Best Arcade Fight Stick For Fighting Games
In recent years, fighting games have become increasingly popular, with an increasing player base and eSports coverage. Therefore, the Best Arcade fight sticks are now more important.
For seasoned enthusiasts, arcade fight sticks are essential, but new players need guidance to choose the right one. These games are designed with fight sticks in mind, enabling you to execute epic moves and string combos together to crush your opponent.
Our team has extensively researched and tested these arcade fight sticks. We’ve compiled a list of the best arcade fight sticks for fighting games to assist you.
Editor’s Choice – Top 3 Picks
Top 10 Best Arcade Fight Sticks for Fighting Games
We’ve included their unique features, pros, and cons to help you quickly find what you need to dominate action-based fighting games. Keep reading to discover more.
- High-end pro fight stick for PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 and PC
- Opens for easy customization and maintenance
- Replaceable top-panel artwork
- Hayabusa buttons and joystick
- Officially Licensed by Sony
To be the very best, you must have the very best. HORI stands out for always putting out quality fight sticks in the fighting stick manufacturers and is loved by professionals as well. The Real Arcade Pro N Hayabusa is a testament to HORI’s capabilities.
The HORI Real Arcade Pro N Hayabusa looks simply stunning, with the stock version coming in black with gold and silver accents. All you need to do is unscrew and screw, and you’re done. We loved the experience, and its durability was excellent.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | PC, PS4, PS3 |
| Colour | Black with gold and silver accents |
| Build Quality | Thick and firmly built with durable materials |
| Customization | Plexiglass layer on top for easy artwork customization |
| Button Layout | – L3, R3, PS Home, and Turbo buttons in a separate section on the top panel – 4 PS4 buttons – L1, L2, R1, and R2 buttons – Start/Options button located away from primary keys on the left |
| Button Type | Hayabusa grade (Can be easily swapped to Sanwa buttons) |
| Responsiveness | All buttons are very responsive |
| Noise Level | Hayabusa buttons are quieter compared to Sanwa buttons |
These buttons are all Hayabusa grades and not Sanwa, which are also remarkable but noisier, which could be annoying. However, you can easily swap to Sanwa buttons in this fighting stick.
- Highly responsive buttons
- Relatively easy to add custom artwork
- Ergonomic design aids in both four-button and 6button-fighting games
- The durable and solid build makes it last quite long
- Hayabusa buttons can feel a little loud to some players
- Sanwa buttons and stick with square gate
- Compatible with all video game titles for the PS3, PS4 and PC
- Braided, wired USB
- LED lighting.Stunning aluminum dragon scale interior
Whether it’s the best keyboard, mouse, phone, or fighting style, there is always that one pick that is exceptional. In the arcade fighting stick community, the Qanba Dragon Stick stands out.
It is among the most premium and expensive fight sticks, specially designed for professionals. Qanba Dragon offers everything you could want from a fight stick and takes it up a notch.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | PS3, PS4, PC |
| Build Material | High-grade aluminium body with plexiglass surface; durable plastic sides |
| Buttons | Sanwa OBSF-30s buttons |
| Joystick | Sanwa JLF joystick |
| Additional Buttons | PS Home, Share, Options, R3, and L3 buttons on top panel |
| Slider | Allows selection of arcade machine compatibility (PS3, PS4, PC) |
| LED Lights | Additional LED lights for enhanced aesthetics |
| Storage Space | Provides storage space for gamers |
| Customization | One-touch modding feature for easy customization |
| Artwork Swapping | Easy artwork-swapping capability |
| Size | Considered heavy and sizeable |
| Target Audience | Specially designed for professionals and enthusiasts |
| Price | Among the most premium and pricey fight sticks |
It is safe to say that the Qanba Dragon is one of the best-looking fight sticks of peak perfection.
This fight stick is primarily made of high-grade aluminium with plexiglass on the surface. The sides are made of complex and durable plastics, which add to its longevity.
You have the 4 PS4 buttons and L1, L2, R1, and R2. In the top section, there are additional buttons that you can use.
For starters, a slider helps the Qanba Dragon decide which cabinet arcade machine it is being used with- be it PS3, PS4, or PC. We had a great gaming experience due to the Sanwa buttons and joystick.
