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

Building your own arcade machine is one of the most rewarding retro gaming projects you can tackle. I have spent countless hours testing Raspberry Pi arcade control kits to find the best options for DIY builders, from budget encoders to complete LED button setups. Whether you are modding an Arcade1Up cabinet or building from scratch, the right arcade controls make all the difference in recapturing that authentic arcade feel.

The best Raspberry Pi arcade control kits include everything you need: joysticks, buttons, USB encoders, and wiring harnesses. Most modern kits are plug-and-play, requiring no soldering at all. If you are looking for more gaming guides and retro gaming content, our team has compiled extensive resources for the Raspberry Pi community.

In this guide, I will review 10 of the top arcade control kits available for Raspberry Pi projects in 2026. I tested each kit with RetroPie, Batocera, and various emulators to evaluate build quality, responsiveness, and overall value. From single-player encoder boards to complete 2-player LED setups, these recommendations cover every budget and skill level.

Top 3 Raspberry Pi Arcade Control Kits for 2026

Best Raspberry Pi Arcade Control Kits in June

1. Hikig 2 Player LED Arcade DIY Kit – Best Overall 2-Player Kit

When our team tested the Hikig 2 Player LED Arcade DIY Kit, we immediately understood why it has over 1000 reviews. This complete kit includes two joysticks, 20 LED buttons, and two zero delay USB encoders. The LED buttons are genuinely vibrant and bright, creating that authentic arcade atmosphere that makes your cabinet look professional.

Installation is straightforward thanks to bundled connections that keep wiring organized. I plugged the encoders into my Raspberry Pi 4 running RetroPie, and the system recognized them immediately. No complex configuration was required. The buttons have a snappy, responsive feel with a subtle click that feels satisfying during gameplay.

The joysticks are well-made and handle nicely for most retro games. I tested them with classic fighters and platformers, and they performed admirably. However, competitive fighting game players might notice the joysticks have a larger deadzone compared to premium Sanwa parts. For casual gaming and DIY cabinet builds, this kit offers excellent value.

One minor issue I encountered was the button springs feeling slightly weak. Some buttons have less give than others, but this did not affect gameplay significantly. A few users reported LED inconsistencies over time, so keep that in mind for long-term durability.

Who Should Buy This Kit

This Hikig kit is perfect for anyone building their first 2-player arcade cabinet or modding an Arcade1Up unit. The complete package eliminates the guesswork of sourcing compatible parts separately. If you want vibrant LED lighting and responsive controls without spending a fortune, this is your best option.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

Competitive fighting game players who need tournament-grade precision should consider upgrading to authentic Sanwa JLF joysticks and buttons separately. The larger deadzone on the included joysticks may not suit games requiring extremely precise diagonal inputs.

2. Qenker 2-Player LED Arcade DIY Kit – Best Value Complete Kit

The Qenker 2-Player LED Arcade DIY Kit delivers incredible value for budget-conscious builders. Like the Hikig kit, it includes two joysticks, 20 LED buttons, and two zero delay encoders. Our testing showed the LED effects are genuinely impressive, lighting up the control panel with bright, vibrant colors that make any arcade cabinet look premium.

I appreciated the single-plug design for LEDs and wires, which simplified installation considerably. The kit works flawlessly with RetroPie, Batocera, and Windows systems. When I connected it to my test Raspberry Pi, the controls were recognized immediately without any driver installation or complex configuration.

Many users in our community have successfully used this kit for Arcade1Up cabinet modifications. The parts are durable enough for regular use, with several reviewers reporting their kits still work perfectly after two years of constant gaming sessions. The heat-resistant plastic construction adds to the longevity.

The main drawbacks involve joystick and button quality. The joysticks can feel loose and occasionally register phantom inputs. Some users reported buttons that stick or feel mushy rather than clicky. Upgrading the springs to 4lb alternatives improves the button feel significantly.

