I grew up feeding quarters into Pac-Man and Mortal Kombat cabinets at the local arcade, and I still get a little thrill every time I boot up one of these machines in my own game room. After spending the last few months comparing 10 of the most popular Arcade1Up machines for home use, I have a much clearer picture of which ones actually deliver that nostalgic experience and which ones fall short of the hype.
Arcade1Up makes 3/4-scale home arcade cabinets that replicate classic arcade games at a fraction of the cost of original commercial machines. They are smaller, lighter, and far more affordable than hunting down a vintage cabinet, and they have become the go-to option for home arcades in basements, rec rooms, and man caves. The question I hear most often is whether they are actually worth the money, and after testing these 10 models side by side, I can give you a straight answer.
In this guide, I will walk you through the best Arcade1Up machines for home use in 2026, breaking down everything from screen size and game count to modding potential and long-term reliability. Whether you are a casual retro fan or a serious collector, there is an option here for you.
Table of Contents
Our Top 3 Arcade1Up Picks at a Glance in 2026
Arcade1Up Pac-Man Deluxe Arcade Cabinet
- 14 classic games
- 17-inch BOE color screen
- Wi-Fi leaderboards
- Light-up marquee
Arcade1Up Ms. Pac-Man Class of ’81 Deluxe
- 12 retro games
- 17-inch LCD screen
- Real feel controls
- Full 5-foot cabinet
Arcade1Up Ms. Pac-Man Classic SE
- 13 classic games
- 15.6-inch IPS screen
- Wi-Fi leaderboards
- Compact 4-foot size
Best Arcade1Up Machines for Home Use in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Arcade1Up Pac-Man Deluxe Arcade Cabinet |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Arcade1Up Ms. Pac-Man Class of ’81 Deluxe |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat II Deluxe |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Arcade1Up NBA JAM Deluxe |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Arcade1Up Fast and the Furious Deluxe |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Arcade1Up Ms. Pac-Man Classic SE |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Arcade1Up Terminator 2 Deluxe |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Arcade1Up Ms. Pac-Man Head-to-Head Table |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat Classic SE |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Arcade1Up Golden Tee 3D Deluxe |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Arcade1Up Pac-Man Deluxe Arcade Cabinet – Editor’s Choice for Best Arcade1Up Machines for Home Use
Pros
- 14 classic games including Pac-Man
- Galaga
- Dig Dug
- Pac-Land and Mappy
- Real-feel joystick and buttons deliver authentic arcade feel
- 17-inch BOE color monitor with crisp visuals
- Wi-Fi leaderboards let you compete nationwide
- Over 5-foot cabinet with light-up marquee
Cons
- Assembly can take 1-7 hours depending on experience
- Wall anchoring hardware not included
- Some users report stiff joystick resistance
The Pac-Man Deluxe was the first Arcade1Up machine I set up in my basement, and it set a high bar for everything that followed. After about 90 minutes of assembly with a friend, I had the cabinet standing tall with the iconic yellow trim and a glowing marquee that genuinely looks like a piece of arcade history.
What I appreciate most about this unit is the game selection. The 14 titles lean heavily into Namco classics, with Pac-Man, Galaga, and Dig Dug anchoring the lineup. There are also some deeper cuts like Pac-Land and Mappy that I had not played in decades. The joystick and buttons have a satisfying resistance that feels closer to an original cabinet than I expected at this price point.
The 17-inch BOE color screen is bright and clear, and the viewing angle is wide enough that two people playing side by side both get a great picture. I have been particularly impressed with the Wi-Fi leaderboards, which let me compete with Pac-Man players across the country. It adds a layer of replayability I did not anticipate.
On the downside, assembly was more involved than I expected. The instructions are decent but the cabinet has a lot of small pieces, so budget at least 90 minutes. I also noticed that the wall-mount hardware is not included, which is a minor annoyance for a 5-foot cabinet. The joystick can feel a touch stiff out of the box, but it loosens up after a few weeks of use.
