Building a retro game cabinet is easier when the controls are matched, responsive, and simple to wire. A good two player arcade joystick controller kit can turn a basic PC, Raspberry Pi, or MAME setup into a much more authentic arcade experience.
Below, you’ll find the best options for two-player builds in 2026, with a focus on button quality, encoder reliability, LED lighting, and overall value.
Best 10 Two Player Arcade Joystick Controller Picks for 2026
Red/Blue LED DIY Kit
Hikig 2-Player Arcade Joysticks & Buttons
- 2 joysticks and 20 LED buttons
- Zero-delay USB encoder included
- Easy-install DIY arcade parts
Best For: DIY builders wanting a colorful two-player LED kit
Classic Cabinet Parts
EG STARTS 2-Player Joystick & Button Kit
- 2 8-way joysticks and 18 buttons
- Zero-delay USB PCB with auto-fire
- Microswitches tested to 10,000,000 cycles
Best For: Cabinet builders needing a durable two-player control kit
Oval Handle LED Set
- 2 oval joystick handles included
- 20 LED-lit buttons for two players
- Zero-delay USB encoder for PC builds
Best For: DIY builders who want ergonomic oval sticks and LED buttons
Raspberry Pi LED Bundle
Arcade Kits 2-Player USB Encoder Set
- 2 joysticks and 2 USB encoders
- LED buttons plus player/coin inputs
- Works with Windows and Raspberry Pi projects
Best For: Retro builders who want a full two-player panel bundle
Premium LED 2-Player Build Kit
Fosiya Oval 8-Way Joystick Set
- 2 joysticks, 2 encoders, 20 LED buttons
- Oval 8-way sticks for arcade controls
- Built for MAME, PC, and Raspberry Pi DIY
Best For: DIY builders wanting a full illuminated two-player arcade parts kit
Multi-Platform DIY LED Kit
Qenker Blue & Red 2-Player Set
- 2 joysticks, 20 LED buttons, 2 encoders
- Zero-delay USB support for responsive play
- Works with Windows, Linux, Mac, Android, and Raspberry Pi
Best For: DIY retro setups needing broad compatibility
Chrome LED Arcade Kit
EG STARTS 2-Player Contest Set
- 2 joysticks, 2 encoders, 19 chrome LED buttons
- Zero-delay design for Windows and retro builds
- Fits MAME, JAMMA, and Raspberry Pi projects
Best For: Builders who want a chrome-look two-player LED arcade kit
LED Dual-Player DIY Kit
- 2 joysticks plus 20 LED buttons
- Includes 2 USB encoders
- Built for PC, MAME, and Raspberry Pi
Best For: Illuminated 2-player arcade DIY builds
Mixed-Color DIY Stick Kit
- Includes encoder, joystick, buttons, and cables
- Designed for PC and Windows
- 8-way joystick for arcade control
Best For: Simple USB arcade DIY setups
Zero-Delay LED Starter Kit
- 2 zero-delay encoders and 2 joysticks
- 20 LED buttons for a full 2-player build
- Supports Windows, MAME, and Raspberry Pi
Best For: Beginner-friendly illuminated arcade builds
Red/Blue LED DIY Kit – Hikig 2-Player Arcade Joysticks & Buttons
If you want a two player arcade joystick controller kit for a full DIY build, this Hikig set gives you the core parts in one box. It includes two joysticks and 20 LED arcade buttons, plus a zero-delay USB encoder, making it a straightforward option for MAME or Raspberry Pi projects on Windows systems.
Best For: Builders who want a colorful 2-player LED arcade kit for a DIY cabinet or controller project.
Pros:
- Includes 2 joysticks and 20 LED arcade buttons for a complete two-player layout
- 100% zero-delay encoder with USB support for Windows systems
- Made from high temperature resistant plastic and metal/plastic materials
- Designed for easy installation in DIY arcade builds
Cons:
- Primarily aimed at DIY users rather than plug-and-play setups
- Listed for Windows support, so platform fit should be checked for other systems
This is a practical starter kit if you want a bright, two-player arcade joystick controller package with LED buttons and the basic wiring hardware included. It fits best when you’re building your own retro game panel and want a simple parts set rather than individual components.
