I'm a fairly budget conscience guy who has a really hard time with the stretch towards the cost of a premium on any machine. Additionally, we are significant Star Wars fans in this household; yes even the wife. Last year as a family we played the pro for an evening and left disappointed to the point that I wasn't sure if we'd ever even own a SW pin. Then late last year I was able to play a premium for an evening and it changed my opinion immensely. Again, as other's have said, it's all about personal preference. You really need to try both and see what suits you. For me personally I either was going to have the premium or just not purchase the new Stern SW and I ended up buying a premium just after Christmas. Myself and the kids love the hyperloop. It's not easy to hit due to the ramp and makes you feel awesome when you do. The force ball save feature is nice as is the lit up falcon and stainless ramps over plastic. If you are looking for "are you getting your money's worth" with the pro to premium you're not likely to find such reason. It's more of an immaterial preference IMO.