2023 is coming to an end (where has the year gone!). It’s been a fantastic year for us here at Overclockers UK. Not only did we move headquarters, but we had a great year full of new hardware, peripherals, gaming chairs, exciting game releases, and so much more!
It’s been tough to pick out our favourites. But after many long hours spent deliberating in the board room, we’ve managed to come up with our Best of 2023. Let’s jump straight to it.
Best New Hardware
2023 was jam packed full of incredible new hardware releases, from CPUs, GPUs, to next-gen storage, we got plenty of new tech to put in our PCs. We’ve taken a look through our list and just couldn’t pick a favourite. All this hardware deserves the top spot so we’ve decided to give all our worthy nominees a mention.
Intel 14th Gen
The latest gen of Intel CPUs continues to utilise the intelligent hybrid architecture to deliver next-gen performance. Intel 14th Gen has been fine-tuned for gaming, harnessing the blend of P- and E-cores to facilitate blisteringly fast speeds and seamless multitasking. All of which is backed up by Intel Thread Director to ensure the best core is assigned to the job.
There are three models in the series, all with ‘K’ and ‘KF’ variants.
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between the CPU models in the series.
| i5-14600K | i7-14700K | i9-14900K | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cores | 14 (6P and 12E) | 20 (8P and 12E) | 24 (8P and 16E) |
| Threads | 20 (12P and 8E) | 28 (16P and 12E) | 32 (16P and 16E) |
| Boost Speed | 5.3GHz | 5.6GHz | 6.0GHz |
| Cache | 44MB | 61MB | 68MB |
| TDP | 125W | 125W | 125W |
Want to know more about Intel 14th Gen? Be sure to take a look at our blog article for more information about these CPUs, including all the hardware you need to upgrade.
AMD Threadripper 7000 Series
We think the AMD Threadripper 7000 Series also deserves a mention in our Best New Hardware of 2023.
These processors are the ultimate game changer for workstations and enthusiast-grade gaming PCs. Harnessing Zen 4 architecture and up to 96 cores, these processors are packed with everything you need to enhance your performance in gaming, streaming, and creation. Powerful L3 cache and support for up to eight channels of DDR5 RAM ensure you can work or game at lightning fast speeds with zero interruptions.
The line up has been split into models designed for workstations and gaming PCs.
- Threadripper Pro (WX) – professional applications and workstations
- Threadripper 7000 – high-end gaming PCs
Our handy table below highlights the differences between the two.
| Processor | Cores & Threads | Base / Boost Frequency | Cache | TDP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pro 7995WX | 96 / 192 | 2.5 / Up to 5.1GHz | 480MB | 350W |
| Pro 7985WX | 64 / 128 | 3.2 / Up to 5.1GHz | 320MB | 350W |
| Pro 7975WX | 32 / 64 | 4.0 / Up to 5.3GHz | 160MB | 350W |
| Pro 7965WX | 24 / 48 | 4.2 / Up to 5.3GHz | 152MB | 350W |
| Pro 7955WX | 16 / 32 | 4.5 / Up to 5.3GHz | 80MB | 350W |
| Pro 7945WX | 12 / 24 | 4.7 / Up to 5.3GHz | 76MB | 350W |
| 7980X | 64 / 128 | 3.2 / Up to 5.1GHz | 320MB | 350W |
| 7970X | 32 / 64 | 4.0 / Up to 5.3GHz | 160MB | 350W |
| 7960X | 24 / 48 | 4.2 / Up to 5.3GHz | 152MB | 350W |
Looking to level up your performance with an AMD Threadripper 7000 Series? We’ve put together all the key details you need to know in our dedicated blog post.
NVIDIA RTX 40 Series Gaming Laptops
Last but certainly not least on our list of the Best New Hardware in 2023, are the NVIDIA RTX 40 Series Gaming Laptops.