Classic Cabinet Parts – EG STARTS 2-Player Joystick & Button Kit
This two player arcade joystick controller kit is built for users assembling or replacing controls in a MAME cabinet. It includes two 8-way joysticks, 18 arcade push buttons, and a zero-delay USB interface PCB, so it covers the essentials for a basic two-player control panel.
Best For: Cabinet builders and repair projects that need a reliable USB control set with start buttons included.
Pros:
- Includes 2 joysticks, 18 arcade buttons, and 1P/2P start buttons
- Zero-delay USB interface PCB is designed for PC game use
- Microswitches are included and tested to 10,000,000 cycles
- Supports auto-fire mode for arcade-style play
Cons:
- Best suited to cabinet or panel installation, not a finished standalone controller
- 1-1/8" mounting requirement may limit compatibility with some panels
As a parts kit, this is a sensible pick when durability and cabinet compatibility matter more than visual extras. It gives you the standard controls needed for a dependable two-player arcade joystick controller setup on a PC-based arcade project.
Oval Handle LED Set – EG STARTS 2-Player Arcade Kit
If you’re shopping for a two player arcade joystick controller with a more distinctive stick style, this EG STARTS kit stands out with oval joystick handles and 20 LED-lit buttons. It’s positioned as an easy-install DIY MAME accessory that uses a zero-delay encoder and USB support for Windows and PC builds.
Best For: DIY arcade projects that want LED buttons and ergonomic oval joystick handles.
Pros:
- Includes 2 oval joystick handles and 20 LED-lit arcade buttons
- Zero-delay encoder and USB support for Windows/PC use
- Made with high temperature resistant plastic
- Advertised as ergonomic and easy to install
Cons:
- Designed for DIY assembly rather than a ready-made controller
- Bundle focuses on core parts, so final setup still requires building
This kit is a good choice if you want the look and feel of an arcade panel with LED accents and a slightly different joystick shape. For a custom two-player arcade joystick controller build, it offers a clean parts list without unnecessary extras.
Raspberry Pi LED Bundle – Arcade Kits 2-Player USB Encoder Set
This two player arcade joystick controller bundle is aimed at DIY cabinet and fighting game builds on Windows or Raspberry Pi platforms. It includes two 5-pin joysticks, two USB encoders, and a large set of LED push buttons, including player and coin buttons, so it’s geared toward a fuller arcade panel layout.
Best For: Retro gaming projects that need a two-player control set with coin buttons and LED lighting.
Pros:
- Includes 2 joysticks, 2 USB controllers, and 2 USB encoders
- Comes with 16 LED buttons plus player and coin buttons in the kit description
- Zero-delay USB encoders are listed as working with Windows systems
- Suitable for Raspberry Pi, MAME, and fighting stick projects
Cons:
- Technical notes use slightly different button counts, so the exact layout should be double-checked
- Designed for DIY installation rather than out-of-box use
If you want a parts-heavy package for a custom arcade panel, this bundle covers a lot of the basics in one purchase. It makes sense for builders who want a two player arcade joystick controller with LED buttons and coin inputs for a more authentic arcade setup.
Premium LED 2-Player Build Kit – Fosiya Oval 8-Way Joystick Set
If you want a two player arcade joystick controller kit with bright, readable controls, this Fosiya set is built for a complete LED-heavy DIY setup. It includes two 5-pin joysticks, two USB encoders, and 20 larger LED buttons, making it a practical choice for MAME, Raspberry Pi, Windows PC, and other fighting-game cabinets.
Best For: Builders who want a full 2-player illuminated kit with oval 8-way joysticks and coin buttons.
Pros:
- Includes 2 joysticks, 2 USB encoders, and 20 LED buttons for a full two-player layout.
- Oval 8-way joysticks and illuminated buttons suit arcade-style and fighting-game play.
- 5V LED buttons are rated for long life and tested to 3,000,000 cycles.
- Designed for DIY MAME, Jamma, Windows PC, and Raspberry Pi projects.
