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Remember the satisfying clack of an arcade joystick and the glow of a CRT screen? Arcade equipment has staged a massive comeback, and it’s not just nostalgia — it’s smart buying. Whether you’re building a man cave, opening a small barcade, or hunting for a weekend DIY project, there are fantastic options across the US. From brand-new arcade cabinets to vintage pinball machines and replacement parts, the market is stacked with choices. This guide walks you through the best places to buy, what to look for, and how to avoid rookie mistakes.
If you want a plug-and-play experience with reliable warranty and shipping options, start with specialty retailers. Arcade1Up is a name most people recognize for accessible home cabinets that usually stand around 46 to 55 inches tall and weigh 40 to 60 pounds — perfect for apartments or game rooms. GameRoomGuys is another US-based seller that stocks full-size cabinets, multi-game setups, and premium brands like Stern Pinball and Raw Thrills. These retailers offer a range from compact cabinets to full upright models that measure roughly 60 to 72 inches tall and 24 to 30 inches wide.
Arcade1Up focuses on scaled-down versions of classic machines, often using modern LCD screens while keeping the retro look. They’re affordable and designed to fit in tighter spaces. If you’re thinking in feet and inches, most Arcade1Up units are under 55 inches tall and about 20 inches deep — easy to slide into a corner.
GameRoomGuys caters to buyers seeking full-size, authentic arcade cabinets and high-end pinball machines. If you want a cabinet that feels like an arcade in a commercial location, this is a solid pick. Expect crates that can weigh hundreds of pounds and cabinets that may stand 5 to 6 feet tall.
Looking for authentic classics? The secondary market is where treasures appear. eBay remains a powerhouse for auctions and listings from sellers across the US, letting you score rare cabinets and replacement parts. Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace can be goldmines if you don’t mind local pickup and doing a little legwork. For higher-end restores, check specialist sellers and private collectors who list on niche sites or forums. Remember: vintage cabinets are often heavy — many push over 200 pounds — so plan for pickup, delivery, or professional crating.
eBay’s auction format can be your friend if you’re patient and do inspections properly. Listings include dimensions and photos, but always ask for additional details on screen condition, control functionality, and cabinet structure. Local listings like Craigslist cut down on shipping headaches, but you’ll need a truck and some muscle — many cabinets are wider than 30 inches and taller than 60 inches.
For collectors seeking machines in good condition or fully restored models, specialty dealers provide added reliability. They often offer refurbishment, parts, and warranty options specific to classic game electronics. Prices reflect the care and rarity — expect to pay more, but also expect less risk.
Even if you buy a new cabinet, parts eventually wear out: joysticks, buttons, power supplies, and monitors. Happ Controls (SuzoHapp) is a leading US supplier of replacement joysticks, buttons, coin doors, and more. They’re widely used by hobbyists and commercial operators. Smaller retailers and online stores like Paradise Arcade Shop and Ultracade also offer high-quality components and harnesses tailored for specific cabinet models.
Happ Controls supplies heavy-duty parts suitable for arcades and bars. Their joysticks and buttons are built to withstand constant use and last for thousands of hours. If you’re outfitting a public venue or want commercial longevity at home, these parts are a safe bet.
Paradise specializes in custom control panels, joysticks, and wiring harnesses suited for detailed DIY builds. They’re great if you plan to build a bartop cabinet or retrofit an existing cabinet and want precise fitment in inches and fractions of an inch.
Pinball brings a different rhythm to a game room. Brands like Stern Pinball and Jersey Jack manufacture modern machines sold through authorized distributors and specialty game retailers. Stern’s machines are commonly found at arcade retailers and sometimes directly through local showrooms, while private resale sites and pinball-specific forums list used machines. Because pinball machines can weigh between 200 and 400 pounds and stand around 56 to 74 inches tall when the backbox is up, professional delivery and setup is often worth the cost.
Stern makes feature-rich machines with detailed artwork, advanced electronics, and long-term parts support. New collectors often prefer Stern because of availability and after-sales support in the US. If you’re investing in pinball, Stern is a recognizable and reliable choice.
For vintage pinball, look for resellers that offer restoration services. A restored 1970s or 1980s machine can be a showpiece and an investment, but ensure the seller documents work done and provides a parts warranty when possible.
Major retailers like Amazon and Walmart sell a variety of arcade-style products—from mini cabinets to dedicated gaming chairs. These outlets are great for accessories, replacement parts, or smaller plug-and-play units. However, when you need specialized service, parts compatibility, or authentic arcade components, specialty shops deliver better expertise. Think of big-box stores as the convenience aisle, and specialty shops as the mechanic who knows your car inside and out.
Need a replacement power adapter or a set of buttons by the weekend? Amazon and Walmart often have fast shipping and easy returns. They also carry mini arcade machines and multigame cabinets that are good for casual play, but verify specs like screen size and cabinet dimensions before buying.
Best Buy and similar chains occasionally stock arcade-style products and can be useful for seeing a demo in person. They’re not a substitute for an arcade-specific retailer, but they can be part of a hybrid approach to buying: research online, test in-store, and buy from a specialist.
Price isn't the only metric. Look at warranty coverage, shipping and crating costs, and whether installation or assembly is included. A cheap cabinet that arrives damaged or missing parts can cost more in time and repair than a slightly more expensive unit from a reputable seller. Always ask for exact dimensions in inches, crate weight in pounds, and a clear description of what’s included: power cables, joysticks, coin door, or art decals. If a seller provides a serial number or manufacture date, that’s a good sign they know the product’s history.
When contacting a seller, ask about monitor type (LCD vs. original CRT), chipsets used for emulation, and whether the cabinet has been modified. Ask for close-up photos of control panels, wiring, and any wear areas. These details can save you from unexpected repairs later on.
Measure your space carefully. Cabinets can be 2 to 3 feet deep and 2 to 3 feet wide; full-size pinball machines require at least 7 to 8 feet of clear space to play comfortably. Don’t forget doorways and hallways — a 32-inch doorway might make it tricky to move a 30-inch-wide cabinet past corners and turns without professional disassembly.
If you love hands-on projects, building or restoring an arcade cabinet can be deeply satisfying. Wood suppliers, paint shops, and component vendors like ArcadeShop, Amazon, and local hardware stores will supply materials. For control boards, harnesses, and monitors, specialty outlets such as Ultimarc, GroovyGameGear, and Happ Controls provide reliable parts. A typical DIY bartop cabinet might use a 17- to 19-inch monitor and weigh under 50 pounds; full upright cabinets are bigger beasts and require sturdier plywood and joysticks rated for commercial use.
Keep a checklist: joysticks, buttons, wiring harness, power supply, monitor or screen, marquee light, and speaker system. You’ll also need basic tools — a drill, jigsaw, screwdriver set, and multimeter. For restorations, replacement artwork and vinyl decals bring a machine back to life visually.
If you’re dealing with high-voltage CRT monitors, complex pinball electrics, or need precise cabinet carpentry, hire a technician. A botched repair can be dangerous and costly; professional help is a good investment for rare or expensive machines.
Arcade equipment can be an investment. Many retailers offer financing for larger purchases like pinball machines or full-size cabinets. Consider insurance if you’re putting machines in a public space — property and liability coverage matter. For home units, a simple homeowner’s policy add-on may suffice. Also, plan for ongoing maintenance: parts like buttons and belts can wear out after heavy use, so factor in replacement costs in pounds of parts or a yearly maintenance budget.
Set a realistic budget. New home cabinets often range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Pinball machines and commercial cabinets can climb quickly, so decide what matters most: authenticity, size, or price. Always leave room for shipping in your budget, since heavy crates can add hundreds of dollars, depending on distance.
Regular cleaning, replacing worn parts, and keeping electronics dry and at moderate temperatures will prolong life. For valuable machines, consider a cover or dust-proof cabinet when not in use. A little TLC goes a long way in resale value.
Before you commit, run through a final checklist: confirm exact measurements in inches, verify weight in pounds for shipping, ask about assembly, and check warranty terms. If buying used, ask for recent working videos and a list of replaced parts. When in doubt, ask for references from past buyers or read customer reviews across multiple platforms to get a rounded view.
Don’t rush. Compare prices, read seller feedback, and consider total cost of ownership, not just the sticker price. Whether you’re buying a compact bar top, a full-size cabinet, or a classic pinball machine, the right store makes the experience smooth and fun.
Arcade equipment shopping in the US is a blend of treasure hunting and smart shopping. With the right retailers, parts suppliers, and a little patience, you can build a game room that’s both nostalgic and future-proof. Now go ahead — drop a quarter in, and enjoy the game.
| Arcade Equipment | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| X-arcade Arcade2tv-xr Tankstick Vr Arcade Game Machine With Trackball Rgb Lighting Meta Quest 3 Integration With Pinball | $ 294,- |
