In 2025, the top arcade fight sticks are the Nacon Daija, Mayflash F700 Elite, Hori Fighting Stick Mini, Victrix Pro FS, and Mixbox. These five cover every need – from premium tournament play to budget-friendly casual gaming – offering quality Sanwa parts, broad platform compatibility, and mod-friendly designs.
Comparison Table: Top 5 Arcade Fight Sticks (2025)
| Model | Brand | Stick Type | Modding | Connection | Platforms | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nacon Daija | Nacon | Sanwa JLF (ball & bat) | Yes – easy access | Wired USB (detachable) | PS5, PS4, PC | Premium (~$250) |
| Mayflash F700 Elite | Mayflash | Sanwa JLF | Yes – full swap | Wireless (Bluetooth/2.4GHz) & Wired | PS5, PS4, PC, Switch, Mobile | Mid-range (~$180) |
| Hori Fighting Stick Mini | Hori | Hori proprietary mini stick | Limited (not standard parts) | Wired USB | PS5, PS4, PC | Budget (~$60) |
| Victrix Pro FS | Victrix | Sanwa JLF | Yes – quick swap via hatch | Wired USB-C | PS5, PS4, PC | Premium (~$300+) |
| Mixbox (Universal Edition) | Mixbox | No joystick (4× Cherry MX switches for directions) | Yes – standard buttons | Wired USB | PS5*, PS4, Xbox Series, Switch, PC | Premium (~$300+) |
*PS5 compatibility on Mixbox Universal is limited to PS5 fighting games (via dedicated mode)
Best Overall Arcade Fight Stick for PS5 & PC: Nacon Daija
The Nacon Daija is a tournament-grade fight stick co-designed by pro player Kayane, featuring premium Sanwa parts and a comfortable, spacious layout.
If you’re looking for the best all-around arcade stick for modern consoles, the Nacon Daija stands out. It’s officially licensed for PlayStation 5/4 and PC, ensuring seamless plug-and-play compatibility on those platforms. The Daija comes equipped with Sanwa Denshi components – widely regarded as the gold standard for arcade hardware. Both the joystick lever and the 30mm action buttons are genuine Sanwa, delivering superb responsiveness and durability out of the box. In fact, Nacon even includes both a ball-top and a bat-top handle for the stick, stored inside. All the auxiliary buttons (Options/Share, PS Home, etc.) are thoughtfully placed on a side panel to prevent any accidental presses during heated matches.
Build & Ergonomics: The Daija is a hefty, well-built unit – stability is one of its strong suits. Its large base and weight keep it planted on your lap or desk, and a textured palm rest provides comfort during long sessions. The overall design was crafted with input from eSports champions, and it shows in the ergonomic button layout and premium feel. Owners frequently praise the Daija’s sturdy construction and precision – the stick feels like an authentic arcade cabinet control panel, capable of executing complex combos with ease.
Modding & Features: This fight stick is highly mod-friendly. By opening the top panel (which is easily done using the included tools), you get full access to the internals. The Daija’s wiring uses quick-disconnects, meaning you can swap in different buttons or lever units with minimal effort. Want to try a stiffer Seimitsu joystick or silent Sanwa buttons? No problem – the case is spacious and designed for customization. Nacon even provides a removable clear faceplate template so you can add custom artwork. Little touches like a 3.5mm headset jack on the front and a tournament lock switch show this stick means business for competitive play.
Performance: In action, the Nacon Daija delivers tournament-level performance. The Sanwa JLF joystick is delightfully accurate with a smooth yet firm engage, and the buttons register with a satisfying snap. Inputs are clean and lag-free thanks to the quality PCB – on a wired connection you have virtually zero latency. (As a rule, wired arcade sticks like the Daija and Victrix offer undetectable input lag for instant response.) The Daija’s reputation is backed by FGC pros; it was even used as an official Evo tournament prize, underscoring its top-tier status.
Considerations: The only real downsides of the Nacon Daija are its premium price and lack of Xbox compatibility. At around $249/£249, it’s an investment primarily for serious players. (Nacon produces a separate Daija model for Xbox, but that one won’t work on PlayStation.) Also, as a wired stick, it forgoes the convenience of wireless – but this is expected in competitive-grade gear (tournaments require wired use). For most enthusiasts, these aren’t deal-breakers. In summary, the Daija offers tremendous quality and features for PS5/PC fighting game fans, hitting a sweet spot between hardcore tournament stick and user-friendly customizable controller.
