Arcade cabinets come in many shapes and sizes, from full-sized retro machines to compact bartop versions. Choosing the best size depends on your space, comfort, and how authentic you want your arcade experience to feel. Let’s explore the options.
🕹️ Standard Full-Size Arcade Cabinets
-
Height: Around 66–72 inches (5.5–6 feet)
-
Width: 24–30 inches
-
Depth: 30–36 inches
✅ Best for: Authentic arcade feel, standing gameplay, and two-player setups.
❌ Downside: Takes up more room, heavier to move.
These are closest to the original 1980s–90s arcade machines, offering a nostalgic, immersive experience.
🕹️ Three-Quarter (¾) Size Cabinets
-
Height: Around 45–60 inches
-
Width/Depth: Smaller footprint than full-size
✅ Best for: Home arcades, kids, or anyone with limited space.
❌ Downside: Slightly less immersive for taller adults unless paired with a riser.
Brands like Arcade1Up popularized this size, making it easier to fit a cabinet into living rooms and game rooms.
🕹️ Bartop Arcade Cabinets
-
Height: 20–30 inches (without base)
-
Designed to sit on a countertop, bar, or custom stand.
✅ Best for: Small spaces, apartments, casual gaming.
❌ Downside: Not as immersive as standing cabinets.
Great for players who want arcade fun without dedicating floor space.
🕹️ Cocktail Table Cabinets
-
Height: 28–32 inches (similar to a coffee table)
-
Players sit across from each other.
✅ Best for: Multiplayer games like Pac-Man or Galaga, social settings, game rooms.
❌ Downside: Not suitable for all game genres (like fighting games).
🕹️ Which Size Should You Choose?
-
Full-Size Cabinet: Best for collectors and serious retro fans.
-
¾-Size Cabinet: Best for casual gamers and families.
-
Bartop Cabinet: Best for small apartments or portable setups.
-
Cocktail Cabinet: Best for social, multiplayer fun.
🎯 Final Verdict
The best size for an arcade cabinet depends on your priorities:
-
Want nostalgia? Go full-size.
-
Want convenience? Go ¾-size.
-
Want compact fun? Go bartop.
-
Want social play? Go cocktail table.
No matter the size, what matters most is enjoying the games you love!
📊 Arcade Cabinet Size Comparison Chart
| Cabinet Type | Height Range | Space Needed | Best For | Pros ✅ | Cons ❌ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Size | 66–72 in (5.5–6 ft) | Large floor space | Authentic arcade feel, collectors | True arcade experience, immersive | Heavy, takes up space |
| ¾-Size | 45–60 in | Moderate floor space | Home arcades, families | Fits most homes, lighter weight | Too short for tall adults without riser |
| Bartop | 20–30 in (cabinet only) | Tabletop or counter | Apartments, casual gaming | Compact, portable, space-saving | Less immersive, needs surface to sit on |
| Cocktail Table | 28–32 in | Coffee table space | Multiplayer party games | Great for 2 players, social fun | Limited game genres work well |
🎯 Final Thoughts
-
Full-size is for arcade purists.
-
¾-size balances nostalgia and convenience.
-
Bartop is the best for tight spaces.
-
Cocktail is perfect for social retro gaming nights.
👉 No matter the size, the best arcade cabinet is the one that fits your lifestyle, space, and love for gaming.