2024] Indispensable for gaming! 11 recommended arcade controllers!

While some players use pads to control their games, watching the top players play makes you want to buy an arcade controller, or "akecon," which allows you to control the game as if it were in an arcade cabinet. However, they are not inexpensive. For those who don't know which one to buy, we have picked out a few of our recommended arcade controllers for you.

The models we have selected are mainly released after 2022, are compatible with PS5, or have been brushed up from previous models, so you can rest assured that there is almost no chance that you will find a model that is not compatible with the current model when you purchase it. It is also a point of security that there is almost no chance of incompatibility with the current model when you purchase it.

⇒The new model is compatible with the previous PS5!
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Points to consider when selecting an arcade controller

Availability of levers

The first thing to consider is whether it is "with lever" or "without lever (lever-less)".

What? There are controllers without levers? However, in recent years, lever-less arcade controllers with buttons that correspond to up, down, left, and right instead of levers have become popular. Some say that once you get used to them, lever-less controllers make it easier to perform special moves and reduce the number of misoperations.

For example, if you imagine pressing the "→↓↘" button for the Shoryuken command when facing right, you may be able to grasp the feel of the controls. Incidentally, the button layout is unique, with only one button in front of the player, which is up (↑) instead of down (↓). This arrangement also makes sense when you use the device.

Size and weight

Size and weight are not only related to where you place the controller and whether you carry it with you, but also to your playing style, such as whether you play with the controller on a desk or on your leg (thigh). A heavy weighted controller is more stable and closer to the arcade experience, but some people find it easier to play with it on their feet, so if you have your own style of play, this is a point to consider. If you are not sure, it may be safer to avoid the most extreme ones.

Quietness

When you get absorbed in a game, you can't help but put a lot of effort into the controls. When this happens, the noise of clanking levers and buttons becomes a concern. Since you are likely to play games at night, depending on the soundproofing of your room and the situation of your roommates, those who require quietness should choose a model that is designed with this in mind. If the model is highly customizable, you can change the levers and buttons to be quieter by yourself.

Recommended arcade controllers with levers

Fighting Stick Alpha for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC

Price	24,800 yen (including tax)
Manufacturer	HORI
Compatible Models	PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC (Windows 11/10)
Size	410mm (W) x 300mm (D) x 120mm (H) (including stick lever)
Weight	2.7kg

If you are wondering which accelebrator to purchase, you can first decide on a manufacturer and then choose from among them according to your budget and intended use. The Fighting Stick Alpha is an officially licensed arcade controller compatible with PS5.

The HAYABUSA unit manufactured by HOLI offers high operability, and the V-cut housing cam structure of the levers also provides smooth input and high durability. In addition, various functions can be set by using a dedicated application, a key lock mode, a touchpad, and a stereo headphone/microphone jack. It also has a non-slip mat on the bottom, the case can be opened for stick and button maintenance, and the USB cable can be stored inside the case.

It is also possible to customize the design plate on the top surface, making it possible to create a one-of-a-kind device. Incidentally, there are also versions with "TEKKEN 8" and "Street Fighter 6" design plates on the top surface.

Fighting Stick α SILENT for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC

Price	29,980 yen (tax included)
Manufacturer	HORI
Compatible Models	PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC (Windows 11/10)
Size	410mm (W) x 300mm (D) x 120mm (H) (including stick lever)
Weight	2.7kg

For those who value quietness, we recommend the "Fighting Stick α SILENT" from the "Fighting Stick" series. The size and weight are the same as the "Fighting Stick α" above, and the key point is still whether the levers and buttons are silent or not.

The stick unit is equipped with optical switches to reduce the switch noise generated during operation. The buttons are equipped with a new unit with an improved stroke of the company's own HAYABUSA button, ensuring quietness while providing an input feel comparable to non-silent buttons. Both the lever and buttons are 4 to 5 dB quieter, making this model ideal for those seeking both operability and quietness.