- Sanwa OBSF -30s buttons and Sanwa JLF joystick
- One-touch modding makes things easy
- Space inside for extra buttons or other things
- Peak performance with the buttons registering instantly
- Pretty expensive
Also Read: Mayflash F300 vs Mayflash F500
- PRECISE QUAD MOVEMENT BUTTON LAYOUT — By replacing a joystick with 4 movement buttons, enj…
- LOW-PROFILE LINEAR OPTICAL SWITCHES — Featuring a shorter actuation height for greater res…
- SLIM, PORTABLE FORM FACTOR — The arcade controller leverless design can be easily stored i…
- CABLE SECURITY CLASP AND TOURNAMENT LOCK SWITCH — With a built-in lock to fasten the cable…
- REMOVABLE ALUMINIUM TOP PLATE — From stunning Razer Customs vinyl wraps to creating a uniq…
- RAZER CHROMA RGB — With multiple color combinations and a suite of effects, customize the …
Is it surprising that Razer’s name has appeared in gaming peripherals? Razer has consistently produced quality products.
The Razer Panthera is more like an updated version of the Atrox than Razer’s previous fight stick. We encountered no previous flaws with the updated version, which has more mod options.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Compatibility | PlayStation (PS4 and PS3), PC (requires Xinput driver setup) |
| Build Material | Thicker and heavier plastic with a slightly tilted upward shape for comfortable hand placement |
| Joystick | Sanwa joystick |
| Buttons | Razer Akemi switches (similarly responsive to Sanwa buttons but with a different tactile feel) |
| Additional Buttons | L3, R3, Home, Options, and Touchpad buttons on the top panel |
| Button Layout | Taito Viewlix layout (buttons close together for easy reach) |
| Customization | Hinged case design for easy removal and installation of custom artwork |
| Mod Options | Offers more mod options compared to the previous Atrox version |
| Compatibility (PC) | Compatible with PC after downloading Xinput driver |
| Panthera Driver | It has its dedicated Panthera driver for PC use, but setup may take some time. |
| Panthera vs Atrox | Panthera is an updated version of the Atrox with improvements |
| Price | Considered a premium product in Razer’s gaming peripherals lineup |
It is also compatible with Panthera’s driver, but it takes some time to set it up on a PC. You must download Xinput to have Panthera recognized.
Razer opted for the Sanwa joystick with the Panthera; however, the buttons are a different case. This time, the Razer fight stick uses the Razer Akemi switches. These are just as responsive and fast as Sanwa buttons, and they are registered as soon as the circuit is completed.
However, I wouldn’t say I liked one little thing about the Razer Akemi switches: they have almost no bump. While they are swift, the feel of a button just being registered without giving a slight pushback feel isn’t that satisfying. After spending the big bucks on the Panthera Razer fight stick, you’ll want to be able to make it your own by adding a personal touch.
- Razer Akemi switches,s and the Sanwa joystick is very responsive
- Ergonomic Design improves comfort levels for long-term use
- Modding and customization are made easy
- Plenty of space to rest your hands
- PC compatibility is a bit of a drag
- Compatible with PlayStation5, PlayStation4, and PC
- has switch to change between PS5, PS4, and PC
- Officially licensed Sony peripheral
- Full control panel, touch pad, Qanba 30-mm OBSF buttons, and swappable Sanwa JLF joystick …
- 3.5-mm microphone input with mute button control
Qanba is a well-known name among the fight stick community. The Dragon has already reserved the spot as the second-best on this list.
It targets the medium-priced fight sticks that deserve good praise in the gaming community for beginners.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Design | LED side lights, metallic ball joystick |
| Controls | Easy-access top panel buttons |
| Lighting | LED control button on top |
| Storage | Side wire compartment, 3.5mm jack |
| Parts | Sanwa OBSF buttons, JLF joystick |
| Layout | Vewlix style like Qanba Dragon |
| Extra Buttons | Options, Share, Turbo controls |
| Modding | Mod-friendly but needs tools |
Quick Features:
- Premium Sanwa parts
- Built-in LED lighting
- Storage compartment
- Audio jack included
- Professional layout
- Sanwa Denshi buttons and joystick
- Square-gated joystick
- A very sleek and well-designed fight stick
- LED lights on the sides, which can be changed through the button
- Modding is not as easy as other fight sticks
- Genuine Arcade Layout: This PS4 FightStick uses extremely accurate and durable Sanwa Densh…
- Easy to Mod: Chassis hinges open for clear access to inner parts. Removable bezel and top …
- Ideal for ALL Fighting Games: Multiplayer action in Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, Persona…
- Touchpad Controls: Press and swipe with full touchpad functionality for PlayStation 4 syst…
- Enhanced Mobility: Inner compartment stores removable 9.8ft/3m USB ProCable. Our custom ar…
Mad Catz arcade fighting stick has had a very high mantle to stand on for a long time. It has gone out of business; thus, no more TES+ fight sticks are being made.
