Do people still make arcade machines?

If you grew up loving those big, button-filled arcade cabinets, you might wonder: Do people still make arcade machines today? And if so, where can you buy one for your home, game room, or business?

The answer is a big YES! — arcade gaming is alive and well in 2025, with both vintage collectors and new enthusiasts driving demand.

🕹️ Are Arcade Machines Still Being Made?

1. New Arcade Cabinets Are Still Manufactured

Modern companies create brand-new arcade machines, often with updated tech, high-definition screens, and preloaded classic or new games. These can be:

  • Full-size arcade cabinets like the originals, perfect for homes or commercial arcades

  • Mini arcade machines — compact, portable, and great for desktop play

  • Multicade machines that load dozens or even hundreds of arcade classics

2. Custom & DIY Arcade Machines

The rise of DIY culture and affordable mini PCs (like Raspberry Pi) means tons of hobbyists build their own arcade cabinets. Kits and parts are widely available online.

🛒 Where Can You Buy Arcade Machines?

Top Places to Shop New & Vintage Arcade Machines in 2025:

  • GameLoopX Arcade Collection

    • New and refurbished full-size and mini arcade cabinets

    • Classic titles like Pac-Man, Street Fighter, Galaga

  • YouweiTrade Retro Gaming

    • Retro arcade machines and accessories

    • Controllers, joysticks, and arcade buttons

  • Specialty Retailers & Online Marketplaces

    • eBay — great for vintage or rare machines

    • Amazon — mini arcade consoles and plug-and-play devices

    • Etsy — custom-built and handcrafted arcade cabinets

💡 What to Consider When Buying an Arcade Machine

  • Size: Full cabinets can be huge; mini or tabletop machines save space.

  • Game Library: Single-game cabinets vs. multicade with many titles.

  • Condition: New, refurbished, or vintage used machines.

  • Price: Arcade machines range from a few hundred dollars (mini versions) to thousands for rare vintage cabinets.

🎉 Arcade Machines Are Making a Comeback!

The retro gaming boom means arcade machines are popular again in bars, lounges, offices, and private collections. Whether you want a nostalgic centerpiece or a fun party game, there’s an arcade machine out there for you.

Ready to bring home your own arcade experience?

Check out these stores for the latest deals:
👉 GameLoopX Arcade Machines

Want to bring classic arcade fun home but don’t want to break the bank? There are plenty of awesome arcade machines under $500 that fit smaller spaces and still deliver that retro gaming vibe.

💡 Step 1: Decide Your Available Space

1. Full-Size Arcade Cabinets

  • Usually too big and expensive for under $500 — these often cost $1,000+ and need a dedicated room.

  • If you want one, consider saving up or buying a refurbished or used model from eBay or specialty sellers.

2. Mini or Cocktail Arcade Machines

  • Perfect for desks, countertops, or small living rooms.

  • Usually fits comfortably on a table or shelf.

  • Compact size but often comes preloaded with many games.

3. Plug-and-Play Arcade Consoles

  • Small, portable devices that connect to your TV or have built-in screens.

  • Extremely affordable and portable.

💡 Step 2: Pick the Type of Arcade Machine Within Budget

Top Options Under $500:

Type Features Pros Cons Price Range
Mini Arcade Cabinet 10-15 inch screen, joystick + buttons, many built-in games Authentic feel, compact, portable Smaller screen, fewer games $150–$400
Cocktail Arcade Table Table-style with flat screen on top, multiplayer Great for social play, unique look Takes table space $300–$500
Plug-and-Play Console HDMI out to TV, small joystick controller Affordable, easy setup Less authentic feel $50–$150

💡 Step 3: Check Game Library & Features

  • Look for machines with multicade support (100+ classic games) like Pac-Man, Galaga, Donkey Kong, Street Fighter.

  • Some machines allow adding your own ROMs (games) via USB or SD card.

  • Check if the cabinet has wireless or wired controllers for multiplayer fun.

💡 Step 4: Recommended Arcade Machines Under $500

1. Pandora’s Box Mini Arcade Cabinet

  • Compact design with 3000+ games

  • Authentic joystick & button layout

  • Fits on a desk or countertop

  • Price: Around $200–$300

2. 8BitDo Arcade Stick

  • A retro-style joystick and buttons controller for PCs and consoles

  • Not a cabinet but great for arcade feel

  • Price: Around $130

3. My Arcade Retro Machine

  • Handheld or tabletop models with classic games

  • Built-in screen and joystick

  • Price: Around $70–$150

4. X-Arcade Tankstick (Used or Refurbished)

  • Full-size joystick and buttons, compatible with PCs and consoles

  • May find used options under $500

  • Great for arcade enthusiasts

🛍️ Where to Buy Affordable Arcade Machines

💡 Bonus Tips

  • Check reviews and unboxing videos before buying — make sure controls feel responsive.

  • Consider shipping size and weight — full cabinets can be heavy.

  • Think about warranty and customer support especially for cheaper models.

🎉 Final Thoughts

You don’t need a giant arcade cabinet to enjoy retro gaming nostalgia. With a budget under $500, mini or tabletop arcade machines are the perfect way to get started—fun, affordable, and space-friendly!