Fighting Stick mini for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Windows PC

Price	7,480 yen (tax included)
Manufacturer	HORI
Compatible Models	PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC (Windows 11/10)
Size	210mm (W) x 150mm (D) x 87mm (H) (including stick lever)
Weight	500g (including cable)

The Fighting Stick mini is recommended for those who seek compactness. Its PS5-compatible model was released in January 2024. In addition, a sister version, "Fighting Stick mini for Nintendo Switch" is lined up for Nintendo Switch.

Notably, the size and weight of the Fighting Stick mini are about 1/4 the size (width and depth are about 1/2 each) and 1/5 the weight of the Fighting Stick α. The price is also lower than that of the Fighting Stick α as a fighting stick. The price is also quite inexpensive for an arcade controller, making this model ideal for those who want to enjoy the arcade feel in the comfort of their own home. Nevertheless, in terms of performance, this model is equipped with a stick lever of the company's original structure, which provides smooth input and high durability.

Qanba Obsidian 2 Arcade Joystick

Price	47,800 yen (including tax)
Manufacturer	Qanba
Compatibility	PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Size	486mm (W) x 260mm (D) x 116mm (H) (pedestal height excluding sticks: 58mm)
Weight	3,350g (including cables)

Qanba is a recommended manufacturer along with Holi, especially the high-end model, the Qanba Obsidian 2 Arcade Joystick, which is also used by top e-sports athletes and combines a stylish appearance with high functionality in a precious black color. 2023 release As a model, it is also firmly compatible with PS5. Like the Hori model, this is also an officially licensed SONY PlayStation Japanese domestic product.

The levers and buttons are made by Sanwa Denshi, which is also used in arcade game machines. There is no need to worry about input accuracy or durability. By removing the screws on the back of the main unit, you can customize the buttons, levers, and lever balls, replacing them with quiet levers, Gravity mechanical switches, and other options to suit your preferences. The side panel of the main unit can be opened to store USB cables, etc., making it easy to carry and use in any location or scene.

Qanba Titan Arcade Joystick

Price	35,800 yen (including tax)
Manufacturer	Qanba
Compatibility	PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Size	384mm (W) x 242mm (D) x 115mm (H) (pedestal height excluding sticks: 58mm)
Weight	2,250g (including cables)

This "Qanba Titan Arcade Joystick" is also equipped with Sanwa Denshi levers and buttons used in arcade game cabinets, providing the same operability as those used in game arcades.

As you can see from a comparison with other models, it also features a "wide layout" with a wide distance between levers and buttons. The controller is also more compact than the Qanba Obsidian 2 Arcade Joystick, weighing only 2/3 the size, making it easy to carry and store. This model combines high-precision input with size and durability.

Qanba Drone 2 Arcade Joystick

Price	19,800 yen (including tax)
Manufacturer	Qanba
Compatible Models	PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Size	356mm (W) x 221mm (D) x 116mm (H) (Pedestal height excluding sticks: 60mm)
Weight	1,250g (including cables)

If you are looking for a compact and lightweight type made by Qanba, the "Qanba Drone 2 Arcade Joystick" is a good choice. released on June 2, 2023, this model is also officially compatible with PS5. It is smaller in size than the "Qanba Titan Arcade Joystick" and weighs about 1 kg less. The price is also in the 10,000 yen range.

The palm rest is embossed to prevent the wrist from slipping, and the bottom is equipped with a non-slip mat. Other features include a touchpad, 3.5mm stereo headphone/microphone jack, and mute button with LED indicator.

Victrix Pro FS

Price	57,728 yen (including tax)
Manufacturer	Performance Designed Products
Supported Models	PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Size	480mm (width) x 340mm (depth) x 120mm (height)
Weight	4,680g

The Victrix Pro FS combines precision input with durability, thanks to the use of Sanwa Denshi buttons and patented Link2 detachable joystick. This is also an officially licensed SONY PlayStation Japan product. Although the size and weight are heavy, it offers an arcade-like experience. It is also available in two color variations, Purple and White.

