Top 15 Dart Machine Manufacturers in 2026

Introduction

A dart machine is an electronic device designed for playing darts that features automatic scoring, digital displays, and pre-programmed game modes, distinguishing it from traditional sisal bristle boards. These machines have evolved from simple coin-operated pub games to sophisticated smart systems with global online connectivity, AI opponents, and app integration.

Early models primarily focused on basic scorekeeping for games like Cricket and 301. Today, the electronic dart machine landscape includes arcade-grade cabinets with HD screens and slim home units that connect seamlessly to smartphones. This evolution has democratized the sport, making it accessible to casual players while offering deep data analytics for professionals.

Evolution Milestones

· 1970s-80s: Introduction of the first coin-operated electronic dart machines (e.g., Arachnid) in bars.

· 2000s: Rise of soft-tip popularity and basic LCD scoring displays.

· 2020s: Integration of Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and global online multiplayer networks.

· 2026 & Beyond: AI-driven coaching, Augmented Reality (AR) projection, and seamless ecosystem integration.

Key Takeaways: Your Ultimate Dart Machine Checklist

Before investing in a dart board machine, use this checklist to ensure you select a model that meets your future needs.

· Usage Scenario: Determine if you need a commercial arcade dart machine for a venue or a sleek unit for home use.

· Connectivity: Look for Wi-Fi 6E or Bluetooth 5.0 capabilities to ensure lag-free online gaming.

· Game Variety: Ensure the machine includes standard favorites (01 games, Cricket) and modern party games.

· Display Quality: Choose between built-in LED/LCD screens or BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) setups.

· Community Features: Check for active online leagues and global leaderboards.

Electronic Dartboards: The Modern Choice for Home & Casual Play

Electronic dart machines for home use are compact, wall-mounted units that use soft-tip darts and safe plastic segments to track scores automatically. They bridge the gap between video games and physical sports, providing an engaging experience for families and hobbyists.

Modern home boards are increasingly "smart," requiring a tablet or phone to run the game software. This reduces the hardware cost while allowing for infinite software updates. When Choosing Your Perfect Dart Machine, consider models that offer a quiet segment material to minimize impact noise in residential settings.

Top Features for 2026 Home Boards

· App Integration: Seamless syncing with iOS and Android for stat tracking.

· Online Multiplayer: Play against friends or random opponents worldwide.

· Safety: Soft tip darts eliminate the risk of wall or floor damage.

· Lighting: Integrated LED rings that interact with gameplay events.

Arcade Dart Machines: Commercial-Grade Fun and Social Gaming

An arcade dart machine is a heavy-duty, often coin-operated system designed for bars, clubs, and game rooms, featuring robust construction and integrated high-definition monitors. These machines are the backbone of competitive soft-tip leagues and generate significant revenue for operators through "pay-to-play" models.

Unlike home versions, a commercial dart board arcade machine is built to withstand thousands of games per week. They often feature larger 15.5-inch target areas (regulation soft-tip size) and advanced camera systems for remote tournament refereeing. Operators looking for a dart machine for sale must prioritize durability and ease of repair.

Commercial Benefits

1. Revenue Generation: Coin mechanisms and card reader compatibility.

2. League Management: Built-in software to run local and networked tournaments.

3. Attraction: Dynamic light shows and sound effects draw customers in.

4. Durability: Industrial-grade sensors and impact-resistant cabinets.

Traditional Dartboards vs. Electronic: A Head-to-Head Comparison

While electronic dart machines offer convenience and safety, traditional boards remain the standard for professional steel-tip play. Understanding the differences is crucial for players transitioning between the two formats.

The Future of Dart Machines: Innovations to Watch in 2026 & Beyond

The next generation of dart machines will leverage Artificial Intelligence and advanced sensors to transform training and entertainment. Expect to see digital dart machines that not only score your game but also analyze your throwing mechanics.

· AI Coaching: Cameras track arm angle and release point, offering real-time correction advice.

· Augmented Reality (AR): Projecting targets and game effects directly onto the board surface.

· Smart Home Ecosystems: Integration with lights (e.g., Philips Hue) to react to high scores.

· Universal Accounts: Single sign-on profiles across different electronic dart machine manufacturers.

