I've just turned my living room into a retro arcade, so here are my cabinet picks, ranging from cheap to steep

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I've just turned my living room into a retro arcade, so here are my cabinet picks, ranging from cheap to steep Deals By Phil Hayton published 26 November 2025

Black Friday is the right time for arcade machine chaos.

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(Image credit: Phil Hayton)

Look, I'm fully aware that I'm a terrible influence on retro players during events like Black Friday. I've probably unintentionally upset many of the people you live with who aren't that into old games, especially when I get carried away with recommendations. So, rather than tell you to replace your fridge with a Mortal Kombat this year, I've put together an arcade machine setup in my living room with options ranging from cheap to steep.

If, like me, you've been picking up the best retro consoles for years and you're ready for a new collecting adventure, arcade machines will be on your mind. The only issue is that even all-in-one tabletop cabinets are expensive, not to mention that the larger replicas will dominate your space. That won't be an issue with enthusiasts with dedicated game rooms, but I think everyone should be able to experience the joy of using joysticks and buttons at home. regardless of space and budget.

In a bid to do just that, I've dragged all the arcade machines I've tested into one place for your consideration. Some of my picks are premium options made cheaper thanks to Black Friday retro deals, while others are just smaller, affordable ways to kick off a mini cabinet collection. It's only right that I also include a full-size monster, just for you sickos who want a proper machine in your house.

Neo Geo Mini

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You could argue that the Neo Geo Mini is more of a small console than an arcade machine, but I'd firmly say it's both. I mean, you're getting a built-in 3.5-inch LCD screen, a joystick, and buttons, and that's impressive for a tiny cabinet that's around $50.

Neo Geo Mini | $59.99 at AmazonThis tiny SNK plug-and-play technically isn't discounted, but its far cheaper than its $109 MSRP. The reason? Well, it's discontinued, and sellers at Amazon seem to still have a healthy supply, but I'd grab it before those reserves run dry and it ends up vastly more expensive.

UK: $62.99 at Amazon

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Sure, the Neo Geo Mini doesn't use switches for its buttons or stick, so it isn't quite as authentic. I still stand by it being a worthwhile addition to an arcade setup at its price range, though, and nothing is stopping you from hooking it up to a bigger screen and using a USB arcade stick (I'd consider 8Bitdo's for under $80).

There are plenty of ways to play some of SNK's classic romps and throwdowns, but the Neo Geo Mini does come with 40 built in, including King of Fighters, Metal Slug, and Fatal Fury Special. So, it's a pretty affordable, compact way to add a chunk of arcade games to a setup, and it does look fairly like an old MVS cabinet.

Sega Astro City Mini

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The Sega Astro City Mini is another space-saving arcade machine, as the name suggests, but it's surprisingly authentic. The tiny cabinet is virtually a compact remake of a real deal from 1993, and it includes controls that feel remarkably accurate thanks to its Sanwa Denshi switches. It even has the same green illuminated strip at the top for good measure, but naturally uses a 3.6-inch LCD instead of a CRT.

Sega Astro City Mini V | $109.99 at AmazonNot an absolute record low for this shmup version of the Astro City Mini, but vastly cheaper than the ordinary version. I also fully believe that, given the caliber of compact cabinet this is thanks to its authentic controls, it's a pretty nice deal for just over $100 and $50 less than its original launch price.

UK: £99.99 £81.99 at Amazon

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Yes, its mini nature means it's a little cramped, but the Astro City's excellent controls and sharp display will distract you from that fact. Plus, just like its Neo Geo counterpart, it has HDMI output, so using it as a console is on the cards. Annoyingly, it's fussy with USB controllers, but you can get around its restricted compatibility using a Mayflash Magic-NS Adapter. It's around $20, but it will let you use most gamepads with various other devices, too.

I should point out that there are two versions of the Sega Astro City Mini, and both are technically discontinued. The one I've got features 37 games across the publisher's arcade and console catalogue, covering everything from Golden Axe to Sonic the Hedgehog. However, there is also an Astro City Mini V model that is dedicated to vertical shooters, and it's the one you're more likely to find for a reasonable price.

Arcade Classics Centipede

Image 1 of 3(Image credit: Phil Hayton)(Image credit: Phil Hayton)(Image credit: Phil Hayton)

In terms of size, the Basic Fun's Arcade Classics cabinets are larger than the above minis, and the Centipede model feels firmly like a fully fledged machine. For starters, it trades plastic for MDF wood and boasts a much larger 8-inch display. The secret sauce here, though, is undeniably the specialised controls that include a trackball specifically for Atari classics.

Arcade Classics Centipede | $249.99 $187.99 at AmazonSave $62 - Thanks to a Black Friday discount, this trackball bartop arcade machine is now under $200. That does help it feel like a better value buy given it's only $10 less than the Evercade Alpha at full price, but this is also a great mid-range option if you're expanding your arcade lineup and love games like Centipede.

UK: Check Amazon

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Typically, you'll see this cabinet for under $200 with a discount, and while it is slightly niche, given that it only boasts five games, you're getting authentic rollerball realness with this machine. Just like many models of its kind, it skips on comforts like USB controller support, HDMI output, but puts extra focus on presenting vibrant artwork that helps it double up as decor.

