Arcade Machine Buyer’s Guide

Choosing the right arcade machine depends on your space, how you plan to use it, and the type of gaming experience you want. This guide will help you compare the main types of arcade products available at Arcade Shopping and choose the option that best fits your needs.

Choose the Right Type of Arcade Machine

Upright Arcade Machines

Upright cabinets are the classic arcade-style machines most people recognize. They are a great choice for:

  • Home game rooms
  • Offices
  • Entertainment rooms
  • Bars and lounges
  • Commercial gaming spaces

They provide an authentic arcade experience while taking up less floor space than many larger machines.

Cocktail Arcade Tables

Cocktail arcade tables have a screen built into the tabletop and usually allow players to sit opposite or beside one another.

They work well for:

  • Smaller game rooms
  • Family entertainment areas
  • Restaurants and lounges
  • Customers who prefer seated gaming

Their compact design also makes them easier to incorporate into rooms where space is limited.

Infinity Game Tables

Digital game tables are ideal for customers who want multiple board and family games in one system.

They are especially suitable for:

  • Families
  • Game nights
  • Entertainment rooms
  • Casual multiplayer gaming

Instead of storing multiple physical board games, a digital game table can provide access to many games from one device.

Racing Arcade Machines

Racing machines offer a more immersive gaming experience and may include steering wheels, pedals, racing seats, and larger displays.

Consider a racing machine if you are building:

  • A dedicated arcade room
  • A commercial entertainment center
  • A gaming lounge
  • A premium home entertainment setup

Make sure you have enough floor space before ordering, as racing machines are generally larger than standard upright cabinets.

Multiplayer Arcade Machines

If several people will regularly use the machine, consider a multiplayer cabinet or gaming system.

These are ideal for:

  • Families
  • Parties
  • Game rooms
  • Offices
  • Entertainment businesses

Before purchasing, check how many players the machine supports at the same time.

Measure Your Space Before Ordering

Arcade machines can be much larger than ordinary electronics.

Before placing an order, check the product dimensions and measure the location where you plan to install it.

You should also measure:

  • Doorways
  • Hallways
  • Stairways
  • Elevators
  • Gates
  • Entry points

Remember to leave enough room around the machine for comfortable play and ventilation.

Consider Where the Machine Will Be Used

Home Use

For a home game room, you may want to prioritize:

  • Number of games
  • Design
  • Screen size
  • Multiplayer options
  • Available floor space
  • Ease of use

Commercial Use

For arcades, restaurants, bars, offices, and entertainment venues, consider:

  • Durability
  • Frequency of use
  • Machine size
  • Multiplayer capability
  • Ease of maintenance
  • Type of customers using the machine

A machine used commercially may experience significantly more daily use than one installed in a home.

Check the Game Selection

One of the most important things to consider is what you actually want to play.

Before choosing a machine, review the product description to understand the included games and features.

Depending on the product, you may find:

  • Classic arcade games
  • Fighting games
  • Racing games
  • Sports games
  • Family games
  • Digital board games
  • Multiplayer games

A machine with more games is not automatically the best option. Choose one that includes the styles of games you and your family, guests, or customers are most likely to enjoy.

Consider the Number of Players

Think about how many people will normally use the machine.

1–2 players: Standard arcade cabinets and cocktail tables may be ideal.

2–4 players: Consider multiplayer cabinets or larger gaming tables.

Family and group entertainment: Digital game tables and multi-game systems may provide more variety.

Check Power Requirements

Most arcade machines require access to a standard electrical outlet.

Before installing the machine:

  • Review the product’s electrical requirements.
  • Make sure a suitable outlet is nearby.
  • Avoid overloading power outlets or extension cords.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions.

For specialized equipment, professional electrical installation may be appropriate.

Screen Size and Display

A larger screen can create a more immersive experience, but it also increases the overall size of the machine.

Consider the distance players will normally stand or sit from the screen.

For smaller rooms, a compact machine with a moderate screen size may be more practical than choosing the largest available cabinet.

New vs. Specialty Arcade Machines

Different buyers have different priorities.

A traditional arcade cabinet may be the best choice if you want the classic arcade experience.

A modern game table may be more appropriate if you prefer:

  • Touchscreen gaming
  • Family games
  • Digital board games
  • Modern entertainment features

Racing and specialty machines are better suited to customers looking for a more immersive gaming setup.

Plan for Delivery

Many arcade machines are large and heavy, so you should prepare your delivery location before your order arrives.

Make sure:

  • The delivery address is correct.
  • Someone is available to receive the shipment when necessary.
  • There is adequate access to the property.
  • Doorways and entrances are large enough.
  • You have planned how the machine will be moved to its final location.

Arcade Shopping provides free standard shipping on all products.

Our standard lead time is 5 days from the date of order before dispatch, subject to payment confirmation and order verification.

Inspect Your Machine After Delivery

When your order arrives, inspect the packaging and product.

If you notice significant shipping damage:

  1. Take photographs of the packaging.
  2. Take photographs of the affected area.
  3. Keep the packaging where reasonably possible.
  4. Contact Arcade Shopping with your order number.

Reporting an issue promptly makes it easier for our team to assist you.

Understand the Return Policy

Before making a purchase, review our Returns & Refunds Policy.

Eligible returns can be requested within 30 days of receiving your product.

Approved refunds are processed within 10 days after the returned product has been received, inspected, and approved for refund.

Because arcade machines can require specialized freight transportation, contact us before returning any large product.

Quick Buying Checklist

Before ordering your arcade machine, ask yourself:

  • What type of games do I want?
  • How many people will play?
  • Is the machine for home or commercial use?
  • Do I have enough floor space?
  • Will the machine fit through my doors?
  • Is there a suitable electrical outlet nearby?
  • Have I checked the dimensions?
  • Have I reviewed the included games and features?
  • Have I read the shipping and return policies?

If you can answer these questions, you are much more likely to choose a machine that fits your space and gaming needs.

Need Help Choosing?

Not sure which arcade machine is right for you? Arcade Shopping can help you compare available products based on your space, preferred games, number of players, and intended use.

Arcade Shopping
11268 Ables Ln, Suite B
Dallas, Texas 75229
United States

Email: info@arcadeshopping.com
Phone: +1 305-495-9705
Website: ArcadeShopping.com

Find the right machine, prepare your space, and bring the arcade experience home.