Of course, finding the best gaming glasses may present a challenge, especially if that isn’t your field of interest. However, don’t despair, this guide will help you with that task and ease your search for the perfect ones.

Top Picks

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	GUNNAR - Premium Gaming and Computer Glasses - Blocks 65% Blue Light - Intercept	Check at Amazon
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	Cyxus Blue Light Blocking Computer Glasses Square Classic Retro Clear Lens Eyeglasses Frame for...	Check at Amazon

Last update on 2023-09-14 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to choose the best gaming glasses

Although it may sound hard, finding the best pair of gaming glasses is no rocket science and demands that you pay attention to a couple of details that will make your purchase successful, and they are presented in the following:

Level of protection

The main purpose of gaming glasses is to deliver protection against the negative effects of all sorts of emissions, especially blue light that presents the main reason for eye strain and overall eye fatigue. For that reason, choose glasses with the highest possible level of protection against blue light, as well as UV and similar sources that eventually lead to eye weariness.

Weight

Although it may not be the most important characteristic, the glasses’ weight may present the difference between well-invested money and a total waste of it. The main reason for that is that the heavy glasses may cause discomfort during intensified usage that is characteristic for gamers, and as a result, cause more harm than good.

Warranty

A warranty itself isn’t a proof of quality. However, manufacturers usually don’t give long warranties for a poor-quality product, and that’s why long warranty periods are usually a good indication that you are dealing with a well-built and overall quality product.

Best Gaming Glasses

HyperX Gaming Eyewear

Expensive, but Efficient Gaming Glasses

Protecting your sight is one of the most important tasks when you are a devoted gamer and are exposing your eyes to a large amount of blue light that is coming from your gaming monitor and similar devices. For that reason, it is important to choose the best gaming glasses possible and HyperX Gaming Eyewear fits into that role perfectly.

Although they’re expensive, they provide numerous benefits to the user, such as quality blue light protection and UVA/B 400 protection. Moreover, they come with a special coating that repels dust, water and even oil, and more importantly, they deliver great comfortability, which allows you to use them for long hours.

HyperX Gaming Eyewear glasses have an acetate frame and are fitted with premium quality lenses that are made out of MR-8 material, which provides minimal color distortion, but more importantly, they are durable and lightweight (only 26g) at the same time.

These glasses are modern-looking and available in four colors (black, gray, red, tortoise brown) and are adequate not only for gaming but numerous social occasions. According to their protection level, they are similar to Gunnar glasses; however, they provide an image revoked of yellow tint and as a result, surely present one of the best blue light blocking glasses available on the market.

Gamma Ray Blue Light Blocking Glasses Amber Tint

Affordability and Functionality in One

Finding cheap, as well as functional gaming glasses that will protect you from eye itching and other sorts of discomfort caused by long exposure to blue light isn’t easy. Nevertheless, Gamma Ray Blue Light Blocking Glasses provide precisely that.

They deliver a solid level of glare reduction and blue light protection, as well as a pretty handy UV400 protection that certainly adds to its overall usability. Moreover, they are lightweight (22g) and very durable due to their plastic build, which involves both its lenses and TR90 nylon frame.

Gamma Ray Blue Light Blocking Glasses are very comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Nevertheless, they require for certain adaptation, mostly because of its amber tint lens, as well as its magnification capability that can go from 0.00x to 2.50x.

Gamma Ray Blue Light Blocking Glasses come in black color and deliver a great value for the money. More importantly, they provide a cheap way of handling your eye fatigue and present a great overall deal and one of the best computer glasses you can find.

J+S Vision Gaming Glasses Heavy Duty Lens

A Lot of Versatility in a Lightweight Package

If you are looking for the best blue light blocking glasses that won’t cost you a fortune at the same time, J+S Vision Gaming Glasses are a great deal for you.

These glasses are available in four different styles (WF1, Classic Rectangle, Round, Square), three color options (Glossy black, Tortoise and Crystal) and two lens types (1. high definition lens – dedicated to heavy gaming and work, and 2. low color distortion lens – intended for daily usage). Therefore, there is an option for anyone.

These glasses are non-magnifying and come with UV protection, as well as blue light protection that, in the case of low color distortion lens, blocks 52% of blue light, and in the case of high definition lens, about 62% of blue light.

J+S Vision Gaming Glasses are very light and are made out of hybrid plastic that provides great durability; however, because of its not-that great-overall build quality, their longevity is rather questionable.

Overall, these glasses present a good value for money and more importantly, more than a solid option for handling your eye-itching and eye-tiredness.

Swanwick Swannies Computer Glasses with Orange Lens

A Stylish Gaming Glasses Ideal for Everyday Use

Swanwick Swannies Computer Glasses are a type of glasses that provides excellent blue light protection and stylish looks, followed by great comfortability and practicality.

Swannies are available in two colors (black and tortoise) and three sizes, one of which even suits the kids. Moreover, they come with a solid acetate frame that gives them the much-needed sturdiness and flexibility, as well as extremely low weight.

Swanwick Swannies glasses are fitted with orange lenses that are supplied with anti-reflective and anti-glare coating on both sides of the lens and with amazing UV protection that is 100% UV rated.

They are very practical for everyday use and come with an attractive appearance that makes them usable in any occasion. More importantly, they are FDA registered and show great results in preventing both insomnia and macular degeneration and in general are among the best glasses for gaming, of course, if you are willing to pay their a bit higher price.

ElementsActive Wayfarer Fitover Computer Glasses

A Perfect Blue Light Protection for Owners of Prescriptions Glasses

If you have prescription glasses and are looking for a cheap, as well as effective pair of glasses that will reduce eyestrain, headaches and other negative effects of blue light emission, ElementsActive Wayfarer Fitover Computer Glasses are a great choice for you.

They block 95% of blue light, are comfortable to wear and on top of that, they have an attractive look that suits a large base of users. More importantly, these glasses can be easily fitted over the prescription glasses and provide them with much-needed protection from negative blue light effects.

