Whether you’re building a retro-inspired arcade corner or upgrading a dedicated game room, a cocktail arcade cabinet kit can simplify the process. This guide focuses on popular, well-supported kits that fit standard 19″ to 23″ screens and offer flexible control options. Each option below emphasizes easy assembly, durable construction, and compatibility with common arcade hardware. Explore five standout kits and an informed buying guide to help you choose the best match for your setup.
Summary of chosen products
- LVL23 2 Player Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kit for 19″ to 23″ Screens — LEP1 Customs, LLC
- LVL23 2 Player Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kit for 19″ to 23″ Screens (HAPP, SANWA) — LEP1 Customs, LLC
- LVL23 2 Player Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kit for 19″ to 23″ Screens (HAPP, SANWA, or BLANK) — LEP1 Customs, LLC
- Audio Kit for Arcade Game, MAME Cabinet, or Virtual Pinball Machine — Arcade Renovations
- Umierke Sturdy DIY Arcade Console Kit — Umierke
LVL23 Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kit With Sanwa Or Happ Options
The LVL23 kit from LEP1 Customs, LLC is designed for 19″ to 23″ screens and supports both HAPP and SANWA control styles. The kit’s interior width and exterior measurements are tailored for compact bartop setups, with a versatile control layout to match different player preferences. Users can choose between standard HAPP 28mm buttons and joysticks or SANWA-style 30mm action buttons and SANWA stick configurations. The kit’s dual-setup approach helps you tailor the feel of classic arcade gameplay while keeping a clean, modern cabinet silhouette.
Key features include precise interior and exterior dimensions: interior width around 20.75″, exterior width 21.75″, height 21″, and depth 18″. The option to select HAPP or SANWA components means you can optimize button ergonomics and control response for your favorite titles. This kit also accommodates two players, making it suitable for co-op games and head-to-head classics. Assembly typically involves mounting a 19″–23″ monitor, wiring the controls, and finishing with a protective exterior aesthetic.
LVL23 Bartop Arcade Kit With HAPP Or SANWA Controls
This variation of the LVL23 kit emphasizes HAPP and SANWA compatibility, allowing buyers to specify a preferred control feel. The interior and exterior dimensions are consistent with a compact bartop footprint, and the design supports a two-player layout. Customers choosing this option typically value the tactile differences between HAPP and SANWA components for fighting games, shmups, and classic beat-em-ups. The kit is well-suited for DIY enthusiasts who want a responsive control panel without sacrificing cabinet aesthetics.
LVL23 Bartop Kit With BLANK Option For No Joysticks Or Buttons
This option provides a BLANK variant, meaning no joystick or button holes are pre-cut. It’s ideal for custom control panels or if you plan to substitute with your own hardware. Dimensions remain suitable for 19″–23″ screens, maintaining the compact bartop profile. The BLANK variant supports the same 20.75″ interior width and 21″ exterior width, making it a flexible foundation for unique control layouts or themed builds.
Audio Kit For Arcade Systems And Pinball Machines
This Audio Kit from Arcade Renovations adds essential sound to any arcade project. It includes a Kinter stereo amplifier with 18W per channel, dual 4″ speakers, and 4.5″ grill elements. The kit is designed to complement MAME cabinets, Pandora kits, or virtual pinball machines. For builders prioritizing immersive audio, this kit provides a straightforward route to balanced sound with adjustable bass and treble, enabling improved arcade realism without requiring extensive audio wiring knowledge.
Umierke Sturdy DIY Arcade Console Kit
The Umierke kit focuses on a durable metal base and acrylic panel construction, designed for two players. It supports up to two players with multiple button holes (6 buttons per player plus 24mm start/coin options) and is compatible with USB arcade kits and Pandora arcade box systems. This kit is well-suited for DIY enthusiasts who value sturdiness and wide compatibility with PC systems, providing a reliable foundation for a custom arcade cabinet that can host a wide array of emulated games.
Jamma 60-in-1 Multigame Arcade Kit
The Jamma 60-in-1 kit offers a compact, upright arcade control solution with a pre-wired harness and a robust power supply. This option is ideal for those who want immediate capabilities across a broad array of classic titles. The kit includes a US-labeled wiring harness, and the power supply is included to simplify initial setup. It’s a practical choice for hobbyists seeking a versatile, ready-to-build control system that supports a wide range of games through standard Jamma wiring.
TOP US VIDEO ARCADES Cocktail Arcade Machine
This full-size commercial-grade cocktail arcade machine from TOP US VIDEO ARCADES features a 22″ LCD, tempered glass, and two stools. The listing highlights a robust build quality with a heavy-duty, 3/4 inch plywood construction and a five-year warranty on parts. It promises a large, authentic arcade experience with a focus on durability and long-term reliability. While this is not a bare kit, it represents a turnkey option for those seeking a complete, ready-to-use cocktail arcade setup with a professional finish.
Buying Guide
- Monitor compatibility: Most LVL23 kits work with 19″–23″ displays. Confirm your monitor size and mounting depth before purchase.
- Control options: Decide between HAPP, SANWA, or BLANK configurations. HAPP offers classic tactile feedback, SANWA emphasizes precision, and BLANK enables full customization.
- Frame material and durability: Metal bases and acrylic panels provide rigidity. Check weight capacity and hardware quality for longevity.
- Expansion potential: Some kits support two players and spare button configurations, enabling a wider game library and easier upgrades.
- Audio integration: If you want immersive sound, pairing a dedicated audio kit can dramatically improve the experience, especially for arcade classics with distinctive soundtracks.
- Wiring and ease of assembly: Look for kits with clear instructions, included harnesses, and pre-cut panels to minimize wiring time and error risk.
- Compatibility with emulation software: Ensure the kit supports popular emulation platforms (MAME, Pandora, etc.) and standard USB arcade components.
- Budget vs. completeness: Standalone control kits are versatile, but complete turnkey options save time and ensure component compatibility for first-time builders.
When selecting a cocktail arcade cabinet kit, balance your preferred control feel, the intended game library, and how much DIY you want to tackle. The kits above cover a spectrum from easy-to-assemble bartop options to fully loaded, ready-to-play machines. Consider how much space you have, how many players you want, and whether you value a true retro feel or a modernized build with upgrade potential.