Video Games

The Best Arcade Video Game Parts & Accessories

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Our picks are based on Amazon bestseller rankings, Amazon customer ratings, and product availability. We update our recommendations regularly to ensure accuracy.

Arcade video game parts accessories are essential components for repairing, upgrading, or building custom arcade machines and fight sticks. These parts, ranging from joysticks and buttons to replacement handles, allow enthusiasts to tailor their gaming experience or restore classic cabinets. Products were evaluated based on compatibility, durability, ease of installation, user reviews, and feature analysis.

Best Overall

This component offers a complete and versatile control solution, essential for any arcade build or upgrade with its 4-8 way functionality.

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Best Budget
uxcell Joystick Ball Top Handle Rocker Round Head Arcade Game DIY Parts Replacement Red 2Pcs

uxcell Joystick Ball Top Handle Rocker Round Head Arcade Game DIY Parts Replacement Red 2Pcs

$8.29

An affordable and easily replaceable part, ideal for refreshing worn-out joystick tops without significant investment.

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Best Premium

These buttons offer a high-quality, durable, and responsive experience with a reported 1,000,000 lifetime, suggesting superior build for discerning users.

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No. 1
EG STARTS 2 Player Arcade Games DIY Kit Parts 2 Ellipse Oval Joystick Handles + 20 LED lit Arcade Buttons (Red...
  • Exquisite LED arace game DIY MAME parts selection!
  • 100% Zero Delay Encoder and USB work perfectly all Windows systems!
  • 2 Player Arcade MAME DIY Style Perfect Accessory!
  • Use the highest quality materials! Made of high temperature resistant plastic!
No. 2
uxcell Joystick Ball Top Handle Rocker Round Head Arcade Game DIY Parts Replacement Red 2Pcs
  • 35mm arcade game round ball top joystick handle
  • Easy to install. Durable. Fits all M6 screw Joystick.
  • Ball top can be replaced easily. Perfect parts for arcade game machine.
  • We have 7 colors for you to select: White/ Red/ Green/ Blue/ Black/ Pink/ Yellow.
No. 3
Maxmoral 2pcs Arcade Ellipse American Style Joystick Topball Handle Arcade Ball Top Replacement Accessories...
  • Color:Red & Black.
  • Good replacement accessories.
  • High quality, American type Joystick's ball top.
  • Height:51mm; width:30mm.Diameter of nut hole: 5.5mm.
No. 4
Gallipower 4Pcs Joystick Head,Arcade Joystick Ball Top Handle Rocker Round Head,Arcade Kit DIY Replacement...
  • 【Package Include】: You will receive 4 pieces of joystick ball,which can meet your use and changing
  • 【Product Size】: Our joystick ball size is diameter 35mm and thread size M6,suitable for most joystick
  • 【Material】: Our rocker round head is made of plastic and metal,not easy to break, smooth and not easy to fade,comfortable to hold
  • 【Easy to Use】: Just rotate the joystick head to fit the joystick, which is not easy to loosen,easy to install or remove, convenient to replace old or broken joystick balls
No. 5
uxcell Ellipse Oval Joystick Head Rocker Ball Top Handle Arcade Game DIY Parts Replacement Black 2Pcs
  • Ellipse ball top joystick handle
  • Easy to install. Durable. Fits all M6 screw Joystick.
  • Ball top can be replaced easily. Perfect parts for arcade game machine.
  • We have 5 colors for you to select: White/ Red/ Green/ Blue/ Black.
No. 6
EG STARTS 4 Player Arcade Buttons & Stick for Classic Arcade DIY Kit Parts
  • When receiving the package. Have any questions. Please contact us first
  • Perfect Parts for 4 Player Arcade MAME DIY Project!
  • Made with highest quality materials!Heat resistant plastic!
  • 100% Zero Delay USB Encoders and Perfect work for all windows systems!
No. 7
Novotechcal 5Pcs Joystick Ball Top Handle Rocker Round Head Arcade Game DIY Parts Replacement Crystal Pink...
  • Size: 35mm/1.38-inch in top ball diameter for comfortable grip, M6 thread size in thread size for universal compatibility.
  • Material: Made of ABS plastic construction and metal threaded insert for enduring use; Smooth surface with comfortable texture
  • Easy Installation: This threaded joystick dome is easy to install and remove, you don't need any tools, you can quickly replace the joystick ball to your satisfaction with a gentle hand rotation. Ball top can be replaced easily. Perfect parts for arcade...
  • 5 Colors Joystick Ball Set: Crystal White/ Crystal Green/ Crystal Blue/ Crystal Pink/ Crystal Yellow.
No. 8
MAYJOYDIY 4Pcs Blue Oval Joystick Head Arcade Joystick Replacement 5.2×3cm/2×1.2 inch ABS Plastic Rocking...
  • Vibrant Blue Teardrop Design: These eye-catching joystick handles feature a classic teardrop shape in bold Blue ABS plastic, combining ergonomic comfort with retro arcade aesthetics for enhanced gaming sessions.
  • Complete 4-Piece Value Pack: You receive four matching handles in one convenient set, providing ample replacements for multiple arcade cabinets or backup stock for future maintenance needs.
  • Universal Compatibility: With a standardized 6mm inner diameter, these handles seamlessly fit most popular arcade joystick shafts, making them ideal for both home arcade setups and commercial gaming machines.
  • Optimized Gaming Dimensions: Measuring approximately 5.2x3cm (2x1.2 inches), these compact handles offer perfect grip surface while maintaining the authentic feel of professional arcade equipment.
No. 9
uxcell Joystick Ball Top Handle Rocker Round Head Arcade Game DIY Parts Replacement Black 2Pcs
  • 35mm arcade game round ball top joystick handle
  • Easy to install. Durable. Fits all M6 screw Joystick.
  • Ball top can be replaced easily. Perfect parts for arcade game machine.
  • We have 7 colors for you to select: White/ Red/ Green/ Blue/ Black/ Pink/ Yellow.
No. 10
5pcs Joystick Handle Top Ellipse Rocker Oval Head with M6 Thread for Arcade Game DIY Replacement Parts Yellow...
  • Oval Joystick Top Head, comfortable and easy to operate.
  • M6 thread size, Ellipse Top Head Size: 52mm x 30mm/2-inch x 1.2-inch.
  • Colors: Crystal White/Crystal Blue/Crystal Red/Crystal Green/Crystal Yellow.
  • Universal solid arcade joystick oval head with built-in M6 thread, easy to install and Durable. Suitable for most game console joysticks.

Last update on 2026-10-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Arcade Video Game Parts Accessories

Joystick Design and Compatibility

When selecting joystick accessories, the primary consideration often revolves around the handle design and its compatibility with existing bases. Users typically encounter two main styles: the classic round ball top, exemplified by uxcell's 35mm offerings, and the more ergonomic oval or bat top, as seen in HARIFOGER's ellipse rocker heads. The main difference is often down to user preference for grip and control feel. Crucially, compatibility with the joystick shaft's threading is paramount; many parts, including those from uxcell and HARIFOGER, specify an M6 screw thread, ensuring a secure fit. For full joystick units like the EG STARTS Classic Competition joystick, understanding its 4-8 way functionality is vital for game compatibility, as some older titles only support 4-way movement.

Button Type and Durability

Arcade buttons vary significantly in design and expected lifespan, impacting the overall feel and longevity of a setup. The Fosiya 30mm Happ Type buttons feature a concave plunger design, a common preference for many classic arcade builds, and boast a reported 1,000,000 life cycle, indicating robust construction. In practice, higher durability ratings translate to more reliable performance over extended use, reducing the frequency of replacements. Installation method is another key factor; snap-in designs, like those from Fosiya, simplify the process of replacing existing parts, making them popular for DIY projects. For specific setups, checking if buttons fit standard hole sizes (e.g., 28mm for Fosiya or 24mm/30mm for other EG STARTS options) is essential to avoid fitment issues.

Project Scope and Component Integration

The choice of arcade parts heavily depends on the scope of the project. For simple repairs or aesthetic upgrades, individual components like replacement ball tops from uxcell or oval heads from HARIFOGER are sufficient. However, for building a new arcade machine or a custom fight stick, comprehensive components such as the EG STARTS joysticks or complete button sets become necessary. When integrating various parts, ensure electrical compatibility, especially for illuminated buttons or joysticks that require specific voltage (e.g., 5V LED buttons mentioned in other EG STARTS kits). Thinking about the entire system, from control inputs to wiring harnesses, helps in selecting parts that work seamlessly together rather than encountering unforeseen compatibility hurdles later.

Pros & Cons

uxcell Joystick Ball Top Handle Rocker Round Head Arcade Game DIY Parts Replacement Red 2Pcs

Pros

  • Easy to install, allowing for quick upgrades or replacements.
  • Durable construction, designed for sustained arcade use.
  • Standard 35mm round ball top design is widely compatible and familiar to users.

