There is more to gaming than just your PC or console. There is a plethora of accessories out there, designed to improve performance, streamline set-ups, and look fabulous.
Today, we are looking through some of the top gaming PC accessories that every gamer should consider (roll credits!). From the basics, to streaming must-haves, and everything in between, we’re taking you on a guided tour on some of our favourite peripherals.
The Basics
Without a keyboard, mouse, and monitor, there just is no PC gaming. True, you can game with a controller, but the mouse and keyboard are how you navigate and interact with your operating system, programs, and games. Having no monitor, well, how do you ever hope to see anything?!
Gaming Keyboards
Typically, gaming keyboards utilise mechanical switches, tall keycaps, and gaming-focused features such as RGB, macro mapping, and media controls. They are available in a range of sizes, connectivity types, and with an ever-growing variety of feedback to explore. With amenities like hot-swapping technology and programmable keys, you can tailor your gaming keyboard to suit your exact playstyle. For the die-hard keyboard enthusiast, there are series such as Ducky ProjectD and Glorious GMMK that allow for near-unlimited customisation potential.
If the full extent of keyboard modding is a little over-whelming, there is still incredible variety and availability in pre-built models. There are vibrant colour schemes to match every aesthetic, and even limited-edition gaming keyboards with beautiful and detailed designs.
We’ve picked out a full-size, TKL, and SF gaming keyboard to showcase a nice cross-section of the models available at Overclockers UK. Full-size means it features the full set of keys – alpha, numeric, F-row, numpad, the whole shebang. TKL stands for tenkeyless which means it does not include the numpad, a great way to save on space without compromising functionality. SF is short for 65%, indicating it is roughly 65% of a full-size keyboard. Once again, the numpad is omitted along with the F-row. The home and arrow key section have been refined and pulled closer to the alpha-numeric area, resulting in an incredibly compact keyboard ideally suited for small spaces and portability.
Ducky x Dimanche One 2 Peter Pan Keyboard
- Limited edition Dimanche designed keyboard
- US ANSI 100% layout
- Iris V2 EC switches
- Quack Mechanics
- PBT keycaps
Ducky One 3 Aura TKL Keyboard
- UK ISO 80% (TKL) layout
- Vibrant RGB lighting with translucent design
- double-shot keycaps
- Hot swapping technology
- Quack Mechanics
Glorious GMMK 2 65% RGB USB Keyboard
- UK ISO 65% layout
- Glorious Fox linear switches
- Per-key RGB lighting
- ABS keycaps
- Programmable with Glorious CORE
Gaming Mice
A lightweight gaming mouse with a high DPI can help improve your aim, provide comfort, and add a splash of style to your set-up. Select models have even been optimised for certain gaming genres, such as FPS, MOBAs, and MMOs. Then there is connectivity – do you want wired, wireless, or a model that offers the flexibility of both? How you hold your mouse will also influence choice, as they are often sculpted to support specific grips.
There is a great variety of gaming mice to explore – we even have a dedicated guide to help you through the process of choosing the best model for you. Sticking with connectivity, we have picked out a wired, wireless, and mouse that provides both for this tasty cross-section. The wired mouse connects via USB-A, offering stable and reliable performance, whilst the wireless utilises 2.4GHz radio frequencies to connect with near zero-latency. The mouse which offers both wired and wireless options connects either via USB-C, 2.4GHz, or Bluetooth, depending on your preference and battery needs.
Endgame Gear OP1 USB RGB Mouse
- Wired gaming mouse
- Translucent shell and RGB lighting
- Hot-swappable Kailh GX switches
- 26,000 CPI, 650 IPS, and 50G acceleration
- Hybrid skate design
Corsair M65 RGB ULTRA WIRELESS Mouse
- Wireless gaming mouse
- Tuneable weight system
- Up to 26,000 DPI
- MARKSMAN optical sensor
- Corsair Slipstream 2.4GHz connectivity
Glorious Model I 2 Wireless Mouse
- Wired and wireless connectivity
- Glorious BAMF 2.0 sensor
- Connect via USB, Bluetooth, or 2.4GHz
- RGB lighting
- Honeycomb shell
Gaming Surface
To get the best performance out of your gaming mouse, you’ll need a mousepad. This comes with the added benefit that it will protect your desk, too. No scuff marks from aggressive mouse movements for you! Mouse mats are available in hard or soft materials, each optimised to work with optical and laser sensors and provide a smooth surface to operate from. Which you choose will depend on your preferences and, to a certain extent, the aesthetic that vibes with you best.
