Best Home Arcade Machines (Reviews)
Best High End
Creative Arcades Cocktail Arcade
Best Mid Range
Cocktail Arcade Machine 1162
Best Inexpensive
Retro Arcade Machine with 412 Games
Last Updated: 10th Mar, 2023
Fueled by films such as guardians of the galaxy or Netflix shows like Stranger Things, The 80s are cool again! The older among us may want to relive this time of neon and synthesized music, as well as the younger seeking to get the genuine retro experience. Well, today's reviews will do just that.
Back in the 80s, if you wanted to spend the afternoon playing Arcade games, you would have to go to the store with your pocket full of coins and move from machine to machine to play different titles.
These days, not only can you own your very own Arcade machine for your house or party area, but you can potentially have thousands of 80s and 90s classics crammed into one system.
I have compiled a list of the most 'gnarly' and 'tubular' home Arcade systems on the market, which will have you digging out those tight-fitting jeans and your denim jacket for hours and hours of uninterrupted nostalgic fun.
Whether you're looking for a cocktail arcade machine, multi-game arcade systems, cabinet arcades or a tabletop variant, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs.
Our Top Picks for The Best Home Arcade Systems
- Creative Arcades Cocktail Arcade- Best Arcade Cocktail Table
- Cocktail Arcade Machine 1162 Games in 1 - Best Mid-Range Model
- ABVIDEO Inc. 412 Arcade Machine with TRACK BALL - Best Value For Money
- Retro Arcade Machine with 412 Games - Best Tabletop Arcade Machine
- My Arcade Namco Museum Mini Player - Miniature Arcade machine that fits in your hand
1. Creative Arcades Cocktail Arcade Machine
{Best Arcade Cocktail Table}
Specifications:
- Type: Cocktail
- Screen: LCD 26''
- Controller: Joystick & trackball
- Supported players: Up to 4
- Games: 3500
- Dimensions: 44″ x 30″ x 30″
- Warranty: 3 years
The 'Creative Arcades Cocktail Machine' is undisputedly the best home Arcade machine on the market. It is a full-sized commercial-grade machine that not only would be the ultimate entertainment system in your home but also in a business setting. The console is sturdy, and the buttons and joysticks are designed to take a bashing.
As well as the standard 8-way joysticks, this model comes with a trackball that allows you to play games such as 'Centipede,' in the way it was intended.
Measuring at 39 "L x 22.5 "W x 29 "H, the body of this machine is sturdy, heavy and has no flimsy parts. It has attractive cabinet graphics under the tempered glass, along with bright blue LED lights that look like it came straight out of the film 'Tron.' It has a 26" screen with a bright and clear display.
A feature I love about this model is that it can be played flat or upright, using heavy-duty hydraulic arms to hold it up at a 60° angle.
The 2 free stools provided with this system are sleek and stylish with risers built into them. These are the perfect size to play the game on and made to an exceptional quality.
Of course, a big selling point of an Arcade system is the library of games. Holding 3500 of them, with such titles as Pac-man, Ms. Pac-man Space Invaders, Frogger, Galaga, and Donkey Kong.
Top Features:
- Holds a Massive 3500 Games.
- Commercial Grade Quality.
- Authentic Retro Aesthetics
- 26" Tilting Screen.
Conclusion: The 'Creative Arcades Cocktail Arcade Machine' will not disappoint. It's sleek in design, built to an incredible quality, and holds an impressive 3500 games to be played on its 26" screen. It has something for all ages and is easy to use. This machine is the quintessential choice for any business or home and has something for all ages.
2. Cocktail Arcade Machine 1162 Games in 1
Best Mid-Range Model
Specifications:
- Type: Cocktail
- Screen: LCD 22''
- Controller: Joystick & trackball
- Supported players: Up to 2
- Games: 1162
- Dimensions: 39"L x 22.5"W x 29"H
- Warranty: 5 years
Out of all the systems I reviewed, the look of the 'Cocktail Arcade Machine 1162 Games' has to be my favorite. The graphics on the cabinet show some of the best retro game titles ever to be made. The tempered glass sits on top of the 22" LED screen, which effortlessly displays bright and clear gameplay.