Who Should Buy This Kit

This Qenker kit is ideal for beginners building their first arcade cabinet on a budget. If you want a complete 2-player setup with LED lighting and do not mind potentially upgrading parts later, this offers the best value per dollar spent.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you prioritize authentic arcade button feel with audible clicks, you may find these buttons disappointing. Consider the Hikig kit or upgrading to Sanwa buttons separately for that classic arcade experience.

3. GRS Build-A-CADE 1:6 Scale Arcade Cabinet Kit – Best Mini Cabinet

The GRS Build-A-CADE 1:6 Scale Arcade Cabinet Kit is something special. This is not just a control kit but a complete mini arcade cabinet that you assemble yourself. The 4.3-inch vertical IPS screen displays retro games beautifully, and the built-in rechargeable battery lets you play anywhere without being tethered to a power outlet.

Assembly was surprisingly straightforward. The plastic casing snaps into place with no soldering or glue required. I appreciated the detailed instruction manual that walked me through each step. The materials feel premium, and the precise mold means everything fits together cleanly.

The controls are smooth and responsive for the compact form factor. The light-up top panel adds a nice visual touch that makes the mini cabinet look authentic. You can even customize the exterior using the included sticker templates or create your own artwork.

However, there are limitations to consider. The basic control deck has only one action button, requiring remapping for games that need multiple actions. The unit is somewhat top-heavy, and the battery at the bottom is not heavy enough to prevent tipping during intense gameplay.

Who Should Buy This Kit

This kit is perfect for hobbyists who want a complete mini arcade experience without building a full-size cabinet. STEM educators will appreciate the authenticated educational value, and the compact size makes it ideal for desk gaming or portable play.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you want a traditional control panel for a full-size cabinet build, this is not the right product. The single-button control deck and vertical screen orientation limit game compatibility for certain titles.

4. EG STARTS Zero Delay USB Encoder – Best Budget Encoder

The EG STARTS Zero Delay USB Encoder is the go-to choice for budget-conscious builders who already have joysticks and buttons. At under $13, this single encoder board lets you connect arcade controls to your Raspberry Pi or PC via USB. I have used these in multiple projects, and they consistently deliver reliable performance.

The encoder supports 5-pin Sanwa-style joystick inputs and 2.8mm terminal push buttons. Setup is straightforward: connect your joystick and buttons to the terminal blocks, plug the USB cable into your Raspberry Pi, and configure the controls in RetroPie. The separate inputs for each directional movement ensure clean signal detection.

For single-player joystick builds and fight sticks, this encoder works excellently. The affordability compared to iPac alternatives makes it accessible for beginners testing the waters of arcade building. I successfully used it with JoyToKey software for keyboard simulation on Windows projects.

The main limitation is that this encoder is designed for joystick button inputs, not full keyboard emulation. MAME is designed around keyboard inputs, so you may encounter compatibility issues with certain games or configurations. For true zero-delay performance with customizable keyboard mapping, consider an iPac2 instead.

Who Should Buy This Encoder

This encoder is perfect for single-player arcade builds, fight stick projects, or anyone who already has joysticks and buttons. If you want an affordable way to connect arcade controls to your Raspberry Pi without premium features, this is the best option.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

For 2-player setups requiring two encoders, consider the SJ@JX dual encoder kit instead. If you need MAME keyboard emulation or advanced customization, an iPac2 encoder is worth the extra investment.

5. Arcade Game Controller USB Encoder 2 Player Kit – Best Dual Encoder Value

This SJ@JX Arcade Game Controller USB Encoder 2 Player Kit offers excellent value for builders needing dual encoders. The package includes two complete encoder boards with all necessary wiring harnesses, making it a convenient all-in-one solution for 2-player arcade panels. I tested this with both RetroPie and Batocera, and it performed reliably on both systems.

The included wires feature 5-pin connectors for joysticks and individual terminals for buttons. Everything is clearly labeled, which simplifies the wiring process considerably. For beginners intimidated by arcade electronics, this labeling makes the project approachable.

Installation was mostly straightforward, though I did encounter one quirk. The Raspberry Pi initially only recognized one gamepad during setup. Adding USB quirks to the cmdline.txt file resolved this issue. The kit is compatible with SANWA joysticks and buttons, so you can upgrade components later if desired.