ElementsActive Wayfarer Fitover Computer Glasses are available only in black color, weigh around 45g and come fitted with orange lenses that, although efficient, color the image a bit and give it an orange tone. Moreover, these glasses offer a small magnification and are very comfortable to use; however, they are not the most durable ones you can find.

Nevertheless, if you are searching for the best gaming glasses for the price, ElementsActive Wayfarer Fitover Computer Glasses are pretty much the most cost-effective option you can have.

GAMEKING Ultra 8001 Gaming Glasses

Gaming Glasses that Have Everything You Need

A good combination of blue light blocking, comfortability and functionality is what the most users are asking for from their glasses, and GAMEKING Ultra 8001 Gaming Glasses provide exactly that.

These glasses stop up to 85% of harmful blue light, offer UV protection, and more importantly, prevent eye strain and fatigue and deliver much-needed comfort to eyes that are exposed to blue light for a long period of time.

GAMEKING Ultra 8001 Gaming Glasses have an attractive, ergonomically designed TR90 frame and amber-tinted lenses that altogether offer great durability, as well as color-softening, and overall a more pleasant viewing experience. However, they provide a slightly yellowish image tone; therefore, you will probably need some time to adapt to them.

GAMEKING Ultra 8001 Gaming Glasses are FDA registered and come with anti-reflective (AR) and functional coating (it makes them scratch-resistant and easy to clean). Also, they weigh only 18g and offer a rather convincing lifetime breakage warranty.

All in all, if you are looking for gaming glasses that you can successfully pair with the best 1440p monitors, GAMEKING Ultra 8001 Gaming Glasses are the product for you.

TIJN Square Blue Light Blocking Glasses

Stylish Gaming Glasses that Will Help You Stand Out from the Crowd

If you are after an affordable, yet functional pair of gaming glasses that will relieve your eye problems caused by negative effects of blue light, TIJN Square Blue Light Blocking Glasses are made for you.

These lightweight glasses come in 11 different colors and styles (black, leopard, coral, marble, etc.), offer small magnification, and more importantly, provide much-needed comfort to your eyes. Unfortunately, they aren’t perfect and have a couple of downsides, such as questionable build quality and tendency to produce too much glare. Nevertheless, they offer a decent level of scratch resistance, efficient UV400 protection, and the most importantly, good protection from blue light.

TIJN Square Blue Light Blocking Glasses come with yellowish tint lenses and offer cool looks that present a combination of retro shape and futuristic clean lines. Altogether, if you want a stylish, but not too expensive eye protection, these are probably the best computer glasses you can find for the money.

Gunnar Optiks Intercept/Onyx Gaming Glasses

Gaming Glasses that Offer Only the Sheer Quality

True quality is hard to find these days; however, some of the products like Gunnar Optiks Intercept/Onyx Gaming Glasses prove that that a type of commodity still does exist, and that great functionality and quality performance can be a real deal.

Intercept/Onyx Gaming Glasses are ergonomically designed, light (33g), and more importantly, they provide 100% UV light protection and block up to 65% of negative blue light. Moreover, these glasses come with patented tint lenses, as well as an anti-reflective and anti-scratch coating, and provide the much-needed comfort to your exhausted eyes.

Their frame is built in a retro style, out of poly-carbonate for added durability; therefore, you may be sure that they will last for some time, especially because they are backed by a one-year warranty.

All in all, if you are looking for the best gaming glasses to combine with the best ultrawide monitors, Intercept/Onyx Gaming Glasses are a deal that just won’t disappoint you.

DUCO DC223 Gaming Glasses

Gaming Glasses with a Great Value for the Money

If you want an affordable option for your eye-problems caused by your screen’s harmful blue light, DUCO DC223 Gaming Glasses might be precisely what you have been looking for.

They are available with a black or matte black frame and with either amber (provide better protection from blue light) or transparent lenses (they deliver more realistic colors). Moreover, they are fitted with a very light and flexible TR90 frame and weigh only 19.8g; therefore, you won’t be even aware that you are wearing them.

Furthermore, DUCO DC223 Gaming Glasses provide both UV400 protection and glare reduction, and more importantly, they efficiently reduce the influence of the hurtful blue light and prevent eye strain, dryness, etc.

These glasses come with prescription options, are comfortable to wear during long periods of time and finally, they are highly affordable.

In other words, they have everything you would expect from the best gaming glasses.

Prospek Professional Computer Glasses

Excellent Gaming Glasses with a Variety of Magnification Options

Prospek Professional Computer Glasses are a one of a kind product and one of the best gaming glasses, with excellent protection against harmful blue light and the ability to block up to 100% of UVA and UVB emission. These glasses are available in three different sizes (small, regular and large), as well as a variety of magnifications (from 0.00x to 3.00x), are unisex and come in two colors: red/black and gray.

Prospek Professional Computer Glasses have a lifetime warranty and a weight of only 15g, but more importantly, they efficiently reduce the eye strain. Moreover, they provide resistance to scratches, reflection, glare, fog, etc. and come with TR90 frame and polycarbonate lenses that are revoked of an unpleasant yellow tint.

Altogether, Prospek Professional Computer Glasses deliver great value for the money and present an ultimate deal for people who like fully-developed and feature-rich products that do the job.

Cyxus Blue Light Filter Computer Glasses

Very Cheap and Stylish Gaming Glasses

Cyxus Blue Light Filter Computer Glasses are an example that shows that price isn’t always a proof of quality and that the real value can sometimes be hidden behind the low price.

These glasses deliver a unisex design and are available in 18 different color styles (black, pink, yellow, matte green, floral, etc.). Moreover, they are dust-proof, waterproof and even shock-resistant, and more importantly, they come with a lifetime warranty.

Cyxus Blue Light Filter Computer Glasses have UV400 protection and block up to 85% of negative blue light, which makes them a great choice for preventing eye-fatigue, eye-strain and other issues caused by negative effects of blue light.

