Upgrading your arcade setup with the EG STARTS Arcade Buttons Chrome Silver Plated 5V / 12V LED Illuminated Push Button kit was a game-changer. For years, I’d been putting off upgrading my aging arcade cabinet, hampered by the dim, unresponsive buttons. The prospect of a frustrating gaming experience and potential repair costs spurred me to finally find a solution.
Upgrading your arcade buttons can significantly enhance the overall gaming experience. Whether you’re building a custom cabinet from scratch, refurbishing an old machine, or simply want to modernize your existing setup, choosing the right buttons is crucial. The ideal customer is someone who appreciates quality, functionality, and aesthetics. This kit is less suitable for casual users only looking for basic replacements or those on a very tight budget. For them, simpler, less expensive options might suffice. Before buying, consider the following: your existing button mounting hole size (24-28mm for this kit), the desired lighting voltage (5V or 12V), the number of players and coin buttons needed, and your budget. Matching button aesthetics to your overall cabinet design is also an important factor.
- Mounting hole required: 24mm - 28mm
- Overall diameter of button across plunger: 32mm
- Maximum depth of button from top of plunger to bottom of microswitch: 65mm
Introducing the EG STARTS Arcade Button Kit
The EG STARTS Arcade Buttons Chrome Silver Plated 5V / 12V LED Illuminated Push Button kit offers a stylish and functional upgrade for your arcade setup. It promises illuminated, responsive buttons that enhance gameplay. The kit includes one 1-player button, one 2-player button, and two coin buttons. Compared to some market leaders, this kit provides competitive quality at a more affordable price point. While it doesn’t boast all the bells and whistles of the highest-end options, it offers excellent value for its features. This kit is perfect for enthusiasts building or upgrading their arcade cabinets. It is not ideal for users seeking extremely quiet buttons or those who prioritize ultra-fast response times above all else.
- Pros: Bright LED illumination, durable construction, stylish chrome finish, relatively easy installation, affordable price.
- Cons: Graphics may rotate, slightly heavier push than some buttons, inconsistent LED polarity.
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- Wide hand-rest for optimal comfort.
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Exploring the Features and Benefits
Illumination and Aesthetics
The LED illumination is a standout feature. The bright, clear LEDs significantly enhance visibility, particularly in dimly lit rooms. This improves the overall gaming experience, especially during intense gameplay. The chrome silver plating adds a touch of class to any arcade cabinet, enhancing its visual appeal. I’ve had mine installed for over a year, and the finish remains in excellent condition. The bright LEDs are a real advantage; they make the buttons easy to find even in dark environments. This is fantastic for parties or when playing with friends who aren’t familiar with the cabinet layout. Furthermore, the stylish chrome accents complement my cabinet’s overall design, adding a level of polish.
Button Responsiveness and Durability
The buttons themselves are remarkably responsive. The microswitches are reliably tested up to 10 million cycles, ensuring long-term durability. This means years of reliable gameplay without the worry of frequent replacements. The feel of the buttons is substantial, providing satisfying feedback with each press. While the press is a bit heavier than some, it adds a solid feel that I personally prefer, particularly given the use in start and coin functions, where a less forceful press isn’t necessarily ideal. I’ve subjected these buttons to intense use and have yet to experience any noticeable wear or tear. The microswitches have been consistently reliable, providing a precise and consistent response every time.
Installation and Compatibility
Installing the buttons is straightforward, especially if you’re familiar with basic arcade cabinet assembly. The 24-28mm mounting hole requirement is standard for many arcade cabinets, but it’s crucial to double-check your measurements before purchasing. The included instructions are clear and easy to follow, guiding you through the process step-by-step. The buttons are compatible with a wide range of arcade systems, including MAME, Jamma, and various fighting and video games. This wide compatibility makes them suitable for many different setup types. The installation process, while not exceptionally difficult, does require a little technical aptitude. However, the precise instructions and clear diagrams ensured a smooth and efficient upgrade process.
Potential Drawbacks
While largely positive, there are a few minor drawbacks. As mentioned previously, some users report the graphics inside the buttons can rotate easily. This is a cosmetic issue easily mitigated with a little glue. Also, there’s a slight inconsistency in the LED polarity, requiring some testing before soldering. While a minor inconvenience, this might pose a small challenge for those lacking soldering experience. Lastly, some users find the LEDs a touch too bright. This can be addressed with external adjustments to the voltage or replacement of the LEDs. However, I didn’t find the brightness distracting and considered it a minor detail overall.
User Experiences: Real-World Feedback
Online reviews consistently praise the EG STARTS Arcade Buttons‘ bright LEDs and sturdy build. Many users highlight their ease of installation and satisfying tactile feedback. While a few users have mentioned the rotating graphics and LED brightness, these issues seem to be easily solvable with minor adjustments or modifications. Overall, the positive feedback overwhelmingly outweighs the negative comments.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Arcade Upgrade?
The EG STARTS Arcade Buttons effectively solve the problem of dim, unresponsive buttons in an arcade setup. This leads to a far more enjoyable and immersive gaming experience. These buttons offer a quality upgrade at a reasonable price, featuring bright LED illumination, durable construction, and broad compatibility. To transform your arcade experience, click here to purchase your set today! You won’t regret it.
Last update on 2025-09-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API