If you've ever found yourself reminiscing about the days spent at the local arcade, pumping quarters into your favorite machine, then investing in an arcade cabinet might just be the perfect way to bring that nostalgia home. Arcade cabinets aren’t just for the hardcore retro gamers; they’re for anyone who wants to capture that classic gaming experience right in their living room.
TL;DR – The Best Arcade Cabinets
Our Top Pick### Taito Egret II Mini
1See it at Amazon
### AtGames Legends Ultimate
1See it at AtGames
### Arcade1Up Class of 81 Deluxe Arcade Game
0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Target
### Prime Arcades Cocktail Arcade Machine
0See it at Amazon
### My Arcade Data East Classics Mini Player
0See it at Amazon
### Neogeo Mini Arcade
0See it at Amazon
### Tiny Arcade Q*bert
1See it at Amazon
### Arcade1Up Midway Legacy
0See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Arcade1Up
### Namco Pac-Man Pixel Bash
1See it at Amazon
### SNK MVSX Arcade Machine
0See it at MVSKThese machines let you relive the glory days of gaming, with everything from iconic titles like Pac-Man and Street Fighter to lesser-known gems. Whether you’re looking to relive those childhood memories or introduce a new generation to the joys of old-school gaming, an arcade cabinet offers a unique experience that modern consoles just can’t replicate.
Taito Egret II Mini
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1. Taito Egret II Mini
Best Arcade Cabinet
Our Top Pick### Taito Egret II Mini
1With this mini version of the original Egret II, you still get the rotating screen, 40 games loaded in, and a sturdy joystick. Experience the nostalgia of classic arcade gaming with the Taito Egret II Mini, a compact yet powerful tribute to the golden era of arcades. This mini cabinet is perfect for those looking to relive the magic of the late '70s to '90s arcade games without needing a time machine. Featuring a rotatable 5-inch display, you can switch between horizontal and vertical orientations, ideal for a variety of classic titles. The 4:3 aspect ratio and 1024x768 resolution ensure crisp visuals, while the six-button arcade layout and adjustable joystick provide an authentic feel. Modern conveniences like save states, adjustable lives, and rapid-fire options enhance your gaming experience, making it easier to enjoy these classics without frustration. For an expanded gaming experience, connect to a TV via HDMI, add more games through the SD card slot, and enjoy classic arcade sounds through integrated stereo speakers. Plus, with two USB Type-A controller ports, you can easily invite a friend to join the fun.
See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsDimensions7.87” x 5.9” x 8.22”Weight4.13 poundsScreen size5”Number of preinstalled games40Popular titlesSpace Invaders, Lunar Rescue, QixPROSSturdy joystick and buttonsCompact version of original machine, including a rotating screenCONSCan’t adjust volume during play
AtGames Legends Ultimate Review
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2. AtGames Legends Ultimate
Best Multi-Game Arcade Machine
### AtGames Legends Ultimate
1Enjoy a 24-inch HD display and a library of 300 classic arcade games on an arcade cabinet with a smaller footprint than the originals. The AtGames Legends Ultimate is the perfect choice for those who want a vast library of games without sacrificing too much space. This cabinet offers a modern twist on the classic arcade experience with a 24-inch HD display, allowing it to fit comfortably in your home. With 300 pre-installed games, ranging from arcade classics to Atari and Sega Genesis titles, you'll have endless entertainment at your fingertips. The cabinet also supports streaming games from a PC, effectively providing unlimited gaming options. Despite its high price, the AtGames Legends Ultimate is a worthwhile investment for serious gamers looking to bring the arcade home.
See it at AtGamesProduct SpecificationsDimensions29.53” x 21.65” x 66.44”Weight79.55 poundsScreen size24”Number of preinstalled games300Popular titlesSpace Invaders, Centipede, BurgerTimePROS24-inch HD display300 classic arcade games and the ability to stream PC gamesCONSExpensive
Arcade1Up Class of 81 Deluxe Arcade Game
Best Cabaret Arcade Cabinet
### Arcade1Up Class of 81 Deluxe Arcade Game
0Grab this cabaret arcade cabinet that keeps things slightly more compact than the classics but delivers a similar look and reliable controls. For those who crave the authentic arcade experience but need something more space-efficient, the Arcade1Up Class of 81 Deluxe Arcade Game is the ideal choice. This cabaret model maintains a sleek, authentic design while standing at a manageable 61 inches tall, perfect for standing or sitting play. With 12 classic games, including Ms. Pac-Man and Galaga, and a 17-inch monitor, you'll enjoy clear visuals and responsive controls. The cabinet's light-up marquee and molded coin door add to its nostalgic charm, making it a stylish addition to any game room.
