⭐Ultimate DIY Arcade Cabinet – Build a Full-Size Retro Machine From Scratch | Budget Build

Bring the golden age of gaming into your home with this complete guide to building a full-size retro arcade cabinet from scratch.

🏠 Whether you’re a woodworking beginner or a seasoned maker, this step-by-step build will walk you through everything — from planning and cabinet construction to wiring the buttons, joystick, display, and Raspberry Pi gaming system.

💰This project saves you hundreds compared to buying a pre-built machine and lets you fully customize artwork, controls, and components.

💬Big thanks and congrats to rolfebox for his instructable which is excellent. I took from him the measurements of the wood panels. The box I built is in the end quite different : Pandora Box instead of Raspberry PI, U-Molding instead of T-Molding, bluetooth amplifier to be able to play audio from other sources than the box, etc etc.

Required Components (Must-Buy)

1. A pandora box
2. An audio amplifier. This one is bluetooth, so that external audio source can be used (play music from your phone on the arcade cabinet :) )
3. Two speakers
4. One electric junction box
5. One switch power socket switch
6. One power strip, including USB is better
7. Wire terminals crimping kit
8. Led strips
9. Some yellow U-molding

Optional Upgrades (Boost Value)

1. Arcade stickers, found them on eBay
2. 2 pieces of OSB wood
3. Black paint
4. Different tools for wood
5. Different tools for electricity

Note : The Pandora Box is a retro gaming console that emulates classic arcade games. It features a compact design, preloaded games, and plug-and-play functionality, connecting easily to TVs or monitors. Popular among retro gaming enthusiasts, it offers a nostalgic arcade experience at home.

Why Build Your Arcade Cabinet?

Commercial arcade machines often cost $1,500+ and may not fit your space or design preferences. By building your own, you can:

1. Save 30–60% on costs versus pre-built machines
2. Customize size, buttons, and artwork
3. Use modern emulators (Raspberry Pi / RetroPie)
4. Choose higher-quality components for longevity

Many DIY builders prefer customization and savings over off-the-shelf models — and that’s exactly what this project delivers.

The first step was designing and cutting the cabinet from OSB wood.

I took the same measurements for the wood cut as rolfebox.

I measured and marked the panels to create a classic arcade shape, then used a jigsaw for precise cuts. Once all pieces were ready, I assembled the structure using screws and wood glue, ensuring stability. The top section was designed to fit a 19-inch monitor, while the bottom housed the electronics.

After the frame was ready, I sanded the surface for a smoother finish, prepping it for painting and decoration.

Once the cabinet was assembled and tested, I moved on to painting.

I chose a glossy black paint to give it a sleek, retro look. After letting the paint dry, I added custom stickers and decals for that authentic arcade vibe. These details transformed the cabinet into a visually striking piece. You can find arcade-themed stickers online or design your own for a personal touch.

The Pandora’s Box gaming console was the heart of the system, offering thousands of retro games.

I mounted the screen inside the cabinet and connected it to the console. For sound, I used an amplifier and two speakers, which I securely placed in the top section for maximum audio impact. Wiring everything together required careful organization to keep it neat and functional.

A power strip inside the cabinet ensured all components had a single, easy-to-access power source.

The final touch consists of putting the stickers and finally the U-Molding.

Building this arcade cabinet was both challenging and rewarding. The total cost was around €200, thanks to affordable materials like OSB wood and the versatile Pandora’s Box. Beyond the budget-friendly aspect, the joy of playing retro games with my kids on something I built from scratch is priceless.

If you build this arcade cabinet, please leave a comment and share your photos!

Your feedback helps others and boosts this guide’s visibility so more makers can find it.

Want to take your arcade cabinet to the next level? Here are the 3 best upgrades to turn it into a premium machine:

🎮 1. Upgrade to Premium Arcade Controls

Switch to Sanwa-style buttons and joystick for smoother response, better durability, and a true arcade feel.

Perfect for fighting games and fast-paced classics.

🖥 2. Install a Larger Full HD Monitor

Upgrade to a 24″–27″ IPS display for sharper graphics, wider viewing angles, and a more immersive retro experience.

🌈 3. Add LED Lighting & Backlit Marquee

1. Install LED strips and a lit marquee to give your cabinet a professional arcade look — especially impressive in low light.