For gaming enthusiasts and retro collectors, customizing an arcade cabinet is a deeply personal and rewarding project. The most common modifications allow owners to tailor their machine for both aesthetics and performance, blending nostalgia with modern functionality.

One of the most frequent starting points is the control panel. Players often upgrade to modern, high-quality joysticks and competition-grade pushbuttons for a more responsive feel. Beyond the standard layout, many add specialized controllers for specific games, such as trackballs for "Centipede" or "Golden Tee," light guns for shooters, or even steering wheels for racing classics.

The visual identity of the cabinet is another major area for customization. This includes completely redesigned side art, marquees, and control panel overlays featuring custom graphics, favorite game characters, or personal branding. This artwork, often printed on durable vinyl, can transform a generic cabinet into a unique centerpiece.

Internally, hardware mods are extremely popular. The most significant is a PC-based mod, often using a system like a Raspberry Pi or a small form-factor PC running emulation software (e.g., MAME). This converts a dedicated single-game cabinet into a multi-game powerhouse, capable of playing thousands of titles from different eras. Accompanying this is an upgrade to a modern LCD or LED monitor, which offers better clarity, reliability, and ease of use compared to aging CRT displays.

Finally, cosmetic enhancements like LED lighting have become a staple. RGB LED strips are installed inside the cabinet to create a custom glow from behind the marquee or under the control panel, adding a dramatic modern flair. Together, these common options provide a framework for creating a one-of-a-kind arcade experience.