See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at TargetProduct SpecificationsDimensions22.5” x 18.75” x 61”Weight71 poundsScreen size17”Number of preinstalled games12Popular titlesMs. Pac-Man, Galaga, Dig DugPROSSvelte, authentic-looking design Large joystick and responsive buttonsCONSOnly 12 games to choose from
Prime Arcades Cocktail Arcade Machine
Best Cocktail Arcade Cabinet
### Prime Arcades Cocktail Arcade Machine
0Sit down and game with this cocktail arcade cabinet and stool combo that packs in 3,512 games. The Prime Arcades Cocktail Arcade Machine brings a unique twist to the arcade experience, allowing you to play comfortably seated with included chrome stools. With a massive library of 3,512 classic games displayed on a 26-inch LED screen, this cabinet offers endless entertainment. The sturdy tempered glass top ensures durability against spills, making it perfect for casual gaming sessions. Although its weight of 185 pounds makes it a bit challenging to move, the Prime Arcades Cocktail Arcade Machine is a fantastic choice for those looking to enjoy games in a relaxed setting.
See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsDimensionsNot listedWeight185 poundsScreen size26”Number of preinstalled games3,512Popular titlesBurgerTime, Bubble Bubble, AsteroidsPROS3,512 games Comes with two stoolsCONSExtremely heavy
My Arcade Data East Classics Mini Player
Best Tabletop Arcade Cabinet
### My Arcade Data East Classics Mini Player
0For those short on space, this compact unit delivers the classic Data East design, a 4.25” LCD screen, 35 games, a miniature joystick, and arcade buttons. If space is a concern, the My Arcade Data East Classics Mini Player offers a perfect solution. This tabletop arcade cabinet is compact yet loaded with 35 classic games from the Data East collection, including favorites like BurgerTime and Caveman Ninja. The 4.25-inch LCD screen and miniature joystick provide an authentic arcade feel, while the Data East design adds a touch of nostalgia. Though the joystick might be small, this budget-friendly option is ideal for those looking to enjoy classic arcade games without taking up much room.
See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsDimensions6.25" x 7" x 12"Weight2.2 poundsScreen size4.25”Number of preinstalled games35Popular titlesHeavy Barrel, Caveman Ninja, BurgerTimePROSCompact design Budget-friendly priceCONSJoystick is small
Neogeo Mini Arcade
Best Mini Arcade Cabinet
### Neogeo Mini Arcade
0Featuring 40 classic games, a 3.5-inch LCD screen, a free-moving joystick, and several buttons, this palm-sized gaming device brings on nostalgia. The Neogeo Mini Arcade is a must-have for SNK fans, offering a compact way to enjoy 40 classic games. This palm-sized cabinet features a 3.5-inch LCD screen and a free-moving joystick, making it easy to take your favorite games on the go. While the on-device controls can be cramped, an optional USB-C controller enhances the gaming experience, especially for two-player games. The ability to save game progress and connect to a TV via HDMI adds to its versatility, making it a cost-effective way to relive the glory days of arcade gaming.
See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsDimensions5.12” x 4.25” x 6.38”Weight1.34 poundsScreen size3.5”Number of preinstalled games40Popular titlesThe King of Fighters '98, Metal Slug X, Samurai Shodown IIPROS40 classic SNK games loaded inFits in the palm of your handCONSOn-device controls hard to use
Tiny Arcade Q*bert
Best Tiny Arcade Cabinet
### Tiny Arcade Q*bert
1At keychain size, this Q*bert gaming device still plays the original game with its 1.5-inch screen, joystick, and two buttons. The Tiny Arcade Q*bert is the ultimate novelty item for arcade enthusiasts, fitting in the palm of your hand or on a keychain. Despite its minuscule size, it delivers an authentic gaming experience with the original Q*bert game on a 1.5-inch full-color screen. The joystick and two buttons, along with classic sounds, evoke a strong sense of nostalgia. While challenging to play for extended periods, this tiny cabinet is perfect for a quick gaming break or as a decorative piece on your desk.
See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsDimensions3.75” x 1.75” x 1.75”Weight0.29 poundsScreen size1.5”Number of preinstalled games1Popular titlesQ*bertPROSUltra tiny form factorAuthentic-looking design and sounds CONSHard to actually play games on
Arcade1Up Midway Legacy
Best Fighting Game Arcade Cabinet
### Arcade1Up Midway Legacy
0A light-up Marquee and coin door sticker will take you back in time, while two sets of robust controls are perfect for fighting games. The Arcade1Up Midway Legacy is a must-have for fighting game fans, featuring 12 classic titles including three Mortal Kombat games. The cabinet's design replicates the iconic Mortal Kombat II look, complete with a themed riser for comfortable play. The light-up marquee and coin door sticker enhance the nostalgic feel, while the robust, full-size joysticks labeled with moves for Mortal Kombat II ensure a satisfying gaming experience. Priced under $500, this cabinet offers crisp visuals on its LCD screen, making it an excellent choice for those looking to dive back into classic fighting games.