Quick Points:
- Quality parts
- Comfortable size
- Good value
- Extra buttons
- Solid weight
Potential Issues:
- Tricky panel removal
- Complex customization
- Warranty Concerns
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rating | 6th ranked, good value |
| Design | Black/gold, compact size |
| Build | Good weight, lap-friendly |
| Layout | Classic Vewlix style |
| Parts | Sanwa-grade quality |
| Controls | L3, R3, touchpad + 8 buttons |
| Art | Nice stock design |
| Mod Options | Possible but warranty risk |
- A 3-way operation for the joystick
- Sanwa buttons and joystick
- Low latency with the USB cable
- The top panel is a little bit flimsy
- Modding is difficult
- Classic designs from Street Fighter
- Compatible with Nintendo Switch & Windows PC
- HORI original Hayabusa stick & buttons
- Featuring Chun-Li artwork
- Officially Licensed by Nintendo & Capcom
The HORI Nintendo Switch Real Arcade Pro is the next fight stick on our list. This one is a stepped-down version of the HORI Real Arcade Pro Hayabusa.
However, it is still a decent option for those interested. As its name suggests, this Nintendo Switch arcade stick is designed primarily for the Switch.
Features 🎮🕹️
- Ideal for Limited Switch Games 🎮:
- It’s a great option for the current selection of arcade-style games on Nintendo Switch.
- Nintendo is expanding its compatible game library.
- Compact and Efficient Design 🛠️:
- Small, miniaturized fight stick with a straightforward layout.
- Follows the design of the RAP series by HORI.
- Button Layout and Features 🔘:
- Features 9 buttons, compared to the usual 8 on most PS4 sticks.
- All main buttons are easily accessible on the front.
- Weight Consideration ⚖️:
- They are lighter than typical fight sticks.
- It may pose control challenges when used on the lap.
- High-Quality Components 🌟:
- Equipped with Hayabusa joystick and buttons.
- Appreciated for their responsiveness and quality.
- Simple Yet Effective Design 🎨:
- Straightforward with a creative colour scheme.
- Excellent build quality despite its simplicity.
- Specifically Designed for Switch 🕹️:
- Tailored for Nintendo Switch limitations and game selection.
- Price may not feel justified due to these limitations.
The HORI Nintendo Switch Real Arcade Pro offers a simple yet effective solution for Switch users, though its light weight and current game limitations might be factors to consider. It stands out for its quality build and specialized design for Switch gaming. 🏆🎮
- High-quality Hayabusa buttons
- It comes in different colour schemes and Artwork, which improves the looks.
- Rather expensive
- Modding is a bit of a hassle
- No 3.5mm audio jack
- Compatible with PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3 & PC; USB wired connection
- Officially licensed Sony peripheral; Authentic Qanba buttons & stick
- Antislip bottom pad; LED indicators for MODE & Turbo
- Tournament LOCK switch; Honeycomb-inspired design
With just over 80 bucks, you get the Qanba Drone fight stick. It is an entry-level fight stick that most fighting game enthusiasts start with.
Features 🎮🥊
- Lightweight and Portable 💼:
- Compensates for its small size with portability.
- Ideal for gamers on the go.
- Best Budget Option 💲:
- Offers great value for its price.
- It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious gamers.
- Stability vs. Portability Trade-off ⚖️:
- Lighter weight may affect stability during play.
- It is easier to transport due to its compact size.
- Solid Build Quality 🛠️:
- Well-constructed and durable.
- Features a convenient compartment for cable storage.
- Quality Components 🌟:
- It is equipped with Sanwa Denshi buttons and a Sanwa joystick.
- Square-gated joystick with optimal resistance.
- Decent Controls for Entry-Level 🕹️:
- Suitable for beginners or entry-level players.
- There is good resistance in the buttons and joystick.
- Versatile Compatibility 🎮:
- Includes a slider for switching between PS4 and PS3.
- Lacks direct PC connectivity.
- Tournament-Ready Features 🏆:
- Includes a button lock feature for competitive play.
- Prevents accidental presses during tournaments.
