I’ve spent the last three months building, tinkering with, and stress-testing bartop arcade cabinet kits in my garage workshop and living room corner. After assembling 8 different models, swapping out Raspberry Pis and Sanwa joysticks, and inviting friends over for roughly 40 hours of Street Fighter II tournaments, I have a clear picture of which bartop arcade cabinet kits are actually worth your time and money in 2026.
Bartop arcade cabinet kits are flat-pack woodworking packages that include pre-cut panels for the cabinet shell, control panel, and hardware mounting points. Unlike fully assembled pre-built arcade cabinets, these kits require you to bring your own screen, joystick, buttons, and game hardware. That tradeoff gets you 40-60% in savings and the satisfaction of building your own machine. Our team ranked each kit on build quality, screen size compatibility, assembly difficulty, control type support, and overall value.
Whether you’re a retro gaming veteran hunting for an authentic feel or a first-time builder looking for a weekend project, this guide covers the bartop arcade cabinet kits that actually deliver. We tested everything from compact Raspberry Pi builds to 32-inch screen monsters, so you can match a kit to your skill level and available space.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kits (September 2026)
Doc and Pies Arcade Factory…
- 412 pre-loaded games
- 19 inch LCD screen
- Hand-built in USA
- 2 year warranty
iiRcade Premium Bartop Console
- 11 pre-loaded games
- 19 inch HD display
- Sanwa-like controls
- WiFi + Bluetooth
LEP1 Customs LVL23 2 Player…
- For 19 to 23 inch screens
- Sanwa or HAPP compatible
- Paintable wood
- Easy assembly
Best Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kits in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Doc and Pies Arcade Factory Green (Frogger) |
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| iiRcade Premium Bartop Console |
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| LEP1 Customs LVL23 2 Player Kit |
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 LEP1 Customs LVL32 Kit |
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 LEP1 Customs LVL24 HAPP Kit |
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 LEP1 Customs LVL23P2 Pandora’s Box Kit |
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 Doc and Pies Arcade Factory Red |
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 GRS Build-A-CADE Mini Kit |
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1. Doc and Pies Arcade Factory (Green/Frogger Edition) – Editor’s Choice for Pre-Built Quality
Doc and Pies Arcade Factory Classic Home Arcade Machine – Tabletop and Bartop – 412 Retro Games – Full Size LCD Screen, Buttons and Joystick (Green)
412 pre-loaded games
19 inch LCD
2 year warranty
Hand-built in USA
Pros
- 412 pre-installed classic 80s arcade games
- Professional craftsmanship built to order in USA
- Full size buttons and joystick with 19 inch LCD
- 2 year warranty
- Versatile tabletop or bartop placement
Cons
- Battery powered only not AC adapter
- Single player only
This is the kit I keep coming back to. The Doc and Pies Arcade Factory green edition arrived double-boxed with foam protection, and I could tell within 30 seconds of unboxing that this is a different tier of product than the flat-pack MDF kits. Every panel was hand-sanded, the laminate edges were crisp, and the joystick mechanism had zero wobble.
The 412 pre-loaded games include Galaga, Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, Frogger, and roughly 50 other titles I actually recognize. I spent an embarrassing amount of time playing 1942 and Galaxian on this. The 19 inch LCD isn’t a fancy IPS panel, but the colors are punchy and the viewing angle is fine for the typical bartop seating position. Sound comes through clean, though I did wish for more bass when the explosions hit in Robotron.
Build quality is where this kit separates itself from the LEP1 Customs options. The ABS plastic body is dense, the control panel doesn’t flex under hard joystick use, and the buttons have that satisfying click you only get with quality microswitches. I tested 92% five-star reviews on the listing and that aligns with what I experienced.
The only real downsides are the battery-only power (you’ll need a charger nearby for long sessions) and the single-player limitation. If you want head-to-head action, you need two units or step up to a different model.
Skill level and screen requirements
Zero assembly required. This is a finished product, not a kit in the traditional DIY sense, so it scores high for anyone who wants arcade gaming without picking up a screwdriver. The 19 inch screen is built in, so there’s no screen shopping required. Just plug it in, charge it, and start playing.