Simply put, the Arcade Classics Centipede is going to look great as part of a collection and makes for a great way to play a bunch of Atari greats. It's perhaps one of think about as you expand your setup, but there aren't many options out there that give you access to an authentic feeling track ball.

Quarter Arcades Bubble Bobble

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You could pretty much create a whole tiny amusement centre using Numbskull's Quarter Arcade machines. That's exactly what I could do if I could afford more than one, but even though they're pricey for their size, they look ridiculously authentic and are surprisingly playable.

Quarter Arcades Bubble Bobble | $249.99 at AmazonSadly, the flavor of Quarter Arcades machine I've tested isn't down right now. However, the Burger Time version is under $170 for Black Friday and boasts all the same perks, and I've genuinely been eyeing it up for my kitchen. That's its lowest price in quite a few months, so it's well worth considering if this mini is your jam. I'd still keep an eye on all versions as we sail through the sale, though.

Alternative mode: Quarter Arcades Burger Time | $249.99 $166 at Amazon

UK: £139.55 at Amazon

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The Quarter Arcades Bubble Bobble machine specifically lives on my desk, and it really is one of the coolest-looking gadgets in my office. While some mini cabinets compress their form and skimp on details, this option looks almost exactly like Taito's full-sized version, but smaller. It even includes a glowing marquee that really helps sell the "Honey, I shrunk the arcade cabinet" vibes Numbskull is going for.

I'm not saying you could properly "get gud" at Bubble Bobble using the Quarter Arcades, but it really is a treat to play. You're getting two sets of tiny arcade controls that are somehow still tactile, and its screen and speakers are far nicer than they have any right to be. Plus, it's got a built-in USB-C rechargeable battery, which means you can pop it anywhere in the house without having to wrestle with wires.

Evercade Alpha

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I fully believe the Evercade Alpha has changed the at-home arcade scene forever, as it uses Blaze's ecosystem of cartridges. That means it can run the exact same collection as affordable retro handhelds like the Super Pocket, all while boasting excellent competitive-grade controls, a vibrant 8-inch display, and plenty of visual flair.

Evercade Alpha | Check AmazonThe Alpha is slightly sketchy in terms of availability right now, as even the new Taito version is AWOL. What I will say is that given other Blaze gadgets like the Super Pocket is down to $54.99 from $69.99 and the various other discounts across the range, I wouldn't be shocked if stock magically pops up for slightly less during actual Black Friday, so watch this space.

UK: From £229.99 at Amazon

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In terms of value, the Evercade Alpha is probably the bartop arcade machine you should buy first. It's got access to 500 classics across multiple cartridges and a bunch of built-in games from specific publishers like Capcom and Taito. The former model actually takes on the look of a Street Fighter 2 cabinet, and as someone who's restored a very similar original model, its illuminated marquee and bezel art really hit the spot.

You're getting a lot of appreciated extras with the Alpha, too, like USB controller support, USB-C power for convenience, and Wi-Fi for updates. All of those perks help it serve as both an attractive statement piece and a platform you can continue to play different capers on beyond a set list of arcade romps, and it can even run PS1 games like Tomb Raider thanks to new giga carts.

Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat II Deluxe Arcade Machine

Image 1 of 3(Image credit: Phil Hayton)(Image credit: Phil Hayton)(Image credit: Phil Hayton)

Okay, I know most of you aren't going to pick up a five-foot Mortal Kombat II arcade replica, but Arcade1Up's full-fat machine is fantastic. It's probably the closest thing you can readily buy today to an OG cabinet, complete with full-size mechanical multiplayer controls, a 17-inch LCD screen, and excellent detailing.

Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat II Deluxe | $499.99 at AmazonThis is absolutely the bougiest cabinet featured here, but Arcade1Up almost always jumps on the Black Friday bandwagon. Therefore, I'm expecting some excellent deals across the entire range that knock things down to at least under $300, which isn't half bad for something extremely similar to what you'd find in an actual arcade.

UK: £399.99 £379.99 at Amazon

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Mortal Kombat II isn't the only Arcade1Up flavor, but most models are fairly pricey. That's perhaps understandable given their all-wood construction and the fact that it's housing a screen, speakers, and a system with 14 built-in games, and you're really paying for the sheer size and authentic touches here.

Do I wish it had access to more games for the price? Absolutely, but by dedicating itself to largely one classic per machine, it embodies the same feel that an authentic cabinet would provide. Everything from its proper arcade controls and light-up marquee to its licensed artwork almost passes for the real McCoy, and it's only when you see that it's rocking a modern screen that you realize it's not a '90s relic.

• More arcade machines at Amazon
• More retro consoles at Amazon

Looking for more ways to play classic capers? Take a peek at the best retro handhelds for on-the-go options and emulators. If you're already using Valve's portable, swing by Black Friday Steam Deck deals for offers on handhelds, accessories, and more.

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Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over. Phil HaytonSocial Links NavigationHardware Editor

Phil is the Hardware Editor at GamesRadar and joined the team in 2023. In the past, they've also contributed to the likes of TechRadar, The Daily Star, the BBC, and PCGamesN, but these days, they specialize in testing the latest gaming handhelds, monitors, TVs, and PC components. They're also extremely nerdy about retro consoles and playing the classics on both new and old systems.

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