5 Best Portable Arcade Game Machines - May 2026

Carry classic arcade games with you anywhere using this plug and play TV game.

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PROS

Easy to use.
Plug into television to play 12 retro arcade games, including Pac-Man and Dig Dug.
Durable construction.
No additional accessories required.

CONS

Some buyers found their controllers to be stiff.

BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK

Basic Fun

Centipede Retro Handheld Game

Bargain Pick

With a handheld design and affordable price, this arcade machine is a steal for bargain hunters.

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PROS

Includes three AA batteries for instant play.
Has the authentic graphics, sounds, and game play.
Easy to use.
Durable.
Can be played by children and adults.

CONS

Controls maybe too small for some.

TV Games

Atari Plug and Play

Portable Convenience

Its 10 classic games and simple design make this TV game ideal for everyday usage.

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PROS

Easy to use.
Plugs into television to play 10 classic arcade games, including Centipede and Pong.
Durable construction.
No additional accessories required.

CONS

Some buyers had issues with the joystick.

Arcade 1Up

Ms. Pac-Man Counter-Cade

Best for Small Spaces

An old-school design and variety of games make this arcade machine a must-have for collectors.

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PROS

Comes fully assembled.
Easy to use.
Has four games, including Ms.
Pac-Man.
Can sit on a bar shelf or tabletop.
Designed to look like a retro arcade.
Durable.

CONS

Its bulky design makes it not easy for frequent travel.

My Arcade

Handheld Game Console

Best for Kids

Its compact design makes this arcade game ideal for those on the go.

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PROS

Has three classic games, including Bubble Bobble.
Retro design.
Lightweight.
Powered by a micro USB or four AAA batteries.
Includes volume controls and a headphone jack.

CONS

Batteries and micro USB are not included.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews

How We Tested

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

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First Reviewed

December 19, 2021

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Hours
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