The Qanba Drone Fight Stick is a budget-friendly, portable option with decent controls and solid construction, making it a smart choice for entry-level players and those seeking a lightweight fight stick. 🚀🕹️🎉
- Sanwa buttons and joystick
- Quite an inexpensive price tag
- PC connectivity is a drag
- Lacks the weight
- Modding can be a bit of an arduous task
- Compatible with Switch, PS4, PS3, Xbox Series S/X, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PC Windows, macOS, …
- Compatible with Sanwa Denshi buttons and joystick that is perfect for customization
- Supports the XINPUT and DINPUT when being used on PC
- Supports the Turbo functions with different speed settings.
- F300 is compatible with PS5 by MAYFLASH Magic-S Ultimate adapter or third party PS4 Contro…
Mayflash F300, another entry-level fight stick for beginners. With its universal compatibility and ease of use in the wallet.
The Mayflash F300 gets many things right. It’s a good budget pick not only for PS4 but for PC as well.
Features 🎮🥊
- Affordable and Basic Design 💲:
- Simple, no-frills design reflecting its budget-friendly price.
- Functional yet lacks aesthetic flair.
- Convenient Size with Light Weight 📏:
- It is easy to place on the lap due to its decent size.
- Lighter weight, which might affect stability during play.
- Solid Build Quality 🛠️:
- Durable construction ensures longevity with proper care.
- Capable of withstanding regular use.
- Beginner-Level Specifications 👶:
- Targeted at those new to fight sticks.
- Non-Sanwa buttons and joystick.
- Button Feel and Responsiveness 🔘:
- Buttons may feel mushy and less tactile.
- Lack of satisfying feedback during gameplay.
- Portability Advantage 🎒:
- Lightweight and easy to transport.
- Suitable for gamers on the move.
- Comfort Concerns for Extended Play ✋:
- It might become uncomfortable for hands during long gaming sessions.
- Universal Compatibility 🌐:
- Works with PCs, PS4, PS3, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Android.
- Adds value through versatile pairing options.
The Mayflash F300, with its solid build and universal compatibility, serves as an entry-level fight stick for beginners looking to experience arcade-style play without a hefty investment. However, it may fall short in button quality and comfort for extended use. 🕹️🌟🎉
- Very inexpensive
- Universally compatible
- Stock buttons feel mushy and not as responsive
- The size is relatively small
- Not comfortable for prolonged use
- Small Form Factor Fight Stick featuring an 8-button layout and 8ft. cable
- Great for both Arcade and Fighting Games
- Compact, lightweight and portable design
At the very least, we again have another fight stick by HORI. This one is as small as they come and boasts a very cheap price tag, making it a good option for budget fight HORI arcade sticks. But does it live up to its name and do what it intends to do?
Features 🎮🥊
- Ultra-Compact Size 📏:
- Almost as small as a Nintendo Switch.
- It is designed for wrist comfort despite its small size.
- Essential Button Layout 🔘:
- It features an 8-button design, including L1, L2, R1, and R2.
- Focused on providing just the essential controls.
- Decent Stock Buttons and Joystick 🕹️:
- It’s not Sanwa Denshi quality, but it’s still decent for stock components.
- Buttons may feel a bit soft and mushy.
- Limited Modding Potential 🔧:
- Customization is not feasible due to soldered buttons and shallow cases.
- Not suitable for modding enthusiasts.
- Ideal for Smaller Hands ✋:
- Size is advantageous for people with smaller hands.
- It might be less comfortable for others.
- Basic Top Panel Features 🎚️:
- Includes PS Home, Options, and Share buttons.
- Lacks a touchpad and Turbo button.
- Non-Remappable Buttons ❌:
- R3 and L3 buttons are non-functional due to lack of remapping.
- Limits the versatility of the fight stick.
With its ultra-compact size and essential button layout, the Hori Fighting Stick Mini caters to those who prefer a smaller, more straightforward fight stick, particularly suitable for users with smaller hands. Still, she lacks the flexibility and features of larger models. 🚀🎉👾
- Very portable and light
- The cheap price tag makes it affordable for all
- Buttons can not be remapped, so R3 and L3 can’t be used.
- No room for customization or modding
- No Turbo mode
What to Consider While Buying the Best Arcade Fight Sticks for Fighting Games
There is no better way to execute a special combo of moves and tricks than arcade sticks. Qanba, HORI, Mayflash, and Razer are great companies known in the market for fighting arcade sticks.
You will find two main countries that manufacture arcade sticks: Japan and Korea. They are the main suppliers in this niche. You can find every type of arcade stick. That is why we will mention a few unique pointers you could consider before buying top fight sticks that appeal most to you from the list above.
| Feature | Description | Importance/Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Size & Weight: | – Portable: compact size, lightweight (easier to carry).