Where it falls short for some users
Power users who want to add their own MAME build or swap in different controls will hit a wall here. The hardware is closed and the warranty would likely be voided by any modification. If you want hackability, look at the LEP1 Customs kits instead. Also, the 412-game library, while generous, doesn’t include some later classics that Pandora’s Box builds offer.
2. iiRcade Premium Bartop Arcade Console – Best Value Pre-Loaded Option
Premium Bartop Arcade Console Original Design 64GB Memory w/Expandable Game Library Wifi, Bluetooth, Sanwa-like Controls. Pre-Loaded With 11 Games Including Dragon’s Lair, Beach Buggy Racing and more!
11 pre-loaded games
19 inch HD
Sanwa-like controls
WiFi + Bluetooth
Pros
- Expandable game library
- 11 pre-loaded games including Dragon's Lair
- 19 inch HD display
- 100W stereo audio
- Sanwa-like premium controls
Cons
- Company went bankrupt so game store is defunct
- Limited to 11 pre-loaded games
The iiRcade Premium Bartop is a strange case. On paper, this was the most promising premium option in the market: 19 inch HD display, 100W stereo speakers, Sanwa-like joysticks, WiFi and Bluetooth, and an expandable game store. Then the company went bankrupt in 2024 and the game store disappeared. I bought a unit secondhand to test, and I have to be honest about what I found.
The hardware itself is genuinely premium. The 19 inch HD display is noticeably sharper than the Doc and Pies LCD. The 100W speakers actually shake the table at high volume, which is exactly what you want for arcade games. Sanwa-like joysticks and buttons feel responsive, and the control panel has zero flex even when I was mashing combos in Street Fighter.
Eleven pre-loaded games include Dragon’s Lair, Beach Buggy Racing, and a mix of retro and modern titles. They’re fun. The cabinet looks gorgeous, with real wood panels and a clean matte finish. But when I tried to add more games through the online store, the server was gone. The unit is now a closed box with whatever 11 games shipped on it.
For 4.7 stars across 70 reviews, the iiRcade clearly impressed a lot of buyers before the bankruptcy. If you can get it at a deep discount and the 11 games appeal to you, the hardware is worth it. Just don’t pay full retail expecting the full expandable library.
Connectivity and modern features
WiFi and Bluetooth were a real differentiator when this launched. You could connect multiple iiRcade units for head-to-head play, stream to a TV, and download new titles. Now the software backend is offline, so those features are mostly inert. The Bluetooth still works for headphones, which is the main survivor.
Where this build hurts owners today
Bankruptcy is the elephant in the room. Customer support is gone, firmware updates have stopped, and the game library is frozen at 11. Some users on forums have reported trying to flash custom firmware, but it’s not officially supported. If you want a long-term kit you can repair and update, this isn’t it. If you want premium hardware for less than the new iiRcade successors, the used market is the only real path.
3. LEP1 Customs LVL23 2 Player Kit – Best for DIY Beginners
LVL23 2 Player Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kit for 19″ to 23″ Screens (HAPP or SANWA) (SanwaALL30 (Sanwa joys, 28mm or 30mm buttons))
For 19 to 23 inch screens
Sanwa or HAPP
Pre-cut panels
Paintable wood
Pros
- Heavy duty material with no movement during play
- Authentic arcade cabinet feel
- Customizable with HAPP or Sanwa controls
- Fits screens from 19 to 23 inches
- Easy to paint and customize
Cons
- No clear instructions included in box
- Requires glue and tools
- May need primer before painting
The LEP1 Customs LVL23 is the kit I’d recommend to a friend who has never built an arcade cabinet but wants to try. It’s also the kit I built first in my testing rotation. The exterior dimensions are 21.75 inches wide by 21 inches tall by 18 inches deep, which fits comfortably on a kitchen table during assembly.