Cons:
- Requires a DIY build rather than offering a ready-to-play finished controller.
- Best value depends on whether you need the full LED button set.
This is a strong pick if your priority is a complete illuminated arcade parts kit with solid control hardware and a clearly defined two-player layout. The included coin buttons and dual encoders make it especially suitable for custom cabinet projects.
Multi-Platform DIY LED Kit – Qenker Blue & Red 2-Player Set
The Qenker kit is a straightforward two player arcade joystick controller bundle for retro cabinet builds that need zero-delay USB support. With two joysticks, 20 LED buttons, and two encoders, it is geared toward MAME and Raspberry Pi projects while also listing compatibility with Android, Linux, Mac, and PC.
Best For: DIY retro gaming setups that need a broad compatibility LED controller kit.
Pros:
- Includes 2 joysticks, 20 LED buttons, and 2 zero-delay USB encoders.
- Compatible with Windows, Android, Linux, Mac, PC, and Raspberry Pi.
- Designed for MAME and JAMMA-style two-player arcade projects.
- LED lighting and DIY-focused parts make it suitable for custom builds.
Cons:
- This is a parts kit, so it is not a finished plug-and-play controller.
- Button colors are fixed to the blue and red kit configuration.
For builders who want broad platform support and a simple zero-delay setup, this Qenker kit covers the essentials without extra complexity. It is a practical option when you need a dependable LED arcade parts package for a two-player cabinet.
Chrome LED Arcade Kit – EG STARTS 2-Player Contest Set
This EG STARTS bundle is a two player arcade joystick controller kit aimed at builders who want chrome LED buttons and a simple USB encoder setup. It includes two 5-pin joysticks, two encoders, and 19 chrome LED buttons, making it a solid match for MAME, Raspberry Pi, and Windows-based arcade projects.
Best For: DIY cabinet builders who want chrome LED buttons and a compact two-player control set.
Pros:
- Includes 2 joysticks, 2 USB encoders, and 19 chrome LED buttons.
- Zero-delay USB encoder design is described as working well with Windows systems.
- Suited to MAME, JAMMA, and Raspberry Pi 2/3/3B projects.
- Chrome LED illuminated buttons give the build a distinctive look.
Cons:
- Only 19 buttons are included, so layout needs may vary by build.
- Windows compatibility is highlighted more directly than other platforms.
If you want a compact control kit with a chrome finish and LED illumination, this EG STARTS set is an easy fit for a custom arcade build. The smaller button count may appeal to simpler two-player layouts that do not need a larger accessory bundle.
LED Dual-Player DIY Kit – Fosiya Oval 8-Way Arcade Set
If you want a two player arcade joystick controller kit with a bright, plug-in-ready layout, this Fosiya set is built for Windows PC, MAME, and Raspberry Pi builds. It combines two oval-style 8-way joysticks with 20 LED buttons and USB encoders, making it a practical choice for a DIY cabinet or fight-stick project.
Best For: Builders who want an illuminated 2-player kit with included encoders and LED buttons for arcade DIY projects.
Pros:
- Includes 2 joysticks, 2 USB encoders, and 20 LED push buttons for a complete 2-player setup.
- Uses high-quality 8-way oval-style joysticks for standard arcade control.
- 5V illuminated buttons are rated for long life and tested to 3,000,000 cycles.
- Made for Windows PC, MAME, Raspberry Pi, and other fighting game DIY builds.
Cons:
- It is a DIY parts kit, so assembly is required.
- Limited to the included red and blue kit styling.
This kit stands out if you want an all-in-one illuminated parts bundle rather than buying joysticks, buttons, and encoders separately. The emphasis on LED lighting and included wiring pieces makes it especially appealing for first-time cabinet builders who want a straightforward parts list.
Mixed-Color DIY Stick Kit – SJ@JX 2-Player Arcade Bundle
For buyers shopping for a two player arcade joystick controller kit with a simple USB hookup, this SJ@JX bundle covers the basics for a PC or Windows build. It includes one encoder, one joystick, ten buttons, cables, and mixed-color parts, so it works as a compact DIY starting point for arcade projects.
