Searching for the best bartop arcade cabinets in 2026? The top pick for overall performance is the Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat II Deluxe, thanks to its authentic feel and extensive game library. For a more budget-friendly choice, the Evercade Alpha Taito offers great arcade experience at a lower price, while the LVL23 54″ Tall Cabinet stands out for those wanting a larger, more immersive setup. Each option balances different priorities like size, build quality, and game selection, making the decision more complex. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the best choices and what makes each one unique.
Key Takeaways
- The size and screen compatibility of bartop cabinets vary widely, affecting installation options.
- Build quality and joystick/button feel are critical for authentic arcade experiences but often come at a higher price.
- Preloaded game libraries differ, with some cabinets offering classic titles and others supporting customization.
- Ease of assembly and user interface can significantly influence the overall user experience, especially for beginners.
- Price ranges reflect differences in features, build materials, and included game content, so choose based on your priorities.
More Details on Our Top Picks
LVL23C 54″ Tall 2 Player Cabaret Arcade Cabinet Kit (HAPP or SANWA) (Sanwa (Sanwa joys, 24mm & 30mm buttons))
This kit stands out for its comprehensive pre-cut and pre-drilled MDF components, making it ideal for those comfortable with assembly and customization. Compared to the LVL23 2 Player Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kit for 19″ to 23″ Screens, it offers a taller, more authentic arcade cabinet experience, perfect for creating a true vintage feel. Its detailed features, like the adjustable monitor positioning and built-in speaker mounts, provide flexibility for various setups, but it requires sourcing additional parts like a monitor, game system, and wiring, which can be a hurdle. The inclusion of pre-routed components minimizes errors during assembly, yet the slight fit issues with some pieces mean sanding or adjustments are necessary. Overall, this pick is best for dedicated DIYers who want a sturdy, customizable arcade cabinet with high-quality controls.
Pros:- Pre-routed, pre-drilled MDF simplifies assembly for experienced DIYers
- Adjustable monitor positioning adds flexibility
- Includes integrated marquee bracket and speaker mounts
Cons:- Requires sourcing additional components like monitor, wiring, and game system
- Minor fit issues need sanding or adjustments
Best for: Home arcade builders with woodworking skills seeking a full-sized, customizable cabinet.
Not ideal for: Casual hobbyists or those preferring a ready-to-play, plug-and-play setup.
- Interior Width:20.75 inches
- Exterior Height:54 inches
- Exterior Width:21.75 inches
- Exterior Depth:18 inches
- Material:Pre-cut MDF
- Assembly Required:Yes
Bottom line: Ideal for serious DIY enthusiasts who want a tall, authentic arcade experience with full customization options.
Evercade Alpha Taito Bartop Arcade
This pre-built arcade unit excels with its licensed Taito design, bright 8″ display, and a library of 10 classic games, making it perfect for casual collectors or players who want instant fun. Unlike the Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat II Deluxe Arcade Machine, which offers a wider game library and authentic arcade feel, the Evercade focuses on portability and ease of use, with no assembly required. Its dual USB controller ports and built-in stereo speakers support multiplayer gaming, but it only comes with 10 pre-loaded games, limiting variety unless expanded with Evercade cartridges. The compact size and included artwork make it a versatile addition to any game room, but it’s not designed for extensive customization or future upgrades. This pick makes the most sense for fans of vintage Taito titles seeking straightforward, ready-to-play entertainment.
Pros:- Officially licensed Taito design with collectible artwork
- Plug-and-play with no assembly needed
- Supports multiplayer with dual USB controller ports
Cons:- Limited to 10 built-in games, less variety than larger arcade cabinets
- No customization options for game selection or hardware
Best for: Casual gamers and collectors wanting a ready-to-go Taito arcade experience.
Not ideal for: Hardcore arcade enthusiasts seeking full customization or larger game libraries.
- Display Size:8 inches
- Number of Games:10
- Built-in Speakers:Yes
- Multiplayer Support:Yes
- Platform:Preloaded Emulator
- Assembly Required:No
Bottom line: Best for those seeking a compact, authentic Taito arcade experience without the hassle of setup.
