When you set out to buy a home arcade machine, there are several factors you need to take into account, the arcade machine price being chief among them. The arcade machine cost is one of the primary concerns. You also need to factor in the shipping costs, as well as the price of the games themselves. Additionally, you need to decide what type of machine you want. There are three primary home arcade machines: multicade, Arcade1Up, and vintage.
How Much Do New Arcade Machines Cost?
You can find a new arcade machine for between $300 and $20,000. The price will depend on numerous factors such as the type of machine, the size, and the number of games included. For example, Arcade1Up offers 3/4 size machines that start at $299 and usually peak at about $800. These are smaller machines that only have a handful of games. Meanwhile, a traditional arcade machine can cost upwards of $20,000, especially if you are looking at a modern model with all the bells and whistles. Considering that most home arcades include classic arcade games for retro gaming, these are normally found used, thus the price can fluctuate wildly.
Arcade1Up vs. Traditional Arcade Machines Cost
One of the first things you’ll want to consider when shopping for a new arcade machine is the cost. Arcade1Up cabinets start at around $299, while traditional arcade machines can cost anywhere from $500 to $5,000. That said, it’s essential to remember that Arcade1Up cabinets are smaller than traditional arcade machines, and they don’t always have all the same features. For example, some Arcade1Up cabinets only have one game, while others have multiple games.
Cost of Shipping
The shipping costs of an arcade machine can vary depending on the size and weight of the machine. If you buy an arcade machine online, the shipping costs will be added to the machine’s total cost. Arcade machines can be shipped via UPS, FedEx, or other shipping companies. Shipping costs will be based on the size of the machine, the shipping company you choose, and your location. Fortunately, many places offer free shipping to reduce the total cost of the arcade.
Where to Buy a Home Arcade Machine
There are many places where you can buy an arcade machine. Here are some of the most popular options:
Online retailers such as Amazon or eBay
Local game stores or other specialty retailers
Arcades themselves (if you can find one that sells machines)
Some supermarkets or other larger retail stores
Private sellers
What Type of Arcade Should I Buy
There are three main types of home arcade systems on the market: multicade, Arcade1Up, and vintage arcade cabinets.
Multicade Systems
Multicade systems are the most versatile, as they can support multiple classic game titles. They typically cost between $500 and $2000. The type of arcade you buy will depend on your budget and the games you want to play. The multicade features classic games like Ms. Pac-Man, Donkey Kong, and Galaga. It is also possible to find multicades that support newer games like Street Fighter and Mortal Kombat. Other advantages include the ability to play vertical and horizontal games and the option to add a trackball, spinner, or light guns for certain games. A couple examples of the more popular examples of a pre-built multicade is the AtGames Legends Ultimate Arcade and the Pandora Gaming Console.
Arcade1Up Systems
This type of system is a more affordable option, costing between $299 and $699. Arcade1Up systems feature classic games like Pac-Man, Ms. Pac-Man, Big Buck Hunter, NBA Jam, Mortal Kombat, Golden Tee, and more. One advantage of this system is that it includes a riser, so the games are played at a standing height. That makes it more comfortable for taller users. Another advantage is that they are smaller than a vintage arcade, so you have more room to make an arcade for neighbors and friends to drool over. If you’re wondering about Arcade1Up vs a real arcade system, there are quite a few benefits of owning a smaller version such as multiple games, smaller footprint, easier to move, and much more affordable.
Vintage Arcade Cabinets
If you want an authentic classic arcade experience, then you’ll want to buy a vintage arcade cabinet. These cabinets can be quite expensive, costing thousands of dollars…used. However, they offer an authentic arcade feel, complete with almost any game you remember from that era. Another advantage is that these cabinets are often much sturdier than newer models. They can also be customized with different artwork and hardware. Unfortunately, depending on the desired model, they can be difficult to find as you often are required to search places like Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist for deals. If you’re looking into a more modern arcade game, you can expect to pay much more than a used classic model.
Which One Should You Buy?
When deciding which type of arcade system to buy, you’ll need to consider your budget and the games you want to play. A vintage cabinet is a way to go if you’re looking for a classic arcade experience and have the cash to burn. However, an Arcade1Up system will be more affordable and provide a similar experience if you’re on a budget. And if you want the ability to play hundreds of multiple classic games, then a multicade system is the best option.
How to Know if an Arcade Game System is a Good Buy
When shopping for an arcade machine, knowing if the system is a good buy is essential. There are a few things you can look for to help you make this determination.
Price
It may be a good buy if the system is significantly cheaper than similar systems on the market. However, you’ll want to research the system to ensure it’s not a lower-quality product.
Shipping
The shipping cost can be high, so consider that when looking at the overall price of the system. You can usually find free shipping offers from online retailers.
Returns
Most retailers will have a return policy for arcade machines. Make sure you’re familiar with the policy before making your purchase.
Features
Compare the features of different systems to see which one offers the best value. Some features you may want to look for include the number of games included, graphics quality, sound quality, and warranty. The number of games included is significant if you’re looking for a multicade system, as you’ll want to make sure there are enough games to keep you entertained. The graphics quality is crucial if you’re looking for an immersive experience, and the sound quality is vital if you want to feel like you’re in the game. Warranties are an excellent way to ensure you’re protected in case of any problems with the system.
Arcade Machine Reviews
Checking online reviews can help get an idea of the system’s quality. Read both positive and negative reviews to get a well-rounded view.
How Much Should You Spend on an Arcade Game System?
The average person spends about $500 on an arcade game system. However, there is a wide range of prices for these systems, with some costing as little as $100 and others costing over $1,000. A few factors will affect the price of an arcade game system. The first is the type of system you purchase. Arcade1Up cabinets, for example, are typically less expensive than traditional arcade machines. The second factor is the size of the system. Larger machines will generally cost more than smaller ones. Finally, the cost of shipping and features can also affect the price.
Conclusion
When shopping for an arcade machine, you should keep a few things in mind. First, decide what type of system you want. Second, consider your budget and the games you want to play. And third, research the system to ensure it’s a good buy. By considering these factors, you can find the perfect arcade machine for your needs.
