As technology continues to expand, more users are upgrading to wireless gaming hardware. Notably, the increase in flexibility, clean and modern aesthetics and near-zero latency connectivity, are all attractive features of wireless hardware.
Our team of experts here at Overclockers UK have compiled all our knowledge on wireless technology into this helpful guide. We aim here to answer all your questions here along with providing you with some incredible hardware recommendations!
Wireless vs. Wired
One of the main reasons why more people are upgrading to wireless is due to aesthetics. You can achieve a clean and tidy look to your PC set-up with no additional cables cluttering your desk. Plus, the lack of wires means you minimise the risk of getting tangled, causing unnecessary interruptions during intense boss battles.
Upgrading to wireless hardware is not just for aesthetic purposes – research done using NVIDIA’s LDAT (Latency Display Analysis Tool) has shown that you will achieve a boost in performance as well compared to traditional wired connections.
Take a look at the chart down below which details mouse click latency rates in wired and wireless mice.
Thanks to near-zero latency, you can enjoy lightning-fast response times and superior precision. Every click will be registered with no lag, perfect for those who love intense FPS gaming action.
Wired vs. Wireless Internet Connection
When it comes to configuring the perfect set-up – something that often gets ignored is the type of connectivity. Both wired and wireless connections have benefits. It all depends on your setup.
Wired:
A traditional wired connection is via a standard Ethernet cable. An Ethernet connection is faster as you are directly plugged into the router and have a more secure connection. Plus, using an Ethernet cable offers you universal support as you don’t need to purchase a motherboard with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity.
Wireless:
Wireless uses a dongle or a hub to connect to Wi-Fi. These are often super simple to set up and can be accessed from multiple rooms in your house. You won’t need to be connected to an unsightly cable, reducing your amount of cable clutter.
For gaming enthusiasts, manufacturers have even specially designed routers to prioritise gaming. These routers usually come with the ability to tweak and configure your network to suit your needs and include a detailed user interface to ensure you achieve lightning-fast speeds and virtually no lag. If you are in the market – we would highly recommend the ASUS ROG Rapture Gaming Router.
ASUS ROG Rapture Gaming Router:
- Wi-Fi 6E gaming router
- Capable of reaching up to 6GHz bandwidth
- Up to 1100Mbps
- 2.5G WAN/LAN port
- Integrated free network security
Want to know more about Wi-Fi and computer networks? Check out our dedicated blog post.
Wireless Technology
Often manufacturers will give their 2.4GHz connection a name that suggests lightning-fast speeds and response times. Some examples from manufacturers include;
- Corsair Slipstream
- Razer Hyperspeed
- SteelSeries Quantum Wireless
There isn’t a significant difference between manufacturers, so you don’t need to worry about it affecting your gaming performance.
Bluetooth vs. 2.4GHz
Many wireless devices will require a Bluetooth connection.
Bluetooth connectivity is suitable for those looking to establish a work from home set up for typical office work or streaming the latest YouTube videos. Due to low bandwidths, Bluetooth devices transmit less information to your PC, achieving roughly only 125Hz. This will have a huge impact on your gaming performance, including slow response times and inputs. Modern gaming, however, requires a much faster 2.4GHz connection.
2.4GHz Connectivity
To establish a reliable 2.4GHz connection, a USB dongle is required. This is connected to your PC or laptop and transmits the wireless signal to your devices. Take advantage of this and enjoy plug-and-play connectivity with your devices, along with enhanced response times. Some manufacturers will also include a cable adapter with their products so you can place the dongle directly on your desk, for a trouble-free connection.
Wireless Charging
The latest and greatest innovation in wireless technology is wireless charging. Wave goodbye to unnecessary cables and plugs and instead you can now use a dedicated hub or stand to charge your devices. Wireless charging is just as fast as traditional wired chargers, reaching the same speeds as a 5-watt/1 Amp wall charger.
Types of Wireless Charging:
- Inductive: Requires physical contact between the device and wireless charger.
- Resonant: Requires the device and wireless charger to be in close proximity but do not need to be touching.
Why Wait – Upgrade your Set-up to Wireless Now
If you are feeling inspired to upgrade to wireless – we’ve got your back!
With our full range of wireless gaming headsets along with mice and keyboards, you are truly spoilt for choice! Therefore, I’ve included some examples of my favourite wireless hardware that we have on offer.
Gaming Headsets
Eliminating a cable with your headset will bring you a number of advantages. Such as being able to get up and walk around whilst still communicating with your teammates or listening to the latest music. Plus, most wireless gaming headsets have been engineered for intense, long gaming marathons meaning they are constructed with long battery life, along with an ergonomic, comfortable design.
Corsair HS80 RGB Wireless Gaming Headset
- Corsair Slipstream Wireless
- Up to 20 hours of battery life
- Broadcast-grade omni-directional microphone
- Plush memory foam ear cups
ASUS ROG Delta S Wireless Gaming Headset
- 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth compatibility
- Integrated AI Noise Cancellation to eliminate background chatter
- 15 minute fast charging
- Up to 25 hours of battery life
Razer Barracuda Wireless Gaming Headset
- Razer Hyperspeed 2.4 wireless and Bluetooth compatibility
- Integrated beamforming microphone
- Razer TriForce Titanium 50mm speakers
- Up to 40 hours of battery life
ASUS ROG Strix GO Wireless Gaming Headset
- 2.4GHz wireless connection
- AI noise-cancelling microphone
- Up to 24-hour battery life
- Included carry bag for on-the-go use
Mice & Keyboards
A wireless mouse and keyboard offer you more flexibility and freedom, perfect for those who enjoy fast-paced games that need a lot of flicks and clicks. Plus, most wireless mice and keyboards are extremely lightweight and some are portable, so you can even enjoy gaming on the go!
Glorious PC Gaming Race Model O Wireless Gaming Mouse
- BAMF sensor
- Up to 19,000 DPI
- Up to 71 hours battery life
- RGB lighting
- G-skate mouse feet
ASUS ROG Gladius III Wireless Gaming Mouse
- 2.4GHz connectivity
- Bluetooth compatible
- 1000Hz polling rate
- Up to 36,000 DPI
ASUS ROG Claymore Wireless Gaming Keyboard
- 80% TKL form factor
- ROG RX optical mechanical switches
- Detachable numpad and wrist rest
- 2.4GHz wireless connection
Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro Wireless Gaming Keyboard
- Razer Hyperspeed 2.4GHz wireless
- Razer Low Profile Optical key switches
- Up to 40 hours of battery life
- Integrated RGB lighting
Wireless Charging
All your wireless tech will eventually run out and need charging. Rather than trying to battle your huge stack of tangled-up wires, why not invest in some innovative wireless charging solutions?
ASUS ROG Balteus Qi RGB Wireless Charging Gaming Surface
- Gaming surface
- Integrated Qi wireless charging
- RGB lighting
- Non-slip rubber base
Learn More about Wireless Gaming
Check out some of our other dedicated blog posts about wireless gaming tech!
Do You Utilise Wireless?
Do you use any wireless gaming tech in your set-up? How has it helped to boost your performance? Let us know in the comments.
- 7 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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