Arcade1Up Mortal Kombat II Deluxe Arcade Machine for Home – 5 Feet Tall – 14 Classic Games
This arcade machine offers a full-sized, authentic experience with 14 classic games, licensed artwork, and real-feel joysticks, making it ideal for dedicated home collectors. Compared to the LVL23C 54″ Tall Cabinet Kit, it comes pre-assembled, saving time but sacrificing some customization flexibility. Its large size and detailed features, like the molded coin door and high-resolution LCD, replicate the arcade atmosphere, but its fixed setup offers limited hardware modification options. While Wi-Fi connectivity and leaderboards add a modern twist, the machine’s weight and installation space requirements might be a challenge for smaller rooms. This product makes the most sense for players who prioritize nostalgic authenticity and minimal assembly over full custom build options.
Pros:- Pre-assembled with licensed artwork and authentic arcade feel
- Includes 14 classic games with modern features like Wi-Fi
- High-resolution LCD and real-feel joysticks
Cons:- Large size requires significant space and setup effort
- Limited hardware modification options
Best for: Home arcade enthusiasts wanting a ready-to-play, authentic arcade cabinet with classic games.
Not ideal for: DIY builders looking for a fully customizable cabinet or compact space-limited setups.
- Size:5 feet tall
- Number of Games:14
- Display:17-inch LCD
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi enabled
- Weight:68 lbs
- Assembly Required:No
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a true arcade experience in their home with minimal effort and high authenticity.
LVL23 2 Player Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kit for 19″ to 23″ Screens (HAPP or SANWA) (Sanwa (Sanwa joys, 24mm & 30mm buttons))
This kit is ideal for hobbyists wanting a compact, customizable arcade cabinet for 19″ to 23″ screens, with pre-routed components and detailed assembly instructions. Unlike the larger LVL23C 54″ Tall Cabinet, it offers a smaller footprint suitable for limited space, but still provides full control over design and setup. The inclusion of pre-drilled holes for speakers, joysticks, and buttons simplifies assembly, yet it demands sourcing a monitor, game system, and wiring separately. Its modular design allows for future upgrades, but the smaller size limits monitor options to 20 inches, which might be restrictive for some users. Overall, this makes sense for those who want a balanced mix of DIY customization and manageable size.
Pros:- Pre-routed, pre-drilled MDF simplifies construction
- Fits 19″ to 23″ monitors, balancing size and display quality
- Includes detailed assembly instructions and hardware
Cons:- Requires sourcing additional components like monitor, wiring, and game system
- Limited monitor size restricts larger screens
Best for: Intermediate DIYers wanting a space-efficient, customizable arcade cabinet for up to 23″ screens.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those seeking a plug-and-play solution with minimal setup.
- Interior Width:20.75 inches
- Exterior Width:21.75 inches
- Exterior Height:21 inches
- Exterior Depth:18 inches
- Supported Screen Size:19-23 inches
- Assembly Required:Yes
Bottom line: Suitable for hobbyists aiming for a compact, customizable arcade cabinet with good control over components.
LVL23 2 Player Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kit for 19″ to 23″ Screens (HAPP or SANWA) (SanwaALL30 (Sanwa joys, 28mm or 30mm buttons))
This kit targets experienced hobbyists seeking a high-quality, customizable arcade cabinet with a focus on premium controls and build flexibility. Compared with the LVL23 2 Player Kit for 19″-23″ screens, it emphasizes upgraded Sanwa joysticks and larger buttons, ideal for a more authentic arcade feel. Its detailed pre-drilled components and instructions support a DIY approach, but it requires sourcing a monitor, wiring, and game system independently. The smaller monitor size (up to 20 inches) might be limiting for some users, but it’s perfect for those prioritizing control quality and customization options. Its robust construction and control options make this kit well-suited for players who want to craft a tailored, high-end arcade experience from scratch.
Pros:- High-quality Sanwa controls with larger buttons for authentic feel
- Pre-drilled components support a detailed, customizable build
- Supports 19″ to 23″ monitors with adjustable monitor mounting
Cons:- Requires sourcing additional parts like wiring and game system
- Limited monitor size (up to 20 inches) may restrict display options
Best for: Advanced DIYers wanting a premium-grade, fully customizable arcade cabinet for 19-23″ screens.