What’s more, gaming surfaces come in a variety of sizes so you can match perfectly to your available desk space. You can use a traditionally sized small or medium mouse mat, ideal for just supporting your gaming mouse. Alternatively, you can opt for larger mats that fill your desk and can house everything from your mouse to your keyboard, and even your cup of tea!
We’ve selected a round-up of mousepads in these range of sizes, each utilising soft fabric surfaces and stitched edges for enhanced durability.
Endgame Gear MPC450 Medium Mat
- Medium mouse mat
- 450mm x 400mm x 3mm
- Cordura fabric surface
- Rubber base
- Stitched edges
Glorious G-XL Pro Gaming Surface
- Extra-large mousepad
- 475mm x 406mm x 2mm
- Anti-slip rubber base
- Stitched edges
- Cloth surface
OcUK Mega Mat 2XL Gaming Surface
- 2XL gaming surface
- Stitched edges
- Compatible with OcUK Elite Mug
- 890mm x 450mm x 3mm
- Rubberised base
Gaming Monitors
Gaming monitors present all your faves in glorious detail, crisp resolution, and silky-smooth frame rates. They have been designed with high-colour gamut and gaming-focused features to create the most immersive experience. Whether you are gaming on an ultra-wide curved monitor, a dual-screen set-up, or just a 27” screen, they are engineered to bring your games to life.
There are plenty of factors to consider. Do you want a high refresh rate? Is OLED the way forward? What about 4K resolutions? Ideally, you would want to match your monitor to the output of your graphics card – there’s no point getting a super shiny 4K monitor if your two-gen old GPU maxes out at 1080p. Use resolution as a starting point, because all monitors will come equipped with features such as NVIDIA G-Sync, AMD FreeSync, and panel technology designed for fast-paced gaming or colour accuracy.
Our cross-section here is based on resolution. We have a 1080p, 1440p, and 4K monitor, each sporting high refresh rates and low latency. Resolution refers to how many pixels are on screen. The higher the number, the more pixels, the crisper the image will be. Having a high resolution will allow you to see more detail. All three of these resolutions are classed as high definition (HD) and offer outstanding immersion for your gaming needs.
ASUS 24″ TUF Gaming VG24VQR Curved Monitor
- 24″ 1080p curved gaming monitor
- 1920 x 1080 resolution
- 165Hz refresh rate
- 1ms response time
- AMD FreeSync Premium
LG 32″ 32GP850-B Gaming Monitor
- 32″ 1440p gaming monitor
- 2560 x 1440 resolution
- 165Hz refresh rate
- 1ms response time
- FreeSync/G-Sync
Samsung Odyssey G7 Gaming Monitor
- 32″ 4K gaming monitor
- 3840 x 2160 resolution
- 144Hz refresh rate
- 1ms response time
- AMD FreeSync
Levelling Up Audio
Now we’ve sorted the basics and essentials, it’s time to level up and think audio. If you’re gaming on a laptop, chances are there will be an integrated sound system. Gaming PCs, however, require external hardware to deliver gaming soundscapes and scores. This can be achieved either via a gaming headset or set of speakers. (Plus, there is nothing stopping you from levelling up the integrated audio system on your laptop with these, too!)
Gaming Headset
First of all, what is the difference between a headset and a pair of headphones? Primarily, a headset includes a microphone – a must have if you are gaming online with friends or other players and you need to talk. Games often have built-in chat features, or you can communicate over secondary apps like Discord.