Unveiled way back at the start of the year at CES 2023, NVIDIA’s range of RTX 40 Series laptops harness their brand-new generation of GPU and powerful Max-Q technology. Both of which deliver exceptional performance that has been optimised for gaming and streaming. Taking advantage of features such as AI DLSS and low-voltage GDDR6 memory, these gaming laptops boast a huge increase in efficiency to ensure you can game on the go with ease.
You can now find gaming laptops with the following GPUs;
New year, new laptop? Are you thinking of treating yourself to an NVIDIA RTX 40 Series Laptop in 2024? Then check out our ultimate buyer’s guide.
Best New Peripheral
Peripherals galore! There have been so many incredible new peripherals released in 2023, but we’ve narrowed it down to our top pick of 2023 – Ducky ProjectD.
Ducky ProjectD is a brand-new line up of mechanical gaming keyboards that have been fine-tuned to deliver outstanding performance and plenty of customisation. Available in a multitude of different keyboard sizes, these keyboards all boast hot-swappable key switches, intelligent QMK/VIA, and durable PBT keycaps.
There are two different models available – the Outlaw and Tinker.
The Outlaw has been crafted especially for enthusiasts looking to build the keyboard of their dreams. Every aspect of this keyboard can be customised to suit your preferences, typing needs, and in-game demands. Plus, for an added bonus there is even per-key RGB backlighting to illuminate this keyboard in stunning colour.
Alternatively, there is the Tinker. You can find both pre-built and barebone Tinker keyboards, meaning if you don’t want to build your own, you don’t have to! Crafted from premium-quality components, the Tinker has been fine-tuned for superior performance and durability.
Want to know more about our Best New Peripheral of 2023? Take a look at ‘Ducky ProjectD Explained’ where we go into more detail about these keyboards.
Best Game
In every month of 2023, we’ve seen some incredible new games hit our online libraries. From long-awaited AAA titles, immersive RPGs, to outstanding Indie games, there has been a new game release for everyone. But which one has earned the title of Best Game of 2023?
Well, we just couldn’t decide between these two, therefore we’ve picked out our best mainstream and indie game of 2023.
Baldur’s Gate 3
2023 was the year that the long-awaited Baldur’s Gate 3 finally came out of early access, and it’s safe to say, this game did not disappoint! Upholding the same classic gameplay elements of the previous games, Baldur’s Gate 3 features a rich story full of friendship, survival, and sacrifice.
Set in the Forgotten Realms utilising the D&D 5e ruleset, players can create their very own character from classic D&D races and classes, as they embark on this incredible adventure. After being infected by a Mind Flayer parasite, it’s up to you to resist the forces of corruption and evil that are threatening to not only take over the world, but your mind too. Trapped within your own inner conflict, and the one between devils and deities, you’ll be pushed to your very limits and forced to make decisions that could just alter the Forgotten Realms forever.
Baldur’s Gate 3 won the hearts and minds of so many players, inspiring plenty of memes (we’ll get to that later), resulting in developers Larian Studios taking home the title of ‘Game of the Year 2023’.
Want to know more about our Best Game of 2023? Take a look at our dedicated blog post all about Baldur’s Gate 3. We took a look at gameplay, early access developments, PC specs, and of course our top PCs to play.
Dave the Diver
For our Indie choice, it had to be Dave the Diver. A unique new life sim, Dave the Diver is the ultimate cosy game that allows you to explore the ocean and run a sushi restaurant. Best of both worlds, right?
Set around the tranquil Blue Hole, a huge ocean full of fish and the occasional sea creature, you’ll need to brave these depths to find the perfect catch to serve at your restaurant. Exploring the ocean floor will come with a risk, thankfully armed with your trusty harpoon and plenty of other unique weaponry, you can defend yourself against these threats. Just be careful you don’t run out of oxygen! On your dives, you’ll also be able to unravel the mysteries that lie at the bottom of the Blue Hole, whilst also ensuring your sushi restaurant is thriving business.
The 2D pixel art, beautiful ocean visuals, eccentric characters, and chill gameplay all make Dave the Diver the perfect game to escape in during your weekend gaming marathons.
