10 Best Raspberry Pi Arcade Control Kits (July 2026) Complete DIY Guide

Building your own arcade machine is one of the most rewarding Raspberry Pi projects you can tackle. I have spent countless hours testing different arcade control kits to find the ones that deliver authentic gameplay without the headache of complicated setups. Whether you are building a full cabinet, a bartop unit, or just a desktop controller, the right kit makes all the difference between a frustrating experience and hours of retro gaming bliss.

The market for Raspberry Pi arcade control kits has exploded in recent years. You can find everything from basic encoder boards for under fifteen dollars to complete LED-lit button and joystick kits designed for multiplayer setups. After testing these kits with RetroPie, Recalbox, and Batocera, I have identified the options that offer the best combination of quality, ease of assembly, and value. This guide covers the best Raspberry Pi arcade control kits available right now.

Top 3 Picks for Best Raspberry Pi Arcade Control Kits

Best Raspberry Pi Arcade Control Kits in 2026

1. Hikig 2 Player LED Arcade DIY Kit – Most Popular 2-Player LED Kit

When I first assembled the Hikig 2 Player LED kit, I was genuinely surprised by how smooth the setup process was. Everything arrived individually packaged, and the bundled connection system meant I did not have to spend hours figuring out which wire went where. The kit includes two joysticks, twenty LED buttons, and two zero delay USB encoders, making it a complete solution for anyone building a 2-player arcade panel.

The LED effect is what really makes this kit stand out. The buttons glow with a vibrant, even illumination that looks fantastic in a dark room. I tested this kit with both RetroPie on a Raspberry Pi 4 and directly on a Windows PC running MAME. Both setups recognized the controllers immediately as generic gamepads, with no additional configuration needed beyond button mapping in the emulator settings.

During extended gameplay sessions, the joysticks proved responsive with a satisfying clicky feel. The 8-way joysticks work particularly well for classic arcade games and 2D fighters. However, I did notice the button springs are somewhat softer than premium SANWA parts, which might feel too loose for players who prefer a snappier response. The zero delay performance lived up to its name, with no noticeable input lag during fast-paced games.

One thing to keep in mind is that the joysticks are designed primarily for 2D fighters and arcade games. If you plan to play a lot of 4-way maze games like Pac-Man, you might want to swap in a 4-way restrictor plate. Overall, this kit offers incredible value for the price and is perfect for first-time builders who want a complete, ready-to-install solution.

Best for beginners

This kit is ideal for first-time arcade builders who want everything included in one package. The plug-and-play design eliminates guesswork, and the vibrant LEDs add instant visual appeal to any project.

Consider alternatives if

If you need tournament-grade precision or plan heavy use in 4-way games, consider upgrading to SANWA parts separately. The included components are good for casual play but not competition-level.

2. Reyann Zero Delay Arcade USB Encoder – Budget Encoder with Zero Lag

The Reyann Zero Delay encoder is the workhorse of the DIY arcade community, and after using it in multiple projects, I understand why. This single encoder board handles all the button and joystick inputs for one player, translating them into USB signals that any computer or Raspberry Pi recognizes as a generic game controller. The price point makes it accessible for builders on any budget.

I have used this encoder with HAPP-style buttons, SANWA joysticks, and even some off-brand components. The 4.8mm terminals accommodate most standard arcade parts without issue. The truly plug-and-play nature means you just connect the wires, plug in the USB cable, and start mapping buttons in your emulator of choice. No drivers, no configuration software, no headaches.

The zero delay claim is legitimate. In side-by-side testing with more expensive encoders, I could not detect any input lag. The board sends signals as fast as you can press buttons, which is critical for fighting games and other timing-sensitive titles. Each button has its own dedicated ground wire, eliminating the need for daisy-chaining and reducing potential failure points.

The main drawbacks are the wire quality and length. The included harness wires are quite short, which works fine for compact control panels but becomes problematic in larger cabinet builds. I have had to extend wires on several occasions. Also, all the wires are the same color, making it harder to troubleshoot if something goes wrong. Despite these minor issues, this encoder remains my go-to recommendation for budget-conscious builders.

