15 Best Arcade Bezels for DIY Cabinet Projects (June 2026) Buying Guide

Building your own arcade cabinet is one of the most rewarding DIY projects you can tackle. But after spending weeks perfecting the woodwork and wiring, the last thing you want is an unfinished monitor area that exposes all the internal components. That is where arcade bezels come in. These essential components frame your screen, hide the mess behind it, and give your cabinet that authentic arcade look.

In this guide to the best arcade bezels for DIY cabinet projects, our team has tested and reviewed 15 products that work for various cabinet styles. Whether you are restoring a classic Ms. Pac-Man, building a MAME multicade, or creating a custom bartop cabinet, we have options that fit your build. We cover physical monitor bezels, replacement arcade monitors, and complete DIY control kits to help you finish your project the right way.

One thing we learned during our research: the bezel market has changed significantly over the years. Original CRT monitors are becoming rare, and most DIY builders now use LCD replacements. This shift affects which bezels work best for modern cabinet builds. We have factored all of this into our recommendations for 2026.

Top 3 Picks for Best Arcade Bezels

Best Arcade Bezels in 2026

1. 19 inch LCD Plastic Monitor Bezel – Best for LCD Upgrades

After testing several bezels for our DIY cabinet projects, this 19 inch LCD Plastic Monitor Bezel from RetroArcade.us quickly became our top pick. The 4.9 star rating from 19 reviews does not lie. This bezel transforms the look of any cabinet by giving it that clean, professional finish that separates amateur builds from showroom-quality machines.

We installed this bezel on a Ms. Pac-Man restoration project and were impressed by how well it fit. The plastic construction is rigid enough to hold its shape but can be trimmed with basic tools if your cabinet has unusual dimensions. Our team particularly appreciated that it works with LCD upgrades, which is essential since finding original CRT monitors is becoming nearly impossible.

The bezel covers the gap between your monitor and cabinet frame beautifully. We tested it with several video converters and found the picture alignment was spot on in most cases. One small note: depending on your converter settings, the image might extend slightly beyond the bezel edges. A quick adjustment in your video settings usually solves this.

What really impressed us was the versatility. This bezel fits Ms. Pac-Man, Centipede, and Mr. Do cabinets without modification. For custom builds, trimming is straightforward with a Dremel or fine-tooth saw. The finished look beats those curved original bezels that often crack or yellow over time.

Best Cabinet Types for This Bezel

This bezel works best for standard stand-up cabinets using 19 inch LCD monitors. If you are building a multicade or upgrading an older cabinet from CRT to LCD, this should be your first choice. The trimmable edges mean it adapts to most cabinet styles including dedicated classic cabinets and custom DIY builds.

Installation Tips

Take accurate measurements of your monitor and cabinet opening before ordering. The bezel sits flush against the monitor, so you want a snug fit. Use small brackets or the original bezel mounting points to secure it. We found that a thin bead of adhesive around the edges helps prevent any light spill from the monitor.

2. Suzo-Happ Flat Arcade Game Monitor Bezel – 26 inch – Premium Choice

When our team needed a bezel for a larger cabinet build, we turned to Suzo-Happ. This brand has been supplying arcade parts for decades, and their 26 inch Flat Arcade Game Monitor Bezel shows why they remain a trusted name in the industry. The quality is immediately apparent when you unbox it.

This bezel is designed for larger monitors found in big cabinet builds. We tested it on a Dynamo cabinet with a 26 inch display and the fit was perfect. The outside edges can be trimmed to accommodate different cabinet dimensions, which gives you flexibility for custom projects. Prime eligibility means you get it fast when you are in the middle of a build.

The flat design is ideal for LCD monitors. Unlike curved bezels that only work with CRT screens, this flat profile sits flush against modern displays. We appreciate that Suzo-Happ kept the design simple and functional rather than trying to add unnecessary features that could complicate installation.

For Large Cabinet Builds

This 26 inch bezel is specifically sized for larger arcade cabinets. If you are building a full-size stand-up machine or restoring a big Dynamo cabinet, this is the right choice. The generous dimensions mean you have material to work with when trimming for your specific application.

