By the Arcade Home UK — The UK's Independent Arcade Machine Buyer's Guide Team · Updated May 2026 · Independent, reader-supported

Where to Buy Arcade Machines in the UK: Retailer Comparison 2025

Buying an arcade machine in the UK gives you several distinct options, each with different trade-offs around price, selection, warranty coverage, and delivery logistics. This guide compares the main retailers so you can decide which fits your needs.

Amazon UK

Amazon UK stocks a range of arcade cabinets, from compact bartop machines to full-height uprights. Selection varies week to week, but you'll typically find both budget Chinese imports and mid-range options from established brands.

Strengths: Returns are straightforward under Amazon's standard 30-day policy. If a cabinet arrives damaged or doesn't work, processing a return is hassle-free. Delivery is usually fast, especially for Prime members. Pricing is competitive because Amazon forces retailers to match each other.

Weaknesses: Warranties are often minimal (30–90 days, sometimes none). Amazon handles logistics but doesn't employ specialist courier teams, so large cabinets occasionally arrive dented or with joysticks loose. Stock turnover is high, meaning the exact model you want today might not be available next week. Customer reviews are mixed on build quality and whether joystick/button replacement is straightforward.

Best for: You're in a hurry, you want easy returns, and you're buying a mid-range cabinet you're willing to risk minor cosmetic damage on.

Arcade Direct

Arcade Direct is a specialist retailer focused entirely on arcade machines and cabinets. They stock new machines, refurbished units, and occasionally repair and customize bespoke builds.

Strengths: Staff understand arcade machines properly. If you ring with questions about button response, screen quality, or upgrading components, they give you informed answers rather than reading a spec sheet. They offer 12-month warranties on most new stock, which is significantly longer than Amazon or eBay. Delivery is handled by couriers experienced with heavy arcade equipment. They sometimes discount older stock or floor models, offering genuine value.

Weaknesses: Prices are higher than Amazon on identical models—specialist retailers rarely undercut the volume giants. Selection is smaller because they're curating stock rather than listing everything. Delivery times are longer (1–2 weeks typical). If you want a very specific machine, they might not have it in stock.

Best for: You want expert advice, longer warranty protection, and are willing to pay a premium for specialist service and careful handling.

Liberty Games

Liberty Games sells arcade machines alongside other gaming and leisure equipment (pool tables, dart boards, pinball). They operate both online and physical showrooms.

Strengths: Being able to visit a showroom and actually play a cabinet before buying removes uncertainty about controls and screen quality. Staff are trained on their product range. Delivery is reliable because they've built a logistics system around bulky leisure equipment. They offer bundle deals (cabinet plus stools, plus cover) that can provide value if you're furnishing a games room.

Weaknesses: Showroom availability is limited to certain regions (mainly southeast and Midlands). Their online selection is smaller than Amazon. Prices sit between Amazon and specialist retailers—not as cheap as volume discounts, not as premium as full specialist service. Returns are more restrictive than Amazon; most arcade cabinets fall outside standard return windows.

Best for: You're near a showroom and want to inspect the cabinet in person before paying, or you're building a complete games room and want bundle discounts.

eBay UK

eBay hosts both new cabinets from resellers and second-hand machines from private sellers.

Strengths: You can find bargains, especially on older or discontinued models. Private sellers often price lower than retailers. Auction-format listings sometimes result in good deals. Buyer protection is reasonable, and disputes can be escalated to eBay if a seller doesn't cooperate.

Weaknesses: Quality is inconsistent. New stock from resellers often carries identical warranties to Amazon (30–90 days). Second-hand machines are sold as-is with no warranty; you're relying on the seller's description and photos. Delivery costs can be high because private sellers don't have bulk courier rates. If something arrives broken, the resolution process is slower than Amazon's.

Best for: You're hunting a specific older machine or model no longer in production, or you're comfortable buying second-hand and accepting the risks that come with it.

Facebook Marketplace

Facebook Marketplace connects local buyers and sellers. Most arcade machines on there are second-hand, owned by enthusiasts or arcade operators clearing stock.

Strengths: No shipping costs—you collect locally, saving £100+ on delivery. You can message the seller, ask questions, and sometimes negotiate price. You can inspect the machine before handing over money. Local sales can happen within days.

Weaknesses: Selection is unpredictable. Availability depends on what's currently for sale in your region. No formal dispute resolution if something breaks after you drive home. Prices are hit-or-miss; sometimes you find a bargain, sometimes sellers ask retail prices. You need transport for a machine that might weigh 50–100 kg.

Best for: You're buying second-hand, you live in or near a city, and you want to avoid shipping hassle and costs.

Key Buying Considerations

Warranty matters more than price for new stock. A cabinet you can't return or repair under warranty is expensive in the long term. Arcade Direct's 12-month warranty costs more upfront but protects you if joysticks wear out or the screen flickers.

Delivery is the hidden cost. Arcade machines are heavy. Amazon's standard delivery sometimes means a dropped cabinet. Specialist couriers charge more but actually know how to handle arcade equipment.

Stock turnover is fast. If you find a specific model you like on Amazon, buy it quickly. Listing availability doesn't guarantee next week's availability.

For more guidance on choosing a cabinet, see our full roundup of the best arcade machines for UK homes.