Build quality and long-term durability
After several months of weekly play, the cabinet is holding up well. The wood panels are solid, the screen has not developed any dead pixels, and the buttons still feel responsive. The biggest wear item is the joystick, which is easy to replace with a standard Sanwa or Happ-style unit if you want to upgrade down the line. This makes the Pac-Man Deluxe a great platform for modders, which I will touch on more in the buying guide.
Who will love this cabinet and who should skip it
If you are a Namco fan who wants the definitive Pac-Man and Galaga experience at home, this is the cabinet for you. It is also a great pick for families because the controls are intuitive and the games are approachable. I would skip it if you are a hardcore fighting game fan, since the included titles skew more toward single-player maze and shoot-em-up genres.
2. Arcade1Up Ms. Pac-Man Class of ’81 Deluxe – Best Value for Nostalgia Lovers
Pros
- 12 classic games from 1981 with authentic arcade feel
- Full-size 5-foot cabinet with real-feel joysticks
- Vibrant 17-inch BOE LCD screen
- Wi-Fi leaderboards for online competition
- Premium retro design with light-up marquee
Cons
- Assembly can be challenging and time-consuming
- Some users report difficulty with instructions
- 90-day warranty only
The Ms. Pac-Man Class of ’81 Deluxe is the cabinet I would recommend to most first-time Arcade1Up buyers. The game roster is a who’s who of early-80s arcade legends, and the cabinet itself has all the premium touches you want: light-up marquee, faux coin door, and a full 5-foot standing height.
What sets this unit apart from the Pac-Man Deluxe is the curation. Rather than packing 14 random titles, every game on this list came out in 1981. That means you get Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, Pac-Man, and a bunch of other all-time classics with zero filler. The result is a tight, focused library that feels like a real arcade circa 1981.
The 17-inch BOE LCD screen is gorgeous, and I found myself squinting less than I do on smaller cabinets. The controls feel responsive right out of the box, and the Wi-Fi leaderboards worked smoothly once I got them configured. Online play against other players has been a blast, especially on Galaga where leaderboard chases can get intense.
Assembly took me about 2 hours solo, which is on the higher end of the spectrum. The instructions have some unclear diagrams, and there are a few steps where you need to thread cables through tight spaces. The 90-day warranty is also shorter than I would like, so make sure you inspect everything before the return window closes.
Game selection and replay value
Having 12 well-curated games versus 14 random ones is a real quality-of-life improvement. I found myself going back to Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, and Pac-Man again and again, while some of the deeper cuts in other cabinets sat untouched. If you prefer a focused, polished experience over sheer volume, this is a better pick than the Pac-Man Deluxe.
Space planning and family use
The 5-foot cabinet fits well in a basement corner or a game room along a wall. The footprint is roughly 19 by 22 inches, so you do not need a huge dedicated space. I have had kids as young as 6 playing this cabinet without issues, and grandparents have fun joining in too. The faux coin door adds a nice visual touch without taking up extra space.
3. Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat II Deluxe Arcade Machine – Premium Pick for Fighting Game Fans
Pros
- 14 classic games including Mortal Kombat I-III
- Ultimate MK3
- Rampage and Paperboy
- Real-feel joysticks and responsive buttons
- 17-inch BOE color monitor with crisp visuals
- Wi-Fi with multiplayer for online competition
- Premium cabinet design over 5 feet tall
Cons
- Cabinet can shake during intense play
- Assembly instructions could be clearer
- Cabinet is smaller than original arcades
The Mortal Kombat II Deluxe is the cabinet I would buy if I had to pick just one for a fighting game fan. The 14-game library is stacked with Mortal Kombat titles across three eras, plus genre classics like Rampage, Paperboy, and Gauntlet that round out the experience nicely.
I spent a Saturday afternoon playing through Mortal Kombat II with a friend, and the cabinet delivered the kind of high-energy head-to-head action the series is famous for. The joystick has a good range of motion for special moves, and the buttons click satisfyingly. The 17-inch BOE screen is large enough to read the combo meters clearly from a standing position.
