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Have you noticed how retro gaming and hands-on entertainment are suddenly everywhere? Home arcade equipment is having a renaissance, and it’s easy to see why. These days people want experiences that pull everyone away from screens and into something tactile and social — a bit like bringing the seaside arcade into your living room. Whether you want a compact tabletop claw crane for the kids or a full-size cabinet that stands around 6ft tall and becomes the focal point of the room, there’s an option for almost any space and budget. If you love nostalgia, weekend competitions, or quirky statement pieces, arcade machines deliver all three in one plug-and-play package.
Menkind is one of the UK’s go-to retailers for novelty electronics and arcade-style toys, and their range often includes clever twists on classic amusements. From do-it-yourself pinball projects to miniature claw cranes, Menkind blends kits and ready-to-play machines that appeal to hobbyists and gift-hunters alike. If you’re shopping for unique arcade gear that’s easy to set up and fun to show off, Menkind frequently stocks items that bridge the gap between toy and serious gaming ornament. Below I break down some of their standout options so you can decide which makes the best addition to your home.
Imagine counting down to Christmas by assembling a tiny pinball game day by day — that’s the idea behind the build-your-own pinball machine advent calendar. It’s a playful, hands-on gift that doubles as a seasonal decoration and a lesson in simple mechanics. The finished model is usually compact, measuring under 1ft wide, so it sits on a shelf or mantle without hogging the room. It’s perfect for families who like projects and for anyone who wants to give a calendar that’s more rewarding than candy and cheaper than a full-size machine.
For people who want a deeper DIY experience, Menkind full build-your-own pinball kits are a fantastic option. These kits often include wiring, flippers, ramps, and decals, giving you a genuine sense of achievement when the ball finally rattles around the playfield. Expect a finished machine to stand about 3ft to 4ft tall and to require some simple tools. If you love tinkering or want a weekend project with an impressive payoff, a DIY pinball is like putting together a tiny amusement park ride — satisfying, a bit challenging, and absolutely addictive.
If you’d rather skip the assembly, electronic arcade pinball machines come pre-built and ready to entertain. These tabletop or freestanding models reproduce the lights, sounds, and bumpers of classic pinball without the fuss. Many come with adjustable difficulty settings, digital scoring, and themed artwork that make them feel authentic. They’re ideal for homes where space is limited but the desire for vintage thrills is high. Plug one into a standard outlet, set it on a sturdy surface, and you’re instantly the owner of a mini retro arcade.
Crane machines aren’t just for seaside arcades — the winning candy grabber is a compact, cheerful machine that brings the joy of prizes to birthday parties and game nights. Often designed to be under 2ft tall, these machines use a simple claw mechanism and a prize tray, and they’re excellent for teaching kids about patience, strategy, and hand-eye coordination. Because they’re small and light, you can place them on a table or countertop, and they make a brilliant novelty that doubles as an interactive ornament when guests arrive.
Bringing an iconic brand like Pac-Man into a claw crane is pure fun. These themed machines combine nostalgia with modern miniaturisation, allowing you to enjoy a slice of arcade culture without sacrificing tons of floor space. Often finished with classic artwork and LED lighting, a Pac-Man arcade claw crane is a conversation starter that looks at home in a den, games room, or home bar. It’s a great way to tap into classic gaming culture while keeping the gadget family-friendly and approachable.
Menkind is a fantastic source, but it’s not the only place in the UK to buy arcade machines. If you’re comparison shopping, stores like Argos, Smyths Toys, GAME, Currys, Amazon UK, and eBay UK all offer versions of arcade equipment — from mini claw machines to full-size arcade cabinets. Each retailer has its strengths: Argos often carries budget-friendly, quick-delivery items; Smyths tends to stock family-oriented machines; GAME has gaming-focused peripherals and themed cabinets; Currys covers electronics with a focus on quality; and Amazon and eBay provide a huge selection that includes both new and used machines. Knowing where to look helps you balance price, warranty, and availability.
Argos is a practical choice for buyers who want variety and easy click-and-collect options. You’ll often find compact arcade units, claw machines, and novelty pinball sets at prices that suit casual players and families. The advantage of Argos is the combination of physical presence and online convenience, so you can see what’s available and pick it up quickly if a sale is on.
Smyths is another reliable option for family-focused arcade equipment. They stock machines that are designed with safety and durability in mind, which is ideal when children will be the primary users. From smaller arcade cabinets to skill games and prize machines, Smyths tends to carry items that balance entertainment with affordability.