The wood is engineered MDF with a beige factory finish. Quality is good, with crisp CNC cuts and consistent panel thickness. I weighed the assembled kit and the heft is reassuring, not flimsy. During gameplay, the cabinet doesn’t slide around the table even when I’m really leaning into a fighting game combo.
Where the LVL23 shines is flexibility. You can configure it for HAPP-style joysticks and 28mm buttons, or Sanwa-style with 24mm start buttons and 30mm action buttons. Both options are available at the same price. The control panel is pre-drilled, which saves about 2 hours of layout work compared to kits where you have to mark and cut your own holes.
Screen compatibility is rated for 19 to 23 inches, though I read a couple of reviews saying 20 inches was the practical max. I tested with a 22 inch monitor and it fit with a small gap on the sides. A 19 inch fits perfectly. 23 inch is tight.
Assembly experience for first-timers
You will need wood glue, clamps, a Phillips head screwdriver, and a drill. The panels come pre-cut, so there’s no saw work, but the included hardware doesn’t include clamps, and the assembly manual is minimal. I followed the QR code to LEP1’s online instructions, which were clearer. Allow 4-6 hours for a first build.
Customization options for paint and graphics
The bare MDF takes paint well. I used two coats of primer followed by three coats of satin black spray paint, then applied vinyl sideart. The end result looks like a $600 retail cabinet. If you want a custom theme (Street Fighter, Galaga, original artwork), this kit gives you the blank canvas. Plan on $40-80 in paint and graphics supplies on top of the kit price.
4. LEP1 Customs LVL32 2 Player Kit – Best for Large Screens
LEP1 Customs LVL32 Easy to Assemble 2 Player (27 to 32) Inch Screen bartop Tabletop Arcade Cabinet kit Sanwa Style
27 to 32 inch screens
2 player design
Sanwa compatible
Adjustable shelf
Pros
- Fits 27 to 32 inch screens
- Easy assembly for the size
- Durable engineered wood construction
- Portable design despite the size
Cons
- Higher price point than smaller kits
- Limited customer feedback available
The LVL32 is the big sibling to the LVL23, and it’s the kit I recommend if you have a 27 inch or larger monitor you want to repurpose. Most bartop kits cap out at 24 inches, so this opens up options for people who already own a 32 inch TV. I tested it with a 28 inch gaming monitor and had 1.5 inches of clearance on each side.
Construction is engineered wood (MDF) with a beige factory finish. The CNC cuts are clean, and the panels slot together with the same T-molding-ready edges as the smaller LEP1 kits. The depth is 20.25 inches, which makes the whole unit a little deeper than a typical coffee table, so plan your space accordingly.
For Sanwa-style controls, the panel layout supports 30mm action buttons. The adjustable shelf inside is a nice touch, useful for mounting a Raspberry Pi, a small PC, or a Pandora’s Box board on the lower level while the screen sits up top.
Best use case for the LVL32
Anyone who already owns a large monitor and wants to skip the screen purchase will appreciate this kit. It’s also a good choice for living room setups where the cabinet doubles as a TV stand. The 54-pound assembled weight is substantial, so this is not a portable piece, but it is sturdy.
Things to verify before ordering
The biggest risk is screen fit. A 32 inch monitor is 27.9 inches wide measured diagonally on the actual screen. Make sure you measure your monitor’s width and depth before assuming a 32 inch screen will fit. The interior dimensions of the LVL32 are tight on depth, so ultra-thin monitors work better than thick older LCDs. Also, plan for full-size Sanwa joysticks; the panel cutouts are sized for them, not for HAPP.
5. LEP1 Customs LVL24 HAPP Style Kit – Best Mid-Size DIY Option
LEP1 Customs LVL24 Easy to Assemble 2 Player bartopTabletop Arcade Cabinet kit for 24 inch Screen HAPP
For 24 inch screens
HAPP compatible
2 player
Tabletop mount
Pros
- All parts fit together cleanly
- Easy to assemble
- Tabletop-friendly 24 inch design
- Solid finish when painted
Cons
- Kit arrived covered in sawdust on some orders
- No location marks for display mount
- Wood quality can be easily marred
- Instructions are vague
The LVL24 fills a gap in the LEP1 lineup: it’s specifically designed for 24 inch screens with HAPP-style joystick and 28mm button cutouts. If you have a 24 inch monitor sitting around, this is the cleanest way to drop it into a bartop.
Assembly is similar to the LVL23. Pre-cut panels, beige finish, requires wood glue and clamps. The kit is rated for 2 player use, and the control panel layout gives you 6 action buttons per player plus start and select, which covers most fighting games and shooters. The tabletop mount design keeps the depth reasonable for a normal table.
Quality is consistent with other LEP1 Customs kits. I had one panel that arrived with light surface scratching that sanded out easily. Some reviewers mentioned their kit showed up covered in sawdust, which suggests the packaging could be better. Wipe down all panels before assembly to avoid sawdust getting trapped under your paint.
Why pick HAPP over Sanwa controls
HAPP (Happ Controls) joysticks and buttons are the American-style choice, slightly stiffer than Sanwa and with a different mounting footprint. Many classic US arcade machines used HAPP hardware, so if you’re targeting the feel of a 1980s US arcade, HAPP is the right call. Sanwa is the Japanese standard and tends to be smoother and lighter.
Why this kit might frustrate you
The biggest complaint from reviewers is the lack of mounting location marks for the display. You’re essentially on your own to figure out where to mount the 24 inch monitor inside the cabinet. I solved this with cardboard templates and a pencil, but first-timers might struggle. The instructions are vague on this step, and the kit doesn’t include an acrylic display protector, so if you want one, plan to source that separately.
6. LEP1 Customs LVL23P2 Pandora’s Box Kit – Best for Pandora’s Box Builds
LEP1 Customs LVL23P2 Easy to Assemble Pandora’s Box Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kit
Pandora's Box compatible
2 player
Pre-routed marquee
Engineered wood
Pros
- Pandora's Box ready with pre-routed marquee bracket
- Good material quality
- Easy assembly when following instructions
- Fits Pandora's Box board perfectly
Cons
- No printed instructions included (QR code only)
- Marquee sometimes arrives incorrectly sized
- Monitor may not fit as expected
- Requires wood glue clamps and drill
Pandora’s Box is a popular multi-game arcade board that lets you load hundreds or thousands of classic games without setting up a Raspberry Pi. The LEP1 Customs LVL23P2 is designed specifically to house one, with a pre-routed integrated marquee bracket and interior cutouts that fit the standard Pandora’s Box board.
Build quality matches the other LEP1 Customs kits: engineered wood, beige finish, pre-cut panels. The freestanding 2-door design with adjustable shelf is a nice touch. I mounted the Pandora’s Box on the lower shelf, ran an HDMI cable up to the screen, and had the whole thing powered and running in about 5 hours total.
The included instructions situation is the main friction. The kit ships with a QR code that links to assembly instructions, but no printed manual in the box. Some reviewers reported this as a major annoyance, but I found the online instructions clear enough. Don’t buy this kit expecting a paper manual in the box.
What you need beyond this kit
The kit is just the cabinet shell. You still need: a Pandora’s Box board (sold separately, roughly $60-90), a 17-23 inch screen, a 12V power supply, Sanwa or HAPP controls, and wiring (USB encoder, JST harnesses, etc.). Total project cost lands between $250-400 once you add everything. That puts it below the pre-built Doc and Pies options and gives you full hardware control.
When to skip this kit
If you don’t want a Pandora’s Box and prefer a Raspberry Pi build, the LVL23 (without the P2 suffix) is the better pick, since it has a slightly different cutout layout. Also, if you need a paper manual included in the box, look at other brands. The LEP1 kits lean heavily on digital instructions, which is fine if you’re comfortable with that.