Best For: DIY builders who want a straightforward USB arcade kit for PC and Windows setups.
Pros:
- Comes with an encoder, joystick, buttons, USB cable, and wiring cables in one package.
- Compatible with PC and Windows systems.
- Uses an 8-way joystick for arcade-style control.
- Button and screw-hole dimensions are listed, which helps with planning the build.
Cons:
- The listed kit contents are smaller than a full two-player cabinet bundle.
- It is described as a DIY kit, so installation and wiring are on the buyer.
This is a practical option if you want a parts kit rather than a feature-heavy illuminated bundle. The included cabling and clearly stated dimensions make it easier to match with an existing project enclosure or custom panel.
Zero-Delay LED Starter Kit – Easyget 2-Player White Set
If you want a two player arcade joystick controller package that focuses on easy setup, this Easyget kit is built around zero-delay USB encoders and LED buttons. It is aimed at PC, Windows, MAME, and Raspberry Pi arcade DIY projects, and the package includes two joysticks and 20 LED buttons for a full 2-player build.
Best For: Builders who want a beginner-friendly LED arcade kit with zero-delay encoders and complete 2-player coverage.
Pros:
- Includes 2 zero-delay USB encoders, 2 joysticks, and 20 LED arcade buttons.
- Supports Windows XP, 7, 8, and 10, plus PC, MAME, and Raspberry Pi use.
- Features a professional 4/8-way switchable joystick design with a 35mm ball-top handle.
- Designed so wiring to the LED buttons is more plug-and-play.
Cons:
- The kit is still a DIY project and requires assembly.
- Color selection is limited to the white/mixed kit style shown.
This kit is the most setup-friendly of the three if your priority is reducing wiring friction. The zero-delay encoders and full LED button set make it a strong choice for users who want a responsive, complete starter bundle for an arcade cabinet build.
How We Picked the Best Two Player Arcade Joystick Controller
We focused on the parts that matter most in a Two Player Arcade Joystick Controller: encoder stability, joystick feel, button count, wiring simplicity, and compatibility with common DIY platforms like PC, MAME, and Raspberry Pi. Kits with complete wiring, dual-player support, and enough buttons for standard arcade layouts ranked higher.
Quick Comparison
Most of these kits fall into three groups: basic zero-delay bundles for simple plug-and-play builds, LED-lit kits for more visual impact, and more complete sets that include coin/start controls and extra wiring options. If you want the easiest install, choose a kit with clear USB encoder support. If you want a more polished cabinet, look for illuminated buttons and durable joystick assemblies.
Key Buying Factors for a Two Player Arcade Joystick Controller
Encoder Type
Zero-delay and USB encoder boards are the safest choice for most builders because they reduce input lag and work well with Windows-based arcade software. Check whether the kit includes one encoder per player or a shared setup.
Joystick Style
Most kits use 8-way joysticks, which are ideal for fighters, beat-’em-ups, and many classic arcade games. Pay attention to the handle shape and microswitch quality if you care about precision and comfort during longer sessions.
Button Layout
Think about how many action buttons you need per player, plus Start and Coin buttons. A Two Player Arcade Joystick Controller should support your target game library without forcing awkward remapping.
Build Compatibility
Confirm the kit fits your cabinet size, panel thickness, and power needs. LED buttons usually require extra wiring attention, while basic non-lit kits are faster to install and easier to troubleshoot.
Who Should Buy Which Two Player Arcade Joystick Controller?
Beginners should look for complete kits with pre-matched encoders, joysticks, buttons, and wiring harnesses. Raspberry Pi and MAME users should prioritize broad compatibility and straightforward USB setup. If you’re upgrading a showpiece cabinet, LED-lit kits offer a better visual finish. For the best value, choose a bundle that includes all player controls in one package so you avoid buying missing parts separately.
In short, the best Two Player Arcade Joystick Controller is the one that balances feel, compatibility, and installation complexity for your build. Match the kit to your hardware first, then choose lighting, style, and extras based on your budget and cabinet goals.