Not ideal for: Beginners or those who prefer a ready-made, plug-and-play arcade machine.
- Interior Width:20.75 inches
- Exterior Width:21.75 inches
- Exterior Height:21 inches
- Exterior Depth:18 inches
- Supported Screen Size:up to 23 inches
- Assembly Required:Yes
Bottom line: Best for experienced builders craving a premium, control-focused arcade cabinet with full customization potential.
Arcade1Up PAC-Man Deluxe Arcade Machine for Home – 5 Feet Tall – 14 Classic Games
This arcade cabinet stands out for its authentic look, extensive game library, and modern features like Wi-Fi connectivity. Unlike the DIY kits, such as the LVL23 2 Player Bartop Arcade Kit, it offers a ready-to-play experience with original licensed artwork, light-up marquee, and real-feel controls that replicate the arcade atmosphere. The large 17-inch high-resolution LCD makes classic games like Pac-Man and Galaga look crisp, enhancing nostalgia without sacrificing quality. Its size, at five feet tall, makes it a striking centerpiece, but that also means it requires a dedicated space—less ideal for small rooms. Assembly is straightforward, with clear instructions, though some users might wish for more durable joysticks. Overall, this model appeals most to those seeking a turnkey, authentic arcade experience with the convenience of modern tech and community features.
Pros:- Authentic arcade aesthetics with licensed artwork and light-up marquee
- Includes 14 classic games, offering great variety and nostalgia
- Built-in Wi-Fi for leaderboards and community features
Cons:- Size can be a drawback for limited space, taking up significant room
- Controls, while authentic, may lack the precision some serious players prefer
Best for: Retro gaming enthusiasts who want a high-quality, easy-to-set-up arcade for home use.
Not ideal for: Small apartments or spaces where a large arcade cabinet might be cumbersome or impractical.
- Size:22.44″ D x 18.82″ W x 61″ H
- Weight:68 lbs
- Screen:17-inch high-resolution LCD
- Games:14 classic titles
- Controls:Real-feel joystick and buttons
- Connectivity:Wi-Fi enabled
Bottom line: This pick is perfect for serious retro fans who want a ready-made, authentic arcade experience without DIY hassle.
LVL23 2 Player Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kit for 19″ to 23″ Screens (HAPP, SANWA, or BLANK)
This kit makes my top choice for those who prefer building and customizing their arcade cabinet from scratch, unlike the Arcade1Up prebuilt model. It provides pre-routed, pre-drilled MDF parts, making assembly accessible even for beginners, with detailed instructions and all hardware included—except for the monitor and game system. The design supports a variety of screen sizes, from 19″ to 23″, giving flexibility over the fixed 17-inch screen of the Arcade1Up. While it requires a bit of effort and some additional parts like a monitor, joysticks, and buttons, it offers unmatched customization—perfect for modders or those wanting a unique setup. The absence of controls included means you can choose Sanwa or HAPP components, but that also adds to the complexity for newcomers. This kit is ideal for hands-on buyers eager to create a personalized arcade experience.
Pros:- Highly customizable with support for different screen sizes and control components
- Pre-routed for easy assembly with detailed instructions included
- Supports dual players with pre-drilled control mounting holes
Cons:- Requires additional parts like monitors, joysticks, and wiring, which adds to cost and effort
- No controls or game system included, so it demands more technical knowledge and setup time
Best for: DIYers and tech-savvy buyers wanting a customizable, affordable arcade cabinet kit.
Not ideal for: Those who prefer a plug-and-play experience or lack confidence in assembly and wiring.
- Interior Width:20.75 inches
- Exterior Width:21.75 inches
- Height:21 inches
- Depth:18 inches
- Monitor Support:Supports 19″ to 23″ screens
- Materials:Pre-routed MDF
- Player Support:Two-player setup
Bottom line: This kit is best suited for enthusiastic DIYers who want to build a tailored arcade cabinet from scratch.
