Last Updated on by William J. Lopez
In recent years, the popularity of fighting games has surged, with an increasing player base and eSports coverage. Best Arcade fight sticks are now more important to have.
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.
Top 10 Best Arcade Fight Sticks for Fighting Gamesin 2024
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.
1. HORI Real Arcade Pro N Hayabusa Arcade Fight Stick for PS4 & PS3
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
2. Qanba Dragon Joystick for PS4, PS3 & PC (Fighting Stick)
Be it the best keyboard, mouse, phone, or fight style, there is always that one pick that goes over the top. In the arcade fight stick community, the Qanba Dragon Stick stands out.
It is among the most premium and pricey fight sticks and is specially designed for professionals. Qanba Dragon takes everything you could ever 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. The material used to build this fight stick is primarily high-grade aluminium with plexiglass on the surface. Complex and durable plastics are on the sides, adding to this fight stick’s 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
3. RAZER PANTHERA: Fully Mod-Capable – Sanwa Joystick and Buttons
Is it surprising that Razer’s name has popped up in gaming peripherals? Razer has been putting out quality products time after time.
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 |
This Panthera stick, just like the Atrox, is a PlayStation fight stick. However it is also compatible with Panthera’s driver, but it takes some time to set it up with a PC. You have to download Xinput to have the 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, 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
4. Qanba Obsidian Joystick for PS4, PS3 & PC (Fighting Stick)
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.
- 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
5. HORI Fighting Edge Arcade Fighting Stick for PlayStation 4
The HORI arcade sticks are known for being well-liked in the arcade gaming community. For a long time, gamers have repeatedly opted for the HORI arcade sticks because they have always been reliable and trustworthy.
- Simple and minimalistic Design
- Shorter Hayabusa buttons make for less actuation time
- Remap buttons however you wish
- Hayabusa buttons have a somewhat looser feel.
- The top panel is not tightly fit to wiggle around during intense gaming sessions.
6. Mad Catz Street Fighter V Arcade FightStick TES+
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.
- 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
7. HORI Nintendo Switch Real Arcade Pro
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 still is a decent option for those interested. As its name suggests, this Nintendo Switch arcade stick is designed primarily for Switch.
- 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
8. Qanba Drone Joystick for PS4 and PS3 & PC (Fighting Stick)
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.
- 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
9. Mayflash F300 Arcade Fight Stick
For the 9th entry in our list, we have the Mayflash F300, another entry-level fight stick for beginners. With its universal compatibility and ease on 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 🎮🥊
- Very inexpensive
- Universally compatible
- Stock buttons feel mushy and not as responsive
- The size is relatively small
- Not comfortable for prolonged use
10. HORI Fighting Stick Mini 4 for PS4 & PS3
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 sticks. But does it live up to its name and do what it intends to do?
- 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 in 2024
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 manufacturing 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 high priced and thus perform equally well. At the same time, there are budgeted picks for those who want to try their hands at 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 comes with a very hefty price tag, but the question arises: Does the Qanba Dragon justify that price tag? With all that it offers, it sure does. Be it performance, quality, modding, or other factors.
- 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 with 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 to be played for arcade fighting games. These games are made with arcade fight sticks in mind, so their moves and options are set out with them in mind.
They usually come with an 8-way button design and a joystick. However, there are some models available that come without any 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 find yourself getting better at them in no time.
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.