In contrast to many other computer glasses, Cyxus come with clear lenses and are lacking unpleasant yellowish image tone common for protective PC glasses. What may present a problem for some, on the other hand, is their large size and questionable design. Nevertheless, they functionality and efficiency are great; therefore, if you want the best cheap gaming glasses, Cyxus should be one of your top picks.

Conclusion

If you are ready to take control of your eye health and ensure the best possible protection from UV and blue light, this guide should have been helpful in finding the right fit for you. Now go get that new pair of glasses and get back to work with a whole new feeling!

Such a situation is unfortunately applicable to almost any type of PC hardware, including the gaming keypads that present a niche product, but are still available in a variety of shapes, features, and quality. For that reason, finding the best keypad may present a tough job, however, with a little bit of guidance, this issue should be relatively easily averted, even if you are not that familiar with the matter.

Top Picks

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	Logitech G13 Programmable Gameboard with LCD Display	Check at Amazon
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	NPET 60% K61 Gaming Keyboard	Check at Amazon

Last update on 2023-10-05 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best Gaming Keypad

Finding the best gaming keypad may present an issue for many; however, a couple of instructions on what to look for may prove to be vital for the search and help you find the best fit in no time.

Mechanical Keypad

If you want the premium gaming experience, a mechanical keypad should be one of your priorities. Yes, it is more expensive than the membrane-based ones, but it also provides much better feedback and swift action that may not be crucial for your successful gaming, but can surely make the whole gaming journey much more fun and interactive. Therefore, if your budget allows it, always go for mechanical switches and get the best gaming keypad experience possible.

Macro keys

Ability to program your keys and allow them to conduct complicated actions with just one press of a button is essential for today’s successful gaming. For that reason, it is very important that your desired device provides as many of these keys as possible, so it can be a great asset for long MMO battles.

Backlit Illumination

Although it might not seem as important, the fact is that quality illumination with support for a variety of colors may play a major role in the gaming front lines. Ability to customize the color of your switches and make them easier to notice may give you that split-second advantage and make a difference between winning and losing. Thus, if it is possible, always go for backlit illumination and give yourself that much-needed game advantage.

Best Gaming Keypads

RAZER TARTARUS V2

A Compact MMO Power Tool

If you already own a quality gaming keyboard but still need an additional keypad for your battlefield adventures, RAZER TARTARUS V2 might come as a great choice.

Although its price isn’t among the most affordable ones, its performance and ergonomic design will make it highly useful for MMO fans. Nevertheless, its use demands a training, because it’s whole build and functionality are completely different from the traditional keyboard. Therefore, accommodation is necessary for its proper use.

RAZER TARTARUS V2 is equipped with 32 programmable buttons and is fitted with an RGB that allows for more than 16.8 million color options and full customization with the help of the Razer Synapse 3.0 software. The device itself is compact, quality-built and fitted with mecha-membrane keypads, which deliver much better tactile experience than the regular membrane keyboards.

However, this keypad is dedicated only to a small group of gamers, fans of MMO play, where a large number of buttons has a major role. Therefore, if World of Warcraft and similar MMO titles are your thing, RAZER TARTARUS V2 should be high on your list of priorities.

Razer Tartarus Pro

Premium Gaming Keypad

If you’re shopping for the best gaming keypads in the current year, here’s one from Razer, the Tartarus Pro respectively. Razer is one of the top-dogs in the gaming industry and their “Pro” gear comes with all sorts of goodies for those weird people who are still using gaming pads, things like analog-optical key switches for the best tactile experience money can buy, customizable Chroma RGB lighting for the inner child, programmable macro functionality and, our favorite, variable key pressure sensitivity.

The Tartarus Pro features 32 keys, which makes it the ideal tool for multitasking due to its programmable keys, and comes with a well-designed 8-way-directional thumbpad for providing a more ergonomic experience and improved movement controls, especially if you’re a console oriented gamer.

Logitech G13

An Old Guy that Still Has a Lot to Say

It is hard to believe that something developed a decade ago might still offer a performance that is equal or even better than of its modern-day counterparts. However, Logitech G13 proves that something like that is, in fact, real and shows how its old design was actually ahead of its time and why it should be considered for one of the best gaming keypad devices ever.

This future-proof device comes equipped with 25 programmable keys (22 regular keys, four-directional control stick and two buttons), macro recording button and onboard memory that allows for the creation of up to five different profiles. It is both Windows and Mac compatible and more importantly, it offers a highly comfortable use thanks to its ergonomic contour design.

Along with that, this keypad is equipped with customizable backlight, but also a rather uncommon LCD display that can be used to provide valuable information or allow for communication with other fellow players.

When talking about customization, it is worth mentioning that it is entirely managed through the simple to use Logitech software, which allows for a detailed set of every key and function.

Although pretty old, Logitech G13 is still a great tool for MMO titles such as World of Warcraft and altogether a device that just can’t disappoint you.

Redragon K585 DITI

An Affordable Keypad that Will Fulfil Your Every Gaming Need

If you are searching for the affordable keypad that will offer great value for its price at the same time, Redragon K585 DITI is an ideal choice for you.

It is slim and portable and fitted with detachable wrist rest and 42 keys, seven of which are programmable macro ones. Thanks to the ergonomic design and mechanical blue switches, its use is both easy and very tactile, which on the other hand may present a big advantage in long gaming sessions.

Redragon K585 DITI is highly durable thanks to its quality build and it provides an excellent RGB experience with five backlit modes and up to 16.8 million available colors. More importantly, this device delivers one of the best gaming keypad performances and overall presents an excellent gaming accessory that will surely prove its great value.

RedThunder One Handed Gaming Keyboard

An Affordable, but Decent Gaming Keypad

RedThunder One Handed Gaming Keyboard is a compact and highly portable gaming keypad that maybe doesn’t bring the premium feeling; however, it brings a very positive user experience that will satisfy most users.

