24mm vs 30mm Arcade Buttons (Leverless vs Stick)

If you are new to arcade sticks or leverless controllers, you will probably see two button sizes a lot:

24mm
30mm

At first, it sounds more confusing than it really is.

The simple version is this:

30mm is the standard size
24mm is smaller and more common on leverless layouts

If you are not sure where to start, 30mm is usually the safer default.

30mm Buttons

30mm buttons are the size most people picture when they think of arcade buttons.

They are commonly used on:

traditional arcade sticks
arcade cabinets
standard fightstick layouts

That is why 30mm is usually the easiest starting point for beginners. Most stick layouts, cases, and guides are built around it.

24mm Buttons

24mm buttons are smaller.

You will usually see them on:

leverless controllers
menu buttons like Start or Options
more compact custom layouts

Because they are smaller, the buttons can be placed closer together. Some players like that. Others find it cramped.

Stick vs Leverless

This is where button size matters most.

For stick users

If you are using a joystick, 30mm is usually the default choice.

That is what most stick layouts are designed around, and it matches what most players expect.

For leverless users

If you are building or buying a leverless controller, 24mm for the main buttons is very common.

A lot of leverless layouts use:

24mm for the main inputs
30mm for the thumb buttons

This can feel more natural for some players, especially if they like tighter spacing.

Why 30mm Is Usually the Safer Starting Point

This does not mean 30mm is automatically better.

It just means 30mm is usually the easiest default because:

more stick layouts use it
more cases are designed around it
more beginner guides assume it

So if you are new and do not know your preference yet, 30mm usually involves less guesswork.

When 24mm Makes More Sense

24mm makes more sense if:

you are using a leverless layout
you want a more compact button layout
you already tested the spacing and know you prefer it

If your hands feel better on 24mm, that matters more than following the “standard.”

Common Mistake

A lot of beginners assume:

smaller buttons = faster play

That is not always true.

If the spacing is too tight, it can feel cramped or lead to more mispresses.

Comfort matters more than chasing a “faster” setup.

24mm vs 30mm at a Glance

Feature	30mm	24mm
Size	Bigger	Smaller
Most common on	Stick layouts	Leverless layouts
Spacing	Wider	Tighter
Best for beginners	Safer default	Better if you already know you prefer it

Simple Advice

Using a stick? Start with 30mm
Using leverless? 24mm is a very normal choice
Not sure yet? Go with the layout that gives you the most comfort

There is no “best” size for everyone.

The right size is the one that feels natural and does not get in your way.

Learn More

If you want to learn more about parts and builds, these guides will help: