Quality Arcades - Comprehensive Review

Not sure who to trust for your multicade? Read this first.

 

As a huge fan of video games and someone who's spent a lot of time perfecting my man cave, finding products that combine nostalgia with quality is always exciting.

Quality Arcades caught my attention for this very reason.

Their custom arcade cabinets promise to revive the joy of classic arcade games while offering the convenience and customization modern gamers desire.

 

Reviewing the Best Multicade Manufacturer: Quality Arcades

In this comprehensive review, I'll cover everything you need to know about Quality Arcades, including their brand, products, customization options, and unique market position. This review will help you determine if they are actually worth it for you.

Here is what I'll be talking about:

 

Table of contents

1. Introduction.
2. Brief History and Background of Quality Arcades.
3. Key features and benefits of their arcade cabinets.
4. Product Highlights.
1. Customer Reviews and Satisfaction.
5. Customization Options.
1. Custom Wrapped Cabinets Examples.
6. Why Choose Quality Arcades?
7. Are Quality Arcades Cabinets Worth It for You?
8. Conclusion
9. Steps to Get Started.
10. Alternatives to Quality Arcades

 

 

Brief History and Background of Quality Arcades

Quality Arcades has been producing custom arcade cabinets since its inception in the early 2010s.

The company started small, operating out of an 800 sq. ft. shop, initially serving local man-cave stores with retro-style arcade cabinets.

 

Over the years, Quality Arcades expanded its operations by acquiring larger facilities allowing them to increase production capacity.

This experience inspired them to establish their own brand, aiming to provide full-size arcade cabinets that are both high-quality and affordable.

 

Today, they are well known for their extensive customization options, including various design wraps, control layouts, and additional control panel options.

Their commitment to delivering fully assembled, plug-and-play arcade cabinets has made them a popular choice among gaming enthusiasts and man-cave aficionados.

 

Key features and benefits of their arcade cabinets.

 1. High-Quality Build

• Durability: Each arcade cabinet is handcrafted in the USA using premium materials, ensuring long-lasting durability and an authentic arcade feel.
  
  
• Robust Design: The cabinets are designed to withstand extensive use, making them suitable for both home and commercial settings.
  
  

2. Customization Options

• Design Wraps: You can choose from a variety of retro-themed wraps or create your own unique design to match your style.
  
  
• Control Layouts: They offer multiple control panel options such as changing the joystick and button configurations, additional trackballs and light guns for a more interactive experience.
  
  
• Marquee and T-Molding Colors: You can choose the look of your cabinet with different marquee and T-molding (the line on the edges of the cabinet) colors, such as Black, White, Blue, Red, Green, or Yellow.
  
  

3. Fully Assembled and Plug-and-Play

This is probably the best part as tons of people don't really want to invest the time and energy to build or configure their cabinet.

• Ease of Use: The cabinets come fully assembled and ready to use, eliminating the need for complex setup or additional parts.
  
  
• Immediate Gameplay: You can simply plug in and start playing, thanks to the pre-installed software and extensive game library.

 

4. Extensive Game Library

• Thousands of Games: The machines supports a vast array of classic games from the 80s to the early 2000s, offering endless entertainment options.

 

They are perfect for fans of various genres, from arcade classics to fighting games and shooters.

 

5. Technical Specifications

• Display: Equipped with high-quality displays, such as a 32" or 43" Smart TV, providing a vibrant and immersive gaming experience.
  
  
• Audio: High-quality 6.5" speakers and an amplifier with volume, treble, and bass controls ensure a rich audio experience.
  
  
• Processing Power: The arcade cabinets are powered by a tiny yet efficient RPi CPU board. 
  
  Tiny doesn't necessary mean bad, it's powerful enough to ensure smooth gameplay and has the ability to handle a wide range of classic games without lag.

 

The game selection software and the top-opening control deck support ease of use, maintenance and upgrades if you decide to go your own way.

Product Highlights

All of their products are Plug-and-Play.

• Fully Assembled: The machine is shipped fully assembled, requiring no additional setup. Simply plug it in and start playing.
  
  
• Hardware & Game Library: The RPi board supports thousands of classic games from the 80s to the early 2000s, providing endless entertainment options.
  
  
• Audio: High-quality 6.5" speakers with an amplifier for volume, treble, and bass controls.

 Here is what they are currently offering.

1. Standup: Retro-Slim Arcade Machine

• Best For: Budget-conscious gamers seeking a space-efficient, customizable arcade cabinet.

• Basic Version: Starting Price: $1,390
• Full Wrap Version: Starting price: $1,690
• Custom Wrap Version: Starting Price: $1,935 

 

The Retro-Slim is the smallest standup cabinet that they offer.

