Who makes the best home arcade machines?

In recent years, home arcade machines have surged in popularity—thanks to nostalgia, retro gaming, and a desire to bring the arcade experience into the living room. But with so many brands and DIY kits on the market, many gamers ask:

👉 Who makes the best home arcade machines?

Let’s explore the top brands, what they offer, and how to choose the best one for your setup.


🏆 Top Brands That Make the Best Home Arcade Machines

1. Arcade1Up

🕹️ Best for licensed, affordable retro cabinets

Highlights:

  • Officially licensed cabinets (e.g., Pac-Man, Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat)

  • ¾ scale (approx. 4 ft tall)

  • Affordable, easy to assemble

  • LCD screen, real arcade buttons/joysticks

💵 Price range: $300 – $600
⭐ Best for: Casual gamers, nostalgia fans, families
🔧 Optional risers and stools for full-height play


2. AtGames Legends Ultimate

🕹️ Best for all-in-one game variety + online features

Highlights:

  • Over 300 built-in games + online game store

  • Supports BYOG (Bring Your Own Game)

  • Online leaderboards, multiplayer, USB/HDMI support

  • 24" or 32" HD screens

💵 Price range: $600 – $1,200
⭐ Best for: Versatility, modern + retro gaming, online play
🎮 Expandable with Steam, ArcadeNet, and more


3. iiRcade

🕹️ Best for downloadable titles and modern design

Highlights:

  • Download new games via app store

  • Premium sound and 19" display

  • Full-size cabinet with high-quality parts

  • Unique library including retro and indie games

💵 Price range: $600 – $1,000
⭐ Best for: Gamers who want more than retro classics
🎧 High-end sound and art options


4. Youwei Trade Home Arcade Machines

🕹️ Best for budget-friendly, multi-game cabinets

Highlights:

  • Thousands of built-in games (NES, SNES, MAME, PS1, etc.)

  • Based on Raspberry Pi or Pandora’s Box technology

  • Compact or full-size cabinets

  • Plug-and-play setup, customizable controls

💵 Price range: $200 – $800
⭐ Best for: Value, versatility, game variety
💡 Some units include handheld options and portable consoles

👉 Browse Youwei Trade’s Arcade Collection → (Free shipping included!)


5. Rec Room Masters

🕹️ Best for serious DIY builders

Highlights:

  • Arcade cabinet kits (no electronics included)

  • Supports Raspberry Pi, PC, or console builds

  • Custom graphics available

  • Pro-level control panels

💵 Price range: $500 – $1,200 (not including hardware)
⭐ Best for: DIY hobbyists and serious retro gamers
🔧 Great if you want to build a dream machine


🧠 How to Choose the Best One for You

Consideration Best Option
Budget-friendly Youwei Trade, Arcade1Up
Licensed retro games Arcade1Up
Modern features + game variety AtGames Legends, iiRcade
Full customization Rec Room Masters, Raspberry Pi DIY
Portability Mini machines from Youwei Trade

🏁 Final Thoughts

The best home arcade machine depends on your needs:

  • Want plug-and-play with classics? 👉 Go with Arcade1Up or Youwei Trade

  • Want variety and online features? 👉 Try AtGames or iiRcade

  • Want full control and customization? 👉 DIY kits or Raspberry Pi builds are the way to go


🎮 Looking to start your own home arcade?
Explore high-quality, ready-to-play machines at YouweiTrade.com – including multi-game cabinets, claw machines, and handheld retro consoles with free shipping.