In terms of durability, the body is made of aircraft-grade aluminum, which can withstand unexpected shocks and drops. In addition, the back panel allows easy access to the interior for storing levers and replacing parts, making it possible to personalize it to your own taste, although it is not an inexpensive purchase. Incidentally, Victrix also sells the Victrix Pro FS-12, a leverless controller in the same series.

8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch & PC

Price	12,680 yen (tax included)
Manufacturer	8BitDo
Compatible Models	Nintendo Switch, PC, Steam
Size	Width 303 x Depth 203 x Height 111.5mm
Weight	2,100g

As an arcade controller for Nintendo Switch, the Nintendo Switch compatible model of the "Fighting Stick mini" introduced above or this "8BitDo Arcade Stick for Switch & PC" would be a good choice. This arcade controller seems to be made by 8BitDo, which is famous for its retro controllers, and many people may feel attached to the retro look of this arcade controller as well. Its compact size makes it easy to use.

The dedicated software "8BitDo Ultimate Software" can be used to customize the functions of the levers and buttons in detail, and a macro function that allows two actions to be registered is also included. The levers and buttons are equipped as standard, but can be changed to levers and buttons made by other manufacturers. The ability to automatically change button layouts is also appreciated. It can also be played wirelessly, as it can be connected via Bluetooth or a 2.4GHz USB receiver as well as wired.

Recommended lever-less arcade controllers

Victrix Pro FS-12

Price	57,728 yen (including tax)
Manufacturer	Performance Designed Products
Supported Models	PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC
Size	480mm (width) x 340mm (depth) x 120mm (height)
Weight	4,680g

The "Victrix Pro FS-12" is a lever-less model of the "Victrix Pro FS" introduced above. For details, please refer to the "Victrix Pro FS" section.

Many places introduce the "Hit Box Arcade" as a lever-less arcade controller, but it should be noted that the "Hit Box Arcade" cannot be used with PS5 without modification. However, it is possible to make it usable by yourself by using a kit sold on the official website, so there is no problem if you choose one with that understanding.

Razer Kitsune

Price	48,880 yen (including tax)
Manufacturer	Razer
Supported Models	PlayStation 5, PC
Size: 296 mm (W) x 210 mm (D) x 192 mm (H)	296mm (W) x 210mm (D) x 192mm (H)
Weight	815g

The Razer Kitsune is a leverless acetylene by Razer, a well-known manufacturer of gaming devices. What is distinctive in appearance is the lighting, which can be described as a gaming accelebrity. It is compatible with RAZER CHROMA RGB, which can be customized to suit the user's fighting style through various color combinations and effects.

Performance has not been compromised either, with an advanced, high-precision quad-movement button layout and highly responsive linear thin optical switches that reduce input errors during play. It is also just A4 in size, weighs less than 1 kg, and has a detachable USB Type-C cable for easy portability. There is also a "Street Fighter 6" Chun-Li Edition and Cammy Edition available for a slightly higher price of 53,880 yen (tax included).

JunkFood Custom Arcades SnackBox MICRO

Price	48,400 yen (tax included)
Manufacturer	JunkFood Custom Arcades
Compatible Models	PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Switch, PC, Android, Steam Deck
Dimensions	253mm (width) x 133mm (depth) x 150mm (height)
Weight	363g

The SnackBox series was commercialized by American gaming device manufacturer JunkFood Custom Arcades by compiling requests from the gaming community. The "SnackBox MICRO" is one of the smallest leverless controllers in its class. The compact and slim design is tablet-sized and ultra-lightweight at 363g, making it easy to carry and store.

The buttons are equipped with "Amber," the fastest class of low-profile mechanical switches. Compared to ordinary low-profile switches, the actuation point is 0.5mm shorter, maximizing its power in fighting games where split-second operation speed directly affects victory or defeat. Furthermore, the switch components can be customized without unscrewing, and the various switch functions and artwork (faceplate) can be customized using a dedicated application. This is a unit that allows users to pursue their own preferred operability and appearance.