As gamers everywhere know, the industry is in constant flux, with technology constantly reshaping the way we play. Whether it’s immersive virtual reality experiences or cloud gaming, one thing is certain: the next innovation is almost certainly right around the corner.
In their rush to buy the latest games and next-generation consoles or gaming PCs, many forget about other tech gadgets that could take their gaming experience to the next level. With the right equipment, casual and hardcore gamers alike can improve their comfort, performance, and level of immersion in the games they play. In this article, we look at some of the essential tech gadgets every gamer should consider adding to their arsenal.
Gaming Headset
Whether you’re vying to be the last person standing in Fortnite or spinning the reels on a themed slot in an online casino, a high-quality headset can give you an unmatched immersive experience that you often won’t be able to achieve with your TV, PC or smartphone’s speakers alone. Casino games are popular around the world, and online casinos have made it possible for people to play these games without traveling to a brick-and-mortar establishment. Online platforms make this experience as authentic as possible, so when a gamer plays a themed slot, they hear the clinking of the coins and the music. With the right headset, these sounds become even more vivid and immersive, making players feel like they’re right on the casino floor.
The same goes for other game genres, where a headset with virtual surround sound lets players hear all the audio details of a game, including the faintest footsteps and distant gunfire, which can give them a competitive edge when playing online. A good set of noise-cancellation headphones can make the experience even better, blocking out distractions and letting players focus entirely on the game they’re playing.
Mechanical Keyboard
If you do most of your gaming on a PC, then a mechanical keyboard is a must. Serious gamers love these keyboards because they provide them with responsive feedback and they’re highly durable. If you play fast-paced games, you’ll appreciate the tactile feedback from mechanical switches that these keyboards provide, allowing you to play with both precision and speed. When shopping for a mechanical keyboard, you should look for features like RGB lighting, key switches suited to their preferences (e.g. linear or clicky), and durable build quality. There are several models to choose from, with many gamers recommending Corsair K95 RGB Platinum and Logitech G Pro X because of their customization options and fast actuation.
High-Precision Gaming Mouse
Along with a mechanical keyboard, you’ll want to invest in a high-precision gaming mouse if you’re a PC gamer. These mice are especially useful in fast-paced games, where split-second decisions can make the difference between success and defeat. Pay attention to the mouse’s DPI (dots per inch) to determine its sensitivity and how quickly it’ll respond to your movements. This is especially important in first-person shooters. Some mice come with adjustable DPI and customizable buttons that will let you personalize your experience. The Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro and Logitech G Pro X Superlight are two of the most popular mice among gamers and might be worth a closer look.
Gaming Chair
When you’re engrossed in a title, it’s not unusual to spend an hour or more playing; therefore, how you’re seated during long gaming sessions matters. The right gaming chair can make gaming more enjoyable and also save your back from discomfort and strain. Look for a gaming chair with adjustable lumbar support, reclining functions, and cushioned armrests, all of which will help you stay comfortable and maintain good posture while gaming. Chairs like the Secretlab Titan Evo series and the Razer Iskur are well-designed and have customizable options. Gamers like them because they have advanced adjustability options, memory foam cushioning, and are sturdy, making them a great option for long gaming sessions. However, it’s a crowded market, so you’ll want to shop around.