To provide immersive audio, gaming headsets are equipped with premium drivers that deliver round, warm bass notes and crystal-clear highs. This is often paired with spatial, directional, or virtual surround sound and noise cancellation, so you can hear enemy combatants coming from every direction without distraction. We are all about being transported to gaming worlds!
Like with most peripherals, you can choose between wired or wireless models, whichever connectivity type best suits your gaming set-up. We have one of each, plus a colourful set because, well, more things should be bright green IMO. When using wired connectivity, the headset will interface either via a 3.5mm audio jack or USB. Wireless models will connect over 2.4GHz or Bluetooth. All types offer reliable performance and have features to combat interference.
ASUS ROG Strix Fusion II 500 Headset
- Wired gaming headset
- Virtual 7.1 surround sound
- RGB lighting
- Cross-platform compatibility
- AI noise cancellation
Corsair VIRTUOSO RGB Wireless Headset
- Wireless gaming headset
- Optional wired connectivity
- Immersive 7.1 surround sound
- 50mm neodymium driver
- Lightweight
Razer Kraken Multi-Platform Headset
- Multi-platform headset
- Bold green colouring
- 50mm neodymium drivers
- Thick padded headband
- 7.1 surround sound
Speakers
For those that like to rock their audio out loud, there are speakers. Typically, these will connect to the audio output ports found on the motherboard I/O panel, unless they feature USB or wireless connectivity. The number of speakers will be indicated in the product name, denoted as 2.0, 5.0, 5.1, and so on. The “.1” shows that a bass speaker is included in addition to the rest. Therefore, a 2.0 set has two speakers, whereas a 5.1 would have six. With more speakers, you can create surround sound for full, rich audio. Enjoy high fidelity sound on all your favourite games.
We’ve picked out a 2.0, 2.1, and 5.1 speaker set, with varying connections. Each has been engineered with premium drivers and components to deliver top-quality audio, with accessible controls for on-the-fly adjustments.
Edifier G5000 Hi-Res 2.0 Bluetooth Speakers
- 2.0 gaming speakers
- Bluetooth connectivity
- RGB lighting
- High fidelity
- Built-in DSP
Edifier X230 2.1 Multimedia Bluetooth Speakers
- 2.1 multimedia speakers
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Wooden subwoofer
- RGB lighting
- Wired connectivity available
Logitech Z906 5.1 Surround Sound Speakers
- 5.1 surround sound speakers
- Includes remote control
- THX certified
- Connects via 3.5mm AUX
- Independent speaker volume
The Streamers
Moving onto a more targeted need, this next round up of accessories is for streamers and content creators. We’ll be showcasing microphones, lights, webcams, and even streaming controllers. If you plan on streaming, vlogging, or recording video content, a microphone and webcam are must-haves. Key and ring lights will elevate your production values whilst stream decks are designed to optimise your set-up with easy one-click controls for all manner of functions.
Microphones
Testing, testing, one two, one two. Microphones capture audio. You can use them for recording audio, video calling, and streaming. They are equipped with a pickup pattern, that is sensitive to sound in certain directions. For example, a cardioid or unidirectional pattern is most sensitive at the front with near no sensitivity at the back, making them great for streaming and podcasting. An omnidirectional microphone will have consistent sensitivity all around, ideal for recording in 360-degree environments.
To keep your sound free from knocks and bumps, gaming microphones will come with a stand or feature extensive compatibility with microphone arms. These allow you to position the microphone more comfortably in your set-up as well as protect your audio from vibrations. Plus, they will usually come with an integrated pop filter to keep the sound clean and free of plosives. Saves mangling a metal coat hanger and a pair of tights!
Here, we have selected a microphone on a tripod, one with a matching microphone arm, and the last features the professional XLR connection. This connector minimises interference and noise. It is also the best connector to use if you will have long cable runs, such as in a recording studio.