 

Key Features

1. Design

   • Slim Profile: The Retro-Slim arcade cabinet features a sleek, slim design that fits seamlessly into any gaming setup.
     
     Its reduced weight of 95 lbs makes it easy to transport and place in your desired location.
     
     

2. Display

   • 32" Smart TV: Equipped with a 32" Smart TV, providing vibrant and immersive visuals that enhance the gaming experience.
     
     It comes with a remote control, for convenience.
     
     

3. Control Interface

   • Customizable Controls: The 2-player cabinet features an 8-button control deck for each player, with an optional 3" trackball in the middle of the control panel.
     
     For 4-player configurations, players 3 and 4 have a 6-button setup.
     
     
     
   • Personalized Design: Choose from a variety of marquee designs such or request a custom design for you.
     
     Additionally, customize the T-molding color with options like Black, White, Blue, Red, Green, or Yellow.
     
     

4. Technical Specifications

   • Height: 69.5"
   • Width: 30.5"
   • Depth: 19"
   • Weight: 95lbs
   • CPU Board: Powered by an RPi CPU board with a 128GB micro SD card for robust performance.
   • Marquee: Includes an LED backlit marquee for an authentic arcade look.

Benefits

• Versatility: Ideal for various settings such as home, office, or man cave.
• Customization: Extensive options for personalizing the appearance and controls to fit your style.

 

Target Audience

• The Retro-Slim arcade machine is perfect for budget-conscious gamers seeking a space-efficient, customizable arcade cabinet. Its slim profile and lightweight design make it ideal for home setups with limited space.

 

2. Standup: Arcade Machine Retro-XT

• Best For: Gamers looking for a durable, high-quality arcade cabinet that supports extensive gameplay and multiple players.

This is the middle weight standup arcade option. It's quite similar to the previous model so I'll just highlight the differences.

 

Pricing:

• Basic Version: Starting at $1,490
• Full Wrap Version: Starting at $1,790
• Custom Wrap Version: Starting at $2,035.00

Build and Durability

• Sturdier Construction: The Retro-XT is built with more robust materials, making it ideal for environments where the machine will see heavy use. This ensures longevity and durability, providing a reliable gaming experience over time.

Technical Specifications

• Height: 70"
• Width: 30.5"
• Depth: 24"
• Weight: 130lbs
• CPU Board: Powered by an RPi CPU board with a 128GB micro SD card for robust performance.
• Marquee: Includes an LED backlit marquee for an authentic arcade look.

Target Audience

• Heavy Use and Multiplayer Focus: The Retro-XT is designed for those looking to invest in a high-quality, customizable arcade cabinet that supports extensive gameplay and multiple players.
  
  Its sturdier construction and advanced control options make it a better choice for settings where durability and versatility are essential.

3. Standup: Hexacade Arcade Machine

• Best For: Enthusiasts wanting the largest display, most robust build, and extensive control options for a premium arcade experience.

This is the heavyweight standup arcade option. It's quite similar to the previous models, so I'll just highlight the differences.

 

Pricing

• Basic Version: Starting at $2,210
• Full Wrap Version: Starting at $2,500
• Custom Wrap Version: Starting at $2,745

Build and Durability

• Larger and Heavier Construction: The Hexacade is built with more robust materials and features a larger size, making it ideal for environments where the machine will see heavy use.
  
  This ensures longevity and stability, providing a reliable gaming experience over time.

Control Interface

• Expansive Control Deck: Features a distinctive hexagon-shaped control deck that supports both 2-player and 4-player configurations and can be easily opened up if you choose to make changes to your setup.

Display

• Larger Screen: Equipped with a 43" Smart TV, offering a more immersive visual experience compared to the 32" screens in the Retro-Slim and Retro-XT models.

Technical Specifications

• Height: 71"
• Width: 44"
• Depth: 25"
• Weight: Heavier than both the Retro-Slim and Retro-XT models, enhancing durability and stability.
• Display: 43" Smart TV with remote control.
• CPU Board: Powered by an RPi CPU board with a 128GB micro SD card for robust performance.
• Marquee: Includes an LED backlit marquee for an authentic arcade look.

Target Audience

• The Hexacade is designed for enthusiasts who want the largest display, most robust build, and extensive control options.
  
  It is perfect for settings where extensive multiplayer gaming and a premium arcade experience are essential.

4. Wall Mount Arcade Machine

• Best For: Space-conscious gamers needing a space-saving solution without sacrificing quality and experience.

This is the space-saving, wall-mounted arcade option. The hardware is still quite similar to the other models, so I'll just highlight the differences.

 

Pricing

• Basic Version: Starting at $1,290
• Full Wrap Version: Starting at $1,490
• Custom Wrap Version: Starting at $1,690

Build and Durability

• Compact and Lightweight: The Wall Mount Arcade Machine is designed for maximum space efficiency, weighing only 42 lbs.
  
  Its slim profile makes it ideal for smaller spaces such as apartments or offices.

Control Interface

• Simplified Setup: Features an 8-button control deck for each player, with an option to add a 3" trackball.
  
  While it offers customization options similar to the other models, its design is optimized for a 2-player setup.

Technical Specifications:

• Height: 34"
• Width: 30.5"
• Depth: 15"
• Display: 32" Smart TV with remote control for vibrant and immersive visuals.

Target Audience

• Space-Conscious Gamers: The Wall Mount Arcade Machine is perfect for those who need a space-saving solution without sacrificing the quality and experience of classic arcade gaming.
  
  Its lightweight and compact design make it ideal for smaller living spaces, home offices, or game rooms with limited space.

5. Arcade Pedestal

• Best For: Gamers wanting a customizable, versatile arcade setup that can be easily moved and adapted to different environments.

This is the versatile arcade option, designed for those who want a customizable and space-efficient gaming experience in an alternative style.

Here are the differences to the previous machines:

Pricing

• Basic Version: Starting at $1,195
• Full Wrap Version: Starting at $1,390
• Custom Wrap Version: Starting at $1,590

Build and Durability

• Compact and Versatile: The Arcade Pedestal is designed to provide a classic arcade experience while allowing flexibility in display options.
  
  It is perfect for those who want to use their existing TV or monitor.
  
  
• Lightweight: Weighs significantly less than the stand-up models, making it easy to move and position in various settings.

Display and Audio

• Flexible Display Options: Unlike the integrated displays of the Retro-Slim and Retro-XT, the Arcade Pedestal allows users to hook up their own TV or monitor, providing flexibility in screen size and type.

Technical Specifications

• Height: 40"
• Width: 41.25"
• Depth: 16.75"
• Weight: Lighter than stand-up models, enhancing portability.

Target Audience

• Flexible and Space-Saving: Ideal for gamers who want a customizable and versatile arcade setup that can be easily moved and adapted to different environments.

6. Arcade Console Table Top

• Best For: Space-conscious gamers looking for a flexible, portable arcade setup that can be used on various surfaces.

Perfect for home use where space is at a premium or for those who prefer a more flexible gaming setup.

In my opinion this one isn't as worth as the previous ones as value for money is lower.

 

Pricing

• Basic Version: Starting at $995
• Full Wrap Version: Starting at $1,175

Build and Durability

• Compact Design: The Arcade Console Table Top is designed for tabletop or bar top use, making it extremely space-efficient. It is perfect for those with limited space who still want a quality arcade experience.

• Flexibility: Unlike the stand-up models, this console is designed to be portable and used with various surfaces, adding flexibility to its placement and use.

Technical Specifications

• Height: 5"
• Width: 41.25"
• Depth: 16.75"
• Weight: Significantly lighter than the stand-up models, enhancing portability.
• Display Connection: Requires connection to an external display via HDMI, providing flexibility in choosing screen size and type.

Target Audience

• Space-Conscious and Versatile Use: Ideal for gamers who need a compact, portable arcade setup that can be used on various surfaces.

 

 

Customer Reviews and Satisfaction

They have the highest number of reviews and satisfied customers among all multicade manufacturers.

Their commitment to quality and exceptional support team is reflected in the numerous positive reviews from happy customers.

 

 

Numerous customers have shared their experiences and reviews on various platforms, including detailed video reviews on YouTube.

Here are a few notable reviews:

• Lenny shares his order, shipping and setup experience, praising the seamless plug-and-play convenience and the mind blowing amount of games.

• Gamers Haven explains his experience with customer support and how his cabinet runs.

 

Nick dives into the reasons he chose Quality Arcades over everyone else.

 

Customization Options

1. Wrap Design

Customers can choose from a variety of pre-designed wraps or my personal recommendation - the option for a fully custom wrap, enabling you to submit your own designs or ideas for a unique look​.

 

2. Joystick and Button Colors

You can select the color combinations of their joysticks and buttons.

You also have the option to add a 3" trackball, which is particularly satisfying for games requiring precise control.

 

3. Light Guns

For a more immersive and interactive experience, opt for the addition of two light guns.

They are ideal for shooting games and really provide a nostalgic feel reminiscent of classic arcade gun games​.