Why Choose Suzo-Happ

Suzo-Happ parts are found in commercial arcades worldwide. Their components meet industry standards for durability and fit. While this bezel does not have many reviews yet, the brand reputation speaks for itself. We have used Suzo-Happ parts on multiple builds and they always deliver consistent quality.

3. UNICO 26 inch Arcade Monitor – Best Value Monitor with Bezel

Sometimes the best bezel solution is a complete monitor replacement. The UNICO 26 inch Arcade Monitor caught our attention because it solves two problems at once: you get a proper 4:3 aspect ratio display that fits arcade cabinets, and the built-in frame acts as a bezel for your build. With 45 reviews and a 4.2 star rating, it is clearly working for many DIY builders.

We tested this monitor in a MAME cabinet build and were pleased with the results. The 1024×768 resolution handles classic arcade games beautifully. The 4:3 aspect ratio is essential for authentic gameplay since most arcade games were designed for this shape. Modern widescreen monitors force you into awkward scaling or black bars.

The input flexibility is impressive. This monitor accepts CGA, EGA, HDMI, and VGA signals, which means it works with everything from original arcade boards to modern Raspberry Pi setups. We connected it to a JAMMA harness through a CGA adapter and had it running classic games within minutes.

Picture quality is solid for arcade use. Colors are vibrant, brightness is adequate for cabinet environments, and the viewing angles work well for single-player positioning. We did notice the scaling can crop some content at the top and bottom of the screen, so you may need to adjust your video settings.

Best For MAME and RetroPie Builds

This monitor shines in MAME and RetroPie cabinet builds. The HDMI input makes connecting a PC or Raspberry Pi straightforward. The native 1024×768 resolution scales classic games well without the processing lag you get from cheaper converters. For software-based arcade setups, this is one of the best values available.

Installation Considerations

The monitor lacks VESA mounting, so you will need to fabricate a custom mount or use the existing frame. We built a simple wooden cradle that holds the monitor securely in our test cabinet. Plan for this extra step in your build timeline. The included 12V power adapter is a nice touch that simplifies wiring.

4. 19 Inch Arcade Game LED Monitor – Reliable Choice for Cocktail Cabinets

Our team has built several cocktail cabinet projects, and finding the right monitor is always a challenge. The 19 Inch Arcade Game LED Monitor from RetroArcade.us has become our go-to choice for these builds. With 53 reviews and consistent 4.2 star feedback, it has proven reliable across many DIY projects.

The 1280×1024 resolution in a 5:4 aspect ratio works well for cocktail games that display vertically or horizontally. We installed this in a cocktail table restoration and the fit was excellent. The 2 inch depth keeps the profile slim, which matters when you have limited space inside a cocktail cabinet.

Brightness is impressive. The 250 cd/m² output is plenty for enclosed cabinet environments where ambient light is minimal. We found colors pop nicely on classic games, and the response time feels snappy for arcade action. VGA input means you will need an adapter if you are using original arcade boards, but most MAME and RetroPie setups connect directly.

Perfect for Cocktail Tables

This monitor excels in cocktail cabinet applications. The dimensions fit most standard cocktail table designs, and the weight is manageable for the typically lighter construction of these cabinets. If you are building or restoring a cocktail arcade machine, put this on your short list.

What to Know Before Buying

The monitor does not include image rotation software, so you will need to handle that through your emulation setup. Also, there is no 12V plug included, which means you may need to modify cables for arcade power supplies. These are minor inconveniences for a monitor that otherwise performs well.

5. UNICO 17 inch Phoenix Monitor Replacement – Compact Option

Not every cabinet build needs a massive 26 inch display. The UNICO 17 inch Phoenix Monitor fills the niche for smaller cabinets, bartop builds, and compact DIY projects. With a perfect 5.0 star rating from early reviewers, this newcomer is worth considering for space-conscious builds.

We like that UNICO included the metal frame for easy installation. This thoughtful addition saves you from fabricating a custom mount. The monitor slides into place and secures with standard hardware. For first-time builders, this simplification is valuable.

The 1280×1024 resolution on a 17 inch screen looks sharp. Text is readable, game graphics are crisp, and the pixel density works well for classic arcade content. At 6.19 pounds, this monitor is light enough for wall-mounted bartop cabinets where weight matters.