This is an ergonomic, plug-and-play device that works with every major Operating System, such as Windows, Mac, and Linux, and comes with a nice set of features that should be appreciated by true gamers. First of all, there is the macro function recording that is today’s gaming standard, then there is an anti-ghosting feature that supports each of its 35 keys, and on top of that, there is RGB backlight that support seven different color themes.

Equally important, RedThunder One Handed Gaming Keyboard offers very responsive performance and ease of use, which along with a solid list of features makes this device a great choice, especially for those that are looking for the best gaming keypad in the affordable area.

Koolertron Gateron Red Switches Keypad

A Premium Quality Gaming Keypad

If you are seeking a well-built, compact and good performing keypad for your gaming activities that can also be used while on-go, Koolertron Gateron Red Switches Keypad is the thing for you.

As you may guess, by its a bit higher price, this is the top-class device that comes with a ton of features and above all, provides great gaming performance. It is fitted with 43 programmable keys, eight Macro keys, and even a short trigger key. Furthermore, it is equipped with a built-in microphone, mini USB port, as well as onboard memory.

Most importantly, Koolertron Gateron Red Switches Keypad comes with Gateron Red switches, with anti-ghosting and supports nine different key program types that involve Normal, Mouse, Burst and other modes.

In general, Koolertron Gateron Red Switches Keypad is a comfortable and easy to use device that brings everything that the best gaming keypad should. There is the premium feeling and the great gaming experience, in other words, win-win situation.

Delux T9

A Basic Gaming Keypad Dedicated to the Not-too-Demanding Users

Finding a functional, but not too expensive keypad is what most gamers want. However, low price usually means that some of the more prominent features have to go, and Delux T9 is no exception to that rule.

Although it offers 46 keys, which is quite a large number, they are all membrane-based, not mechanical. Also, none of the keys is programmable, which drastically reduces the overall value of this keypad. Nevertheless, its ergonomic design, decent build quality and modest, but still existing LED backlight, with three pre-defined profiles, improve the overall image a little bit.

In other words, Delux T9 offers a lot of basic stuff for a reasonable price, which is more than enough for many. However, if you are after a premium product, with numerous advanced features, this keypad just isn’t for you and you would need to find the best gaming keypad somewhere else.

NPET T10

An Amazing Device for the Price

If you are into affordable, but top-notch keypads, with great customization options, NPET T10 is the ideal choice for you.

This device offers great ergonomics, it is very functional thanks to its 33 programmable keys and four dedicated macro keys, and it delivers great portability thanks to its lightweight design. Moreover, it is made out of quality plastic and aluminum that make it more resistant to scratches and provide great durability that is also backed with the water-resistant nature of the whole keypad.

Although its software isn’t the best, NPET T10 allows for easy button and RGB backlight customization. It is worth mentioning that its RGB backlight supports nine different colors (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, cyan, purple, white and rainbow) and that it provides four different color modes that would surely satisfy even the most devoted gamers.

Overall, if you want the best gaming keypad for the money, NPET T10 should without a doubt be your number one priority.

Conclusion

If you are a die-hard gamer, you already know whether you need a device like this or not. If you think you do, but you’re not sure exactly which one, just look at our list once again and we’re sure you’ll find your right fit – and then it’s game on!

Well, that’s an easy one: if you’re serious about gaming, and we bet you are since you’re reading this article, you must learn that a high-quality gaming keyboard will streamline your gameplay and boost your effectiveness, not to mention that nice feeling of using high end (ok, we’re exaggerating a bit) gear while doing your favorite thing. Also, if you already own a cool gaming rig for which you paid top dollars, or, why not, one of those strange gaming keypads, it would make zero sense to use a bland office keyboard for your binge gaming sessions or anything in between.

Top Picks

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How to Choose the Best Budget Gaming Keyboard

That’s the question that drives any respectable gamer: how to make the most of your hard-earned dollars? Don’t worry, you’ve landed in the right place, and here’s TL;DR version: read the whole article. Joke aside, choosing the best budget gaming keyboard is relatively straightforward.

First, you must decide how much you are going to spend on a gaming keyboard: around $50, under $100, you know where this is going. Also consider this: it would make zero sense to pay $100 for a cool keyboard just to play League of Legends occasionally. If you’re not a “pro-gamer”, you won’t need fancy lighting (RGB) and mechanical switches, i.e. you should choose the right tool for the job in the first place.

The next thing to contemplate is membrane vs mechanical switches. The more ambitious gaming keyboards are going full-mechanical nowadays, and obviously, more expensive. However, you may find older-generation gaming keyboards featuring quality mechanical switches for under $100, provided that’s your cup of tea. Generally speaking, proper mechanical switches have a nicer/firmer feel and they’re more reliable than membrane variants. Lower end/cheaper gaming keyboards use mushy plastic membranes instead of mechanical switches, but that’s hardly a deal-breaker if you’re not a maniac.

Just as a fun factoid, you must learn that Germans are God’s chosen engineers, and besides making the best cars in the world, they’re also behind the legendary Cherry MX keys, which incidentally make for the golden standard in the mechanical-switch industry. There are many Cherry MX varieties, but the most popular are Brown, Red and Blue. The reds are soft-touch and quiet, the browns are firmer yet also quiet, while the blues are resistant and clackety.

Mechanical switches aside, you’ll have to choose between two main types of keyboard design: there are generic-looking gaming keyboards, all-purpose models of sorts which look like regular office keyboards, and they’re perfect for RTS, FPS, MOBA or any other action/adventure variety. On the other hand, if you’re into MMO gaming, you should go for an MMO-centric keyboard that’s designed with up to 18 extra-keys for micro-management fanatics. Nota bene: if the space on your desk is severely limited, look for a slim/tenkeyless keyboard, you’ll thank us later.

Next, the fancy lightning factor comes to mind, and here you can choose between one color, full RGB illumination, and none whatsoever. Truth be told, illumination (or the lack thereof) on a gaming keyboard is hardly a deal-breaker in our book, so don’t sweat it too much in this regard. Finally, look for that Gestalt thing, i.e. if you already own a gaming mouse from, say Logitech, it would make sense to buy a Logitech gaming keyboard to match your setup, i.e. there’s a thing called software synchronicity or unified gaming software, and that stands true for big brands like Logitech, SteelSeries or Razer.