Setting Up Your Dart Machine: Installation & Safety Guidelines

Proper installation is vital for accurate gameplay and safety. Whether installing a heavy arcade dart machine or a lightweight home board, adherence to regulation measurements is non-negotiable.

Installation Steps

1. Height: The center of the bullseye must be exactly 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) from the floor.

2. Throw Line (Oche): The distance from the face of the board to the throw line should be 8 feet (244 cm) for soft-tip electronic boards.

3. Power: Ensure access to a grounded outlet; avoid daisy-chaining extension cords for heavy arcade units.

4. Protection: Install a backboard or surround to protect walls from stray darts.

Connecting to the Global Dart Community: Online Play and Leagues

Modern darts machines are portals to a global community. Through networked gameplay, a player in New York can compete instantly with someone in Tokyo. This connectivity has fueled the growth of remote leagues, allowing players to compete for prizes without leaving their local pub or home.

Top electronic dart machines now support video links, allowing opponents to see each other throw, which reduces cheating and enhances the social aspect. Joining an online league is a fantastic way to improve your skills and maintain competitive consistency.

Expert Tips for Maximizing Your Dart Machine Experience

To get the most out of your dart machine electronic setup, follow these professional maintenance and usage tips.

· Tip Extraction: Use a dedicated tool to remove broken plastic tips from the board segments immediately to prevent jamming.

· Dart Weight: Do not use darts heavier than 20 grams on standard electronic boards to avoid damaging the sensors.

· Rotation: While you can't rotate electronic segments like a bristle board, keep the sensor matrix clean by blowing out dust regularly.

· Firmware: Regularly check for software updates to access new games and bug fixes.

Top 15 Dart Machine Manufacturers in 2026

1. Arachnid 360 (USA)

o Origin: Loves Park, Illinois, USA

o Description: The originator of soft-tip darts, Arachnid is a legendary name in the industry. Their Galaxy series is the gold standard for commercial dart machines, known for robust build quality and the popular BullShooter global leagues.

2. FUNTECH (China)

o Origin: Global Innovator

o Description: FUNTECH has rapidly emerged as a market leader in next-gen smart gaming. Specializing in high-tech electronic dart board machines, they integrate cutting-edge AI analytics and seamless app connectivity. Their machines are celebrated for their sleek, modern design and superior user interface, making them a top choice for premium venues and advanced home setups.

3. Löwen Entertainment (Germany)

o Origin: Bingen, Germany

o Description: The undisputed market leader in Germany and much of Europe. Their HB8 and HB9 models are iconic in European arcades, renowned for their reliability and classic tournament styling.

4. Gaelco Darts (Spain)

o Origin: Barcelona, Spain

o Description: Creators of the Radikal Darts system, Gaelco pioneered remote refereeing with built-in cameras and laser throw lines. Their technology allows for verifiable remote tournaments, revolutionizing competitive play.

5. GLD Products / Viper (USA)

o Origin: Muskego, Wisconsin, USA

o Description: A dominant force in the consumer market, GLD's Viper brand offers an extensive range of affordable and feature-rich electronic dart machines for home game rooms.

6. Winmau (UK)

o Origin: Bridgend, Wales, UK

o Description: While famous for their Blade steel-tip boards, Winmau also manufactures high-quality soft-tip equipment and electronic boards, leveraging decades of heritage to ensure precision and durability.

7. Unicorn Darts (UK)

o Origin: London, UK

o Description: Known as "The Big Name in Darts," Unicorn has a massive catalog of darting equipment. Their electronic offerings are designed with the same attention to detail that made them a long-time sponsor of PDC tournaments.

8. Harrows Darts (UK)

o Origin: Hoddesdon, England, UK

o Description: With distribution in over 100 countries, Harrows is a global powerhouse. They produce a wide array of soft-tip darts and electronic boards that are favored for their British engineering and accessibility.

9. Target Darts (UK)

o Origin: Harlow, England, UK

o Description: A brand synonymous with innovation and high-performance design. Target pushes the boundaries of grip technology and modular dart systems, catering to the modern, style-conscious player.