Internal Links: If you plan to mod your Daija, check out our guide to the best arcade buttons for high-end replacements (Sanwa vs Seimitsu, silent buttons, etc.), as well as joystick accessories for items like interchangeable gates, springs, and carrying cases.
Best Value Multi-Platform Fight Stick: Mayflash F700 Elite
The Mayflash F700 Elite is a feature-packed fight stick offering multi-system support (PS5/PC/Switch and more) and Sanwa components at a mid-range price point – a fantastic value for modders and cross-platform players.
For gamers who play on several systems or want wireless flexibility without sacrificing quality, the Mayflash F700 Elite hits the mark. This stick is all about versatility: it works with PS5, PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS, and more – basically every platform except the Xbox consoles. Mayflash built the F700 Elite to be the “jack of all trades” fight stick, and they didn’t skimp on the fundamentals either. It comes equipped with Sanwa joystick and buttons (8 x 30mm) right out of the box, meaning the same high-grade parts as the premium sticks. That’s a huge plus at this stick’s price point (typically around $170–$180 USD), as many mid-range sticks use cheaper components. The F700 Elite’s Sanwa JLF stick and OBSF buttons provide an authentic arcade feel – fast, sensitive, and reliable inputs game after game.
Cross-Platform & Wireless: One of the F700 Elite’s headline features is its triple connection mode. You can use it wired via USB, or go wireless with either Bluetooth or the included 2.4 GHz USB dongle. This means you can sit back on the couch when playing casually (the built-in 1000 mAh battery provides up to ~20 hours per charge), but you still have the option to plug in via USB for tournaments or if you want absolute minimum lag. Impressively, users and reviewers have noted no noticeable input delay even when using the F700 Elite wirelessly – its latency performance is essentially on par with wired play. That’s a testament to Mayflash’s optimized PCB design. With a physical toggle knob on the top panel, you can switch the stick’s mode between various consoles/inputs (PS5, PS4, Switch, Xinput, Dinput, etc.) easily – a very handy feature when swapping devices.
Build & Modding: The Mayflash F700 Elite has a solid build with a wide base (about 37.4 × 24.6 cm) that sits comfortably in your lap. It’s not as heavy as metal-case sticks like the Victrix, but it has enough heft (approx 3.45 kg) to stay put during play. The case is designed to be opened up for easy modding – remove a few bottom screws and you can access the internals. Because it uses standard Sanwa parts, you can swap in any compatible arcade components (30mm buttons, Japanese or even Korean lever with some modifications). In fact, many enthusiasts treat the F500/F700 series as a budget-friendly “DIY platform”: you get a great multi-platform PCB and decent case, and you can upgrade the lever or buttons to your liking over time. Mayflash even sells optional accessories like a clear top panel for custom art. Out of the box, though, most people will be very happy with the quality – there’s not much you need to change.
Performance: Playing Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, and other fighters on the F700 Elite feels fantastic. The Sanwa parts ensure inputs are crisp. Quarter-circle and DP motions come out cleanly, and the buttons have that familiar Sanwa snap. Thanks to its broad compatibility, you can use this stick to play retro games on a PC emulator one minute, then plug it into a PS5 for the latest titles the next. Input lag is effectively a non-issue – even on Bluetooth, the F700 Elite’s response time is so low as to be negligible. Unless you’re an absolute frame-counting purist, the convenience of wireless play here doesn’t exact a noticeable performance cost. The main drawback is simply that it does not support Xbox Series X|S (no current Mayflash does, due to Microsoft’s security chip licensing). But for PlayStation, PC, Switch and everything else, it’s ready to rock.
Considerations: The F700 Elite sits in a middle weight class – both in price and in build. It’s a step above entry-level sticks (you get Sanwa parts and huge compatibility advantages) but cheaper than the all-metal premium sticks. As such, the chassis is plastic (with a metal bottom plate) and not quite as luxurious feeling as a $300 stick. The buttons also lack the sophisticated wiring harness of something like the Daija (here they’re directly wired to the PCB with solder). Still, durability is very good and any experienced modder can rewire or replace parts if needed. For most users, the F700 Elite’s feature set is unbeatable at the price: multi-platform support, wireless capability, Sanwa components, and full modability make it the best value pick in 2025.