With all these in mind, let’s take a look at the best budget gaming keyboards available on the market, in no particular order.

Best Budget Gaming Mice

Logitech G213

The Best Budget Gaming Keyboard Overall

Our first pick for today comes from Logitech. The G213 is a gaming keyboard which delivers advanced gaming-grade performance as it’s part of Logitech’s G Prodigy series. Even if this keyboard is relatively cheap, don’t let the “affordability” to blind you from the truth: the G213 is one of the company’s best sellers and for good reason, as it can be best described as “membrane for the masses” with RGB on top.

Even if you won’t get those glorified Cherry MX mechanical switches, this Logitech keyboard is pretty damn’ good, as it features Logitech ‘Mech-Dome’ switches and dedicated media controls, not to mention the fact that it’s spill-resistant (coffee anyone?) and boasts fully RGB backlit keys. Another thing we like about the G213 is that it weighs almost two pounds. You know that saying: heavy is good, heavy is reliable, if it doesn’t work, you can always hit your opponent with it.

Bottom line, if you’re on a tight budget, the Logitech G213 ticks all the important boxes and makes for a great gaming keyboard.

HyperX Alloy Core RGB

The Best Gaming Keyboard Under $50

HyperX are known for crafting kick-ass gaming paraphernalia, and their budget Alloy Core RGB stands true to this “standard” of sorts, making for a silent and comfy, not to mention spill-resistant gaming keyboard. Considering the price-point, it’s pretty obvious that you won’t get high-end mechanical switches, as the Alloy Core RGB retails for around “fiddy bucks” give or take, but nevertheless, you’ll get a lot of bang for the proverbial “dolla” asked.

To make it short and sweet, the HyperX Alloy Core RGB features a simple and clean design, and it comes with high-quality membrane keys, but truth be told, one of its main attributes is being very aesthetic. Basically, if you’re a fashion-conscious gamer on a tight budget, the Alloy Core RGB has your name on it, and even when it comes to performance, HyperX didn’t pull any punches with this budget gaming keyboard.

The membrane switches perform dubiously well, being highly responsive and accurate, and as far as entry-level gaming keyboards go, this is one of the best out there.

Razer Cynosa Chroma

Reliable Low-Profile Gaming Keyboard

Next in line, we have the Razer Cynosa Chroma, which incidentally makes for the best-selling membrane gaming keyboard in the United States. And yes, that’s one of the reasons for which it made it on our best budget gaming keyboard list. Now, if you’re wondering why Americans are buying this gizmo in massive numbers, here’s a shortlist of reasons: first, it currently retails for about fifty bucks; and yes, we’re talking about a Razer gaming product, which is quite amazing. Next, it comes with individually backlit keys featuring customizable Chroma RGB lighting, along with a spill-resistant design and programmable macro functionality.

Are you sold yet? If not, check this out: the Razer Cynosa Chroma can execute up to 10 commands simultaneously as it features built-in ten-key rollover anti-ghosting. On top of that, the membrane switches support up to 80 million keystrokes, i.e. if durability is important in your book, the Cynosa Chroma has you covered in this regard.

SteelSeries Apex 3

An Excellent Combination of Performance and Price

SteelSeries Apex 3 is an affordable, feature-rich gaming keyboard that brings an excellent 10-zone RGB illumination, and first and foremost, provides a highly comfortable work.

It is very quiet and grants a great level of customization that allows for easy setup, not of only the already mentioned lighting, but macros and every single key on the keyboard. However, this only works only on Windows and Mac, while on Linux, you will get only partial support that doesn’t include keyboard remapping.

SteelSeries Apex 3 comes with durable and comfortable switches that, although not mechanical, allow for more than 20 million clicks and offer a premium feel. The keyboard itself is water-resistant and is made following IP32 water-resistant standards. Moreover, it comes along with a magnetic wrist rest, dedicated multimedia controls, and above all, it delivers everything expected from one of the best cheap gaming keyboards out there.

CORSAIR K55 RGB Gaming Keyboard

Cheap Yet Sturdy Keyboard for Gaming

Next in line we have another interesting option, this time from Corsair, and yes, we’re talking about a cool looking budget gaming keyboard which currently retails for a tad under $50. To describe it in a few words, the CORSAIR K55 RGB punches way above its weight (in dollars), i.e. it offers features which are literally unexpected considering the price tag. Obviously, since we’re in $50 territory, the K55 RGB uses membrane switches, but they’re well implemented and whisper quiet.

Under the hood, you’ll discover 3 RGB lighting zones (there’s no per-key lighting this time, for cost-cutting reasons), but then again, this innovation is well implemented and the colors have a cool glow and manage to fill up space rather nicely. Despite being made of plastic, the K55 doesn’t feel or look cheap, as it’s sturdy and oozes quality. A nice touch from Corsair is the presence of six MACRO keys located on the left side, which can be programmed to execute/assign macros via the Cue software or even on-the-fly. There’s a dedicated button for that, a recording button respectively, placed at the top, and using it is super-easy.

Redragon K556

Cheap Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

With the Redragon K556 we’re entering uncharted territory, i.e. mechanical switches in a gaming keyboard which retails for just a bit over fifty bucks. It’s hard to believe, but the Redragon K556 managed to create a gaming keyboard featuring so-called mechanical brown switches and a high-quality aluminum base, not to mention RGB LED backlighting, at an impossibly low price-point. How did they do it? We have no idea, but at least on paper, the Redragon K556 sounds awesome.

How about real-life? Well, to begin with, the keyboard is pretty heavy and well built, and it’s backed by an 18-month manufacturer’s warranty, hence there are no unpleasant surprises in the workmanship department. The mechanical switches are the Chinese equivalent of the Cherry MX Brown, and truth be told, they’re surprisingly good. Overall, the K556 is a solid gaming keyboard, and offers quite a lot at an incredibly low price. Our advice is: definitely worth trying.

