Best 2 Player USB Arcade Controllers for DIY Arcade Machines
The rise of home arcade cabinets and DIY MAME setups has made two-player USB encoder kits a cornerstone for authentic, responsive arcade experiences. This guide highlights five reliable options that pair well with standard HAPP-style joysticks and arcade buttons, ensuring zero-delay play and easy integration with PC, Raspberry Pi, and RetroPie environments. Each product offers a compact encoder solution, robust wiring options, and straightforward installation for beginners and seasoned builders alike. Read on to compare features, compatibility, and practical use cases for creating an engaging two-player arcade system.
| Product | Brand | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Guwarry 2-Player Zero Delay USB Encoder PC to HAPP Joysticks/HAPP Arcade Buttons | Guwarry | 3 x 5V outputs, JST XH2.54 quick connects, daisy-chain for LEDs |
| Easyget 2 Player Zero Delay USB Encoder | Easyget | Zero Delay, PC and Raspberry Pi compatibility, DIY arcade device |
| SJ@JX Arcade Game Controller USB Encoder Zero Delay 2 Player | SJ@JX | Zero delay, two-player PC/MAME/Raspberry Pi ready |
| Guwarry 2-Player Zero Delay Generic Game Controller USB to Joystick | Guwarry | 2-player generic USB encoder, supports PC & Raspberry Pi |
| EG STARTS 2 Player Classic Arcade DIY Part Kit | EG STARTS | 8-way joystick, 18 x arcade buttons, LED-ready kits |
When selecting a two-player USB arcade encoder, consider latency, compatibility with your control panels, LED wiring needs, and how easy the kit is to wire into your existing joysticks and buttons. The options below emphasize zero-delay performance, wide system support, and clear wiring paths for LED and Daisy Chain configurations. This makes them suitable for playing classics like Pac-Man, Street Fighter, and other arcade staples on modern hardware.
Guwarry 2-Player Zero Delay USB Encoder
The Guwarry two-player encoder is designed for DIY arcade projects that use HAPP joysticks and HAPP arcade buttons. It features a zero-delay USB interface tailored for PC and Raspberry Pi setups, with three 5V outputs that power LED joysticks and LED daisy chains without requiring additional power sources. The JST XH2.54 quick-connect terminals simplify installation, helping builders achieve clean, reliable LED wiring and streamlined connectivity to common arcade parts.
Easyget 2 Player Zero Delay USB Encoder
Easyget offers a straightforward two-player zero-delay encoder intended for PC and Raspberry Pi DIY arcade builds. This encoder supports two players and is compatible with major emulation environments. It’s a practical choice for hobbyists who want a simple, reliable way to turn a standard control panel into a responsive arcade controller, enabling smooth inputs for MAME, RetroPie, and other arcade emulation projects.
SJ@JX Arcade Game Controller USB Encoder
SJ@JX presents a zero-delay encoder designed specifically for two-player configurations, compatible with PC, MAME, and Raspberry Pi DIY builds. The kit emphasizes fast response and reliable two-player operation, making it well-suited for classic arcade games with tight timing. Builders can pair this encoder with common arcade panels to achieve smooth, responsive action that rivals commercial cabinets.
Guwarry 2-Player Zero Delay Generic Encoder
This second Guwarry model targets generic two-player setups, focusing on broad compatibility with PC and Raspberry Pi. It’s suitable for DIY cabinets that don’t require a specific control-panel standard and offer a dependable, zero-delay input experience. The encoder supports straightforward wiring and is compatible with common AV-era joysticks and push-buttons used in home arcade builds.
EG STARTS 2 Player Classic Arcade Kit
EG STARTS offers a classic two-player arcade DIY kit that includes 8-way joysticks and a set of 18 arcade push buttons with LED readiness. The kit emphasizes a zero-delay USB encoder compatible with Windows systems and supports both cabinet and DIY projects. It’s a solid option for builders seeking a complete two-player control package with ready-to-use LED features for a vibrant arcade cabinet.
SJJX 2 Players Arcade Game DIY Kit
SJJX’s two-player arcade DIY kit focuses on a complete, Zero Delay arcade USB encoder with two-player setup for RetroPie, Raspberry Pi, MAME, and PC. The kit is designed to simplify assembly, providing an all-in-one solution that ensures reliable two-player inputs and straightforward USB connectivity for modern emulation platforms. It’s well-suited for home arcade cabinets and two-player arcade experiences.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For 2-Player USB Arcade Encoders
- Latency and Responsiveness: Look for devices marketed as zero-delay or with ultra-low latency ratings. This is crucial for fighting games and fast-paced arcade titles where microseconds matter.
- Compatibility: Ensure the encoder supports your host systems (PC, Raspberry Pi, RetroPie) and works with your chosen control panels (HAPP, Sanwa, Sanwa-style clones). Some encoders include LED outputs for 5V lighting and LED daisy-chaining.
- Wiring and Connectors: Assess the wiring complexity and connector types (JST XH2.54, quick-connects, etc.). Quick-connect terminals speed up installation, but confirm there’s enough compatibility with your joystick and button wiring harnesses.
- LED Support: If you plan to LED-light your buttons, verify the encoder provides 5V outputs for LED power and that it supports daisy-chaining for multiple LED devices.
- Build Type: Decide between kits designed for standard 30mm/24mm push-buttons and those that include complete joystick options. Some kits are better for 1-1/8″ panel holes, while others target broader DIY panels.
- Diagnostics and Documentation: Clear wiring diagrams, LED color options, and troubleshooting steps help reduce setup time and potential issues during operation.
- Expandability: If you anticipate upgrading to more players or additional buttons, consider encoders with extra inputs or a straightforward option to add more controllers to the same panel.
- Installation Simplicity: Some kits come with plug-and-play components and pre-wired cables. Others require more soldering or terminal connections—evaluate your comfort level.
- Reliability and Longevity: Microswitch quality and connector durability influence longevity under repeated button presses and joystick movements during long gaming sessions.
Overall, the right two-player USB arcade encoder should deliver dependable input, broad system compatibility, clean wiring, and LED support if you’re building a visually engaging cabinet. The options listed here emphasize zero-delay performance, straightforward assembly, and compatibility with common arcade control components, enabling you to build a compelling two-player arcade experience at home.