Building a retro arcade cabinet with a Raspberry Pi is a hands-on project that brings classic gaming into your home. You’ll combine woodworking, electronics, and a bit of coding. Here’s a practical, step-by-step guide to get you started.
Parts & Materials
- Raspberry Pi (any modern model works, like Pi 3 or Pi 4)
- MicroSD card (at least 8GB)
- Arcade joystick and buttons kit (USB interface preferred)
- HDMI monitor (size depends on your cabinet)
- Speakers (USB-powered recommended)
- Power strip
- 3/4″ MDF or plywood (for the cabinet)
- Screws, wood glue, brad nails
- Paint or vinyl for finishing
- T-molding (for that classic arcade look)
- Plexiglass (for marquee and screen cover)
- LED strip (for marquee lighting)
- Basic tools: saw, drill, screwdriver, clamps, sander
Step-by-Step Build
- Design & Cut the Cabinet
- Sketch your cabinet design or use free plans online.
- Trace the side panels onto MDF or plywood.
- Use a jigsaw to cut out both side panels at once for perfect symmetry.
- Cut top, bottom, and control panel pieces to fit between the sides1.
- Assemble the Frame
- Use 3/4″ x 3/4″ strips inside as connection points.
- Glue and brad nail or screw the panels together.
- Dry fit everything before final assembly to check alignment.
- Add a hinged access panel in the back for maintenance1.
- Prep for Electronics
- Drill holes for buttons and joystick using a template.
- Drill speaker holes and mount speakers with hot glue.
- Cut a slot for T-molding around the edges before final assembly.
- Install a power strip and electrical box inside the cabinet for easy wiring1.
- Paint & Finish
- Sand all surfaces smooth.
- Prime with filler primer for best results.
- Paint with your chosen color (flat black is classic).
- Install T-molding using a rubber mallet for a polished look1.
- Install Components
- Mount the monitor behind a cutout or behind plexiglass.
- Secure the Raspberry Pi inside with adhesive Velcro for easy removal.
- Install the joystick and buttons, connecting them to the USB controller board.
- Plug in speakers and any lighting (like an LED strip for the marquee)1.
- Software Setup
- Download the RetroPie image and write it to your SD card.
- Insert the SD card into your Raspberry Pi.
- Connect the Pi to your monitor, controls, and power.
- Load your favorite ROMs onto the Pi via USB or network1.
- Final Assembly
- Tidy up cables with Velcro straps.
- Install the marquee graphic between two pieces of plexiglass.
- Secure all panels and double-check everything works before closing up1.
Example: Bartop Arcade Cabinet
| Step | Example Action |
| Side Panels | Cut two identical shapes from MDF |
| Assembly | Glue and nail panels using wood strips |
| Controls | Drill button holes using a template |
| Paint | Prime, sand, and spray with flat black |
| T-molding | Cut slot, install with rubber mallet |
| Electronics | Mount monitor, Pi, speakers, controls |
| Marquee | Print graphic, sandwich in plexiglass |
Key Takeaways
- Templates save time and boost accuracy for button layouts and speaker holes.
- Velcro makes mounting electronics easy and maintenance-friendly.
- T-molding gives your cabinet a professional, retro look.
- RetroPie is the go-to software for Raspberry Pi arcade builds—simple, powerful, and free1.
- Access panel in the back is a must for future repairs or upgrades.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best Raspberry Pi model for arcade cabinets?
- A: Pi 3 and Pi 4 are most popular due to their speed and compatibility.
Q: Can I use a TV as a monitor?
- A: Yes, any HDMI monitor or TV will work. Just size your cabinet to fit.
Q: Is special software needed?
- A: RetroPie is the most user-friendly and widely used for arcade projects1.
Q: How do I get games on the Pi?
- A: Transfer ROMs via USB or network after installing RetroPie.
Q: Do I need woodworking experience?
- A: Basic skills are enough. Templates and plans help a lot.