AUKEY KM-G12

A Solid Full-Sized Gaming Keyboard

If you are seeking an affordable, yet capable gaming keyboard that includes a solid build and good overall gaming performance, AUKEY KM-G12 mechanical keyboard is the thing for you.

This device comes with very good Outemu Blue switches that make a characteristic “clicky” sound, which may be a problem for some users. Nevertheless, these switches offer great durability, give a tactile feeling, and bring excellent responsiveness. In other words, every aspect important for good gaming performance is there.

AUKEY KM-G12 is fitted with 104 keys with anti-ghosting feature, and it comes with very good RGB lighting that provides 7 color presets and 12 lighting configuration presets, and can be fully customized through the G-aim software, which is unfortunately a bit buggy. Also, this gaming keyboard allows for saving of up to five different profiles on its built-in memory and offers great durability, not only because of its blue switches but also thanks to its ABS keycaps, and before anything else, sturdy steel body. These are the key reasons for its longevity.

All in all, if you need a solid gaming keyboard that can deliver a lot for its price, and you are willing to accept a few of its flaws, AUKEY KM-G12 is without a doubt the best affordable gaming keyboard available on the market.

AmazonBasics Mechanical Feel Gaming Keyboard

Affordable All-rounder

Today’s article would not have been complete without an in-house made Amazon product, hence here it comes: the AmazonBasics Mechanical Feel Gaming Keyboard. As far as inspired marketing goes, this product will definitely put a smile on your face, because after all, who can expect mechanical switches in a thirty dollar keyboard with AmazonBasics written all over it?

We’re just being mean, because this gaming keyboard is not bad at all, as it’s built to last and allows you to program custom macros via AmazonBasic’s proprietary gaming software. You also get dedicated MACRO keys, G1 to G5 respectively, and three mode keys, which means you’ll be able to use fifteen different macros. The switches feel pretty good and offer adequate tactile feedback, being rated at 10 million life cycles. On top of that, the AmazonBasics Mechanical Feel boasts its anti-ghosting technology, which allows you to press no less than nineteen keys at once.

Finally, the cherry on top so to speak, the keyboard features customizable backlighting, i.e. you can easily switch between three color profiles, provided that’s your thing.

VicTsing VK134755US

An Excellent Mechanical Gaming Keyboard for the Price

If you are willing to enter the world of mechanical gaming keyboards and are searching for a solid, well-built device that will give you the most for your buck, VicTsing Mechanical Gaming Keyboard is made for you.

However, don’t expect miracles, because certain compromises had to be made for this price, and one of them is the lack of dedicated customization software. Of course, there are other ways to cross that obstacle; but still, the existence of such software should give this keyboard even better value for the money.

VicTsing Mechanical Gaming Keyboard can work with both Windows and Mac; it has splash-resistant design and includes very good durability that comes as the result of its steel body, ABS caps, and of course, the inclusion of very good “clicky” Outemu switches that allow for some 50 million clicks and deliver a much-needed pleasant use and tactile feeling.

VicTsing Mechanical Gaming Keyboard comes with nine backlight modes; it is fitted with LED backlighting and offers an Anti-Ghosting feature that is a guarantee for smooth gaming.

In other words, everything needed for good-quality gaming is there and all you need to do is go get this without a doubt great device and one of the best budget-friendly gaming keyboards available on the market.

Choosing the best budget gaming mouse is not an easy task, but we’ve already done the research for the best offers available in the “current year”, so you won’t have to.

Top Picks

Preview	Product
	Logitech G203 Prodigy RGB Wired Gaming Mouse – Black	Check at Amazon
	HyperX Pulsefire Core - RGB Gaming Mouse, Software Controlled RGB Light Effects & Macro...	Check at Amazon
	Corsair M55 RGB Pro Wired Ambidextrous Multi-Grip Gaming Mouse - 12,400 DPI Adjustable Sensor - 8...	Check at Amazon
	Razer Viper Mini Ultralight Gaming Mouse: Fastest Gaming Switches - 8500 DPI Optical Sensor - Chroma...	Check at Amazon
	Razer DeathAdder Elite Gaming Mouse: 16,000 DPI Optical Sensor - Chroma RGB Lighting - 7...	Check at Amazon
	Cooler Master MM710 53G Gaming Mouse with Lightweight Honeycomb Shell, Ultralight Ultraweave Cable,...	Check at Amazon
	Redragon M908 Impact RGB LED MMO Gaming Mouse with 12 Side Buttons, Optical Wired Ergonomic Gamer...	Check at Amazon
	SteelSeries Rival 3 Gaming Mouse - 8,500 CPI TrueMove Core Optical Sensor - 6 Programmable Buttons -...	Check at Amazon
	Logitech G502 HERO High Performance Wired Gaming Mouse, HERO 25K Sensor, 25,600 DPI, RGB, Adjustable...	Check at Amazon
	Logitech G305 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Mouse, Hero 12K Sensor, 12,000 DPI, Lightweight, 6...	Check at Amazon

Last update on 2023-10-03 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best Budget Gaming Mouse

Usually speaking, it’s not worth buying cheap gear, because in the end, you’ll end up spending more money on X so-called affordable items (which keep breaking down or fail to satisfy your requirements), instead of buying a high quality (and more expensive) product in the first place. Why? Well, cheap stuff usually breaks down the moment it leaves the store. However, that’s not necessarily the case with technology; due to rapid tech advancements, mass production and all that, tech gear gets cheaper and better year over year with few exceptions.

So, if you’re looking for a proper gaming mouse, the good news for today is that you won’t have to break the bank just yet. Provided you already own a gaming mouse pad (that’s very important if you want to squeeze the last drop of performance from your gaming-grade sensor), let’s focus on the mouse thing for now.