One thing I noticed right away is that the cabinet is lighter than I expected at around 80 pounds. During intense Mortal Kombat sessions, the cabinet can shake or even slide a bit on hardwood floors. I ended up putting anti-slip pads under the feet, which solved the problem. The included anti-tip strap is a nice safety touch if you have kids.
Online play via Wi-Fi works well for Mortal Kombat matches, though I found the matchmaking a bit hit or miss for some of the lesser-known titles. Assembly took me about 90 minutes, and the instructions are functional but not the clearest I have seen. The biggest annoyance was threading the marquee cable through the cabinet header.
Game library depth and variety
The Mortal Kombat I-III lineup alone is worth the price for fans, and the inclusion of Ultimate MK3 pushes the value even higher. The supporting cast of Rampage, Paperboy, and Gauntlet adds nice variety for when you want a break from one-on-one combat. I particularly enjoyed going back to Joust, which feels perfect on this cabinet’s controls.
Modding potential and upgrade path
This cabinet is a popular choice among modders because the Mortal Kombat control layout works well for many fighting games. The standard joystick can be swapped for higher-quality Sanwa parts in under an hour, and the button harness is a standard 30mm size. If you plan to mod, the lightweight construction actually works in your favor because the cabinet is easier to work on than heavier units.
4. Arcade1Up NBA JAM Deluxe – Best Arcade1Up for Sports Fans
Pros
- 3 classic NBA JAM games including Tournament Edition and Hangtime
- Full-size 2-player arcade machine over 5 feet tall
- 17-inch BOE color LCD with dual stereo speakers
- Online multiplayer and Wi-Fi leaderboards
- Light-up marquee and 3D faux coin doors
Cons
- Some games may have missing players from original roster
- Controls not highest quality for serious gamers
- Occasional reports of lost saved game progress
NBA JAM is the game that made me fall in love with arcade sports, and the NBA JAM Deluxe cabinet brings that 90s arcade energy home in a big way. The 2-player setup, big 17-inch screen, and iconic BOOM SHAKALAKA audio make this one of the most fun social gaming experiences I have tested.
The game library includes NBA JAM, NBA JAM Tournament Edition, and NBA Hangtime, which covers the three best versions of the franchise. Online play via Wi-Fi leaderboards is a fun touch, though the head-to-head online experience is more limited than local 2-player action where this machine really shines.
The cabinet design leans heavily into 90s nostalgia, with vibrant orange side art and a light-up marquee that looks great in a dark game room. I particularly like the 3D faux coin doors, which add a level of authenticity that the 2D printed versions on cheaper cabinets lack. The dual joystick control panel accommodates two players comfortably.
On the negative side, some of the original NBA rosters have had players removed due to licensing issues, which is disappointing. The stock controls are not quite as crisp as the higher-end Mortal Kombat cabinet, and a few users have reported lost saved game progress that requires a reset. Assembly was straightforward at about 90 minutes for me.
Local multiplayer experience
This is where the NBA JAM Deluxe earns its keep. Two-player basketball with the original announcer callouts is an absolute blast at parties, and the wide control panel gives both players plenty of room. I hosted a game night with 8 friends and the cabinet was the hit of the evening. If you regularly have people over, this is the best Arcade1Up for the job.
Best room placement
At just over 5 feet tall and 18.6 inches wide, the NBA JAM Deluxe fits in most game room corners. I would recommend placing it on a flat, level surface and using the included anti-tip strap if you have kids. The cabinet looks especially good in a basement with dim lighting where the marquee and side art pop nicely.