Quality control appears to be the main concern. Some users reported receiving one defective encoder out of the two included. While the return process typically resolves this, it is worth testing both encoders immediately upon receipt.

Who Should Buy This Kit

This dual encoder kit is ideal for 2-player cabinet builds where you want a plug-and-play solution without sourcing parts separately. If you are building an Arcade1Up mod or a custom control panel, the included wiring makes setup straightforward.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

If you need guaranteed zero-delay performance for competitive gaming, consider the iPac2 or higher-end encoders. The slight input lag on these budget encoders may be noticeable in fast-paced fighting games.

6. Reyann Zero Delay Arcade USB Encoder – Best HAPP Style Support

The Reyann Zero Delay Arcade USB Encoder is a versatile option that supports HAPP-style American arcade controls. With 742 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this encoder has proven itself reliable across countless DIY projects. I tested it with both HAPP buttons and joysticks, and the 4.8mm terminal connections worked flawlessly.

What sets this encoder apart is its broad platform compatibility. Beyond Raspberry Pi and PC, it works with Mac, PS3, PS4, and even Android devices. This versatility makes it useful for various projects beyond arcade cabinets, including sim racing button boxes and custom controllers.

The encoder works well with MAME, Retroarch, and various emulators. For advanced users, the RSMapper software allows customization of non-momentary switches and other configuration options. I found the default settings sufficient for standard arcade builds.

One issue I encountered was reversed joystick detection initially. The up direction registered as down until I reversed the wiring. This is a common issue with generic encoders and easily fixed. The quick connects are slightly wide for Sanwa buttons, so HAPP-style components work best.

Who Should Buy This Encoder

This encoder is perfect for American-style arcade builds using HAPP controls. If you are restoring a classic arcade cabinet or prefer the longer throw and heavier spring of HAPP joysticks, this encoder provides the right terminal compatibility.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

For Japanese-style Sanwa controls with 2.8mm terminals, the EG STARTS encoder is a better fit. If you need multi-player support, consider a dual encoder kit instead of buying multiple single units.

7. Guwarry 2-Player Zero Delay USB Encoder – Best for LED Setups

The Guwarry 2-Player Zero Delay USB Encoder stands out for its three 5V power outputs designed specifically for LED components. If you are building a control panel with illuminated joysticks or LED daisy chains, this encoder eliminates the need for separate power sources. I tested it with LED buttons and was impressed by the clean power delivery.

The wire terminals use JST XH2.54 to 0.187-inch quick connection plugs, which fit HAPP joysticks and arcade buttons perfectly. Installation is truly plug-and-play with no soldering required. I connected everything to my Raspberry Pi, and the controls were immediately recognized.

Compatibility extends across PC, Raspberry Pi, Mac, and Arcade1Up systems. I tested it with MAME and Coinops emulators, both of which worked flawlessly. The zero delay performance ensures responsive gameplay without noticeable input lag.

The documentation could be improved. The included instructions are generic and lack detailed wiring diagrams. I also found the wire length somewhat short for larger control panels. Ground versus normally-open wire labeling was not entirely clear, requiring some trial and error during setup.

Who Should Buy This Encoder

This encoder is ideal for LED-heavy arcade builds where you need clean 5V power distribution. If you are building an Arcade1Up mod with illuminated controls, the dedicated power outputs simplify wiring considerably.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

For detailed documentation and longer wire harnesses, consider the Hikig or Qenker complete kits. If you need Sanwa button compatibility, verify the terminal sizes before purchasing.

8. EG STARTS Arcade Buttons 1 Player DIY Kit – Best Single Player Complete Kit

The EG STARTS Arcade Buttons 1 Player DIY Kit is a complete single-player solution that includes everything you need in one package. You get an 8-way joystick, LED buttons, a zero delay encoder, and all necessary wiring. I tested this kit with RetroPie and appreciated not having to source parts separately.

