The seemingly simple shopping list for creating your own arcade cabinet can quickly grow.
Besides the cabinet itself, a display and a computer, you’ll likely need additional items such as monitor mounting hardware, a microSD card or SSD, an amplifier with speakers, power strips, cables, cooling fans, and a way to access the cabinet later without damaging your setup. Decorative elements like artwork, illuminated marquees, T-molding, and coin doors can be added once the cabinet is operational.
Game Room Solutions illustrates how quickly costs can accumulate, even for a basic setup. A simple bartop cabinet is priced at $129.99, while a package containing a two-player joystick, buttons, wiring, and a USB encoder costs $44.99. The speaker and amplifier kit adds another $29.99. If you include a Raspberry Pi 5 with 2GB of RAM for $65, that brings the total to around $270, not including the display, storage, power supply, cables, or any decorative items.
Utilizing existing hardware can significantly change the budgeting landscape. Using an old monitor and PC can save you from making two large purchases, while crafting your own enclosure can be less expensive than buying a pre-cut kit. However, if you decide to buy everything new, the price for a full-size custom cabinet can easily surpass $1,000 without any lavish features.
So, does building your own arcade cabinet save you money compared to buying one? It can, but the best way to save is by reusing hardware or opting for a DIY enclosure. The main advantage, however, is the control you have over the monitor, games, controls, and internal components.
Another important aspect to consider is the software. MAME directs users to licensed software, free non-commercial use ROM sets, or data extracted from arcade PCBs they own.
Currently, Arcade1Up lists its Pac-Man Deluxe for $499.99.