7. Doc and Pies Arcade Factory (Red) – Best Turnkey Tabletop Option
Doc and Pies Arcade Factory Classic Home Arcade Machine – Tabletop and Bartop – 412 Retro Games – Full Size LCD Screen, Buttons and Joystick (Red)
412 retro games
19 inch LCD
6 year warranty
Red finish
Pros
- 412 retro games including Pac Man Donkey Kong Galaga
- Well constructed and durable body
- Full size buttons and joystick
- 6 year warranty included
Cons
- Volume adjustment requires opening back panel
- High scores not saved between games
- Some games translate poorly to joystick
- Game list is long and disorganized
The red edition of the Doc and Pies Arcade Factory is the older sibling of the green Frogger model I picked as editor’s choice. Same 412-game library, same 19 inch LCD, same full-size controls. The red finish is striking and the 6 year warranty is the longest in the category.
Out of the box, this is the most polished of the pre-built options. The buttons feel mechanical and the joystick has the right amount of resistance. I tested Galaga, Pac-Man, and Donkey Kong, and the audio and video quality held up well across all three. This kit leans toward a true retro arcade cabinet feel with its red panel artwork.
The downsides are the same as the green model. Volume control requires opening the back panel, which is annoying when you’re in the middle of a game. High scores reset when you change games. And the 412-game list, while generous, includes some titles that don’t translate well to a single joystick setup. These are minor annoyances for a turnkey product in this price range.
Why the 6 year warranty matters
Most bartop kits and pre-built cabinets offer 1-2 year warranties. The 6 year coverage on this Doc and Pies model is unusually generous. If reliability over the long term matters to you, this is a strong signal that the manufacturer is confident in the build. For a buyer planning to use this as a daily gaming station, the warranty is a real value.
How it compares to the green edition
Functionally, the red and green Doc and Pies models are identical. The differences are cosmetic and the warranty (2 years on green, 6 years on red). The green Frogger edition has a slightly higher Amazon rating (4.9 vs 4.1) but a smaller review count. I’d lean toward the green for the better-aggregated reviews, but if warranty length is your priority, the red wins.
8. GRS Build-A-CADE Mini Arcade Kit – Best Compact Raspberry Pi Build
GRS Build-A-CADE | 1:6 Scale Arcade Cabinet kit for use with Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi 3 or 4
4.3 inch IPS screen
Rechargeable battery
1:6 scale
Pros
- High quality plastic parts
- Sharp 4.3 inch vertical IPS screen
- Satisfying joystick and button feel
- Detailed instructions included
- Brightly lit marquee
Cons
- Top-heavy because of Pi behind screen
- Only 1 action button on the included deck
- Battery life is average
- Swapping control decks is awkward
This is not your traditional bartop. The GRS Build-A-CADE is a 1:6 scale mini arcade cabinet designed specifically for a Raspberry Pi 3 or 4. It stands 11 inches tall, weighs about 4 pounds, and ships with a 4.3 inch vertical IPS screen. I built this in about 90 minutes and it has become the desk toy I show off to every visitor.
The plastic parts are injection-molded and feel high quality. The screen is sharp and bright. The control deck has a real joystick and microswitch button, which gives it an authentic arcade feel despite the small size. There’s a hidden headphone port and a brightly lit marquee that gives it real personality.
Where the kit stumbles is the single action button on the included control deck. Most arcade games need 2-3 action buttons minimum, so you end up needing to buy the optional additional control kit. Also, because the Raspberry Pi mounts behind the screen, the unit is top-heavy and tends to tip if you press the joystick too aggressively.
Who this mini arcade is built for
This kit is perfect for someone who wants a Raspberry Pi-powered arcade on a desk or shelf, without dedicating an entire coffee table to the project. The rechargeable battery means you can take it to a friend’s house. It’s not a bartop in the traditional sense, but it shares the same DNA: pre-cut parts, DIY assembly, and authentic arcade controls.
Where the design needs work
The control deck swap system is awkward. To change games or layouts, you have to disassemble part of the cabinet. Battery life averaged 2-3 hours in my testing, which is fine for a quick session but not for a tournament. If you want a serious gaming station, the LEP1 Customs kits are better. If you want a charming desk piece that runs RetroPie, this is delightful.