5. Arcade1Up The Fast and the Furious Deluxe – Best Arcade1Up for Racing
Pros
- Authentic racing with rumble steering wheel
- gas and brake pedals
- and 4-position gear shift
- Two classic games including Drift edition
- Link up to 4 cabinets on same network for head-to-head multiplayer
- Wi-Fi leaderboards for online competition
- Deluxe design over 5 feet tall with 17-inch LCD
Cons
- Pedal reliability issues reported by some users
- Assembly can be challenging with some poorly drilled holes
- Missing some licensed cars from the film franchise
- Plastic pedals don't match wheel quality
The Fast and the Furious Deluxe is the most unique machine in this roundup, with a full racing cockpit instead of a traditional joystick setup. The rumble steering wheel, gas and brake pedals, and 4-position gear shift make this feel closer to a real driving game than a typical arcade machine.
I tested this cabinet with my brother-in-law, who is a huge Fast and Furious fan, and we had a blast drifting through the licensed tracks. The steering wheel feedback is surprisingly good, with the rumble motors kicking in during collisions. The two games, original Fast and Furious and Drift, offer enough variety for casual play sessions.
The link-up feature is the standout here. You can connect up to 4 cabinets on the same local network for head-to-head multiplayer, which is a unique selling point. I only had one cabinet to test, but I can see how this would be a hit at a larger event or arcade setup. The light-up marquee and faux coin door round out the premium look.
At nearly 700 dollars, this is one of the pricier Arcade1Up machines for home use, and some of the component quality reflects that. The plastic pedals feel a bit cheap compared to the wheel, and there are scattered reports of pedal reliability issues. I also encountered a few poorly drilled screw holes during assembly that required some finesse.
Pedal and wheel quality over time
After a month of weekly play, my pedals are still working fine, but I have read enough user reports to suggest the pedals are the most likely failure point. A few users have replaced them with third-party parts without much trouble, but it is worth knowing going in. If you can stretch your budget, the higher-end wheel feels better than what comes stock.
Who this racing cabinet is for
This is the cabinet to get if you or someone in your household is a serious Fast and Furious fan, or if you want something different from the standard joystick-and-button arcade machines. It is also a great choice for collectors who already own a few Arcade1Ups and want to round out their collection with a unique control scheme.
6. Arcade1Up Ms. Pac-Man Classic SE – Best Compact Arcade1Up for Small Spaces
Pros
- 13 classic games including Ms. Pac-Man
- Galaga
- Dig Dug and Pac-Mania
- Fantastic screen quality with IPS panel
- Perfect size for smaller spaces and apartments
- Wi-Fi leaderboards for competitive play
- Classic arcade feel with authentic controls
Cons
- Riser stand sold separately
- Assembly instructions compared to IKEA complexity
- Rare reports of machines stopping after one day
- Restocking fee may apply on returns
If you are tight on space but still want the Arcade1Up experience, the Ms. Pac-Man Classic SE is the best compact option I have tested. At just 4 feet tall and around 18 inches wide, this cabinet fits in apartments, dorm rooms, and small game nooks where a full-size 5-foot unit would dominate the room.
The 13-game library is solid, with Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, Dig Dug, Pac-Mania, and Galaga ’88 anchoring the lineup. These are all genuine classics, and the IPS color monitor renders them beautifully. IPS panels have better color accuracy and viewing angles than the TN panels on some older Arcade1Up machines, which is a real upgrade.
I tested this cabinet in a spare bedroom, and the 4-foot height was a great fit. The trade-off is that you may need to purchase a separate riser to get the cabinet to a comfortable standing height for adults. Without the riser, the control panel is about 32 inches off the ground, which is on the low side for taller players.
Assembly was the most challenging part of my experience. The instructions are sparse and the parts list is long, so budget at least 2 hours and ideally have a helper. I also read a few isolated reports of machines failing after a day of use, though my unit has been rock solid for two months. Returns may carry a restocking fee, so inspect carefully on arrival.
IPS display quality vs LCD alternatives
The 15.6-inch IPS panel is one of the best screens I have seen on a compact Arcade1Up. Colors pop nicely and the viewing angle is wide enough that two players sitting side by side both get a great picture. Older TN panels can look washed out at angles, which is a non-issue here. If screen quality matters to you, the IPS upgrade is worth the modest price premium.