Best Budget Arcade Stick for Casual Play: Hori Fighting Stick Mini
Hori’s Fighting Stick Mini is an ultra-compact, entry-level arcade controller that packs in a full 8-button layout and surprising functionality for under $60 – perfect for newcomers or as a portable second stick.
Not everyone is ready to drop triple digits on a fight stick. The Hori Fighting Stick Mini addresses that by offering a genuine arcade-style controller at a rock-bottom price (typically ~$50-60). It’s marketed for PS5, PS4, and PC and delivers a near-full arcade experience in a tiny form factor. Despite measuring only about 8×6 inches in size, the Mini manages to fit the standard 8-button layout and a proper joystick, so you’re not missing any inputs compared to a full-size stick. The buttons and stick are Hori’s in-house parts (not Sanwa), and they’re scaled down to fit the smaller chassis, but they are surprisingly responsive and clicky. For a first-time player or someone with limited space, this little controller gets the job done without breaking the bank.
Design & Portability: True to its name, the Fighting Stick Mini is extremely compact and lightweight. It’s built from plastic and weighs only a couple of pounds. The upside of that is portability – you can toss it in a backpack with ease. Hori even designed it with a cord compartment to neatly stow the USB cable. One might worry that such a light stick would slide around during intense play, but Hori has you covered: the underside features firm rubberized feet that keep the unit surprisingly stable on a flat surface. Even on your lap, the stick stays in place reasonably well (and its small size actually fits nicely for kids or people with smaller laps). Ergonomically, it’s obviously not as comfortable as a full-size stick for long sessions – there’s less room to rest your hands – but for casual play it’s fine.
Performance: The Fighting Stick Mini won’t be mistaken for a pro tournament stick, but it offers a fun, authentic experience for casual fighting games. The joystick has a short throw and a satisfyingly audible “click” (likely using a basic microswitch joystick mechanism). The buttons are a bit smaller than standard (28mm instead of 30mm) and require a tad more force than high-end Sanwas, but they register reliably. We tested it on a PS5 with Street Fighter 6 and found we could pull off all special moves and combos; the only adjustment needed was getting used to the reduced spacing between buttons due to the smaller panel. Input latency is negligible since it’s a simple wired connection. In fact, the Mini can absolutely be used for serious play – it’s just not as comfortable or customizable as larger sticks. Think of it as an ideal “starter” stick or a secondary unit for a friend.
Limitations: At this price, you shouldn’t expect premium materials or features. The Hori Mini does not use Sanwa/Seimitsu parts, so the feel is different (the parts are less sensitive and won’t endure abuse as long). There’s also no modding without heavy DIY – the case isn’t designed to be opened easily, and fitting standard size arcade parts into this tiny shell is an advanced project at best. It also lacks extras like turbo functions or a headphone jack. And while it works on PS5/PS4 for fighting games, it may not function on PS5 titles that don’t explicitly allow legacy controllers (most big fighting games do support them, though). For seasoned enthusiasts, the Hori Mini will feel very limited – as one review put it, “those more familiar with fight sticks won’t get much out of this mini-controller.” But that’s okay, because it’s really aimed at beginners and casual play. For that audience, the Fighting Stick Mini is a fantastic entry point – it’s ultra affordable and lowers the barrier to trying an arcade stick by a huge margin.
Best Premium Tournament-Grade Fight Stick: Victrix Pro FS
Victrix Pro FS is a no-compromise tournament stick with a aircraft-grade aluminum body, Sanwa parts, and thoughtful features like a detachable stick and lighting – a true luxury controller for hardcore fighting gamers.
When only the absolute best will do, the Victrix Pro FS stands at the top of the pile. This is a flagship fight stick built for elite competition, and it carries a matching premium price (around $350 at launch, though it sometimes sells closer to $300). The Victrix Pro FS was designed with input from pro players and engineered to be the fastest, most feature-rich arcade stick on the market. It’s compatible with PS5, PS4, and PC, and Victrix (a brand under PDP) even offers Xbox and PlayStation licensed variants separately. Every aspect of the Pro FS screams quality: the chassis is a single piece of anodized aircraft-grade aluminum – giving it a hefty weight and exceptional durability – and the components are top-tier Sanwa Denshi parts for both stick and buttons.