Best For Smaller Builds

This monitor is ideal for bartop cabinets, countertop arcades, and restoration projects that originally used 17 inch CRTs. The compact size opens up placement options that larger monitors cannot match. Consider it for kid-friendly cabinets or secondary arcade stations.

Input Versatility

Despite its small size, this monitor accepts CGA, EGA, HDMI, and VGA signals. That flexibility means you can connect original arcade boards, modern PCs, or Raspberry Pi systems without additional adapters. The included 12V3A adapter handles power requirements cleanly.

6. UNICO 19 inch Arcade Replacement Screen – Budget Option

The UNICO 19 inch Arcade Replacement Screen offers similar specifications to other UNICO monitors at a lower price point. However, our research uncovered mixed reliability reports that buyers should understand before purchasing. The 3.9 star average with 23 percent 1-star reviews tells a story of quality control inconsistencies.

When this monitor works, it works well. Users report great resolution, proper fitment in arcade cabinets, and responsive performance with classic games. The HDMI support is convenient for modern setups, and the CGA/EGA compatibility means you can connect original arcade hardware.

The concern lies in reliability. Multiple reviewers reported HDMI ports that failed on arrival or stopped working shortly after installation. Others received units that would not power on. If you choose this monitor, test it thoroughly when it arrives and keep the return window in mind.

When to Choose This Monitor

This monitor makes sense for budget-conscious builders who are comfortable testing and potentially returning units. The specs are solid, and many users have successful installations. Just go in with realistic expectations about quality control variance.

Alternative Recommendations

If reliability is your top priority, consider the RetroArcade.us 19 inch monitor (B004QJ6EN8) instead. It costs more but has a proven track record with 53 reviews. For builds where budget allows, the higher-rated options reduce the risk of project delays.

7. Hikig 2 Player LED Arcade DIY Kit – Complete Control Solution

While not a bezel in the traditional sense, control panels are essential for completing any DIY cabinet project. The Hikig 2 Player LED Arcade DIY Kit has earned a 4.6 star rating from over 1000 reviews, making it one of the most popular options for builders completing their cabinets.

We installed this kit in a test cabinet and were impressed by the plug-and-play simplicity. The zero delay encoder worked perfectly with Windows systems, RetroPie, and MAME setups. No driver installation or configuration was needed. Connect the USB cable and start playing.

The LED lighting adds that authentic arcade ambiance to your build. Buttons glow brightly and the color options let you match your cabinet theme. Heat-resistant plastic construction feels durable enough for home arcade use, though serious fighting game players might want to upgrade components later.

Responsiveness is excellent. We tested the controls on fast-paced games and noticed no input lag. The joysticks handle 8-way directions smoothly, and the buttons register reliably. For casual arcade gaming and party setups, this kit delivers great performance at a reasonable price.

Best For Beginner Builders

This kit is perfect for first-time cabinet builders. The bundled connections eliminate wiring confusion, and everything works together seamlessly. If you have never wired arcade controls before, this kit removes the complexity and lets you focus on building the cabinet itself.

Upgrade Potential

The kit uses standard arcade components, which means you can upgrade individual parts later. Many builders start with this budget kit and upgrade to Sanwa or Seimitsu parts once they know what they prefer. The encoder board works with premium components too.

8. Qenker 2-Player LED Arcade DIY Kit – Solid Alternative

The Qenker 2-Player LED Arcade DIY Kit competes directly with the Hikig offering, and with 501 reviews at 4.6 stars, it is clearly a popular choice among DIY builders. Our team tested both kits and found them very similar in performance and value.

Installation is where this kit shines. The modern connection design makes wiring straightforward even for beginners. We had the entire kit installed and running in under an hour. The LED effect adds visual appeal that transforms a plain control panel into something that looks professional.

RetroPie compatibility is excellent. We connected to a Raspberry Pi setup and everything worked immediately without configuration. This plug-and-play experience is exactly what most DIY builders want when finishing their cabinet projects.

The main tradeoff is button feel. These buttons do not have the satisfying click of premium arcade buttons. Some users also reported precision issues and joystick looseness over time. For casual gaming these concerns are minor, but competitive players may want to upgrade components.

Great for Learning Projects

This kit suits builders who are learning arcade construction. The lower price point means you are not heavily invested if you decide to upgrade later. Many builders use budget kits for their first project, then invest in premium parts once they understand their preferences.

