10. PXN-0082
Players who enjoy feedback in the form of joystick clicking sounds will likely enjoy the mini PXN-0082 arcade stick. There were no latency or dead zone issues detected when testing the 0082. The wrist space on the right side is to avoid overly enlarging the arcade stick. For stability, there are suction cups that won’t detach deep into a match, especially if you are a beginner who could otherwise slide the arcade stick around.
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9. Hori Fighting Stick Mini
The buttons of the Hori Fighting Stick Mini are smaller than average, but getting used to them should be easy, even for beginners. You see, the closer proximity of the parts requires less energy from you as a player. Most of the features of a regular sized arcade stick are present here, including a multi-speed turbo feature.
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8. IPEGA PG-9221
The IPEGA PG-9221 is a modular arcade stick that offers a detachment feature, so the joystick side can be separated from the button side. The first advantage is to extend the space between the joystick and the buttons. The second advantage is to place the joystick on the other side for a southpaw layout if you prefer to use the joystick with your right hand, which is something that a beginner should consider experimenting with.
The top panel of the PG-9221 is curved for your wrist comfort. There are four macro buttons and two turbo buttons with three turbo settings, which are neat. The PG-9221’s color scheme exudes a retro Nintendo vibe.
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7. Monoprice Dark Matter
The Dark Matter Arcade Fighting Stick is a multiplatform arcade stick that includes an aluminum alloy frame, octagonal-gated Sanwa joystick, and Sanwa buttons. You can change the input type as you please, whether it is D-pad, left stick, or right stick. There is a tournament lock in addition to a turbo feature.
Sanwa parts bolster the performance and durability, providing a good entry point for beginners. The eight-directional joystick makes movements easy too, and the precise buttons complete the package. There is lots of room for comfort, and the heavy weight & rubber feet enhance the stability of this solid arcade stick.
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6. Mayflash F101
The Mayflash F101 is a simple arcade stick that is smaller and multiplatform. Its stock parts are above average, and luckily, it is relatively easy to upgrade the parts yourself, even as a beginner. Furthermore, the turbo works as it should. As for the build, it is high quality plastic with a metal panel that increases the weight and stability, the latter of which is also boosted by big rubber feet.
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5. Mayflash F500
The Mayflash F500 is sizeable fightstick, and it is compatible with quality Sanwa joysticks & buttons. The acrylic top of this multiplatform arcade stick makes art customization possible. The metallic case & rubber feet increase stability, and the buttons feel good, especially for beginners who are not necessarily looking for Sanwa parts from the get go.
An octagonal joystick gate is provided, and installing it can be done easily. The same applies to the buttons because of the easily seen screws on the bottom plate.
The cable comes out of a compartment to be found on the left side of the F500. Another improvement over the predecessor is that there is a headphone port. There is turbo support in addition to updateable firmware.
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4. Mayflash F300
Compatible with Sanwa parts, the Mayflash F300 is a budget yet multiplatform arcade stick that is weighty & firm despite its small size, thanks to the rubber feet. The parts are decent and have even passed rigorous acceptance testing. With the F300, you get an additional octagonal gate and additional accessories.
The USB cable comes with convenient Velcro to stay organized. There is a turbo feature in addition to updateable firmware, and the start button is recessed to make it harder to hit without intending to, which is a mistake beginners might make otherwise. Artwork enthusiasts can print out a decal to stick on top of the F300.
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3. Qanba Crystal
It is quite hard to believe how moderately the Qanba Crystal is priced given how much quality it provides, making it a steal for beginners. This prolific arcade stick features LEDs with activation, glow, and stealth modes. When pressing the Crystal’s buttons, the sound is minimal, and there is no input delay.
There is plenty of wrist room for the player’s comfort, and there are rubber strips for stability when placing the arcade stick on your lap. You see, this arcade stick is robust. The door is closed by magnets in order to avoid accidental opening. You can also pull out a magnetic carrying handle from the Crystal.
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2. 8BitDo Arcade Stick
The joystick of this mini 8BitDo arcade stick feels quite decent. No latency issues were detected when testing the arcade stick across four platforms. The plastic top panel is impressively not malleable, so beginners can apply force during play without worrying.
The weight of the arcade stick has been artificially boosted by a thick metal plate inside, which is clever. The battery can last up to 30 hours of play through Bluetooth and 40 hours through 2.4G, and the charging time is four hours.
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1. Mayflash F300 Elite
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Mayflash F300 Elite is multiplatform like the F300 but with premium Sanwa parts, so the joystick feels sturdy, and there is less travel distance for a button press to go through. You even get an additional octagonal gate with your F300 Elite. The buttons are excellent, and there is turbo support in addition to updateable firmware. The F300 Elite is a beginner’s dream.
Just like its predecessor, this arcade stick is weighty and firm, thanks to the bottom rubber. The cable has a useful Velcro wrap to keep things organized. Those looking to spice up the F300 Elite can print out artwork to stick right onto the surface, and we at The Arcade Stick have a custom artwork service.
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