The 8-way joysticks are smooth, and the buttons are springy, which makes this Arcade system play perfectly. The sound and visuals of the system are also fantastic. I forgot I was at home and not in the Arcade store when I tested this one out, the bonus being I didn't have to wait in line to play my favorites.
The 2 chrome stools that come with this system are comfy, sturdy and sits at the right height.
This system comes with a mouthwatering 1162 games that include many 80s & 90s classics such as Street Fighter, Metal slug, The Simpson's, Centipede and Dig Dug.
Coming with 5 years warranty, your mind can be put at rest about the longevity of this machine.
Top Features:
- Retro Design & Decals
- LED 22" Screen
- 1162 Games
- 5 Years Warranty
Conclusion: The look of this flat Arcade machine is the ultimate nostalgia. It has crisp sound and a 22" screen that boasts bright colors and clarity. With 1162 games and 2 free stools, it is the ultimate addition to any man cave or family den.
3. ABVIDEO Inc. 412 Arcade Machine with TRACK BALL
Best Value For Money
Specifications:
- Type: Cocktail
- Screen: LCD 22''
- Controller: Joystick & trackball
- Supported players: Up to 2
- Games: 412
- Dimensions: N/A
- Warranty: N/A
For me, this stunning Arcade machine has the best look when it comes to the cabinet artwork. It has famous gaming titles like Donkey-Kong, and Space Invaders plastered all over it, which had me itching to fire it up.
Coming with the standard joystick and buttons either side, this has a great authentic feel to it. What I also love is the attention to detail with the money slot on the side and the opening door, which will let you get into the hardware of this machine.
The screen is 22" in size, and has a vibrant and flawless graphics just like the originals. Its sound is clear and is exactly how I remembered them when I was younger.
The system is weighted and sturdy. What came as a pleasant surprise, was the 2 retro looking stools that could have been taken straight out of an arcade store!
This machine comes with 412 games, more than enough to keep you and your friends entertained for a long time to come. Those of you who love to brag on that top player board will not be disappointed as this system has that feature.
The price of this system is very reasonable for the impeccable quality you get. It is the perfect choice for any games room or party area.
Top Features:
- Famous Retro Graphics Covering It
- 412 Classic Favorites
- High Score Feature
Conclusion: It looks like it came straight from the 80s, with enough titles to keep you busy for years! Its display and sound are brilliant, as well as its value for money.
4. Retro Arcade Machine with 412 Games
Best Tabletop Arcade Machine
I can't stress enough how cool this system looks. The vibrant blue and the original Pac-Man design filled with me so much nostalgia I gravitated towards this one first.
The tabletop arcade system is very lightweight for easy portability, especially if it is to be stored away between use. The size of it makes it feel like an original Arcade machine, measuring in at 30" Tall x 17" Wide x 20" Deep.
With 412 classics titles, you will undoubtedly find all your favorite childhood games built into this system. Playing Labyrinth Runner again after so many years bought the biggest smile to my face and had me ready to get stuck into the other titles!
The 'Retro Arcade Machine' has a 19" screen with full-sized buttons. A feature I love is the classic cherry ball joystick that feels well used and a little stiff. I'm not sure if this is by design for an authentic experience, but I could see it being an issue for younger people being introduced to a retro Arcade as it is not as smooth as the gaming controllers they are used to today.
This system is made in the US, the birthplace of the Arcade culture in the 80s, which should give you faith it will not let you down.
Top Features:
- Original Pac-Man Design
- Lightweight/Portable Table Top Version
- 412 Games
Cons:
- Joystick Is A Little Stiff
Conclusion: This Arcade system is the best tabletop version on the market. I would love to put this on a permanent shelf in a man cave or a gaming room. It looks enticingly nostalgic and has a great selection of classics titles.
5. My Arcade Namco Museum Mini Player
Miniature arcade machine that fits right in your hand
Are you looking for a miniature Arcade system to easily pop on your lap when you feel like some gaming? Maybe you want one to sit on your desk when you need a break from your work.
As I'm writing this review, the 'Arcade Namco Museum Mini Player' is whispering, "Just one more game of Pac-Man… just one."
Its cabinet graphics are a homage to 80s gaming, with original artwork plastered over it. The glowing coin trap and title marquee is a very nice touch. Its 4-way removable joystick is sturdy and moves seamlessly.