Has this inspired you to play Dave the Diver? Check out our Indie Showcase in which we took a closer look at the gameplay and our top PCs to play.
2023 has been full of incredible new game releases. Each one is a winner in our eyes but here’s which games took home trophies at the Game Awards 2023.
Best Gaming Announcement
Let’s not beat around the bush, the Best Gaming Announcement of 2023 happened mere weeks ago when Rockstar finally gave us a GTA VI teaser trailer.
It’s been ten long years since GTA V was first released. Since then, GTA V has been a roaring success for Rockstar with both its in-depth campaign and dedicated online multiplayer mode. All of which made us itch for the next game in this iconic franchise. Therefore, everyone’s expectations are high for GTA VI, and the teaser trailer did not disappoint.
We got a glimpse at Vice City with its glorious beaches and lush Everglades, brand-new social media in-game mechanics, and the new protagonist for the game’s campaign. Not seen the trailer yet? You can watch the full thing below.
Nothing gets past us at OcUK. We took a deep dive, into the GTA VI teaser trailer, covering everything we saw and our top gameplay predictions.
Best Special Edition Gaming Chair
My, oh, my, did we have some great special edition gaming chairs in 2023. Our winner, however, is Nitro Concept’s Transformers Gaming Chairs Series.
Officially licensed by Hasbro, Nitro Concept delivered us three Transformers gaming chairs, fine-tuned to transform your comfort levels.
Whilst these chairs won’t turn into robots, they do all feature an outstanding race car inspired design to emulate the feel of their car counterparts whilst also providing enhanced support. The combination of PU leather and cold foam padding ensure you remain cool and comfortable, even as your gameplay heats up. Plus, it’s deform-resistant meaning it’ll retain its shape even after extended hours of use.
What’s more, each of these gaming chairs also sports an iconic Transformers design. Choose between Autobots, Decepticons, and even Optimus Prime.
You can read more about the Nitro Concept’s Transformers Special Editions in our dedicated blog article.
Best Gaming Chair
Speaking of gaming chairs, we also had some incredible non-special edition releases in 2023. Our winner of Best Gaming Chair is the ThunderX3 Core Series.
Designed with comfort in mind, the ThunderX3 Core Gaming Chair will revolutionise your gaming set up. Engineered with a SYNC6 mechanism and intelligent CORE.RDY.360 Tech, this chair boasts exceptional comfort and ergonomics. Thanks to the SYNC 6 mechanism, you can adjust nearly every aspect of this chair from the backrest, seat base, to its synchronous tilt.
What’s more, CORE.RDY.360 Tech has been built into the back rest. It will move in any direction with your body, no matter how much you wiggle and shift. Combined, both of these innovative features ensure healthy posture, incredible lumbar support, and improved comfort.
That’s not all though, there are also 4D armrests, a detachable headrest pillow, multipurpose footrest, and even a pocket on the backrest. This gaming chair truly has it all!
Want to know more about the ThunderX3 Core Series? We’ve got a blog about these gaming chairs, taking you step-by-step into all the innovative features and designs.
What’s more, you can check out how you could utilise a ThunderX3 Core in your set up, by taking a look at our small office inspiration pieces.
Best Gaming Meme
We did promise you some memes, and Baldur’s Gate 3 sparked so many. We’ve searched high and low across the internet and social media for our favourite.
Surprisingly, we couldn’t pick just one so here’s three instead.
Your Best of 2023?
What were your favourites of 2023? Leave your best of 2023 hardware, games, memes, and more in the comments below!
- 11 min read
Ruth Rowley
Author
Ruth has been with Overclockers UK for over a year and has gone on to write about everything ranging from in-depth hardware guides to monthly game releases.
Outside of writing blog posts, she can be found wrapped in a blanket with her black cat, engrossed in a book or playing life-simulation games such as The Sims, Stardew Valley, and Animal Crossing.
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