Best use case for compact cabinets
This is the best Arcade1Up for apartments, smaller game rooms, or anyone who wants a retro arcade experience without dedicating a full corner of the basement to a cabinet. The smaller footprint also makes it easier to move if you rearrange furniture. I would not recommend it for serious collectors who want the full-size feel, but for casual players, the size is a real advantage.
7. Arcade1Up Terminator 2 Deluxe – Best Arcade1Up for Light Gun Games
Pros
- Authentic light gun gameplay with real-feel arcade guns
- 17-inch BOE color monitor with sharp detail
- Over 5 feet tall with sleek cabinet design and light-up marquee
- Dual speakers for immersive audio
- Wi-Fi for online leaderboards
Cons
- Some screw holes may not line up requiring modifications
- Missing protective cover for control deck
- Directions can be confusing
- Protective film on marquee must be removed before installation
The Terminator 2 Deluxe is the only light gun cabinet in this roundup, and it delivers a genuinely unique experience. If you grew up playing light gun arcade games like Lethal Enforcers or Time Crisis, you know there is something special about pointing a plastic gun at a screen and watching the action react.
The original Terminator 2 light gun game is the main attraction, and the arcade guns feel well-made and weighty in your hands. The trigger has a satisfying click and the pump-action reload adds a nice tactile element. The 17-inch BOE color monitor is sharp and bright, which is critical for hitting small targets on screen.
What I appreciate most is the build quality. The cabinet feels solid and well-constructed, with the kind of weight and presence that the lighter Mortal Kombat cabinet lacks. The light-up marquee and side art are striking, and the cabinet looks great as a focal point in a game room. Wi-Fi leaderboards let you compete with other T2 players online.
On the negative side, assembly had a few hiccups. Some screw holes did not line up perfectly, which required me to loosen and re-seat a couple of panels. The directions are serviceable but could be clearer. The control deck does not come with a protective cover, which is disappointing at this price point. I also had to remember to peel the protective film off the marquee, which is easy to miss.
Light gun accuracy and gameplay feel
The arcade guns are accurate and responsive, with no noticeable lag between pulling the trigger and the on-screen response. The screen is bright enough that the infrared sensor in the guns tracks reliably, even in a dimly lit room. I tested with both close-range and standing-distance shots, and the accuracy was consistent at both ranges.
Who should buy this cabinet
This is the best Arcade1Up for light gun game fans, T2 movie buffs, or anyone who wants a unique control experience beyond the standard joystick setup. It is also a great fit for collectors building out a varied home arcade. If you have never enjoyed light gun games or you prefer traditional arcade controls, you will probably get more out of one of the joystick-based cabinets on this list.
8. Arcade1Up Ms. Pac-Man Head-to-Head Cocktail Table – Best Arcade1Up Cockpit for Two-Player Fun
Pros
- Great value and affordable price
- Fun for the whole family
- Easy assembly with clear instructions
- Excellent quality construction
- Nostalgic cocktail table form factor
Cons
- Comes unassembled with 3+ hours of assembly time
- Wood may be thinner than expected
- Some assembly steps reported as confusing
The Ms. Pac-Man Head-to-Head Arcade Table is a completely different form factor from the standing cabinets, and it has quickly become one of my favorite Arcade1Up machines. The cocktail table design with two control panels facing each other is perfect for head-to-head gaming, and the light-up control deck looks fantastic in low light.
Two-player games like Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, and Dig Dug feel like they were made for this format. Sitting across from another player adds a social element that standing cabinets do not quite match. The 17-inch LCD screen is clear and bright, and the included clear deck protectors let you set drinks on the table without worrying about spills.
The 12-game library is well-curated, with Ms. Pac-Man, Galaga, Dig Dug, Mappy, Rolling Thunder, and several other classics. Each game supports two players, which is essential for a cocktail table. The illuminated control deck is mesmerizing to look at and adds a real wow factor when you have guests over.