Streamplify MIC Microphone with Tripod
- Cardioid microphone with tripod
- Plug and play USB connectivity
- RGB lighting
- Two audio modes
- Integrated volume and mute control
Endgame Gear XSTRM Microphone
- Condenser microphone with matching arm
- Stylish RGB lighting
- USB connectivity
- Shock mount and pop filter
- Touch mute button
Shure MV7 Podcasting Microphone
- Pocasting microphone
- Professional XLR connector
- Integrated volume control
- Includes mounting yoke
- Premium internal audio components
Ring and Key Lights
Ring and key lights are designed to illuminate small areas with consistent lighting. This makes them perfect for streaming, mobile filming, and vlogging. By simply introducing some targeted lighting, you can elevate your production values and create a better-balanced image on screen. Poorly lit content looks shoddy, with too many shadows or, at the other end of the scale, being over exposed. With the simple addition of a key or ring light, you can fix this.
These lights provide even illumination and can be configured in brightness and warmth level. Create an ambient glow or throw your set into sharp contrast – whatever suits your content best! Plus, they integrate within your set-up seamlessly, coming either as free standing or with a desk clamp.
In this cross section, we have picked a 10” ring light, a square key light, and a 14” circular panel light. The 10” ring light is designed for directional lighting, whereas the other two are better for indirect lighting.
Streamplify LIGHT 10 Ring Light with Tripod
- 10″ ring light
- 5V USB connectivity
- Three colour temperatures
- Ten brightness levels
- Integrated camera mount
Elgato Key Light Air Studio Lighting
- LED key light
- 1400 lumens
- Colour adjustable
- Free standing base
- Companion app for control
Streamplify GLOW LIGHT 14 Ring Light
- 14″ panel ring light
- LCD touch control panel
- Four colour temperatures
- Twenty brightness levels
- Desk clamp and standing mount
Webcam
The webcam is how your wonderful audience sees you. Most laptops and some monitors will come with an integrated webcam, but these are not suited for streaming or recording due to their fixed position and inferior quality. Having a dedicated webcam means you can record at higher resolutions and take advantage of features such as auto-focus or even built in lighting. Plus, you can angle them so they capture your best side on every stream.
The current market doesn’t offer much variation. Most webcams record at 1080p high-def and either clamp to a surface or are compatible with a stand. Some offer an integrated microphone and other specialised features. Truly, there are no wrong answers.
This cross-section features popular streaming brands, Streamplify, Elgato, and Logitech.
Streamplify CAM Full HD Webcam
- Full HD webcam
- Includes clamp and tripod
- Sliding lens cover
- Auto adjust features
- 60FPS
Elgato Premium 1080p HD Facecam
- 1080p face camera
- 6FPS
- Fixed-focus glass lense
- Optimised for indoor lighting
- On-board memory
Logitech C922 Pro Stream Webcam
- Pro webcam
- 1080p at 60FPS or 720p at 30FPS
- Automatic low light correction
- Omnidirection mics
- Clamp and tripod
Stream Controllers
Stream controllers put multi-layered functionality at your fingertips. They can be customised to suit your exact needs, from playing your stream intro to switching between apps. Their use goes beyond streaming, as they can be configured to switch between tabs, open files, and even control your music. (Check out how Glyn has keyed his Elgato Stream Deck to manage his workflow!)
Stream controllers have excellent integration with popular streaming apps and websites, with widgets, plug-ins, and commands tailored for OBS, Twitch, and more. Plus, they can be used to control the physical hardware in your set-up, such as adjusting the lighting or muting your microphone. Every button can be assigned an action specific to your needs, with some models allowing one press to trigger multiple actions, making this your one-stop shop for control.
Here, we have selected the original Elgato 6-key Stream Deck (although, you can get 15 and 32 key versions too!), the Elgato Stream Deck +, and the G.Skill WigiDash. The Elgato Stream Decks all feature physical buttons with LCD screens that can be fully customised, layered, and assigned functionality. The G.Skill WigiDash is a digital panel where you drag and drop widgets from the companion software to create near countless pages of personalised tasks and actions.