How to Choose the Best Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kit for You
Picking the right bartop arcade cabinet kit comes down to five decisions: screen size, player count, skill level, control type, and whether you want a kit or a finished product. Here’s how I break each one down after testing all 8 of these models.
Screen size compatibility by kit
Screen size is the single biggest decision driver, because it determines which kits will physically work. The GRS Build-A-CADE uses a built-in 4.3 inch screen, so there’s no decision. The Doc and Pies pre-built models ship with a 19 inch LCD. The iiRcade uses a 19 inch HD panel.
For DIY kits from LEP1 Customs: the LVL23 fits 19 to 23 inch screens, the LVL24 is built around 24 inch, the LVL23P2 fits 17-23 inch, and the LVL32 handles 27 to 32 inch. Measure the monitor you plan to use (or want to buy) and match it to the kit before anything else. A 32 inch TV will not fit in a kit rated for 24 inch.
Player count: 1-player vs 2-player
The GRS Build-A-CADE is single-player. The Doc and Pies green Frogger model is also single-player, while the red edition supports 2 players. All four LEP1 Customs kits in this roundup are 2-player. The iiRcade is technically multiplayer-capable but the bankrupt game store limits what you can actually do.
If you plan to play head-to-head fighting games or co-op arcade classics like TMNT or Simpsons, you need a 2-player kit. Solo players can save money with a single-player setup. For a family or game room, 2-player is the right default.
DIY skill level: beginner vs advanced
Beginner: Skip the DIY kits and buy a pre-built Doc and Pies model. The green Frogger edition is the easiest path. The iiRcade is also pre-built but has the bankruptcy caveat.
Intermediate: The LEP1 Customs LVL23 and LVL24 are beginner-friendly DIY kits. Pre-cut panels, pre-drilled control panel, and online instructions get you through a build in 4-6 hours. You will need wood glue, clamps, and a drill, but no saw work.
Advanced: The LEP1 Customs LVL23P2 (Pandora’s Box version) and the LVL32 (large screen version) require more planning around hardware integration. The GRS Build-A-CADE is technically simple but requires Raspberry Pi setup, which is its own skill.
Control type: Sanwa vs HAPP
Sanwa is the Japanese standard. Smoother joystick action, lighter buttons, and the most common choice for Japanese arcade games. HAPP is the American standard. Stiffer joystick, heavier buttons, and the authentic feel for US-made arcade machines like the original Mortal Kombat.
The LEP1 Customs LVL23 supports both (different button layouts). The LVL24 is HAPP-specific. The LVL32 is Sanwa-specific. Sanwa parts cost more (typically $20-30 per joystick, $2-4 per button). HAPP is cheaper ($8-15 per joystick, $1-2 per button). Buy the parts that match your target games.
Tools required for assembly
For the LEP1 Customs kits, you will need: wood glue, bar or pipe clamps (at least 4), a Phillips head screwdriver, a power drill with bits, sandpaper (120 and 220 grit), and paint supplies if you want a custom finish. Total tool investment for a first-time builder runs $40-80 if you don’t already own these.
For the GRS Build-A-CADE, you need a small Phillips screwdriver and a Raspberry Pi loaded with RetroPie. No wood glue or clamps required.
For pre-built options like the Doc and Pies Arcade Factory models, you need nothing beyond a power outlet.
DIY kit vs pre-built: cost comparison
Pre-built cabinets like the Doc and Pies Arcade Factory models run around $749. The iiRcade sold for $599 new but the bankruptcy has made the used market the only real option. You get zero assembly and a turnkey experience, but you give up customization and pay a premium.
DIY kits like the LEP1 Customs range from $159 to $249.99. Add a screen ($80-150 for a 19-24 inch monitor), Sanwa or HAPP controls ($80-150), a Raspberry Pi or Pandora’s Box ($60-100), and miscellaneous wiring ($30-50). Total project cost lands between $400-650, with full control over every component.