Best for budget builds

This encoder is perfect for builders who already have buttons and joysticks and just need a reliable interface to connect them. The low cost lets you allocate more budget to premium arcade parts.

Consider alternatives if

If you need longer wires out of the box or want color-coded connections for easier assembly, look at kits that include these features. You will pay more but save time during installation.

3. EG STARTS 4 Player Classic DIY Arcade Kit – Complete 4-Player Setup

Building a 4-player arcade panel used to mean sourcing components from multiple vendors and hoping everything worked together. The EG STARTS 4 Player kit solves this problem by bundling everything you need in one box: four joysticks, twenty-eight LED buttons, and four zero delay USB encoders. When my friends and I set this up for a multiplayer gaming night, the experience was seamless.

Windows recognized all four controllers immediately, each showing up as a separate gamepad. This is crucial for games like TMNT, The Simpsons, or Gauntlet where every player needs their own input device. The LED buttons illuminate beautifully and create an authentic arcade atmosphere. The joysticks have a satisfying clicky feel similar to SANWA-style components, though they are not genuine SANWA parts.

The main frustration with this kit is the lack of documentation. While the plug-and-play nature means most builders can figure it out, having no instructions makes troubleshooting more difficult. I also found that the joystick ball tops can unscrew during enthusiastic gameplay, which is annoying but easily fixed with a bit of thread locker. The buttons can sometimes bind if the wires put tension on them from behind the panel.

Despite these issues, this kit offers tremendous value for anyone building a multiplayer arcade machine. The cost per player works out to roughly twenty dollars, which is hard to beat. The LED buttons alone would cost nearly that much if purchased separately. If you are building a cabinet for parties or family game nights, this kit provides everything needed for four-player action.

Best for multiplayer cabinets

This kit is the obvious choice for anyone building a 4-player arcade cabinet. The complete solution saves hours of sourcing individual components and ensures compatibility across all parts.

Consider alternatives if

If you only need 1 or 2 players, a smaller kit will be more cost-effective. Also, if you require documentation or premium component quality, consider buying higher-end parts individually.

4. Qenker 2-Player LED Arcade DIY Kit – Reliable 2-Player with Vibrant LEDs

The Qenker 2-Player kit sits in a sweet spot between budget options and premium kits. When I installed this in a friend’s Arcade1Up cabinet modification, the process was straightforward. The single-plug design for both LEDs and signal wires significantly reduces cable clutter behind the control panel, which is a thoughtful engineering touch.

The LED effect on these buttons is genuinely impressive. The illumination is bright and even, creating that authentic arcade cabinet glow. RetroPie recognized both controllers without any configuration issues. I appreciate that the kit uses heat-resistant plastic, which should hold up well over time even in warmer environments like garages or game rooms without climate control.

After two years of regular use, the kit in my friend’s cabinet still works flawlessly, which speaks to the durability. However, during initial testing, I did encounter a couple of buttons that felt sticky right out of the package. A quick disassembly and cleaning resolved the issue, but it is worth checking all components before final installation.

The joysticks are serviceable but lean toward the loose side. Players who prefer a tighter, more precise feel might find themselves wanting to upgrade. The wires are adequate for standard control panel depths but may need extending for deeper cabinets. Overall, this kit delivers solid value and has become a popular choice in the modding community for good reason.

Best for Arcade1Up modifications

This kit is particularly popular among Arcade1Up cabinet modifiers. The plug-and-play design and bright LEDs make it a natural upgrade path for stock cabinet controls.

Consider alternatives if

If you need tournament-quality joystick precision or want guaranteed button consistency, consider spending more on SANWA or Seimitsu components with a separate encoder.

5. EG STARTS Arcade Buttons 1 Player DIY Kit – Complete 1-Player LED Kit

For solo builders or those creating a single-player control panel, the EG STARTS 1 Player LED kit offers everything in one package. I assembled this kit for a compact bartop arcade project and appreciated having all components matched and tested together. The kit includes an 8-way joystick, eight illuminated buttons, and a USB encoder pre-wired for easy connection.