Elgato USB 6 Key Stream Deck
- 6 key stream deck
- Fully customisable
- LCD keys
- Assign multi-actions
- Easy set up
Elgato Stream Deck +
- 8 key stream deck
- Touch strip and dial control
- Fully customisable
- USB 2.0 connectivity
- LCD keys and screen
G.Skill WigiDash Command Panel
- Digital 7″ dashboard
- Drag and drop widgets
- Display information
- Create shortcuts
- Up to twenty virtual buttons
And Everything Between
Crikey, we’re still going! (Says you and the team who have to proofread my work.) What can I say? There are loads of accessories to fit a variety of needs that gamers may have. This is our miscellaneous category, so the end is in sight. This round-up covers controllers, laptop accessories, and RGB lighting.
Controllers
Using a game controller with a PC can be divisive. Some are staunchly against, whilst some games are just better with a controller. (I’m looking at you Overcooked!) Wherever you fall in this debate, there is no denying that game controllers have been ergonomically sculpted and offer intuitive interaction with your games.
Every facet of a game controller has been optimised to enhance your gameplay, reactions, and performance. From hair triggers to vibrations caused by in-game occurrences, controllers are designed to elevate. Game with textured surfaces to enhance your grip, tactile action buttons and d-pads, and even support for your 3.5mm headset jack.
They are available with wired or wireless connectivity and are usually styled on either Xbox or PlayStation controllers. This cross-section covers an official Xbox Series X/S controller, a hot-swappable Thrustmaster gamepad, and a Razer controller styled on Xbox hardware.
Microsoft Xbox X/S Wireless Controller
- Official wireless Xbox Series X/S controller
- Compatible with PC
- Stylish Shock Blue
- Ergonomic shape
- Textured grips
Thrustmaster eSwap Pro Controller
- Controller for PlayStation4 and PC
- Innovative T-MOD technology
- Hot swappable components
- Industrial-grade components
- Re-map buttons
Razer Wolverine V2 Wired Controller
- Wired game controller for PC and Xbox
- Stylish white finish
- Ergonomic shape
- Designed for precise control
- Two multi-function buttons
Laptop Accessories
Laptop accessories are designed to enhance your portable gaming. Every product and piece of hardware already listed can absolutely be used with a gaming laptop, but the next three are exclusively for this medium. We have a laptop bag, stand, and security lock.
Laptop bags usually feature internal padding and straps to secure your laptop in place as you travel. Often, the bag will be big enough to fit a certain screen size, such as 15.6” or 17.3”. Ideally, you’ll want to match to the correct size as this will offer a snugger fit to enhance protection. The other benefit of having a laptop bag while you travel is it provides a place for your other devices, wallet, keys, snacks, and even your lunch. They are great for gamers who commute or travel a lot.
A laptop stand is essential for enhancing your ergonomic set up. If you are working at a desk, laptop screens will often be too low and cause neck or back pain. (Speaking from experience here.) Elevating them to eye height with a laptop stand and adding a dedicated keyboard will help prevent this. Another benefit of laptop stands is that they often feature integrated cooling. Our gaming laptops may feature improved cooling systems, but they still operate powerful hardware in a slim frame. Extra cooling will always be welcome.
Finally, a laptop lock is another must-have if you are out and about in public with your gaming laptop. It provides a means of securing your expensive hardware whilst at a cafe, in the library, or even at the airport.
Lenovo 4X40V26080 Laptop Bag
- Laptop bag for 15.6″ laptops
- Light grey fabric
- Water-resistant
- Durable materials
- Dedicated pockets
Kolink KL-F500 17.3″ Laptop Cooler
- Cooler designed for 17.3″ laptops
- ARGB fans and trim
- USB powered
- Adjustable height
- Six 70mm fans
OcUK 1.5m Security Lock for Laptops
- 1.5m laptop lock
- Secure to desk leg
- Two keys supplied
- Barrel lock
- In-built security slot
RGB Lighting
Our next stop on the accessory tour is RGB lighting! Ambient lighting can affect your mood, helping to alleviate any winter blues. Setting up some cosy lighting is a surefire way to turn your gaming set-up into your own personal sanctuary.