Grip Style

The first thing to wrap your head around is grip style. Why? Well, because based on your grip style, you’ll choose the size and shape of your preferred gaming mouse. Speaking of grip styles, we have the palm grip, which is the most common style among hardcore gamers, the tip grip, when only your fingertips touch the mouse, and the crawl grip, which is highly probable to give you a bad case of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Wired or Wireless

The second thing to contemplate when choosing a gaming mouse is wired versus wireless. Usually speaking, pro-gamers prefer wired mice. Wireless gear looks cool and spares you from mitigating wire-management issues. However, wired mice are more reliable, but also lighter and 100% lag-free compared to their high-tech siblings. Truth be told, there are some high-end wireless mice out there which brag with low/zero latency and zero interference issues, which is hard to believe, but those bad-boys are pretty far from being budget gaming mice, so forget about it.

Optical or Laser

Thirdly, you have 2 types of sensors to choose from: optical and laser. This is a matter of personal preference and tech implementation, i.e. an optical mouse can be better than a laser mouse for one particular person. Weight is also an issue for gamers: the lighter the mouse, the better (at least to some). However, other people prefer heavier gear, so after all, it all goes to personal preference issues.

DPI

How about DPI? Well, to tell you the truth, DPI in a gaming mouse nowadays is the equivalent of horse-power in a racing car. As Enzo Ferrari used to say back in the day, break-horse-power sells cars, torque wins races, if you catch my drift (pun intended). The point being: forget about DPI and focus on things that really matter in the real world: ergonomics, high quality sensors, impeccable workmanship, reliability, how many buttons a given mouse has (a metric that depends on what type of games you’re into i.e. FPS, RTS, MMORPG etc.) and, finally, provided you already have a budget gaming keyboard, take a deep breath, count your money and keep reading about our top budget gaming mice picks in no particular order:

Best Budget Gaming Mice

Logitech G203 Prodigy RGB

The Best Budget Mouse for Gaming Overall

Logitech is the granddaddy of PC peripherals, and their (wired) G203 Prodigy RGB is a true legend among gaming enthusiasts, hence it gets “first dibs” in today’s article. The best thing about the G203 Prodigy RGB is that it makes for an affordable high-quality gaming mouse, which is built by one of the best manufacturers in the world, hence if you’re looking for a solid, well designed and really cheap piece of gaming gear, the G203 should definitely rank high on your shopping list. Oh, and then there’s the RGB thing, provided you’re into shiny lights and all that.

Optics aside, this prodigal son of Logitech really delivers in the performance department, and that’s what really counts after all. Hardware-wise, you’ll get a top-notch Mercury Optical sensor, which has been proven in combat times and times again with fabulous results, Omron Switches rated at ten million clicks, 8000 DPI and even a cool ambidextrous design. Bottom line: this baby plays and wins in the best bang for the buck category, and by a long shot, and that’s why it comes highly recommended by our staff, that if you’re looking for no-nonsense design and performance without breaking the piggy-bank.

HyperX Pulsefire Core

Durable Yet Cheap Gaming Mouse

The HyperX Pulsefire Core is a wired gaming mouse designed and built by Kingston’s high-performance product division. This says a lot in itself, as Kingston Technology is known for producing awesome gaming gear, and the same philosophy applies to this under $30 gaming mouse. Don’t let the price tag fool you, as this rodent can go in a head to head with many of its higher-end competitors, due to its high-quality PixArt PAW3327 optical sensor, heavy-duty buttons rated at 20 million clicks (TTC silver switches), and RGB lighting.

And all these cool features are available at a ridiculously low price-point. What else do you want? It’s a deal, it’s a steal, it’s the sale of the century. Just go for it and thank us later.

Corsair M55 RGB Pro

Great Value for Money

Let’s talk a little bit about the Corsair M55 RGB Pro, which makes for an affordable yet elegant and well-built gaming mouse. The M55 arrives in an ambidextrous design and features RGB lighting, as well as four programmable buttons, including a DPI button placed right on the top. Speaking of DPI and marketing gimmicks, the Corsair M55 RGB Pro brags with a 12,400 DPI adjustable sensor, as well as Omron switches, which are rated at 50 million clicks.

To make a long story short, this Corsair gaming mouse delivers a lot of bang for the proverbial buck, and that’s quite something considering the fact that the M55 RGB Pro retails for around $30.

When it comes to real-life performance, the M55 RGB Pro does a neat job, being very comfy to use for both right and left-handed users; the rubber side grips boost confidence, while the plastic-made casing which measures 5’’ by 2.7’’ in a symmetrical design is well built and feels great in hand.

Razer Viper Mini

An Excellent FPS Gaming Mouse

Razer Viper Mini is a compact and pretty lightweight (85g) gaming mouse that presents a great option for a wide variety of gamers, thanks to its great price and, before anything else, its excellent performance.

Due to its low latency, as well as its great 8500 DPI optical sensor performance and drag-free cable, it is a perfect fit for FPS fans, while it can also be successfully used as a solid MMO gaming option. However, since it has only six programmable buttons, don’t consider it a dedicated MMO mouse.

Razer Viper Mini offers discrete, but attractive-looking RGB lighting that can be easily customized with the help of the Synapse Software. It is fitted with Optical Switches that use light beam-based actuation and provide great durability, and a high-quality build that places it neck and neck with the best gaming mice out there.

According to its performance, Razer Viper Mini is pretty close to the much more expensive and feature-rich Razer Viper Ultimate. In its class, however, it is the closest to the SteelSeries Rival 3, which is more comfortable and responsive; nevertheless, because of its smaller size, Razer Viper Mini doesn’t offer that level of universality as its SteelSeries rival.

To conclude, if you are after a small, highly-efficient gaming mouse, Razer Viper Mini should be among your top picks.

Razer DeathAdder Elite

A Mouse Built for Gaming

If you are a fan of gaming and are looking for an affordable, yet versatile gaming mouse that can be successfully used with almost any gaming genre, whether it is FPS, MMO, or any other type, Razer DeathAdder Elite is the mouse for you.