Build & Design: The Victrix’s all-metal build immediately sets it apart. It’s quite weighty (over 7 lbs / ~3.5 kg); once you place it on a desk or your lap, it’s not sliding anywhere. The metal casing not only looks stunning (available in eye-catching colors like metallic purple or classic white), but it also allows for some extra conveniences. For instance, the underside of the case has an easy-open hatch secured by quick-release latches. Open it up and you have instant access to the internals for swapping parts or maintenance – no screwdriver needed. Inside there’s even a dedicated slot to store your detachable joystick lever when transporting the stick. That’s right, the Victrix’s joystick unscrews so you can tuck it away, preventing damage in transit. The designers truly thought of everything for the traveling competitor. Additionally, the top panel features handles on each side, making it easier to carry, and there are posts to neatly wrap the USB cable as a pseudo-handle for transport.
Ergonomics are another area where the Pro FS shines. The top panel is angled at about 6 degrees, creating a gentle wrist slope that feels more natural during play. The large foam pads underneath cushion it on your lap, adding comfort for long sessions. The 30mm Sanwa buttons feel as good as you’d expect – responsive with just the right actuation force – and the spacing and layout follow the familiar Vewlix arcade format. Above the main buttons, you have all the necessary system controls (PS Home, Options, Share) as well as a touchpad and a tournament lock switch to disable accidental presses of side buttons. One minor omission: there are no L3/R3 stick clicks on this unit, which rarely matters in fighting games but is noteworthy. There’s also a 3.5mm headphone jack on the front for easy headset use. And just for style points, Victrix integrated RGB LED lighting accents into the side panels, which you can customize – it doesn’t affect gameplay, but it certainly looks cool when glowing in your chosen color.
Performance: Simply put, the Victrix Pro FS offers elite performance with virtually zero compromises. Its custom electronics boast an incredibly low input latency (measured around 5ms, which is essentially no perceivable lag in gameplay). This means your reactions translate onscreen almost instantaneously, a crucial factor for high-level play. In testing, the Pro FS feels impeccably responsive – whether executing rapid-fire combos or precise one-frame links, the stick registers every input accurately. The Sanwa JLF joystick is mounted perfectly, allowing smooth 360° motion with a consistent spring return to neutral. Both subtle movements (for delicate spacing) and wild joystick swings (for 720° grapplers) are handled with equal aplomb. Button presses are equally flawless, giving you total confidence to hit complex input strings without missed triggers. After using the Victrix for a while, one reviewer remarked it “made pulling off just about any move a cinch” and described the input latency as “undetectable”, even compared to other high-end sticks. In other words, this controller feels like an extension of your hands.
The Premium Difference: It’s worth highlighting what sets the Victrix apart from cheaper sticks, beyond just materials. One big factor is the attention to detail and extra features: for example, few sticks have things like swappable stick shafts, LED customization, or tool-less access for modding. The Victrix also has a unique internal PCB designed for speed, whereas budget models often use off-the-shelf encoder boards. Moreover, the Victrix’s build quality borders on over-engineered (in a good way) – it’s made to withstand the rigors of constant tournament travel and play. It has been lauded by several pro fighting game players in the community, and was a common sight at EVO 2023 in the hands of competitors. The stick is so robust that it can literally last for years; even if the buttons or lever microswitches wear out (as all do eventually), they can be easily replaced thanks to the modular design.
Considerations: The obvious downside of the Victrix Pro FS is cost. You’re paying a premium for the high-end materials and features, and not everyone needs a $300+ fight stick. It’s really targeted at hardcore enthusiasts, tournament players, or those who simply want the “best of the best.” It’s also a fairly large and heavy unit – great for stability, less so for portability (though as mentioned, Victrix mitigates this with handles and storage tricks). Finally, the Victrix is wired-only (no wireless option), which is expected for a serious arcade stick. For 99% of use cases, that’s preferable anyway because it guarantees the lowest latency and no battery worries. Overall, the Victrix Pro FS is a dream stick for competitive play – a true investment piece that, if you’re serious about fighting games, will serve you impeccably and outlast most other gear.
Best All-Button (Leverless) Controller – Mixbox Universal Edition
The Mixbox is an innovative “leverless” fight stick that replaces the joystick with four mechanical keys (WASD style). Its Universal Edition works on all major platforms, offering a unique blend of arcade buttons and keyboard precision for players seeking an alternative to the traditional stick.
