallet for protection. Expect freight costs of $150 to $400 depending on distance.
The best strategy is local pickup. Not only does it eliminate shipping damage risk, but it also lets you inspect and test the machine before paying. I strongly recommend expanding your search radius and driving a few hours to pick up a machine rather than rolling the dice on shipping.
When picking up, bring a friend and a vehicle with enough space. Countertop models are relatively compact, but upright Megatouch cabinets require a truck or large SUV. Bring moving blankets and straps to secure the machine for transport, and never lay a Megatouch on its screen.
One more shipping tip from the forum community: ask the seller to remove the hard drive and ship it separately if possible. Hard drives are sensitive to shock, and a drive that survives shipping inside the machine is not guaranteed. A separate shipment in anti-static foam dramatically reduces drive failure risk.
FAQs
How much does the average arcade machine cost?
The average used arcade machine costs between $300 and $1,500 depending on type and condition. Used Megatouch countertop machines specifically range from $200 to $1,850, with most working models landing between $500 and $800. Premium refurbished units from dealers with warranties sit at the top of that range.
What age is Mega Touch for?
Megatouch machines are designed for players aged 13 and up. The game library includes adult trivia categories alongside family-friendly puzzle and arcade games. Most machines are found in bar and restaurant settings, but they work well in home game rooms where the trivia content can be enjoyed by teens and adults together.
What games are on Megatouch?
Megatouch machines feature 140 or more games across several categories including Photo Hunt (spot the difference), trivia, card games like solitaire and poker, puzzle games, word games, and arcade action titles. The exact game library varies by model and software version, with newer models like the Ion and RX having the largest and most current selections.
Are Megatouch machines still worth buying?
Yes, used Megatouch machines are worth buying for home bars and game rooms if you find one in the $300 to $800 range in working condition. They provide social party gaming that mobile phones cannot replicate. However, they are not recommended for commercial revenue since mobile gaming has severely cut into location earnings.
Can I convert a Megatouch to free play?
Yes, most Megatouch models can be set to free play mode through the operator menu. Accessing the menu typically requires an operator key or a specific button sequence during boot. Free play mode disables coin requirements and is the standard setup for home bar and game room use. Some owners also modify the machine to bypass the coin mech entirely.
Is a Used Megatouch Worth It?
For the right buyer at the right price, a used Megatouch is absolutely worth it. These machines deliver a social gaming experience that phones and tablets cannot match. There is something about standing around a countertop with friends, shouting trivia answers and competing at Photo Hunt, that turns a regular evening into a memorable one.
My recommendation breaks down by budget. If you have $200 to $400, look for a working Force model on Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist with local pickup. If you have $500 to $800, you can find a solid Force Evo or Ion in good condition. If you want a turnkey machine with zero repair risk, budget $1,500 to $1,850 for a dealer-refurbished unit with warranty.
Avoid the oldest Maxx models unless you enjoy electronics repair, and approach Aurora models cautiously due to parts scarcity. The Force generation remains the sweet spot of value, reliability, and parts availability in the used Megatouch market.
Understanding how much a used Megatouch cost comes down to matching the model and condition to your budget and technical comfort. Buy local, inspect thoroughly, and you will have a conversation-piece arcade machine that keeps guests entertained for years.