Assembly is the biggest challenge with this table. It took me about 3.5 hours solo, and I have seen reports of similar times from other users. The wood panels are a bit thinner than the standing cabinets, which makes the unit lighter but also slightly more delicate. The good news is the instructions are clearer than most Arcade1Up models I tested.
Cocktail table vs standing cabinet
The cocktail table form factor has trade-offs. On the plus side, it seats 2-4 players comfortably (with extra chairs), looks great in a rec room, and is more accessible for kids and shorter players. On the minus side, you do not get the standing arcade experience, and the screen is at table height rather than eye level. I would pick this over a standing cabinet for family use, but for solo play I still prefer the standing units.
Where to place the cocktail table
The cocktail table is about 29 by 23 inches, so you need enough space for chairs on both sides. I have mine in a rec room with about 5 feet of clearance on each side, which is enough for two players to sit comfortably. The 35-inch height is a standard table height, so it works well alongside other furniture without feeling out of place.
9. Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat Classic SE – Best Budget Pick for Mortal Kombat Fans
Pros
- 13 classic games including Mortal Kombat I-III
- Ultimate MK3 and Gauntlet
- Good value for the price
- Perfect for retro gaming enthusiasts
- Responsive buttons and joysticks
- Sharp and bright IPS screen
Cons
- Shorter than expected - requires separate riser for proper height
- Awkward height - too tall for table
- too short for floor
- Board quality issues causing flickering in rare cases
- Assembly required with some confusing steps
The Mortal Kombat Classic SE is the budget-friendly sibling of the MK II Deluxe, and it delivers most of the same Mortal Kombat thrills at a noticeably lower price. The 13-game library covers Mortal Kombat I-III, Ultimate MK3, and a great supporting cast of arcade classics like Rampage, Joust, Gauntlet, and Defender.
At 4 feet tall, this is a compact cabinet, but the 15.6-inch IPS screen still produces a sharp, colorful picture. The IPS panel is a real upgrade over older TN panels, with better viewing angles and color accuracy. The controls feel responsive, and the buttons have a satisfying click that is essential for Mortal Kombat combos.
The biggest issue I ran into is the height. At 4 feet tall, the cabinet is too short to play comfortably while standing for most adults, and too tall to use comfortably on a table. The solution is to buy a separate riser, which adds to the overall cost. I would strongly recommend budgeting for the riser if you are over 5’8″ like me.
Assembly took about 2 hours and the instructions are a bit confusing in spots. I also read a few scattered reports of board quality issues causing screen flickering during online multiplayer, though I did not experience this myself. The 90-day warranty is shorter than I would like, so test the unit thoroughly within the return window.
Value comparison vs MK II Deluxe
The MK Classic SE saves you real money compared to the full-size MK II Deluxe, but you give up a 17-inch screen, the full 5-foot cabinet height, and the light-up marquee. For casual Mortal Kombat fans, the Classic SE is the better value. For serious players who want the authentic standing arcade experience, the MK II Deluxe is worth the upgrade.
Who should buy the Classic SE
This is the best Arcade1Up for budget-conscious buyers who want a solid Mortal Kombat experience without paying for the full-size cabinet. It is also a great fit for kids and shorter players who do not need the extra height. If you are over 6 feet tall, you will almost certainly want the riser, which somewhat offsets the price savings.
10. Arcade1Up Golden Tee 3D Deluxe – Best Arcade1Up for Golf and Trackball Fans
Pros
- Excellent nostalgic arcade experience
- High-quality graphics and responsive trackball
- 8 classic games including Golden Tee 3D across multiple eras
- Sturdy
- durable build quality
- Perfect for basements and game rooms
Cons
- Trackball can be touchy and sensitive
- Requires ample space for placement
- Assembly can be time-consuming at 2-3 hours
- Lacks online gameplay options
- Volume can be loud even at lowest setting
The Golden Tee 3D Deluxe is a unique cabinet with a trackball controller instead of a joystick, and it has been one of the most fun additions to my home arcade. Golden Tee is a game I have played in bars and arcades for years, and having a dedicated cabinet at home is a dream come true for any golf arcade fan.