The mechanical switches in the buttons are rated for one million cycles, which should last through years of enthusiastic gaming. The tactile feedback is satisfying, with a clear click on each press. The joystick moves smoothly through its 8-way pattern and locks into directions confidently. The USB encoder includes additional 5V terminals, which is handy if you want to add extra LEDs or other powered accessories.

The LED illumination is bright and adds significant visual appeal to any build. Each button lights up evenly, creating that classic arcade aesthetic. I did find the button caps are slightly smaller than standard 30mm arcade buttons, which might bother players with larger hands. The included documentation for LED wiring had some errors, so I recommend checking online resources if something does not match up.

This kit excels as a starter package for someone building their first arcade controller. The one-year warranty provides peace of mind, and the individually packaged components feel premium despite the budget-friendly price. If you are building a simple single-player setup, this kit eliminates the need to source parts separately.

Best for first-time builders

This complete kit removes the guesswork from sourcing compatible parts. Everything works together out of the box, making it perfect for your first arcade project.

Consider alternatives if

If you prefer full-size 30mm buttons or need accurate documentation, look at other options. The smaller button caps and documentation issues can be frustrating for some builders.

6. Guwarry 2-Player Zero Delay USB Encoder – Built-in 5V LED Power Outputs

The Guwarry 2-Player encoder stands out for one clever feature: three dedicated 5V power outputs for LED joysticks and buttons. When I built a light-up control panel, this feature eliminated the need for separate power wiring for the LEDs. The encoder powers the illumination directly through the USB connection, significantly simplifying the wiring process.

I tested this encoder with an Arcade1Up cabinet modification and was pleased with how smoothly it integrated. Batocera, Steam Deck, and Windows all recognized the controllers immediately. The zero delay performance matched other quality encoders, with no perceptible lag during gameplay. For sim racing button boxes or sequential shifters using limit switch joysticks, this encoder performs reliably.

The quick-connect terminals work well with HAPP-style components using the 4.8mm standard. Installation is genuinely easy, as the product claims. However, the documentation is generic and does not clearly explain which terminals are for ground versus normally-open connections. I had to reference community forums to confirm the wiring, which added time to the build.

Despite the documentation shortcomings, the 5V power output feature makes this encoder invaluable for LED-heavy builds. If you are planning a control panel with illuminated buttons and joysticks, this encoder saves you from running separate power lines and dealing with additional power supplies.

Best for LED-heavy builds

The built-in 5V outputs make this encoder ideal for projects with lots of illuminated components. You can power LEDs directly without additional wiring or power supplies.

Consider alternatives if

If you do not need LED power or want comprehensive documentation, other encoders offer similar performance with better support materials.

7. SJ@JX Arcade Stick DIY Kit – Mechanical Keyboard Switches

The SJ@JX Arcade Stick DIY Kit takes a different approach by using mechanical keyboard switches in the buttons. Each button contains a BLACK SWITCH linear microswitch rated for 50 million cycles, which is significantly higher than standard arcade button ratings. When I built a fight stick with this kit, the linear feel was distinct from traditional arcade buttons.

The LED buttons feature logo designs that glow steadily during use. The aesthetic is unique and adds personality to any custom build. The zero delay SJ@JX 822B encoder worked perfectly with both Windows and RetroPie on my Raspberry Pi. The plug-and-play design meant I could focus on the enclosure build rather than wrestling with wiring configurations.

The mechanical switches provide a smooth, consistent actuation that some players prefer for fighting games. However, the C button in particular can be overly sensitive, sometimes registering inputs from very light touches. I also encountered occasional LED failures after extended use, which is disappointing in a kit that emphasizes its lighting features.

This kit is worth considering if you want something different from standard arcade components. The mechanical keyboard switches offer a unique feel, and the logo LED buttons create visual interest. Just be prepared for potential quality control variations and test all components thoroughly before final assembly.

