7 Things Every PC Gamer Should Have

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Whether you’re just getting started or you’re already an avid gamer, there’s no doubt you’ll already have your next purchase in mind. The right setup definitely enhances your gameplay, but you’ll want to avoid blowing your budget on overhyped gadgets that have little to offer. To get the most out of your PC and improve your gaming, check out these top 7 things every gamer should have…

1. Gaming Controllers

A mouse and keyboard will give you complete control over your gameplay with some titles but will make it hard to even get off the first level in others. Unless you only play one or two titles, you’ll want a controller or two on hand. 

It’s not difficult to pick up a gaming controller; you’ll find them everywhere from big box stores, grocery stores and, of course, online. However, it might be a little trickier to find the ideal controller for your needs. They aren’t all created equal, so it’s worth taking extra time to find what works for you. 

In general, you’ll want a controller with customizable buttons, durability, and flexibility. If you prefer the reliability of a wired connection, be sure to choose a controller that features a long-length wire to make your gameplay more comfortable. 

2. Precision Screwdrivers

A set of precision screwdrivers is an essential addition to any gamer’s armory. At some point or another, you’ll need to tighten screws, replace components or upgrade your PC, and you won’t be able to do any of these without some decent screwdrivers.

Magnetic tips make it easier to install or remove hardware, especially if you don’t want a rogue screw wreaking havoc inside your PC. A textured grip makes more extensive maintenance much more comfortable, while spinning ends allow you to exert maximum control with minimum effort

Before you put your new set of tools to use, however, there are some general guidelines you’ll want to follow. Sites like https://levelupyourgear.com have great tips for building your own gaming PC, so you can learn the basics quickly and easily. Once you know what not to do, you’ll have the skills and confidence you need to build, repair and upgrade your gaming PC whenever you want to.

3. Gaming Chair

Spending hours playing GTA 5, DOOM or CoD from a desk chair or couch won’t just prevent you from exacting control, it will wreck your posture too. If you regularly experience backache, neck pain or headaches, then a gaming chair is one investment you can’t afford to overlook.

Gaming chairs come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s handy to look at existing reviews and compare the different styles on offer. Racing gaming chairs are popular among gamers because of the support and flexibility they offer. With an extra-tall back, you can recline your gaming chair for comfort but still get maximum support along your upper back, neck, and head. 

As well as enhancing your play and preventing aches and pains, a gaming chair can enhance your offline style too. With an endless range of colors, materials and designs available, the right gaming chair completes your setup. 

4. Mechanical Keyboard

If you don’t already have a mechanical keyboard, then you’re probably new to PC gaming. It’s an essential bit of kit for PC gamers, so make this one of your top priorities. 

Spring activated switches mean mechanical keyboards feel better to use and they tend to last a lot longer than other alternatives. Your keyboard is going to get a lot of use as you get more into gaming, so you’ll need something that’s robust enough to cope with your gaming habits. 

Choosing the best mechanical keyboard is really based on personal preference, so try some out before you buy if you can. Some mechanical keyboards require to exert a little extra force on the keys, but this isn’t true of all of them. On many models, you won’t need to press any harder than you would on a standard keyboard, but you’ll still get the satisfying tactile feel associated with mechanical options. 

Similarly, don’t assume that mechanical keyboards are all as noisy as old typewriters. If your roommates are already tired of telling you to keep it down as you own noobs on Counter-Strike, you probably want to avoid anything that’s going to make your gameplay even louder. Fortunately, there are plenty of mechanical keyboards that operate almost silently so they won’t distract you from your gameplay or give you an excuse for making too much noise. 

5. Ultrawide Monitor

Many PC gamers swear by a 27” monitor but ultrawide alternatives give you an even more immersive experience. Like putting two monitors side-by-side, but without the irritating gap or bezel in between, an ultrawide monitor literally expands your horizons and allows you to experience games as developers intended them to be seen. 

Some people opt for a three-screen setup, which allows you to enhance your gameplay gradually. If you’re working to a tight budget, this can be a viable way to improve your current setup, particularly as the left and right monitors don’t need to be quite as high-quality as your main screen.

However, there’s really nothing better than a curved, ultrawide monitor when it comes to immersion and graphics. With more models coming to the market, they aren’t as expensive as they once were either. If your budget stretches to it, you won’t regret adding one to your system. 

6. Gaming Headset

A headset is a must if you want to use acoustics to gain an advantage over your opponents. Or you want to avoid your neighbors banging on your door. Headsets enhance gameplay in single-player games and give you a tactical advantage when you’re playing against other people. In team games, in-built microphones let you communicate with your teammates and plan successful strategies, so they really are essential. 

Wireless headsets offer maximum flexibility but there are plenty of wired options which work just as well. If you want to invest in a top-end wireless gaming headset, you can easily spend upwards of $100. However, budget-friendly wired headsets routinely come in at less than $20, so there’s options to suit everyone. Providing it offer good quality audio without any lag, then any headset will serve you well.

7. Compressed Air

If paying good money for a can of air seems like a joke, then you haven’t looked inside your PC recently. Any electrical equipment harbors dust and the inner workings of your PC will be covered in the stuff unless you clean it regularly. When dust builds up, it reduces the functionality of cooling fans, which means your equipment is more likely to overheat or malfunction. 

By switching your machine off, carefully opening it up and using compressed air to blast the dust away, you can keep it clean without causing damage to touch-sensitive components. Although any gamer should have a can of compressed air on standby, it’s important to remember that they are highly flammable, so they should be treated carefully. Don’t leave it exposed to natural light or let it get too warm. Instead, treat it in the same way as any other aerosol and you can use it safely as part of your regularly PC maintenance routine. 

Building the Perfect Setup for PC Gaming

If you’re still pretty new to PC gaming, don’t be tempted to rush out and buy the ‘best’ accessories you can find. What works for some gamers doesn’t suit others, so give yourself time to establish your own gaming preferences before you decide what accessories work best for you.