Best Arcade Machines to Buy in January 2026
ARCADE1UP Class of 81’ Deluxe Arcade Machine for Home - 5 Feet Tall - 12 Classic Games
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ICONIC GAME LIBRARY: RELIVE CLASSICS LIKE MS. PAC-MAN & GALAGA!
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AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCE: REAL-FEEL CONTROLS & LICENSED ARTWORK FOR NOSTALGIA.
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WI-FI ENABLED FUN: COMPETE ONLINE AND CONNECT WITH A GAMING COMMUNITY!
WYGAMING Portable 20000 in 1 Metal Box 3D Arcade Game Console, 22 inch Screen Retro Electronic Game Console, with Search/Hide/Save/Load/Pause Functions
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PLAY 23,000+ GAMES: PRE-INSTALLED LIBRARY FOR ENDLESS ENTERTAINMENT!
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22-INCH HD DISPLAY: STUNNING VISUALS & ARCADE SOUND FOR IMMERSION.
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COMPACT & VERSATILE: EASY TO CARRY, CONNECT TO TV, OR GAME AT HOME!
TOP US VIDEO ARCADES Full Size Commercial Grade Cocktail Arcade Machine 2 Player Retro 412 Games 22" LCD Screen Tempered Glass 2 Stools Included 5 Year Warranty Black
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403 CLASSIC 80S GAMES - SAFE, FUN, AND FAMILY-FRIENDLY EXPERIENCE!
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HEAVY-DUTY PLYWOOD BUILD: DURABLE AND STABLE AT 140 LBS!
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5-YEAR WARRANTY & PLUG-AND-PLAY CONVENIENCE FOR INSTANT ENJOYMENT!
30000 Games in 1 Arcade Game Console ,Pandora Treasure 3D Double Stick,30000 Classic Arcade Games,Search Game, Support 3D,Favorite List, 4 Players Online,1280X720 Full HD Video
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EXPERIENCE CLASSIC & MODERN GAMING: PLAY RETRO FAVORITES AND NEW 3D GAMES!
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STUNNING FULL HD GRAPHICS: ENJOY VIBRANT VISUALS WITH 720P HDMI OUTPUT!
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CUSTOMIZABLE CONTROLS FOR EVERYONE: TAILOR BUTTON SETTINGS AND PLAY ONLINE!
Arcade Classics - Retro Mini Arcade Game, Full Color Screen, Classic Handheld Electronic Game Console, 90s Toy, Great Gift for Kids 8+, Pac-Man
- RELIVE NOSTALGIA WITH AUTHENTIC PAC-MAN ARCADE GRAPHICS!
- ENJOY CLASSIC GAMEPLAY WITH JOYSTICK CONTROL THROUGH VIBRANT MAZES!
- FULL COLOR SCREEN AND SOUNDS BRING PAC-MAN TO LIFE FOR EVERYONE!
Legends Pinball Micro, Arcade Machine Console, Classic Retro Video Games, 50 Built in Licensed Pinball Games, Space Invaders, Bubble Bobble,Time Machine, WiFi, HDMI, Bluetooth
- AUTHENTIC PLAY EXPERIENCE: REAL FLIPPERS, NUDGES & HD VISUALS.
- 50 BUILT-IN CLASSICS: PLAY TOP TABLES LIKE SPACE INVADERS & BUBBLE BOBBLE.
- CONNECT & COMPETE: JOIN FRIENDS ONLINE WITH MULTIPLAYER AND LEADERBOARDS.
Arcade1Up GALAGA Deluxe Arcade Machine w/ 14 Classic Games, 17" Screen & WiFi Leaderboards - Indoor Tabletop Video Gaming
- RELIVE THE CLASSIC GALAGA EXPERIENCE WITH AUTHENTIC ARCADE FEATURES.
- COMPETE GLOBALLY WITH WI-FI LEADERBOARDS AND STUNNING VISUALS!
- EASY ASSEMBLY: JUST PLUG IN AND PLAY FOR INSTANT RETRO FUN!