For the hands-on hobbyist, DIY is the better value and a more rewarding project. For someone who just wants to play games, the pre-built Doc and Pies models save time and come with warranties. Either path is valid, and your choice depends on whether you enjoy the build or just want the destination.
If you’re shopping for related gear, our guides to the best home arcade machines and best tabletop arcade machines cover the pre-built side in more depth. And if you enjoy the DIY craft aspect, our resin casting kits roundup is worth a look for a different kind of build project.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bartop arcade cabinet kit?
A bartop arcade cabinet kit is a flat-pack woodworking package that includes pre-cut panels for the cabinet shell, control panel, and hardware mounting points. You supply your own screen, joystick, buttons, and game hardware (like a Raspberry Pi or Pandora’s Box). The result is a smaller tabletop-sized arcade cabinet that you assemble yourself.
How much is a bartop arcade kit?
Bartop arcade cabinet kits range from roughly $129 for a basic 2-player DIY shell to $250 for premium 27 to 32 inch screen-compatible kits. Add a screen ($80-150), controls ($80-150), and a game board like a Raspberry Pi ($60-100) for a complete project cost of $400-650. Pre-built finished bartop cabinets run from $600 to $1,099.
Where to buy bartop arcade cabinet kits?
You can buy bartop arcade cabinet kits on Amazon (most LEP1 Customs models), Etsy (LEP1 Customs and smaller builders), GameRoomSolutions.com (their own line of kits and bundles), and specialty sites like Holland Computers. For pre-built options, Doc and Pies Arcade Factory sells direct from their website and Amazon. iiRcade was previously available on Amazon but the company went bankrupt in 2024.
Do bartop arcade kits come with everything?
No, most bartop arcade cabinet kits do not come with everything. They include the wood panels, mounting hardware, and sometimes pre-drilled control panels. You typically need to buy separately: a screen (17 to 32 inch), joystick and buttons (Sanwa or HAPP), a USB encoder, a power supply, and game hardware (Raspberry Pi, Pandora’s Box, or a small PC). The Doc and Pies pre-built models are the exception, since they ship fully assembled with everything included.
Are bartop arcade kits hard to assemble?
It depends on the kit. LEP1 Customs beginner-friendly kits (LVL23, LVL24) take 4-6 hours for a first-time builder. You need basic tools (drill, screwdriver, wood glue, clamps) and should be comfortable following online instructions. The GRS Build-A-CADE takes about 90 minutes since it’s plastic and smaller. Pre-built options like Doc and Pies Arcade Factory require no assembly at all. Most reviewers rate the LEP1 kits as ‘moderate’ difficulty, between IKEA furniture and a full custom woodworking project.
What tools do I need for a bartop arcade kit?
For LEP1 Customs and similar MDF kits, you need: wood glue, bar or pipe clamps (4 minimum), a Phillips head screwdriver, a power drill with bits, sandpaper (120 and 220 grit), and optionally a jigsaw if you want to modify the cabinet. For paint, add primer, paint, brushes or a sprayer, and clear coat. For the GRS Build-A-CADE, you only need a small Phillips screwdriver. No kit requires a table saw since panels come pre-cut.
Final Verdict
After three months of building, testing, and gaming on these 8 bartop arcade cabinet kits, my top recommendation depends on what kind of buyer you are. If you want the best pre-built option with zero assembly, the Doc and Pies Arcade Factory green Frogger edition is the clear winner: 4.9 stars, 412 games, hand-built quality, and a 2 year warranty.
For DIY hobbyists, the LEP1 Customs LVL23 2 Player Kit hits the sweet spot. It’s beginner-friendly, supports both Sanwa and HAPP controls, and fits a wide range of screens from 19 to 23 inches. The total project cost lands around $400, and you get a fully custom cabinet at the end.
Whichever bartop arcade cabinet kit you pick, build it slowly, use quality controls, and take your time with the paint. A well-built bartop will give you 10+ years of retro gaming, and the satisfaction of saying ‘I built that’ never gets old. Check the latest prices on our top picks above and get started on your build today.