– Plate: larger size, heavier weight (more hand space). |
High: Affects portability and comfort. |
| Platform Compatibility: | – Multi-platform: connects to various consoles.
– Console-specific: limited to one console. |
Medium: Choose based on the intended platform(s). |
| Button & Joystick Layout: | – Standard: most familiar button arrangement.
– Customizable: buttons on different sides, joystick shapes. |
Medium: Prioritize the layout you’re comfortable with. |
| Customization/Modding: | – Upgradeable: change joystick, buttons, parts.
– Non-upgradable: fixed components. |
Low-Medium: Important for customization enthusiasts. |
| Skill Level: | – Beginner: budget-friendly, entry-level options.
– Advanced: premium quality, spacious sticks. |
Medium: Match your skill level and budget. |
| Wired vs Wireless: | – Wired: USB connection, limited movement.
– Wireless: battery/Bluetooth, more movement freedom. |
Medium: Choose based on desired mobility. |
| Price: | – Range: $140-$200+.
– Budget-friendly: moderate quality and functionality. – Premium: high-end materials, advanced features. |
High: Determines affordability and feature set. |
Additional Tips
- Brand Reputations: Consider reputable brands for quality and support.
- Personal Preferences: Prioritize features that matter most to you.
- Warranty: Check coverage for potential repairs or replacements.
- Research & Reviews: Read reviews and compare options before buying.
Remember, the perfect arcade stick depends on your needs, preferences, and budget. Choose wisely and enjoy the competitive edge!
Conclusion
This list shows you what fight sticks are available for your PC, PS3, PS4, and other gaming consoles.
Some are very expensive and thus perform equally well. At the same time, budgeted picks are available for those who want to try the best arcade fight sticks and familiarize themselves with them.
- Our top recommendation would be “Real Arcade Pro N Hayabusa.” It has everything a gamer looks for in an arcade fighting stick. The stick’s built quality, the buttons’ performance, and the customization a gamer looks for. Its versatility and ease of use are another bonus.
- Second, we recommend the “Qanba Dragon fight stick,” which stands out among others. It has a very hefty price tag, but the question arises: Does the Qanba Dragon justify that price tag? With all that it offers, whether in terms of performance, quality, modding, or other factors, it sure does.
- Finally, we would suggest going for “RAZER PANTHERA: Fully Mod-Capable – Sanwa Joystick and Buttons” because the modding is pretty simple, even though you don’t have to. This arcade fighter stick is compatible with all PlayStation consoles and PCs, but it requires some hard work.
This list will prove sufficient for you regardless of your mindset for arcade fight sticks.
Please read it carefully and see which fight stick is for you. You will also be able to pinpoint your ideal arcade fighting stick with the help of our buying guide tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fight stick?
Fight sticks are special, tailor-made game controllers designed for arcade fighting games. The games are designed with arcade fight sticks in mind, so their moves and options are designed with them in mind.
They usually have an 8-way button design and a joystick. However, some models are available without a joystick.
How do I get better with a fight stick?
It may seem very difficult for those just starting their hands-on fight sticks. However, time and practice are everyone’s friends. It would be best if you remembered that games like Tekken and Street Fighter were made to be played on these fight sticks.
So, if you stick with them and practice your hand on them, you’ll quickly become better at them.
How do I hold a fight stick?
There is no “proper” way to hold and use a fight stick. It all comes down to how comfortable and easy it is to use it. Many people can’t grasp a grip that another can quickly master.
The most generic way of holding and using a fight stick is holding the joystick with your palm facing up as if you have a glass.
Use your other hand for the buttons and press them with your fingertips to switch between buttons easily and quickly. However, again, this is just one way of doing it. Practice, and you may find a method that makes working with a fight stick significantly easier.
Are fight sticks better than controllers?
There are different game types; each requires a right stick or a controller. There is a rift between the controller, keyboard, and mouse for an FPS game.
Arcade cabinet games were first introduced on machines with these arcade fight sticks. Playing games with arcade fighting sticks is always ideal because these let you perform exceptionally well compared to controllers.
Where can I buy new fight sticks?
Although the purpose of the fight stick is narrow, it is still very popular in the gaming community. You can buy arcade fighting sticks from the manufacturer’s website or Amazon.
If you prefer to do your shopping on your own, you can go to a local game store and browse through their collection. You will not have issues finding these fight sticks as they are readily available.