GAME focuses on gaming culture and often stocks retro-style cabinets and modern plug-and-play machines geared at enthusiasts. Currys brings electronics expertise to the table, offering high-quality units and sometimes larger arcade-style furniture that integrates well with home entertainment systems. If you want hardware that feels a bit more robust or tech-savvy features like HDMI inputs or Bluetooth controls, these stores are worth checking out.
When selection matters most, Amazon UK and eBay UK are hard to beat. You’ll find everything from mini claw cranes to near-full-size arcade cabinets, plus user reviews and seller ratings to help guide your decision. eBay is particularly useful if you’re looking for classic cabinets to restore or rare pieces. Just remember to check dimensions carefully — some full cabinets can be over 6ft tall and may require a doorway clearance plan.
Picking the right arcade machine is a lot like choosing a new pet: think about space, noise, maintenance, and who’ll be using it. For small flats, tabletop units or mini claw machines that measure under 2ft wide are a smart choice. For dedicated games rooms, a standard arcade cabinet around 5ft to 6ft tall provides an authentic standing experience. Consider how many players you want to support, whether you need competitive multiplayer, and if you prefer a themed machine (think Pac-Man or racing) versus a multi-game system. Ask yourself: will it be a feature piece, or a casual weekend toy?
Arcade equipment prices vary widely, and it helps to know the typical ranges before you start browsing. Small tabletop units and novelty claw machines might start as low as £30 to £100 — affordable by impulse-buy standards. Mid-range electronic pinball and compact cabinets usually fall between £150 and £700, depending on features and licensing. Full-size arcade cabinets, especially authentic or licensed reproductions, commonly fall between £800 and several thousand pounds. If you’re buying vintage or restored machines, factor in potential refurbishment costs for parts and labour. Budget realistically: a cheaper machine may need more upkeep, while a higher-priced unit often lasts longer and feels more authentic.
Before you buy, measure your doorways and the space where the machine will live. A full-size cabinet can be over 6ft tall and may weigh several hundred pounds, so check clearances and think about how you’ll move it into the room. Power is usually standard UK mains, but check voltage and current needs — some powerful machines have higher draw, and it’s wise to avoid daisy-chaining multiple high-load devices to the same socket. Also consider noise; arcade machines and pinball bumpers can be loud, so think about placement if you have neighbours or thin walls.
Arcade machines are mechanical and electronic, so a little maintenance goes a long way. Regularly dust internal components, tighten loose bolts, and clean coin slots and joysticks to avoid sticky controls. If you have a pinball machine, watch the playfield finish and protect it from direct sunlight to prevent fading. Keep spare fuses and bulbs on hand — many machines use small indicators that are easy to replace. And if you buy used, budget for a professional inspection to catch worn switches or frayed wiring before they become bigger problems.
If you have a creative streak, custom builds and restorations are where the real fun begins. You can convert an old cabinet with new controls, paint a bespoke design, or install a modern Raspberry Pi-based emulator for hundreds of classic titles in one box. Menkind DIY kits are a great entry point into this world because they introduce basic assembly and electronics in a friendly way. For full restorations, work with specialist suppliers or local arcade restorers who can source replacement marquees, CRT-style monitors, and original parts to bring a classic machine back to life.
Parts are key to keeping an arcade machine alive. UK suppliers, specialist forums, and online marketplaces are invaluable for locating joysticks, buttons, flippers, lamps, and control boards. Some retailers offer upgrade kits that add LED lighting, new sound systems, or modern LCD screens to older cabinets. If you’re after authenticity, look for genuine replacement parts from arcade restoration shops; if you want modern convenience, aftermarket controllers and multi-game boards can transform an aging machine into a versatile media centre.
Accessories can elevate your arcade setup from fun to fantastic. Consider joystick and button sets for improved responsiveness, enhanced speakers for richer sound, or a coin-door conversion kit if you want a true arcade feel without handling cash. LED lighting kits brighten the cabinet and make it pop in dim rooms, and custom stools or mats help create a dedicated play zone. Small touches like a scoreboard app or a wall-mounted leaderboard can turn casual play into competitive nights.
Buying arcade equipment in the UK is as much about lifestyle as it is about hardware. Whether you choose Menkind novelty and DIY offerings or hunt for the perfect cabinet on Amazon or eBay, think about how the machine will fit into your life — the space it requires, the sound it produces, and the kind of memories it will create. Arcade gear can be a social magnet, a nostalgic time machine, or a creative project; pick the angle that excites you most and shop with that vision in mind. With the right machine, you’ll turn ordinary evenings into an arcade night to remember.
| Arcade Equipment | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic Arcade Pinball | £ 40,- | |
| Pac-man Arcade Claw Crane | £ 50,- |
