Gaming accessories buying guide

Wired vs wireless

Wireless keyboards are obviously more mobile. You can stretch out on your bed or lean back in your chair with it on your lap. But if you’re happy staying at your desk, the freedom of a wireless keyboard probably won’t make that much difference. And with a wired one, you don’t have to worry about connectivity or battery life.

Size

Short on desk space? If you almost never use the numeric pad, it might be worth getting a TKL or 60% keyboard. TKL stands for Ten KeyLess, so these are ones missing the num pad. And 60% keyboards are even smaller, with no F key row at the top or navigational keys.

Membrane vs mechanical keyboards

Membrane keys are flatter and quieter, while mechanical keys are more responsive and The keys on these types of keyboards have spring-loaded switches underneath the keycaps. When you press down on them you can actually feel and hear the switches clicking beneath your fingers, letting you know you’ve pressed the key hard enough. They’re popular among gamers because feeling when a keystroke lands is handy when you’re pressing keys at speed. Mechanical models are often more durable and faster too. The downside? They can be noisy (people liken them to typewriter keys), so if you’re sharing your space with others it might be better to invest in a lighter and quieter membrane keyboard.

Keyboard switches

Getting a mechanical keyboard? Then you’ll need to decide which kind of switch you want.

Tactile switches only need to be pushed halfway down to register. That way you can quickly move onto the next key. Linear switches have to be pushed all the way down to work. Good for avoiding accidental key presses when you’re trying to land a speedy combo.

Clicky switches are the most tactile of the bunch – with a noticeable bump and click when you press them. For that reason, they’re fun but really loud. Beware if you’ve got roommates to think about!

Compatibility

Make sure your keyboard’s compatible with your laptop or desktop type – particularly if you’re on a Mac!

Backlit keys

Most gaming keyboards will have some kind of LED lighting. Basic backlighting just creates a uniform glow, which is good if you’re playing in a darker room. RGB backlighting is a step up. You can choose which colours you want or select different settings and patterns.

Media keys

Media or Multimedia keys can do stuff like control your computer’s volume, skip tracks or control your screen’s brightness. Rather than exit your game to change your computer’s settings, you can just do it while you play.

Onboard memory

A keyboard with onboard memory is perfect for gamers that like to switch between different computers. If you’ve customised your keys just the way you like them, your setup will be saved on the keyboard itself. No need to set it all up again on a new PC.

Programmable keys

Macro or programmable keys are dedicated extra keys that you can set up to perform multiple keystrokes at once. Great for automating specific in-game tasks or stuff like Ctrl + Alt + Del.

Wrist rest

Does what it says on the tin. A wrist rest can save you some aches and pains after a marathon session!

Wired vs wireless

With a wireless headset you’re not tied to your PC or console. And you can keep the chat going if you decide to get up for a break. Just make sure you don’t forget to charge it!

Wired headsets can give you a better bang for your buck though. A wired connection usually means less audio interference, giving you better sound and less lag. Having said that, wireless connections are getting better and better – making this less of an issue.

Compatibility

Not all headsets will work with all platforms, so check the specs before you buy. Some will work with Xbox but not PlayStation and vice versa – and it’s a massive pain to take it out of the box only to discover it can’t connect.

Type of microphone

When you’re choosing what mic you want, choose between one integrated into your headset, a boom mic that sticks out, or even a standalone mic (perfect for podcasts or music recording too.)

Boom mics stick out in front of the headset, so they can pick up your voice more easily – rather than picking up background noise. If you stream your game with commentary, this is probably the right choice.

Integrated mics can sit inside the earcup of your headset or within the cable controls. Good if you want a headset than can work when you’re out and about and if you don’t play super hectic games online.

Retractable mics give you the best of both worlds. Just slide the boom out the way when you’re done.

Sound output

You might notice some headphones have numbers next to their name, like 7.1 or 5.1. That’s because they have surround sound. So a 7.1 headset mimics what it’s like to have seven speakers set up all around you. Want to feel like you’re properly in the game? Surround sound will help a lot.

Surround sound lets you get properly lost in your game- especially if you’re a survival horror fan. Lots of gaming headsets have virtual surround sound, which mimics the real thing pretty well. But if you’re a true audiophile and want to splash out, there are true surround sound headsets out there too.

Design

On-ear, in-ear, over-ear or true wireless – it’s all down to what makes you feel best. Most players prefer over-ear because it’s easier to block out background noise and they’re generally comfier to wear over long periods of time. Ever had a memory foam mattress? It basically moulds to the shape of your body for the best possible fit. Now think about that but with your earcups instead. Yes, that is an option.

Material and design

Gaming chairs come in a bunch of different styles – from understated black leather to brightly coloured fabric. What’s best for you will depend on your aesthetic, your budget and the games you play.

Compatibility

As always, compatibility is important! If your chair’s got Bluetooth or other connectivity features, double check it works with the platform you’ll be playing on.

Audio

Some chairs have speakers in the headrest, so you get surround sound without extra speakers cluttering up the place. If you’ve got a private space for gaming, this can make for a more immersive experience.

Rocking

Not that kind of rocking chair. Some gaming chairs move or judder during intense bits of action. They’re popular for racing games where you want to simulate the feel of the road. But they’re also good for action games too – making battles more exciting.

Flight simulator controllers

Throttles, pedals, switch panels, flight instrument panels, radios. If it’s in a plane, chances are there’s a flight sim accessory for it – letting you get closer and closer to the real thing. Most can be clipped onto your desk, but make sure you’ve got the space for it!

Racing and flight sim chairs

Chairs for simulation games are on a whole other level. For racing, there are specially designed seats that look and feel like you’re in the hotseat of an F1 race car. And for flight sims, cockpit style ones. They also come with platforms and slots for attachments like steering wheels, pedals and joysticks.

Capture cards

Recording can slow down your console or PC, interfering with your gameplay. Which isn’t great for you or your viewers. A capture card sorts the problem by connecting to your device and capturing in-game footage to live stream or edit later. The card is doing all the work, so your PC or console can get on with the job of running your game.

Gaming microphones

Sometimes your headset mic just won’t cut it. If you feel like your commentary’s sounding a bit tinny, an external mic can make a big difference. For your first mic you might want to keep an eye out for something you can just plug and play without any extra software.

Stream lighting

Don’t underestimate the importance of good lighting. You’ll probably be streaming in the evening or, if it’s daytime, with the curtains drawn to save your screen from glare. That makes a ring light useful since you can focus the light on you.

Stream decks

Stream decks for gaming help you multitask while you play. Rather than exiting your game to control your recording, a stream deck is a mini second screen with customisable buttons that let you switch between cameras, mute yourself or use shortcuts for social media and streaming apps like Twitch and YouTube.

Racing wheels and pedals

These accessories give you more control over your car than your standard controller. And there are lots of different elements you can mix and match. Look out for features like force feedback for a more realistic experience or gear shifters to give you accurate handling..

Gaming monitors

If it’s gaming monitor advice you’re after, check out our PC gaming desktops and monitors buying guide.