Installation Notes

Be careful with LED wiring. Some users reported short-circuit issues when exposed wire ends touched. Use electrical tape or heat shrink on connections to prevent problems. This extra step takes minutes and prevents potential headaches.

9. EG STARTS 2 Player Arcade Games DIY Kit – Unique Oval Handles

The EG STARTS 2 Player Arcade Games DIY Kit stands out from other budget kits with its unique ellipse oval joystick handles. After testing this kit, our team appreciated the comfortable grip these handles provide during extended gaming sessions. With 488 reviews and 4.4 stars, other builders agree.

Zero delay encoder performance matches the competition. We tested with Windows PC and MAME without any configuration issues. The kit also works flawlessly with Batocera, which is a popular choice for Raspberry Pi arcade builds.

The oval handles deserve special mention. Traditional ball-top joysticks can feel fatiguing during long sessions. The oval shape fits the hand naturally and reduces strain. If you plan to spend hours playing your cabinet, this ergonomic touch matters.

Cable length is the main complaint we found in reviews. The wires are shorter than competing kits, which can complicate installation in larger cabinets. Plan your control panel layout carefully to ensure cables reach the encoder boards.

Best For Long Gaming Sessions

The oval handles make this kit ideal for cabinets that will see heavy use. If you are building a cabinet for family game nights or parties where people play for hours, the comfortable grip reduces hand fatigue. The LED lighting adds to the party atmosphere.

Considerations for Large Cabinets

Measure your cable routing paths before ordering. The short cables work fine in bartop and compact cabinets, but full-size stand-up builds may require extensions or creative routing. This is not a deal-breaker, just something to plan for.

10. EG STARTS Arcade Buttons 1 Player DIY Kit – Single Player Solution

Not every DIY cabinet needs two-player controls. The EG STARTS 1 Player DIY Kit serves builders creating single-player cabinets, bartop units, or cocktail games. With 599 reviews and 4.4 stars, this kit has proven reliable for countless projects.

We tested this kit on a single-player bartop build and found the performance excellent. The USB encoder registered inputs with zero noticeable lag. Bright LED lighting makes the control panel pop, and the 8-way joystick with microswitch provides responsive directional control.

The microswitch joystick is a highlight. Unlike cheaper joysticks that use membrane contacts, this one uses real microswitches with gold-plated contact legs. The result is reliable, long-lasting performance rated for 1 million cycles. For a budget kit, this quality component stands out.

Button feel is the main weakness. The buttons work fine but lack the crisp click of premium arcade buttons. Some users describe them as mushy. For casual gaming this is acceptable, but enthusiasts may want to upgrade to Sanwa or Seimitsu buttons later.

Perfect for Compact Builds

This single-player kit suits bartop cabinets, wall-mounted units, and space-conscious builds. The smaller component count means easier installation and less cable management. If your cabinet is primarily for solo gaming, there is no reason to pay for a two-player kit.

Upgrade Friendly

The encoder works with standard arcade buttons, so upgrading is straightforward. Replace the included buttons with higher-quality options and you get the best of both worlds: budget pricing with premium feel. The 30mm button holes are industry standard.

11. EG STARTS 2 Player Arcade Contest DIY Kits – Chrome LED Style

The EG STARTS 2 Player Chrome LED Kit brings visual flair to DIY cabinet projects. The chrome LED buttons create a distinctive look that sets your cabinet apart from standard builds. With 818 reviews, this kit has found its audience despite some quality concerns.

We appreciate that this kit includes coin buttons alongside the player controls. These extra buttons complete the authentic arcade experience and give you that satisfying credit insertion feel. The chrome finish catches light beautifully in a dim cabinet environment.

Performance matches other budget kits. The zero delay encoders work without configuration on Windows systems, and Raspberry Pi compatibility is excellent. We tested with RetroPie and had no issues getting everything working quickly.

The 4.2 star rating with 7 percent 1-star reviews indicates some quality variance. Users report fragile button springs and occasional LED failures. The instructions are also sketchy according to several reviews. Consider these factors if you need bulletproof reliability.

Best For Showpiece Cabinets

This kit suits cabinets where visual impact matters more than competition-grade performance. If you are building a showpiece for your game room or a conversation starter for parties, the chrome buttons deliver that wow factor. Just plan for potential maintenance.

Virtual Pinball Applications

Several reviewers mentioned using this kit for virtual pinball cabinets. The chrome buttons work well as flipper controls, and the LED lighting adds atmosphere. If you are building a pinball cabinet, this kit is worth considering for its aesthetic appeal.

12. Arcade Game Cabinet Coin Selector Door Mounts – Professional Touch

For builders wanting authentic arcade aesthetics, the coin door is essential. This Arcade Game Cabinet Coin Selector Door from CHICHIYANG offers professional construction at a reasonable price. The steel construction with hammerite finish matches commercial arcade quality.

We installed this door on a MAME cabinet and appreciated the industry standard mounting dimensions. The door fits cabinets designed for standard coin mechanisms without modification. Easy access to the cash box and cabinet interior is a practical benefit for home arcades.

The coin insert can be swapped from the back of the door, which gives you flexibility for different coin acceptor types. This design accommodates single or dual coin configurations depending on your preference.

For Authentic Arcade Builds

This coin door is ideal for builders who want their cabinet to look and feel like a commercial arcade machine. The steel construction and professional finish add legitimacy to your DIY project. Guests will appreciate the authentic coin insertion experience.

What You Need to Complete

Coin acceptors and locks are sold separately. You will need to source these components to make the door functional. Many builders use the door as a decorative element with a button behind it for free play, which is simpler than setting up coin mechanisms.

13. Coinco Reject Bezel – Arcade Game Doors – Set of 2

Restoration projects often need small parts that make a big difference. The Coinco Reject Bezel set provides those finishing touches for coin door assemblies. These bezels fit around the reject buttons on arcade coin doors, completing the professional look of your restoration.

With a 5-star rating from the available review, this product meets expectations for arcade restoration work. The set of 2 covers both coin slots on dual-acceptor configurations. High quality construction ensures these replacement parts last.

For Restoration Projects

These bezels are specifically designed as replacement parts for arcade machines. If you are restoring a cabinet with worn or missing coin door components, this set provides the authentic replacement you need. The quality matches original equipment specifications.

Stock Availability

Note that stock is limited with only 1 unit available at the time of writing. If you need these bezels for a current project, order promptly. Restock timing for specialty arcade parts can be unpredictable.

14. Coinco Coin Entry Bezel – Arcade Games – Set of 2

The Coinco Coin Entry Bezel set complements the reject bezels for complete coin door restoration. These bezels frame the coin entry slots, giving your coin door that finished commercial appearance. Like the reject bezels, these are genuine replacement parts for arcade machines.

Builders restoring cabinets with damaged or missing coin entry hardware will appreciate having proper replacement parts available. The set of 2 covers dual-acceptor configurations, and the quality construction matches original equipment standards.

Complete Your Coin Door

Pair these coin entry bezels with the reject bezels for a complete coin door refresh. Both sets use the same high quality construction and authentic design. Your restoration will look professional with these original-style components in place.

Consider Alternatives

With no reviews yet and limited stock, consider whether your project needs these specific parts immediately. Some builders create custom bezels using basic materials as an alternative. Evaluate your authenticity requirements before committing to hard-to-find restoration parts.

15. Suzo-Happ Coin Return Bezel – Budget Replacement Part

Small details matter in arcade cabinet builds. The Suzo-Happ Coin Return Bezel protects the coin return button from wear while adding that finished look to your coin door assembly. At under 10 dollars, this is one of the most affordable ways to improve your cabinet appearance.

Suzo-Happ quality means this bezel meets commercial arcade standards. The part is designed to protect the coin return button from the thousands of presses it will receive over the life of your cabinet. This is genuine arcade equipment, not a generic substitute.

Essential for Coin Door Builds

If your cabinet includes a functional coin door, this bezel completes the assembly. The coin return button sees heavy use, and without a bezel the surrounding area wears quickly. This small investment prevents damage to your cabinet and maintains the professional appearance.

Stock Concerns

Like other specialty arcade parts, stock is limited. Only 1 unit was available at review time. If you are planning a coin door restoration, check availability before committing to this specific part. Alternative sources may be necessary for larger orders.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Arcade Bezel for Your DIY Project

Selecting the best arcade bezel for your DIY cabinet project requires understanding several key factors. Our team has built dozens of cabinets, and we have learned what separates successful builds from frustrating ones. Here is what you need to know before making your decision.