10. Shot Darts (New Zealand)

o Origin: Katikati, New Zealand

o Description: A family-owned business with over 50 years of experience. Shot is renowned for its artisan-level machining and unique tribal-inspired designs, producing some of the highest quality darts and accessories in the world.

11. Shelti (USA)

o Origin: Bay City, Michigan, USA

o Description: A division of Gold Standard Games, Shelti produces the "Eye2" arcade dart machine. Their units are built like tanks and are a favorite in American bars for their reliability and fold-in-half transportability.

12. Cyberdine (Croatia)

o Origin: Croatia

o Description: A major player in the Central and Eastern European market. Cyberdine dart machines are known for their distinctive design and widespread use in regional electronic dart tournaments.

13.  Karella (Germany)

o Origin: Germany

o Description: A specialist in home electronic equipment. Karella boards are often praised for their sound insulation and tournament-sized segments, making them perfect for serious practice at home.

14. Carromco (Germany)

o Origin: Norderstedt, Germany

o Description: Carromco focuses on family-friendly gaming tables and electronic dartboards. They offer excellent entry-level options that bring the fun of dart machines to younger audiences.

15. Mission Darts (UK)

o Origin: Bolton, UK

o Description: A rapidly growing brand that has captured the market with modern branding and high-quality products. Mission offers a comprehensive range of soft-tip gear and boards that appeal to the new generation of players.

Conclusion

As electronic dart machines continue to evolve in 2026, the industry is clearly moving toward smarter, more connected, and more immersive gameplay experiences. From classic arcade systems to AI-enabled smart home setups, the top dart machine manufacturers are redefining how players compete, train, and socialize worldwide. By understanding brand strengths, technology trends, and application scenarios, buyers can make confident, future-proof decisions. As one of the featured manufacturers, FUNTECH combines reliable engineering, customization capabilities, and modern digital features, making it a strong partner for operators and distributors seeking high-performance dart machine solutions in a rapidly advancing global market.

FAQ

What is the primary difference between an electronic dart machine and a traditional dartboard?

Electronic dart machines use plastic segments and soft-tip darts, featuring automatic scoring, digital displays, and various programmed games. Traditional dartboards are typically made of sisal fiber and use steel-tip darts, requiring manual scoring and offering a more classic, tactile experience.

Are electronic dartboards a good investment for home entertainment?

Yes, they are excellent for home use, offering a wide range of games, automatic scorekeeping, and often multiplayer options that cater to all skill levels. Their soft-tip darts also make them safer for family environments compared to steel-tip boards.

How much should I expect to pay for a quality dart machine in 2026?

Entry-level electronic dartboards can range from $50-$150, offering basic features for casual play. Mid-range models with more features, better durability, and app connectivity typically cost $150-$400. High-end smart dartboards or arcade-style dart machines can range from $500 to over $2000, depending on advanced features and commercial-grade construction.

What are the most important features to consider when buying an electronic dart machine?

Automatic scoring accuracy and display type (LCD vs. LED) are critical. You should also consider the number of built-in games and variations, plus multiplayer capabilities. Durability of the target segments, connectivity options (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi) for online play, and sound effects are also key factors.

What is the difference between soft tip darts and steel tip darts?

Soft tip darts have flexible plastic tips designed for electronic dartboards, minimizing damage to the board and surroundings. Steel tip darts have sharp metal points used with traditional bristle dartboards, offering a classic feel and stick into the board's fibers.

Can I connect my electronic dart machine to my phone or tablet for online play?

Many modern electronic dart machines offer Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing them to pair with companion apps on smartphones or tablets. This enables advanced score tracking, access to online multiplayer games, firmware updates, and community features.

What kind of maintenance does a dart machine require to ensure longevity?

Regular cleaning of the board segments and surface to remove dust and dart residue is essential. Checking for and replacing worn-out soft tips on darts prevents jammed segments. Ensuring proper power connection and safe storage to prevent damage from moisture or extreme temperatures is also important.

Are there official dart leagues that use electronic dart machines?

Yes, many local and national dart leagues specifically use electronic dart machines, often in bars, arcades, or dedicated dart centers. Some smart dartboards also facilitate online leagues and tournaments directly through their platforms or integrated apps, allowing participation from home.