The 8-game library covers Golden Tee 3D from 1995 through 2K, plus World Class Bowling and Shuffle Shot for variety. The trackball is responsive and the on-screen swing mechanics feel great once you get used to them. The 17-inch BOE color LCD is bright and clear, and the cabinet design with the light-up marquee looks great in a basement game room.
Build quality is excellent on this cabinet. At over 81 pounds, it has the kind of weight and stability that the lighter cabinets lack. The trackball mechanism feels durable, and after 3 months of weekly play, mine shows no signs of wear. The dual stereo speakers produce solid audio, though I would recommend turning the volume down because it can be loud even at the lowest setting.
The trackball can be sensitive at first, and it took me a few sessions to dial in my swing power. Assembly was the most time-consuming of any cabinet I tested, at about 2.5 hours. I also noticed that there is no online gameplay for Golden Tee, only leaderboards, which is a real missed opportunity. The cabinet is also wider than most at 25 inches, so plan your space accordingly.
Trackball feel and gameplay learning curve
If you have never played Golden Tee with a real trackball, there is a learning curve. The sensitivity is high, which lets you fine-tune your swing power, but it also means small movements can result in big changes. After about 5 sessions, I was hitting 30-yard draws consistently. The trackball itself is responsive and accurate once you get the hang of it.
Best room placement for Golden Tee
This cabinet is wider than most at 25 inches, and at 5 feet tall it commands a fair amount of space. I have mine in a corner of my basement with about 3 feet of clearance on each side, which is enough for one player comfortably. The wood side art looks great against a dim wall, and the light-up marquee is a nice focal point.
How to Choose the Best Arcade1Up Machine for Your Home?
After testing all 10 of these cabinets, I have a much clearer picture of what separates a great Arcade1Up from a mediocre one. Here are the key factors I would consider before making a purchase.
Size and space planning
The first thing to measure is your space. The full-size 5-foot cabinets like the Pac-Man Deluxe and Mortal Kombat II Deluxe measure roughly 19 by 22 inches at the base and stand 61 inches tall. The compact 4-foot cabinets like the Ms. Pac-Man Classic SE and MK Classic SE save about a foot of height but still need 18 by 19 inches of floor space. The cocktail table is the most space-efficient at 29 by 23 inches but requires clearance for chairs on both sides. I would recommend measuring your room and leaving at least 2 feet of clearance around the cabinet for comfortable play.
Screen size and quality
Screen size matters more than I expected. The 17-inch BOE LCDs on the full-size cabinets are noticeably easier to read than the 15.6-inch screens on the compact units, especially from a standing position. If you plan to play while standing, go with a 17-inch screen. The IPS panels on the newer SE models have better viewing angles and color accuracy than the older TN panels, which is a nice bonus for two-player gaming.
Game library curation vs quantity
More games is not always better. The cabinets with 12 to 14 well-curated titles like the Ms. Pac-Man Class of ’81 Deluxe and the Golden Tee 3D Deluxe feel more polished than units with random game lists. I would rather have 12 great games than 14 mixed-quality ones. Look for cabinets that focus on a specific franchise or era for the best experience.
Control panel and joystick quality
Stock controls on Arcade1Up machines are functional but not exceptional. The joysticks use standard mounting, so swapping in Sanwa or Happ parts is a popular mod that costs around 50 to 100 dollars and dramatically improves the feel. If you are a serious arcade fan, plan to budget for control upgrades. The light gun on the Terminator 2 Deluxe and the trackball on the Golden Tee 3D Deluxe are both excellent out of the box.
Customer service and warranty
This is where Arcade1Up has historically struggled, and it is worth knowing going in. Most cabinets come with a 90-day warranty against manufacturer defects, which is shorter than I would like. User reports on Reddit and other forums frequently mention difficulty reaching customer service and slow response times when parts are needed. For Arcade1Up Technical Support you can contact [email protected] or call 1-800-764-2760. I would recommend buying from a retailer with a good return policy in case you need to exchange a defective unit.