Cons

  • Lacks ergonomic variations like oval tops, limiting grip options.
  • Specific to M6 screw joysticks, not universal compatibility.

5pcs Joystick Handle Top Ellipse Rocker Oval Head with M6 Thread for Arcade Game DIY Replacement Parts Yellow Red Blue White Green

Pros

  • Ergonomic oval design often provides a more comfortable grip for some users.
  • Variety of crystal colors allows for customization and aesthetic matching.
  • Standard M6 thread ensures compatibility with many common joystick shafts.

Cons

  • Ellipse shape might not appeal to users accustomed to traditional ball tops.
  • Larger 52mm x 30mm size could feel bulky to users with smaller hands.

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Pros

  • Features a new interface design to prevent incorrect wiring connections.
  • Offers accurate positioning, crucial for competitive gameplay.
  • Versatile 4-8 way operation, adaptable to a wide range of arcade games.

Cons

  • Requires full joystick replacement rather than just a handle swap.
  • Ball top is black only, limiting immediate aesthetic customization without further purchase.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring Thread Size for Joystick Tops

A common oversight is purchasing joystick ball or oval tops without confirming the thread size of the existing joystick shaft. For instance, uxcell and HARIFOGER products explicitly state an "M6 screw thread." Attempting to fit a part with an incompatible thread size will result in either a loose connection or an inability to screw it on at all, rendering the new accessory unusable. Always verify your current joystick's thread specification before committing to a purchase.

Misjudging Button Mount Hole Diameter

Users frequently make the mistake of not measuring the mounting hole diameter in their arcade panel or fight stick before buying buttons. Fosiya 30mm buttons are designed for a "28mm hole," while other EG STARTS buttons might come in 24mm or 30mm variations. Installing a 30mm button into a 24mm hole is impossible, and a 24mm button in a 30mm hole will be loose and unstable. Precision in measurement prevents frustrating fitment issues during installation.

Overlooking Joystick Way-Functionality

When replacing or installing a full joystick, like the EG STARTS Classic Competition 5Pin joystick, failing to consider its "4-8 Ways" functionality can lead to compatibility problems with specific games. Some classic arcade titles only register 4-way directional inputs (up, down, left, right), while modern fighting games often benefit from 8-way movement. Using an 8-way joystick for a 4-way game without proper gate modification can result in unintended diagonal inputs, impacting gameplay accuracy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a ball top and an oval/bat top joystick handle?
A ball top, like those from `uxcell`, is a spherical handle offering a classic arcade feel, typically gripped from the top. An oval or bat top, such as `HARIFOGER`'s ellipse rocker, is elongated and often preferred by users who prefer to grip the stick like a baseball bat, providing a different leverage and control style.
How do I ensure a new joystick ball top will fit my existing joystick?
To ensure compatibility, you must verify the thread size of your current joystick shaft. Many replacement ball tops, including `uxcell`'s, are designed for an 'M6 screw Joystick.' Confirming this specification prevents purchasing an incompatible accessory that cannot be properly attached.
What does '4-8 Ways Joystick' mean for an arcade controller?
A '4-8 Ways Joystick' refers to its ability to register directional inputs. A 4-way joystick detects only cardinal directions (up, down, left, right), while an 8-way joystick, like the `EG STARTS` model, can also detect diagonal inputs. The choice depends on the games you plan to play, as some older titles might be designed specifically for 4-way controls.
Are 30mm and 24mm arcade buttons interchangeable?
No, 30mm and 24mm arcade buttons are not interchangeable as they require different mounting hole diameters. Buttons like the `Fosiya` 30mm Happ Type are designed for larger holes, typically 28mm or 30mm, while 24mm buttons fit smaller openings. Always measure your control panel's holes before purchasing.
What is the benefit of 'snap-in installation' for arcade buttons?
Snap-in installation, featured in buttons like `Fosiya`'s, simplifies the process of replacing or installing arcade buttons. It allows the buttons to be securely fitted into pre-drilled holes without the need for screws or specialized tools, making DIY projects quicker and more accessible for enthusiasts.

How we compare Video Games

1 Specifications: we compare the key features and specifications listed by the manufacturer and on Amazon.
2 Customer ratings: we take into account the average Amazon rating and the number of reviews.
3 Price: we check the current price and highlight notable deals.
4 Updates: comparisons are refreshed regularly as prices and availability change.

Our comparisons are reviewed and updated regularly to reflect the latest products and prices.

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