My Arcade Sonic The Hedgehog Mighty Player: Sega Retro Arcades, Sonic Countertop Video Game, 4 Classic Sega Games in 1
- AUTHENTIC SEGA TITLES ENSURE A TRUE GAMING NOSTALGIA EXPERIENCE.
- HIGH-RES 3.5 DISPLAY ENHANCES YOUR CLASSIC GAMING IMMERSION.
- PERFECT FOR COLLECTORS: ICONIC DESIGN WITH POWERFUL FEATURES!
Arcade1Up Wheel of Fortune Casinocade Deluxe Home Arcade Machine, 63.4-Inch Tall - 4 Premium Casino Games, 20 Unlockable Built-In Titles, Dual LCD Screens & Speakers, WiFi-Enabled
- DIVERSE GAMES: 24 GAMES MEAN ENDLESS FUN FOR EVERY PLAYER TYPE.
- DUAL SCREENS: IMMERSE IN GAMEPLAY WITH VIBRANT DUAL SCREENS FOR EXCITEMENT.
- NOSTALGIC DESIGN: VINTAGE VEGAS CHARM MAKES THIS A STUNNING HOME CENTERPIECE.
Are you nostalgic about the classic arcade games but want to experience them comfortably at home? Building a DIY arcade machine might be the perfect weekend project for you. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to create your very own arcade system without any product recommendations but focusing on choosing the right components.
Understanding the Basics of a DIY Arcade Machine
Before diving into the construction, it's essential to understand the basic components that make up an arcade machine. At its core, an arcade machine includes:
- Cabinet: The housing of your arcade machine, which can be designed in various styles.
- Monitor: Displays the game, traditionally CRT screens were used, but LCDs are now popular.
- Controls: Joysticks, buttons, and trackballs provide the interactive experience.
- Motherboard and Software: Powers the machine and runs the chosen games.
Choosing the Right Cabinet Design
The cabinet is the face of your arcade machine. When selecting or building your cabinet, consider the space you have available and your woodworking skills. You can opt for a traditional full-sized standing cabinet or a more compact, bartop version. If woodworking is not your forte, pre-fabricated kits might ease the process.
Selecting the Optimal Monitor for Gaming
Monitors are crucial for delivering an authentic gaming experience. While CRT monitors were the classic choice, modern arcade builders often choose LCDs or LED screens. It's essential to select a 144Hz gaming monitor to ensure smooth gameplay and reduce input lag, which is critical for fast-paced arcade games.
Durable Controls: Joysticks and Buttons
The controls are where the magic happens. Durable and responsive joysticks and buttons are necessary for a great gaming experience. Consider the types of games you'll be playing and select the controls accordingly. Quality components may be slightly more expensive, but they are worth the investment for longevity and performance.
Essential Hardware and Software Setup
No arcade machine is complete without the right hardware and software. A small computer like a Raspberry Pi can run emulators effectively. Emulation software allows you to play a wide variety of games from different consoles and arcade machines. Ensure you select software that is compatible with the games you desire.
Enhancing the Gaming Setup with Dual Monitors
For an upgraded experience, consider using dual monitors. Some modern arcade games support this for an expanded view or scoreboard. Explore best dual monitor stands for gaming to set up your configuration effortlessly. Dual monitors can add a layer of versatility to your machine, offering even more dynamic gameplay.
Long-term Maintenance and Upkeep
Just like any gaming setup, maintenance is key in ensuring your arcade machine lasts. Regularly check connections, clean the components, and ensure the software is updated. Investing in durable gaming keyboards can provide insight into choosing robust elements that withstand intense gaming sessions.
Final Thoughts
Building a DIY arcade machine is not just about assembling parts; it's an art that reflects your personality and gaming preferences. With the right components and a bit of patience, you'll have a unique arcade cabinet that provides endless hours of fun. Dive into the world of retro gaming and create an unforgettable 'blast from the past' experience right at home.
This article provides a general guide to building a DIY arcade machine, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right components without specific product endorsements. The embedded links offer additional insights into relevant topics such as durable gaming equipment and monitor stands.