Best for fight stick builders

The mechanical switches and compact 10-button layout make this kit suitable for fight stick projects. The linear switch feel appeals to players transitioning from keyboard gaming.

Consider alternatives if

If you want traditional arcade button feel or guaranteed LED reliability, stick with kits using standard microswitch buttons from established brands.

8. Easyget 2 Player Zero Delay USB Encoder – Affordable 2-Player Encoder Set

The Easyget 2 Player encoder set is essentially a dual-pack of the proven zero delay design. When I built a 2-player control panel for a cocktail cabinet, having both encoders in one package was convenient. Each board shows up as a separate controller in Windows and RetroPie, which is essential for proper 2-player gaming without input conflicts.

The dedicated ground wires for each switch eliminate the daisy-chaining required by some other encoders. This makes wiring more straightforward and reduces the chance of a single bad connection taking down multiple buttons. The boards support both joystick wiring standards, accommodating 5-pin SANWA-style and 2-pin HAPP-style joysticks, though you will need to source the 5-pin jumper separately for SANWA parts.

Performance is consistent with the zero delay promise. I tested extensively with MAME games on both PC and Raspberry Pi, and input lag was imperceptible. The boards handle simultaneous button presses without issues, which is important for games requiring complex input combinations. The included wiring harness is functional, though the wires are short enough that I needed extensions for my particular cabinet design.

One annoyance is that the wire slots can sometimes come undone if not seated firmly. I recommend checking all connections before final panel assembly. The Windows controller numbering can also be confusing, as the boards show up as joystick 0 and 1, while some emulators display them as 1 and 2. These are minor inconveniences rather than deal-breakers.

Best for 2-player cabinet builders

This dual encoder set provides exactly what you need for a 2-player build without paying for unnecessary extras. The proven zero delay design ensures reliable performance.

Consider alternatives if

If you need longer wires or want a complete kit with buttons and joysticks included, look at the full DIY kits that bundle encoders with arcade components.

9. BEYEE Zero Delay Arcade USB Encoder – Cost-Effective Single Encoder

The BEYEE Zero Delay encoder is another budget-friendly option for single-player builds. I tested this alongside the Reyann encoder and found the performance virtually identical. Both deliver true zero delay response and plug-and-play recognition across Windows, MAME, and RetroPie platforms. The price point makes it accessible for any budget build.

The 4.8mm terminals accommodate HAPP-style buttons and joysticks perfectly. I appreciate that no soldering is required for installation, making this encoder suitable for beginners. The board is recognized as a generic game controller, which means it works with virtually any emulator or game that supports gamepad input. I even used it successfully with USB hubs for projects requiring multiple controllers.

The main limitation to understand is that the joystick input is digital on/off only, not analog. This is fine for arcade games but not suitable for applications requiring analog joystick input. The wires are also on the short side, similar to other budget encoders. Documentation is minimal, so you may need to rely on community resources if questions arise.

For straightforward arcade builds where you just need reliable button and joystick input at the lowest possible price, the BEYEE encoder delivers. It may lack the frills of more expensive options, but it handles the core function competently.

Best for ultra-budget builds

This encoder offers the essential functionality at a rock-bottom price. Perfect for builders who already have buttons and joysticks and just need a basic interface.

Consider alternatives if

If you need analog joystick support, longer wires, or comprehensive documentation, spend a few extra dollars on a more feature-rich encoder option.

10. LVL23 2 Player Bartop Arcade Cabinet Kit – Complete Cabinet with Controls

The LVL23 Bartop Cabinet Kit is fundamentally different from the other products on this list. Instead of just controls, you get a complete pre-cut wood cabinet designed for a 2-player setup. When I built this kit, the satisfaction of assembling an actual arcade cabinet from flat panels was immense. This is a project for someone who wants the full DIY experience.

The kit is available with either HAPP-style or SANWA-style controls, letting you choose based on your button and joystick preferences. The pre-cut panels fit together well, and the solid wood construction gives the finished cabinet substantial weight and presence. The 2-player layout provides plenty of room for comfortable gaming without crowding.