Rounding out our list is a controller that breaks the mold of the classic arcade stick: the Mixbox. Instead of a joystick lever for movement, the Mixbox uses four keyboard keys (Cherry MX mechanical switches) for directional inputs – essentially WASD under your left hand – while your right hand still uses the standard 8 arcade buttons for actions. This design, known as a leverless stick or WASD fight stick, has gained popularity among fighting game enthusiasts in recent years. The Mixbox Universal Edition is particularly appealing because it’s compatible with PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC (hence “Universal”). This broad compatibility means one Mixbox can work across almost any gaming setup – a big plus for tournament goers who might need to plug into different consoles.
Why Leverless? Leverless controllers like the Mixbox and the popular Hit Box offer some potential advantages. By using buttons for directional inputs (up, down, left, right), they can allow faster and more precise execution of certain moves compared to a joystick. For example, tapping quickly between left and right or hitting simultaneous opposite directions (for advanced techniques) can be done with minimal finger travel. The Mixbox’s layout in particular mirrors a PC gamer’s keyboard hand, which feels intuitive for players coming from a keyboard background. Many players find that combos and complex motions can be input more cleanly once they adjust to using fingers for movement instead of an entire wrist/arm on a stick. Indeed, some frame data tests have shown leverless inputs can shave milliseconds off execution – not a magic bullet to make you win, but every little bit can help at high levels.
Design & Build: The Mixbox is roughly the size of a standard arcade stick, with a metal and plastic case that’s sturdy and weighted. On the left are four keycaps arranged in an inverted “T” like arrow keys (default keys are often Cherry MX blue or red switches, giving an audible click or smooth press depending on version). On the right are 8 Sanwa 30mm buttons for punches/kicks, etc., in the familiar layout. This means the Mixbox uses authentic arcade buttons for actions and authentic keyboard switches for directions, blending the two worlds. The Universal Edition of the Mixbox includes the necessary electronics to interface with all the major consoles – it typically has a toggle or autodetect for the platform, similar to dual-mod sticks. In terms of modding, you can customize it like any stick: the key switches can be swapped (Cherry MX compatibles), and the Sanwa buttons can be replaced with other 30mm buttons if desired. The top panel is also artwork-friendly if you want to personalize the look.
Experience: Using the Mixbox will feel strange at first if you’re used to a joystick. There is a learning curve where your left hand must learn to coordinate on four keys. However, many who persevere end up loving the level of control it offers. Inputs that require pressing two opposite directions (like a quick left-right for a KOF short hop, or holding back while tapping forward for a Guilty Gear dash block) are inherently easier or faster on a leverless device – you can literally use different fingers to hit opposite directions with no physical lever to reposition. The precision of digital key presses can also reduce execution errors once you’re acclimated. The Mixbox’s directional keys have short throw and fast activation, so you can double-tap or change directions extremely rapidly. On the right side, since it’s the same arcade buttons as any fight stick, that feel remains unchanged – and Mixbox wisely positioned the buttons so the transition from directions to actions is comfortable. In gameplay, things like dragon punch motions or quarter-circles become quick finger rolls. Some find it easier to perform complicated inputs like 360 or 720 spins by rolling across keys, while others might miss the analog feel of a joystick for those. It ultimately comes down to preference; the Mixbox doesn’t automatically make you better, but it gives you a new way to control the game that some players find beneficial.
Regulations & Legality: One common question with leverless controllers is whether they are tournament legal – the short answer is yes, they are legal in essentially all major fighting game tournaments (including EVO), as long as they adhere to certain input rules. The Mixbox Universal Edition is designed to be tournament-compliant, featuring built-in SOCD cleaning (Simultaneous Opposite Cardinal Direction handling) so that pressing left+right yields a neutral input, for example. This prevents any unfair advantage (like blocking both directions at once) and is required by tournament rules. There was some controversy in early 2023 when Capcom introduced a rule about up+down = neutral for Street Fighter, but modern firmware on devices like Mixbox and Hit Box have been updated accordingly. In summary, leverless sticks are tournament-approved and increasingly common – many top players have started using them. (We address more on this in the FAQ section below.)