See it at AmazonSee it at Best BuySee it at Arcade1UpProduct SpecificationsDimensions22.75” x 19” x 57.8”Weight79.5 poundsScreen size17”Number of preinstalled games12Popular titlesMortal Kombat, Joust, DefenderPROSFull-size joysticks labeled with moves for Mortal Kombat II Riser for comfortable play sitting or standingCONSOnly has 12 games
Namco Pac-Man Pixel Bash
Best Pac-Man Arcade Cabinet
### Namco Pac-Man Pixel Bash
1Who doesn’t love Pac-Man? This Namco-made machine features 32 of their classic titles on a mid-sized cabinet. The Namco Pac-Man Pixel Bash is a dream come true for Pac-Man enthusiasts, offering 32 classic Namco titles on a well-crafted, eye-catching cabinet. With a 19-inch monitor and games like Pac-Man, Galaga, and Dig Dug, this machine provides a crisp and engaging gaming experience. While the high price tag might be a consideration, the authentic feel and extensive game library make it a worthwhile investment for fans of Namco's legendary titles.
See it at AmazonProduct SpecificationsDimensions33” x 21” x 60”Weight160 poundsScreen size19”Number of preinstalled games32Popular titlesPac-Man, Galaga, Dig DugPROS32 classic titles, including Pac-Man, Galaga, Dig DugCrisp 19-inch monitor CONSHigh price tag
SNK MVSX Home Arcade Review
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10. SNK MVSX Arcade Machine
Best SNK Arcade Cabinet
### SNK MVSX Arcade Machine
0SNK is behind some iconic titles, and this machine brings back the classic feel with full-size arcade controls for two players. The SNK MVSX Arcade Machine is the ultimate choice for fans of SNK's iconic franchises, including The King of Fighters, Metal Slug, and Samurai Shodown. With 50 pre-installed games, this cabinet offers a comprehensive library for hours of entertainment. The full-size arcade controls for two players and a 17-inch display ensure an authentic gaming experience. While the $650 price might be steep, the option to play both arcade and home console versions of the games adds significant value, making it a premium choice for SNK enthusiasts.
See it at MVSKProduct SpecificationsDimensions19.5” x 15.8” x 57.6” (w/ riser)Weight79.5 poundsScreen size17”Number of preinstalled games50Popular titlesThe King Of Fighters, Metal Slug, Samurai ShodownPROSFull-size arcade controls for two playersLoaded with 50 SNK gamesCONSExpensive
Where to Get the Best Arcade Cabinets in the UK
### Best Multi-Game Arcade Machine AtGames Legends Ultimate
5£799.00 at Liberty Games
### Best Fighting Game Arcade Cabinet Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat Arcade Cabinet
3£349.00 at Amazon
### Best Tiny Arcade Cabient Tiny Arcade Space Invaders
1£23.99 at AmazonHow to Choose an Arcade Cabinet
Arcade cabinets come in various shapes and sizes, so it's crucial to consider your available space. If you're aiming for an authentic arcade feel, full-size, mid-size, or cabaret cabinets are ideal but require a larger area. They suit dedicated game rooms or living room centerpieces. Cocktail arcade cabinets are also great for seated gaming but need table-sized space.
For smaller spaces, tabletop or mini arcade cabinets offer a compact solution. However, their smaller screens and controls might be less comfortable for extended play. Many of these models support external controllers and can connect to larger displays, enhancing the gaming experience. Ultra-tiny keychain-sized cabinets are more for novelty and brief gaming sessions.
Price is a significant factor. Full-size and cocktail cabinets can be pricey, while mid-size and cabaret options vary widely, often including risers for added height. Tabletop and mini cabinets are more budget-friendly, ranging from $25 to $100.
When choosing, consider the pre-installed games. Many cabinets come with titles from specific companies like Namco or SNK, so decide what games you want to play.
Finally, think about features. Screen size, player capacity, and control feel are important. Tabletop and mini cabinets often lack multiplayer options and larger screens, while cabaret and full-size models usually include them. Reliable joysticks and responsive buttons are essential for an enjoyable gaming experience.
Arcade Cabinet FAQ
How tall is a full-size arcade cabinet?
Full-size arcade cabinets typically stand around 6 feet tall, with controls at waist height and the screen at or below eye level for comfortable play. Cabaret and mid-size cabinets are shorter and more compact, often including risers to mimic the classic arcade feel.