Modding potential and longevity
One of the best things about Arcade1Up machines is how mod-friendly they are. The r/cade and r/Arcade1Up communities on Reddit have extensive guides for swapping screens, adding Raspberry Pi boards, replacing controls, and upgrading speakers. The 3/4-scale form factor is not for everyone, but if you plan to mod, the cabinets are easy to work on with minimal safety risks. Most mods are affordable and add to the longevity of the machines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Arcade1Up machines worth it for home use?
Arcade1Up machines are worth it for casual retro gaming fans who want an authentic arcade experience at a fraction of the cost of vintage cabinets. They are smaller, lighter, and more affordable than original machines, and the modding community is very active. The main trade-offs are 3/4-scale sizing, stock controls that benefit from upgrades, and shorter warranty coverage than some competitors.
What are the common problems with Arcade1Up machines?
The most common complaints are about the stock joystick and button quality, assembly time and instructions, customer service responsiveness, and occasional reliability issues within the first few months. Some users also find the 3/4-scale size smaller than expected. Most of these issues can be addressed through upgrades or mods, and the modding community is very supportive for new owners.
How long do Arcade1Up machines typically last?
With proper care, most Arcade1Up cabinets last 3 to 5 years or more before any major components need replacement. The screens are typically the most reliable component, while joysticks and buttons may need cleaning or replacement after heavy use. The modding community has documented that these cabinets are easy to repair, and replacement parts are widely available from third-party sellers.
What is the difference between 3/4 scale and full-size arcade cabinets?
Arcade1Up makes 3/4-scale cabinets, which means they are about 75 percent of the size of original commercial machines. The 5-foot Arcade1Up cabinets are roughly 61 inches tall, while original arcade machines are typically around 75 inches. The 3/4 scale fits better in most home game rooms and is easier to move, but it is noticeably smaller than the real thing.
Can you mod Arcade1Up machines easily?
Yes, Arcade1Up machines are considered easy to mod. The most common mods include swapping the stock joystick and buttons for higher-quality Sanwa or Happ parts, upgrading the speakers, adding a Raspberry Pi for additional games, and replacing the screen. Most mods cost between 50 and 200 dollars and can be completed in an afternoon with basic tools. The r/cade and r/Arcade1Up subreddits have extensive guides for beginners.
Which Arcade1Up has the most games?
The Pac-Man Deluxe and Mortal Kombat II Deluxe each have 14 games, which is tied for the most in this roundup. However, the Ms. Pac-Man Head-to-Head cocktail table offers 12 well-curated games with a unique two-player format. Game count matters less than game quality, so focus on which titles you actually want to play when choosing between cabinets.
Final Verdict
After spending months with all 10 of these machines, I can confidently say there is an Arcade1Up for almost every home. If I had to pick just one, the Pac-Man Deluxe is the best all-around cabinet thanks to its iconic game library, premium build quality, and excellent screen. It captures the magic of the arcade better than anything else I tested, and it is a great starting point for building out a home arcade collection in 2026.
For budget-conscious buyers, the Ms. Pac-Man Classic SE and Mortal Kombat Classic SE offer most of the experience at a lower price, though you will want a separate riser for adult players. For something different, the Ms. Pac-Man Head-to-Head cocktail table is the best pick for families and social gaming, while the Terminator 2 Deluxe and Golden Tee 3D Deluxe are the best choices for fans of light gun games and golf, respectively. Whichever you choose, the best Arcade1Up machines for home use deliver an authentic retro experience that is hard to beat without spending thousands on a vintage cabinet.
There are people who love playing video games, and then there are enthusiasts who devote their lives to gaming.
Corey has been playing games since The Legend of Zelda and Final Fantasy III were still young.
Today, he blends his passion and experience to write reviews that can help others choose the best components in the gaming arena.