There are so many RGB accessories available. Heck, we even did a post about modding your PC with some! You can build it directly into your gaming PC, choose peripherals adorned with RGB LEDs, or even mount those fancy diffused panels on your wall. There is a full rainbow out there waiting.
As just a splash of colour, we have here some strip LEDs for your case, sleek RGB lighting towers (with a headset holder add-on), and fan frames to make your thermal solution even cooler.
CableMod WideBeam Magnetic RGB LED Kit
- Magnetiuc RGB LED kit
- 60cm with 30 LEDs
- WideBeam technology
- 4-pin ARGB header
- Includes remote
Corsair LT100 Smart Lighting Tower Starter Kit
- Two RGB lighting towers
- Includes headset holder adapter
- 46 RGB LEDs per tower
- 11 out-of-the-box effects
- Fully configurable with iCUE
Phanteks Halos Lux 120mm Fan Frame
- DRGB fan frame
- Designed for 120mm fans
- 30 RGB LEDs
- Compatible with ASUS Aura Sync and MSI Mystic Light
Managing Your Must-Haves
Last one, I promise. We’ve given you heart eyes over a whole load of shiny new accessories, it would be remiss of us to not provide a way to organise them all. Welcome to USB hubs.
USB Hubs
USB is by and large the go-to connector for most peripherals nowadays. It’s widely used on gaming mice and keyboards, audio hardware is using it more, and it’s easy to see why. USB is incredibly reliable and constantly being innovated to improve performance, data transfer, and faster charging. But, they have to plug in somewhere. Whether you’re using a gaming PC or laptop, available USB ports are a premium and will soon run out if you’re not careful.
This is where USB hubs come in. They extend the functionality of one port into a greater number, increasing your ability to plug in and carry on. Select models will even feature power charging so you can keep your wireless devices or phone charged up during gaming marathons.
This final cross section features an IcyBox four-port hub and both Streamplify USB hubs. The HUB DECK 5 and CTRL 7 feature five and seven ports, respectively, with one port on both including power charging. What we really love about the Streamplify hubs is their stylish use of keycap-style and acrylic icons to denote the function of each port. Plus, the RGB lighting. Always the RGB lighting.
Streamplify HUB DECK 5 USB Hub
- Five port USB hub
- Integrated RGB lighting
- Seven swappable keycaps
- 4 x USB 3.0 and 1 x 2.0A
- Cable clip included
IcyBox USB 3.0 In Desk Hub
- Four port USB hub
- Designed to integrate within desk
- USB 3.0
- 60mm cable
- 5 Gbit/s data transfer
Streamplify HUB CTRL 7 USB Hub
- Seven port USB hub
- Sixteen swappable acrylic icons
- 6 x USB 3.0 and 1 x USB 2.0A
- LED power indicators
- Includes cable clip
Check Out More Accessories!
We rounded up the best gaming accessories of 2022 and 2023, so you don’t have to! Click the pictures to read more!
Tell Us Your Go-To Accessories
Have we omitted an accessory that every gamer should have? Let us know in the comments below!
- 20 min read
Emily Haylock
Author
Emily is a board and cosy gamer, keyboard obsessive, and content copywriter for Overclockers UK. She has been with Overclockers UK for two years, writing about everything from noblechairs to 8Pack PCs. She writes from within her desk nest with a foster pup at her feet. (What, a desk duvet is a totally normal thing!) In her downtime, she likes to play board games, farming sims, and old-school Final Fantasy. IX to be specific. It is the best, and that is a hill she will die on.
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Would also call out Logitech G915 wireless gaming keyboard, one of their wireless mice, and their PowerPlay charging mouse mat for anyone who has to use the same desk space for multiple work and gaming machines. Same keyboard and mouse can be shared, between both devices without the need for messy KVM switches (which don’t support gaming macros/functions on gaming keyboards anyway). Big saver on desk space, cabling and looks much tidier.
Yaas! That’s a great shout 🙂