The biggest drawback is the lack of included instructions. I had to search online for assembly videos, which fortunately exist but should not be necessary. Also, despite being marketed for 19 to 23 inch screens, the interior actually accommodates a maximum of about 20 inches. Plan your monitor purchase accordingly. You will also need to supply your own wood glue and screwdriver.

For builders who want to create a complete arcade experience rather than just a control panel, this kit provides an excellent foundation. The customizable design allows for personal touches like paint, artwork, and additional features. Just be prepared to source instructions online and double-check your monitor dimensions.

Best for full cabinet builders

This kit is perfect for builders ready to tackle a complete arcade cabinet project. The pre-cut panels save hours of woodworking and ensure proper fit.

Consider alternatives if

If you just need controls for an existing panel or want a kit with comprehensive instructions, look elsewhere. This is for experienced DIYers comfortable with self-guided assembly.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Raspberry Pi Arcade Control Kit

Selecting the best Raspberry Pi arcade control kit for your project depends on several factors. I have broken down the key considerations to help you make the right choice for your specific build.

Encoder Types: GPIO vs USB vs Zero Delay

The encoder is the component that translates your button presses and joystick movements into signals your Raspberry Pi can understand. USB encoders are the most popular choice because they plug directly into the USB port and are recognized as standard game controllers. Zero delay USB encoders are a specific type that minimizes input latency, which is critical for fast-paced games.

GPIO encoders connect directly to the Raspberry Pi’s GPIO pins and can offer lower latency in some cases. However, they require more configuration and are limited to single-Pi setups. USB encoders work with any system that supports gamepads, including PCs, Macs, and other devices. For most builders, USB encoders offer the best balance of performance and versatility.

Raspberry Pi Compatibility

All the kits in this guide work with Raspberry Pi 3, 4, and 5. For the best performance with N64, Dreamcast, and PSP emulation, I recommend Raspberry Pi 4 with at least 2GB of RAM. Raspberry Pi 3 handles 8-bit and 16-bit systems perfectly well for NES, SNES, and Genesis games. Raspberry Pi 5 offers the most headroom for demanding emulators but may require active cooling in enclosed cabinets.

Button and Joystick Quality

SANWA buttons and joysticks are considered the gold standard for authentic arcade feel. They offer crisp, clicky feedback and precise actuation. Many budget kits use SANWA-style components that approximate the feel at a lower price point. For casual gaming, these clones are usually adequate. Tournament players or enthusiasts building premium cabinets may prefer to source genuine SANWA parts separately.

Assembly Difficulty

Most zero delay encoder kits require no soldering. The buttons and joysticks connect via quick-disconnect terminals that simply push onto the component tabs. Assembly mainly involves mounting the components in your control panel and running the wires to the encoder board. Complete kits like the Hikig or EG STARTS options simplify this further by providing matched components and bundled wiring harnesses.

Software Setup Overview

RetroPie is the most popular operating system for Raspberry Pi arcade builds. It includes emulators for dozens of systems and automatically configures USB controllers. Recalbox and Batocera are alternatives that offer simpler setup processes with similar functionality. All three systems recognize USB encoders as standard gamepads, so you can configure button mappings through the emulator interface without editing configuration files.

Final Thoughts

Building your own arcade machine with Raspberry Pi is one of the most satisfying DIY projects you can undertake. After testing all these kits, the Hikig 2 Player LED kit stands out as the best overall choice for most builders. It combines everything you need in one package with proven performance and vibrant LED effects. For budget-conscious projects, the Reyann Zero Delay encoder delivers reliable performance at an unbeatable price.

The best Raspberry Pi arcade control kits ultimately depend on your specific needs. Multiplayer builders should consider the EG STARTS 4 Player kit for complete group gaming. Those modifying Arcade1Up cabinets will find the Qenker and Guwarry kits particularly well-suited. Whatever your project scope, the options in this guide provide reliable, tested solutions for bringing authentic arcade gaming into your home.