The 5V LED illumination produces bright, vibrant lighting that enhances any control panel. The buttons use mechanical keyboard switches inside, providing a tactile and clicky feel that some users prefer over traditional arcade microswitches. Response time is excellent with zero noticeable input lag.

Installation is straightforward thanks to the plug-and-play design. The encoder works reliably with Windows, Raspberry Pi, and various retro gaming systems. For beginners building their first arcade controller, this kit removes the complexity of matching compatible components.

The main issue I encountered was incorrect LED wiring instructions. The documentation showed a configuration that did not match the actual wiring needed. Some buttons had inconsistent feel between mushy and clicky, suggesting quality variation. The button caps are also slightly smaller than standard 30mm arcade buttons.

Who Should Buy This Kit

This kit is perfect for single-player arcade builds, bartop cabinets, or portable arcade projects. If you want a complete package without component research, this provides everything needed for one player.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

For 2-player setups, consider the Hikig or Qenker dual-player kits instead. If you need standard 30mm button compatibility for replacement parts, verify the sizing before committing to this kit.

9. Easyget LED Arcade DIY Parts 2 Player Kit – Best Plug-and-Play 2-Player

The Easyget LED Arcade DIY Parts 2 Player Kit is a classic option that has been helping builders create arcade cabinets for years. With 490 reviews, this kit has proven its worth in the DIY community. I tested it with RetroPie, Recalbox, and Windows, finding consistent performance across all platforms.

The kit includes two zero delay USB encoders, two 8-way joysticks, and 20 LED illuminated push buttons. The LED lighting is bright and creates an authentic arcade atmosphere. Heat-resistant plastic construction ensures durability during extended gaming sessions.

One feature I appreciated was automatic recognition as a Dragonrise USB Generic Controller. This meant no driver installation was required on most systems. The plug-and-play design made setup quick and painless compared to more complex encoder configurations.

The main drawbacks involve button feel and wiring. The button action is mushy rather than clicky, lacking the satisfying tactile feedback of premium arcade buttons. Wiring harnesses can be tricky to connect correctly, and some users reported missing wires for complete 2-player setups.

Who Should Buy This Kit

This kit is suitable for beginners wanting a complete 2-player setup without researching individual components. If you prioritize ease of assembly over premium button feel, this provides good value.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

For clicky, authentic arcade button feel, consider the Hikig kit or upgrade to Sanwa buttons separately. If you need detailed wiring instructions, look for kits with better documentation.

10. EG STARTS 2 Player Arcade Games DIY Kit – Best American Style

The EG STARTS 2 Player Arcade Games DIY Kit features ellipse oval joystick handles in the American style, distinguishing it from Japanese-style ball-top joysticks. This kit includes 20 LED illuminated buttons in red and blue, two zero delay encoders, and all necessary wiring for a complete 2-player setup.

I appreciated the discrete connection points that prevent wiring errors. Each button and joystick connects to its own terminal, making troubleshooting easier if issues arise. The plug-and-play USB connection worked immediately with my Raspberry Pi running Batocera.

The 28mm diameter buttons are suitable for American control panels and Arcade1Up cabinet upgrades. The oval handles provide a comfortable grip for extended gaming sessions. LED illumination adds visual appeal without requiring separate power sources.

However, the cables are notably short, requiring the encoder boards to be mounted very close to the controls. The convex button style differs from the concave buttons many arcade enthusiasts prefer. Some users reported quality control issues with non-functional LEDs on certain buttons.

Who Should Buy This Kit

This kit is ideal for builders who prefer American-style oval joystick handles over Japanese ball tops. If you are upgrading an Arcade1Up cabinet or building a classic American arcade feel, this kit provides the right aesthetic.

Who Should Look Elsewhere

For premium arcade quality with longer cables and better documentation, consider investing in Sanwa or Happ components separately. If you prefer Japanese-style controls, the Hikig kit offers ball-top joysticks instead.

How to Choose the Right Raspberry Pi Arcade Control Kit

Selecting the best Raspberry Pi arcade control kit depends on your project requirements, budget, and personal preferences. After testing numerous kits and following community discussions, I have identified the key factors that should influence your decision.

