Where to Buy Arcade Stick Parts
1. Online Retailers
Online shopping offers the widest selection of arcade stick parts, often at competitive prices. Here are some top online retailers to consider:
a. Focus Attack: Focus Attack is a well-known supplier in the arcade stick community. They offer a wide range of parts, including buttons, joysticks, and wiring kits. Their products are sourced from reputable brands like Sanwa, Seimitsu, and Crown. Focus Attack also provides detailed product descriptions, customer reviews, and video tutorials to help you make informed choices.
b. Arcade Shock: Arcade Shock specializes in high-quality arcade parts. They carry products from major brands and offer exclusive custom designs. Arcade Shock is also known for its fast shipping and excellent customer service. Whether you need a specific joystick model or custom artwork for your stick, Arcade Shock has you covered.
c. Amazon: Amazon offers a broad selection of arcade stick parts from various sellers. While Amazon provides convenience and often faster shipping, it's essential to check seller ratings and reviews to ensure product quality. Brands like Hori and Qanba often list their official parts on Amazon, making it a reliable source for certain components.
d. eBay: eBay is another platform where you can find both new and used arcade stick parts. This can be particularly useful for sourcing discontinued or rare parts. As with Amazon, buyer caution is advised. Look for sellers with high ratings and detailed product descriptions to avoid purchasing counterfeit or low-quality items.
e. Paradise Arcade Shop: Paradise Arcade Shop is a niche retailer focusing on high-end and custom arcade parts. They offer everything from basic buttons and sticks to advanced modding tools and accessories. Their website also features community forums where you can seek advice and share your projects with other enthusiasts.
2. Local Electronics and Gaming Stores
While online shopping provides variety and convenience, local stores can offer the advantage of hands-on inspection before purchase. If you have a specialty electronics or gaming store nearby, it might be worth visiting. Some of these stores carry arcade stick parts, especially if they focus on retro gaming or DIY electronics.
a. Micro Center: Micro Center is known for its extensive selection of computer and gaming hardware. Some locations also stock arcade stick parts, particularly for DIY projects. The ability to physically inspect the components before buying can be a significant advantage.
b. Fry's Electronics (if available): Fry's was a go-to for many DIY enthusiasts before its closure. If you happen to find a Fry's Electronics store that’s still operational or another similar retailer, it's worth checking out. They typically carry a range of arcade parts and modding tools.
3. Specialty Arcade Shops
Specialty arcade shops often provide a more curated selection of parts, focusing on quality and performance. These shops are usually run by enthusiasts who are knowledgeable about the products they sell.
a. Arcade World UK: Arcade World UK is a trusted retailer for arcade parts, particularly in Europe. They offer an extensive range of products, including joysticks, buttons, encoders, and more. Their site is user-friendly, with detailed product descriptions and compatibility information.
b. Video Games New York: Located in New York, this shop offers a mix of new and retro gaming hardware, including arcade stick parts. While their online presence is strong, visiting the store in person can give you access to their full range of products.
c. Japan's Akihabara District: If you're ever in Tokyo, Akihabara is a must-visit for arcade enthusiasts. Shops like Super Potato and Mak Japan offer a wide range of arcade parts, often at better prices than you'll find online. Even if you can't visit in person, some stores offer international shipping.
4. Community Forums and Group Buys
Another way to source arcade stick parts is through community forums and group buys. These platforms often feature bulk purchasing opportunities that can save you money, especially on hard-to-find items.
a. Shoryuken Forums: The Shoryuken forums are a gathering place for fighting game enthusiasts, many of whom are also into building and modding arcade sticks. The Trading Outlet section of the forums often features group buys and sales of new and used parts.
b. Reddit (r/Fightsticks): Reddit's r/Fightsticks community is a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced builders. Members regularly post about sales, group buys, and where to find specific parts. The community is also very supportive, offering advice on building and modding arcade sticks.
c. Discord Servers: Several Discord servers cater to the arcade stick community. These servers often host group buys and provide a space for users to trade parts. They are also a great place to get real-time advice on your projects.
5. Importing Parts
For those looking for specific brands or products not available in their region, importing parts can be a viable option. However, it’s essential to consider shipping costs, customs fees, and delivery times.
a. Play-Asia: Play-Asia is a popular site for importing gaming hardware and accessories, including arcade stick parts. They offer products from major Japanese brands and ship worldwide. Be sure to check the compatibility of the parts with your existing setup before purchasing.
b. Amazon Japan: Amazon Japan offers a vast selection of arcade stick parts, often at lower prices than international retailers. They provide international shipping, and the site can be navigated in English. This can be an excellent option for sourcing authentic Japanese parts like Sanwa buttons or Seimitsu joysticks.
c. AliExpress: AliExpress is a marketplace where you can find a variety of arcade stick parts, including some unique or hard-to-find items. However, quality can vary, so it’s important to read reviews and choose reputable sellers.
6. Tips for Purchasing Arcade Stick Parts
When buying arcade stick parts, there are a few key factors to consider:
a. Compatibility: Ensure the parts you purchase are compatible with your arcade stick's case and other components. This includes checking the size of the buttons, the type of joystick mount, and the wiring configuration.
b. Brand Reputation: Stick to well-known brands like Sanwa, Seimitsu, Hori, and Qanba, which are known for their quality and reliability. While generic parts may be cheaper, they often don’t perform as well or last as long.
c. Price vs. Quality: While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in higher-quality parts can save you money in the long run. High-quality components are more durable, offer better performance, and provide a better gaming experience.
d. Shipping and Returns: Consider the shipping costs and return policies, especially if you’re purchasing from international retailers. It's always better to buy from a retailer with a good return policy in case the parts are defective or incompatible.
7. Conclusion
Building or upgrading an arcade stick is a rewarding project that can enhance your gaming experience. By knowing where to buy quality arcade stick parts and what to look for, you can ensure that your arcade stick performs at its best. Whether you shop online, visit local stores, or explore community forums, there are plenty of options available to help you find the perfect parts.
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