 

Custom Wrapped Cabinets Examples

The custom wrapped cabinets have become a standout feature, allowing you to personalize your arcade machines to match your own style.

Satisfied customers often share images and videos of their custom-wrapped cabinets, demonstrating the high level of personalization available. Here are a few examples. 

 

 

 

Why Choose Quality Arcades?

They stand out in the arcade machine market due to their commitment to quality, customization, and customer satisfaction.

Here are the main reasons to choose Quality Arcades in my opinion:

1. Plug-and-Play Convenience

All their machines from come fully assembled and ready to use straight out of the box.

This plug-and-play convenience eliminates the need for complicated setup, allowing customers to start enjoying their games immediately upon delivery.

 

2. Versatile Gaming Experience

The machines come with more than 17 thousand classic games, spanning from the 80s to the early 2000s. This vast game library ensures endless entertainment options for gamers of all ages and preferences.

 

3. High-Quality Construction

Each arcade machine is handcrafted with attention to detail, using high-quality materials and components.

This results in durable and aesthetically pleasing machines that capture the nostalgic charm of classic arcades while incorporating modern technology.

 

4. Customization Options

They offer a wide range of customization options, allowing you to personalize your machines with unique wraps, joystick and button colors, and additional features like trackballs and light guns.

This ensures each arcade machine is tailored to your individual preferences.

 

5. Fast Production and Shipping Times 

They have some of the fastest and most efficient production and shipping processes.

Customers can expect their custom arcade machines to be produced and delivered within 2 to 3 weeks which is very impressive considering most of their competition produce their cabinets in 2 to 6 months.

 

6. Exceptional Customer Service

They have a dedicated team focused to provide outstanding customer service and ensuring complete satisfaction.

The company's commitment to addressing customer needs and resolving any issues promptly ensures that every customer has a positive experience from start to finish.

 

I remember talking to a member of the their team, as they shared a story about a problem one of their customers had.

The person reached out because a game on his custom arcade machine kept crashing during level 7. This game was his childhood escape, and he was frustrated not being able to complete it.

His team went above and beyond by replicating the issue on their own machines. They played through the game for days until they identified and fixed the bug. Thanks to their efforts, the customer could finally enjoy the game without interruptions.

 

 

Are Quality Arcades Cabinets Worth It for You?

Pros:

1. Great Multicade Experience:

• Extensive Game Library: The machines support thousands of classic games, making them ideal for those seeking a versatile and expansive gaming collection, right out of the box.
• Customization: The ability to customize wraps, buttons, and additional features ensures a personalized gaming experience that is both enjoyable and unique.
• Customer Support: Their customer support has been praised substantially on multiple platforms and in their reviews.

2. Affordable Yet High-Quality:

• Cost-Effective: While not the priciest option available, these cabinets do not compromise on quality.
• Durable and Aesthetic: Handcrafted with attention to detail, using high-quality materials and modern technology to deliver a durable and aesthetically pleasing product.

Cons:

1. Super Premium Builds:

• Not Ultra-Premium: If you're looking for top-tier, fully decked-out builds with the highest-end components, Quality Arcades might not meet your expectations.
• Alternative Recommendation: For premium options, consider Paradox Arcades models.

2. Basic Cabinets with Limited Games:

• Not the Cheapest Option: If you're seeking smaller, more limited cabinets at a very low price, Quality Arcades might be too advanced.
• Alternative Recommendation: For budget-friendly options with fewer games, check out Arcade1Up or AtGames cabinets.

 

Conclusion

If you're looking for a well-balanced, high-quality multicade that offers a rich gaming experience without breaking the bank, Quality Arcades cabinets are definitely worth considering.

Their extensive game library, customization options, and durable construction make them a great choice for gaming enthusiasts.

However, if you need ultra-premium builds or extremely basic models, you might want to explore other alternatives.

 

Steps to Get Started

If you are ready to elevate your gaming experience with a custom multicade visit the Quality Arcades website to explore all the customization options available.

If you have any questions or need assistance, their responsive customer support team is ready to help.

For full transparency, I reached out to Quality Arcades while preparing this meta-review. If you make a purchase through the link to their website, I will receive a small commission. 

 

Alternatives to Quality Arcades

If you’re not sure exactly what you want or need, feel free to check out our Ultimate Buying Guide for Multicades.

This comprehensive guide will help you navigate through the various options and features available, ensuring you make an informed decision tailored to your preferences and requirements.

 

Hi there, my name is Kosta, I am the owner of Mancave Empire. I've been a life long video game enthusisant (some may say addict) and in recent years a mancave fanatic.

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