Considerations: The Mixbox Universal is a premium product due to its custom nature and console compatibility. It can be pricier than even the Victrix in some cases (the manufacturer’s site lists around $269 for the base and up to $429 for the fully universal model). Availability can also be limited, and while there are cheaper Hit Box-style controllers, the Mixbox’s build quality and Universal PCB drive the cost. Also, leverless is not for everyone – some players simply prefer the feel of a traditional joystick, and that’s okay. If you’ve never tried one, there will be an adjustment period where your muscle memory from years of using a pad or stick has to recalibrate. Give it some time before judging your performance with it. If you’re a tinkerer, note that the Mixbox’s internals are a bit more complex (due to supporting multiple systems), but it’s still quite mod-friendly for those comfortable with arcade hardware. Lastly, keep in mind the Mixbox is wired-only (like most fight sticks) – no wireless here, especially because multi-console support needs a wired interface for reliability. All things considered, the Mixbox Universal Edition is the best all-button controller for 2025 if you want one controller to use on any platform and are eager to embrace the hit-box style. It opens up a new world of execution technique while maintaining the satisfying arcade button feel for your attacks.
FAQs About Fight Sticks
Q: What’s the difference between Sanwa and Seimitsu parts?
A: Sanwa and Seimitsu are two renowned Japanese manufacturers of arcade parts, and they each have their own feel. Sanwa parts (e.g. the Sanwa JLF joystick and OBSF-30 buttons) are known for being very smooth, sensitive, and precise. They have relatively longer throws and engage distances, meaning the joystick travels a bit further but inputs feel very accurate and require minimal force. Sanwa buttons are ultra-responsive with a soft touch – a light tap is usually enough to activate. This makes Sanwa the standard in most Japanese arcades and tournament sticks, favored for games like Street Fighter. Seimitsu parts, on the other hand, typically have a shorter throw and engage on their joysticks and a slightly stiffer spring tension. In practice, a Seimitsu stick will hit directions quicker with less travel, which some players like for faster inputs (shmup players often prefer Seimitsu for this reason). However, the stiffer, shorter throw design can feel less forgiving for quarter-circle motions and might not be ideal for very motion-heavy games. Seimitsu buttons also have a bit more resistance and a different sound – they “snap” a bit more than Sanwa’s softer press. Neither is strictly “better” – it’s a matter of preference. Sanwa is often recommended for beginners or those who want the proven all-around quality, while Seimitsu can be great if you specifically want that shorter, snappier feel. Fun fact: Hori’s Hayabusa parts are another alternative, designed to mimic Sanwa performance but at a lower cost; many Hori sticks use Hayabusa levers and buttons, which are quite close to Sanwa in feel. The good news is that most high-end sticks (like the ones above) have modular parts, so you can mix and match – for example, putting Seimitsu buttons in a Sanwa stick if you prefer that combo.
Q: Is a leverless stick (like Hit Box/Mixbox) legal at EVO and other tournaments?
A: Yes – leverless controllers are legal in virtually all major fighting game tournaments, including EVO, as long as they follow standard controller rules. A leverless “stick” simply replaces the joystick with buttons for directions, so conceptually it’s treated the same as any arcade stick or gamepad. The key rule governing them is called SOCD (Simultaneous Opposite Cardinal Direction) cleaning. This means the controller’s hardware must prevent opposing directions from being pressed at the same time in a way that would break the game. For example, if you press Left and Right together, one input must override or it must neutral out – you cannot have both activate simultaneously (which would let you block in both directions, an obvious advantage). Reputable leverless products like the Mixbox and Hit Box have SOCD cleaning built-in, adhering to the rule sets. In early 2023, the Capcom Pro Tour introduced an additional requirement that Up + Down = Neutral (previously some devices would register Up+Down as Up for easier charge motions). This was aimed at preventing certain exploits in Street Fighter 6. Manufacturers responded with firmware updates, and now devices sold in 2024/2025 ship compliant with that rule. So as long as you have a current model from a known brand, it will be tournament legal. In fact, EVO’s official statement encourages players to use whatever controller style they prefer, leverless included, as long as it doesn’t activate multiple inputs from one action. The bottom line: leverless controllers are tournament-approved and have become quite common at high-level play. Just be sure to practice with it beforehand – while legal, it might take time to master if you’re new to it!
Q: Do I need an arcade stick to play fighting games competitively?