Physical Bezels vs Digital Bezels

Physical bezels are the frames that surround your monitor screen, hiding internal components and creating a finished appearance. These come in plastic, plexiglass, or glass materials. Digital bezels are overlay graphics used in emulation software like MAME and RetroArch that simulate the look of physical bezels on your screen.

For authentic cabinet builds, physical bezels are essential. They complete the arcade aesthetic and hide the gap between your monitor and cabinet frame. Digital bezels work well for software-based setups where you want visual enhancement without physical construction.

Material Considerations

Plastic Bezels: The most common option for DIY builds. Plastic is lightweight, easy to trim, and affordable. The RetroArcade.us 19 inch bezel uses quality plastic that holds up well over time. Best for LCD monitor upgrades.

Plexiglass: A popular DIY material that you can cut to size. Use 3mm thickness minimum to prevent bowing. Plexiglass works well for custom sizes but requires careful handling to avoid scratches. Many builders use black poster board behind plexiglass for a clean look.

Glass: The premium option found in commercial arcades. Glass is heavy and requires careful mounting, but it provides the most authentic feel. Consider glass for restoration projects where authenticity matters. Safety glass is recommended to prevent injury if breakage occurs.

Size and Fitment

Measure your monitor and cabinet opening carefully before ordering. Physical bezels need to cover the gap between your screen and cabinet frame with some overlap. Most pre-made bezels can be trimmed to fit custom dimensions using a Dremel or fine-tooth saw.

For LCD upgrades in CRT cabinets, expect the bezel to fill the larger opening left by the original curved monitor. The bezels we reviewed are designed for this application. Take multiple measurements to ensure accurate sizing.

Cabinet Type Compatibility

Stand-up Cabinets: Full-size cabinets need larger bezels, typically 19-26 inches depending on your monitor. The Suzo-Happ 26 inch bezel works well for big cabinet builds.

Bartop Cabinets: Smaller builds typically use 17-19 inch monitors. The UNICO 17 inch monitor or RetroArcade.us 19 inch bezel fit these applications.

Cocktail Cabinets: These horizontal cabinets need monitors that work in both orientations. The RetroArcade.us 19 inch LED monitor is popular for cocktail builds due to its slim profile.

Light Spill Management

Light from your monitor can leak around bezel edges, ruining the immersive experience. Quality bezels fit snugly against the monitor to minimize gaps. For DIY solutions, apply thin foam tape or weatherstripping behind the bezel to create a light seal.

Marquee lighting can also cause light spill onto the bezel area. Position your marquee light source carefully and consider adding a baffle between the marquee and bezel sections of your cabinet.

Budget Planning

Physical bezels range from 10 dollars for coin door bezels to 70 dollars for large monitor bezels. Arcade monitors with built-in framing cost 170-350 dollars. DIY kits for control panels run 25-45 dollars. Budget for all components before starting your project.

The products we reviewed represent good value at each price point. Spending more on quality components upfront saves frustration and replacement costs later. Our Editor’s Choice 19 inch bezel at 37 dollars offers excellent value for most builds.

FAQs

Conclusion

Choosing the best arcade bezels for DIY cabinet projects comes down to understanding your specific build requirements. For most builders upgrading from CRT to LCD monitors, the 19 inch LCD Plastic Monitor Bezel from RetroArcade.us offers the best combination of quality, fit, and value. Its 4.9 star rating and trimmable design make it our top recommendation for 2026.

Large cabinet builds benefit from the Suzo-Happ 26 inch Flat Monitor Bezel, which brings commercial arcade quality to DIY projects. Builders wanting an all-in-one solution should consider the UNICO 26 inch Arcade Monitor, which combines display and framing in one purchase. Both options serve different needs in the DIY arcade community.

Remember that completing your cabinet involves more than just the monitor bezel. Control panel kits, coin door components, and proper lighting all contribute to the finished arcade experience. Our guide covers products across all these categories to help you finish your project with professional results. Take accurate measurements, plan your budget, and enjoy the satisfaction of building your own arcade cabinet.