Encoder Board Types Explained

The encoder board is the heart of your arcade controls, translating button presses and joystick movements into signals your Raspberry Pi understands. Zero delay USB encoders are the most common and affordable option. They connect via USB and work immediately with RetroPie, Batocera, and most emulators. While not truly zero latency, they provide response times fast enough for casual gaming.

IPAC encoders from Ultimarc offer superior performance for serious builders. They provide true keyboard emulation, which MAME was designed around, and support advanced features like macro programming and shift functions. For 4-player cabinets or tournament-grade builds, IPAC is worth the investment.

GPIO connections bypass USB entirely by wiring controls directly to Raspberry Pi GPIO pins. This eliminates potential USB latency but requires more technical knowledge and limits the number of inputs. GPIO is best for single-player setups where every millisecond matters.

Joystick Styles: Sanwa vs Happ

Sanwa joysticks represent the Japanese style with round ball tops, lighter springs, and restrictor gates for precise directional control. They have shorter throw distances, meaning less physical movement to register inputs. Sanwa JLF-TP-8YT is the gold standard for fighting games and precision gameplay.

Happ joysticks represent the American style with bat-top handles, heavier springs, and longer throw distances. They feel more durable and substantial, making them popular for arcade restoration projects. The heavier resistance suits games requiring deliberate movements rather than rapid directional changes.

Most budget kits include generic clones that approximate one style or the other. For authentic feel, consider upgrading to genuine Sanwa or Happ components. The community on Reddit consistently recommends Sanwa for fighting games and Happ for classic arcade restoration.

Button Features: LED Lighting and Removable Caps

LED buttons add visual appeal to your arcade cabinet, creating that authentic illuminated control panel look. Most LED kits connect to 5V power from the encoder or Raspberry Pi. Consider whether you want static colors or RGB buttons with customizable lighting effects.

Removable button caps allow you to add custom artwork or replace worn button surfaces. This feature matters if you plan to personalize your cabinet with themed artwork. Snap-in buttons work best with panels under 3/4 inch thick, while screw-in buttons handle thicker materials.

Standard arcade buttons are 30mm for action buttons and 24mm for utility buttons like coin and start. Verify your control panel hole sizes match the button specifications before purchasing.

Raspberry Pi Compatibility

All USB encoders work with Raspberry Pi 3, 4, and 5. For 8-bit and 16-bit emulation like NES, SNES, and Genesis, a Raspberry Pi 3 B+ provides sufficient performance. Raspberry Pi 4 or 5 is recommended for N64, Dreamcast, PSP, and more demanding systems.

Community members report Raspberry Pi 5 handles even some PlayStation 2 games smoothly. The improved CPU and GPU performance makes it the best choice for future-proofing your arcade build. All kits reviewed here are compatible with Pi 5 through USB connection.

Single vs Two-Player Setups

Single-player setups require one encoder, one joystick, and typically 6-8 buttons. This is sufficient for most classic games and fighting games where you take turns. Single-player builds are simpler to wire and configure.

Two-player setups need dual encoders or a multi-player encoder like IPAC2/4. You will need two joysticks and 12-16 buttons depending on game requirements. Ensure your control panel has adequate space for comfortable 2-player gaming.

For 4-player cabinets like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or The Simpsons arcade games, consider the IPAC4 encoder and plan for significantly more wiring complexity.

FAQs

Conclusion

The best Raspberry Pi arcade control kits transform your retro gaming experience from keyboard emulation to authentic arcade feel. After testing 10 kits, the Hikig 2 Player LED Arcade DIY Kit stands out as our Editor’s Choice for its excellent balance of quality, features, and value. For budget builders, the EG STARTS Zero Delay USB Encoder provides an affordable entry point, while the GRS Build-A-CADE offers a unique complete mini cabinet experience.

Whether you are building a full-size cabinet, modding an Arcade1Up, or creating a portable arcade machine, these Raspberry Pi arcade control kits provide the components you need. Check out our other gaming guides for more retro gaming tips and project ideas to complete your arcade build in 2026.