Holding a modest 20 games, you will not feel limited as the caliber of each title speaks for themselves. Galaga, Battle City, Dragon Spirit, Rolling Thunder, Splatter house - to name a few.
You do not need batteries with this model, as is usually the case with mini versions. Just plug in into the mains, and you're good to go! Unfortunately, no matter how long you leave it plugged in, the high scores do not save once you leave the game.
What I love about this mini Arcade, is that it comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack, which means you can literally play it anywhere without bothering anyone else with the sound effects and music.
The vertical screen measures 4.25" which isn't bad for a micro Arcade system. The colors are vibrant, and the display is clear, but you do have to look at it head-on for the clearest view, as it can appear darker from some angles.
Top Features:
- Good selection Of Games
- Cabinet Graphics Are Attractive & Cool
- 3.5mm Headphone Jack
- Plugs Into Mains.
Cons:
- Have To Look Head On For Best Viewing
- No High Score Saves
Conclusion: Small and compact, holds 20 games and very easy to use. This is the perfect device for any desk or home use. This would be the ideal gift for any young gamers, or for a big kid who enjoys the classics!
Buyer's Guide to Home Arcade Machines
Choosing the right arcade machine for your home or office break out area can be quite an overwhelming task. Arcade machines were a thing a couple of decades back and now are more of a novelty. Manufacturers have come up with their own standards, which can be difficult for first-time buyers to understand.
But don't worry, we've got you covered. In this handy buyer's guide, we've outlined exactly what you should be looking for while buying an arcade system.
<Size>
Arcade machines are inherently quite bulky and occupy a lot of floor space. Therefore, the first thing you must finalize is the machine size. Arcade systems come in all shapes and sizes - from tabletop variants to cocktail. If you're shy on space, you can opt for a tabletop or mini arcade machine. They're portable and quite easy to move around. However, the playability isn't the best but good enough for home use.
If you're looking to recreate the true arcade-like experience, you should opt for a classic upright arcade cabinet. The experience and playability are the best, but such a model would easily run you over $1500. It supports multi-player gaming and comes with most of the popular games.
Cocktail arcade or the sit-down machines are fast gaining popularity, especially in the home setting. Unlike the upright machine, the players actually sit next to the screen while playing the game. The sitting option makes the cocktail machines a popular choice.
<Dedicated vs. Multi-Game System>
The next thing you need to decide is whether you would like a dedicated arcade machine that supports only one game or a multi-game system with comes with several games. In most cases, a multi-game system is preferred. But dedicated systems give a real feel and are ideal for any who is a fan of a particular game.
<Multi vs. Single Player>
Arcade machines can either support single or multi-player mode. If you like to play games like Pac Man, space invaders, then a single-player variant will work for you. However, multi-player systems are more fun to play and allow you to compete with your friends at the same time. Most machines support two players, but some of the newer cocktail machines can even support up to four players.
<Supported Games>
Most modern arcade machines come with all the popular and classic games. However, Atari games like Pong or pitfall work only in the licensed systems. So it's a good idea to check supported games before you buy an arcade machine.
<System>
Arcade machines can either be powered by 'JAMMA' or 'MAME' system. It's basically an emulator running on the computer.
'JAMMA' works very similar to the original Arcade machines, whereas 'MAME' is an emulator ran off software.
Though 'MAME' can be more customizable for people who know how, 'JAMMA' is preferred for a more authentic and efficient system.
<Other Features>
Tilt screens are good for the upright Arcade experience and is especially helpful for games that were designed to be played this way. The flat style Arcade machines are just as entertaining and also can be utilized by the games that play better this way. You should consider what kind of games you will be playing more frequently to influence your choice.
A lot of systems on the market come with a Plexiglass covering, which is not as strong as tempered glass. I would recommend getting tempered to eliminate the risk of cracking or smashing.
4-way joysticks prevent you from going diagonal, which for some games, is a critical factor. The 8-way joysticks offer more control and allow you to move in any direction you want.
Let's Wrap Things Up:
Arcade machine is more of an emotional investment that allows you to relive your glory childhood days. It's a great addition to any home rec room or office break out area.
I hope my top picks of the best home Arcade machines help with your decision. Once you make your choice, all there is left to do is think of funny initials for the top player scoreboard!