A: Not necessarily. While arcade sticks are iconic in the fighting game community and many top players use them, they are not an automatic ticket to superiority. Using a stick versus a standard console controller (gamepad) comes largely down to personal preference and comfort. An arcade stick can offer more precise control for some players because of the larger joystick movement and the ability to use your whole arm/hand for inputs, and many find performing quarter-circles or rapid button presses easier on a stick. However, a pad or other controller can be just as effective in the right hands. In recent years, we’ve seen world champions who play on gamepads, and others who play on leverless devices. There’s no inherent gameplay advantage granted by a particular controller – a stick won’t make you execute combos that you couldn’t eventually learn on pad. It’s more about what you’re comfortable with. That said, arcade sticks do provide that authentic arcade feel which many players love, and they’re built to withstand the kind of button-mashing intensity that fighting games often involve (high-quality sticks can last for millions of presses). If you grew up in arcades or just enjoy the tactile feedback of a joystick and large buttons, you might perform better on a stick simply because it “feels right” to you. But if you’re currently a pad player, don’t feel pressured to switch – unless you personally feel limited by your pad. Plenty of pros stick with gamepads and do amazingly well. In summary, use the controller that you find most comfortable; a fight stick is about enhancing your experience and precision, but it’s your skills and practice that ultimately determine your performance.
Reflections to Make Your Choice
Choosing the right arcade stick depends on your platform, budget, and how you plan to use it. The five fight sticks compared above represent the best options in 2025 for various needs: the Nacon Daija and Victrix Pro FS cater to competitive PS5/PC warriors with premium builds, the Mayflash F700 Elite offers unmatched multi-platform value and modding potential, the Hori Fighting Stick Mini provides a fun budget-friendly stepping stone, and the Mixbox introduces a radical leverless option for those looking to optimize their inputs. All of them deliver the core experience of arcade-style gameplay that pads simply can’t replicate – that satisfying combo of joystick and buttons under your fingertips.
Before you decide, consider factors like whether you need cross-platform support, how important Sanwa parts are to you, and if you might want to mod/upgrade the stick over time. Also think about comfort – a larger stick like the Victrix is amazing on a table or lap for hours, whereas the tiny Hori Mini is great for quick sessions or on-the-go gaming. Any of these sticks can shine in the right scenario. For further customization, be sure to visit our pages on Joystick Accessories and Arcade Buttons to tweak your stick to perfection.
Finally, if you’re ready to buy, here are the product links:
- Nacon Daija – Available on Amazon
- Mayflash F700 Elite – Available on Amazon
- Hori Fighting Stick Mini – Available on Amazon
- Victrix Pro FS – Available on Amazon
- Mixbox (Universal Edition) – Available on Amazon
Equip yourself with one of these arcade sticks, and you’ll be well-prepared to level up your fighting game experience – whether you’re aiming for EVO, grinding online ranked matches on your PS5/PC, or just enjoying some retro arcade classics at home. Good luck and have fun mastering your new fight stick setup!
Sources:
- Murphy, Darragh, et al. “The best fight sticks in 2025: our top picks.” Tom’s Guide, 17 Feb 2025: tomsguide.com.
- TechRadar Gaming. “The best fight sticks in 2025.” TechRadar, 2025: techradar.com.
- Amazon Product Listing – Nacon Daija PS5 Arcade Stick, Amazon.com: amazon.com.
- Amazon Customer Reviews – Nacon Daija, review by captainchunk78: amazon.com.
- Mayflash. “Wireless Arcade Stick F700 Elite – Product Details.” Mayflash.com, 2024: tomsguide.com, thearcadestick.com.
- “Mayflash F700 Elite Review.” TheArcadeStick.com, 6 Aug 2024: thearcadestick.com.
- Hori. “Fighting Stick Mini for PlayStation 5.” Tom’s Guide Review, 2023: tomsguide.com.
- Smith, Sean. “Victrix Pro FS Fight Stick review.” God is a Geek, 31 Jul 2023: godisageek.com.
- Victrix Pro FS – Product Page, PDP.com (Victrix): gamespace.com.
- Hit Box Controller – TechRadar coverage, 2023: techradar.com.
- “Is leverless tournament legal?” TheArcadeStick.com, 2023: thearcadestick.com.
- Evo Official Rules, Evo.gg, 2024: start.gg.
- ProFightStick. “Sanwa vs Seimitsu vs Hayabusa.” ProFightStick.com, 2020: profightstick.com.
- Neo-Geo Forums. “Sanwa vs Seimitsu experiences.” Neo-Geo.com, 2018: neo-geo.com.
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