This mouse is fitted with an excellent high-precision 16,000 DPI optical 5G sensor and discrete, but attractive-looking Chroma RGB Lighting that is fully customizable through the Razer Synapse software. More importantly, its seven programmable buttons would allow you to use it with the MMO games as well; however, don’t expect miracles, since this is a great all-in-one mouse, not a dedicated device.

When talking about other aspects of this device, you should know that it comes with a 2.1m braided USB cable that provides great ergonomics, as well as excellent speed, which is a result of its very low 17ms click latency.

Razer DeathAdder Elite comes with a two-year warranty, it is compatible with Razer Chroma-enabled peripherals and Philips Hue devices. It is also fitted with mechanical switches that can withstand up to 50 million clicks, which adds to the overall durability of the device.

All in all, if you are after the best cheap gaming mouse, with excellent multi-functionality and usability and great performance that positions it neck and neck with the more expensive models such as Razer Mamba Elite and Glorious Model O, Razer DeathAdder Elite is certainly the mouse for you.

Cooler Master MM710

A Perfect Tool for Lightweight Gaming

Cooler Master MM710 is a lightweight and compact gaming mouse that makes the ideal option for eSports fans due to its characteristics and nature.

Although it doesn’t come with too many features, what it offers is more than enough for the majority of gamers. There is a precise 16000 DPI sensor, as well as durable Omron switches that allow for about 20 million presses. It also includes six-buttons, two of which are programmable, and they add a much-needed level of convenience.

This mouse has an ergonomic shape and before anything else, it is very comfortable to use, which may be a decisive factor for many users, considering how long gaming sessions can last. Moreover, it is fitted with an ultra-weave cable and customizable CPI, which is one more commodity that explains why this device is among the best gaming mice out there.

In other words, if you are a fan of more basic devices that will deliver excellent performance, Cooler Master MM710 is the tool for you.

Redragon Impact RGB LED MMO Mouse

Decent Budget Gaming Mouse for MMO

We know what you’re thinking: what’s a Redragon? Since you’re reading an article about gaming mice, it seems pretty obvious that the Redragon M908 Impact RGB is a gaming mouse that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. Here’s why we’ve mentioned a gaming mouse built by this relatively unknown company: first, you get a laser sensor in a very interestingly designed wired gaming mouse for under $40. This should be enough to get your attention. Just take a look at Redragon M908 Impact RGB’s design, and then say “shut up and take my money”.

Truth be told, as far as futuristic design goes, this mouse is level 99, i.e. it looks like an alien artifact. Optics aside, the “dragon” features no less than 19 (nineteen, that’s correct) programmable buttons, which makes it perfect for MMORPGs and things of that nature, as well as a more than decent Pixart PMW3327 laser sensor which boasts 12400 DPI with five adjustable levels on the fly, or ±100 from 100 to 12400 via software.

SteelSeries Rival 3

An Affordable Gaming Mouse that is Neck and Neck with the Big Guys

SteelSeries Rival 3 is an excellent, full-featured mouse that has great durability and plenty of features more common in much more expensive devices.

With this mouse, you are getting an excellent 8,500 CPI TrueMove Optical Sensor, as well as high-quality mechanical switches that can cope with up to 60 million clicks. Moreover, there is also very good Prism lighting, with three lighting zones and six programmable buttons that make this mouse suitable for MMO games.

SteelSeries Rival 3 comes with the excellent SteelSeries Engine 3 configuration software and has a high-quality build. It is lightweight (77g), comfortable to use, and compatible with both Windows and Mac. Furthermore, this mouse comes with 35G acceleration; it is fitted with a top-quality 1.8m cable and has great ergonomics that make it a solid option in the long run.

When talking about its performance, you should know that it positions it above SteelSeries Sensei Ten and, following multiple merits, pretty close to the Razer DeathAdder Elite. In other words, if you purchase SteelSeries Rival 3, you may be sure that you are getting one of the best gaming mice out there and a high-quality device that will keep you company for a long time.

Logitech G502 Hero

The Best There Is

Logitech G502 Hero is an affordable, high-performing gaming mouse that has plenty of features, and equally importantly, it provides an excellent value for the customer. Although it doesn’t bring any major improvements over the previous generation, this device still brings enough punch to be placed among the best gaming mice out there.

Simply, when you have a mouse that is fitted with a top-class Hero 25K sensor and 11 fully programmable buttons, equipped with mechanical switches that can last some 50 million clicks, and that includes a whole bunch of other features, such as the ability to record up to five different profiles on the mouse on-board memory, the only thing you can say is Bravo!

In a nutshell, this is what this mouse is all about, for the largest part. There is compatibility with Mac and Windows, a one-year warranty, and programmable RGB Lightsync lighting. First and foremost, there is 40G acceleration, very intuitive G HUB software, as well as the ability to personalize the mouse weight with five removable 3.6-gram weights.

In other words, the full package is there and the only question that remains is: When you are going to buy it?

Logitech G305

The Best Wireless Gaming Mouse is in Front of You

Logitech G305 is a fair-priced wireless gaming mouse that provides great 1ms responsiveness and excellent precision that makes it suitable for the vast majority of games, including MMO and FPS titles.

This mouse is fitted with a very good 12,000 DPI HERO optical sensor, it offers great compatibility that allows for its full use with Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, and many other operating systems and it provides very good energy-efficient performance that allows its 250-hour use with a single AA battery.

Logitech G305 is equipped with six programmable buttons, fitted with mechanical switches that can handle up to 10 million clicks, and has a very low click latency of 11ms, which makes it suitable for fast-paced gaming.

This is a compact and lightweight (99g) device that does highly comfortable work and comes with a two-year warranty. It is highly versatile, with an excellent price, and altogether delivers what the majority of gamers need, and all that for more than a reasonable price.

Nevertheless, there is a way for your dreams to come true, and that is the best projector for gaming. There is a device that can transform your entire room into a battle station and offer an ultimate gaming experience, within seconds.

Of course, finding the best fit isn’t that easy, but with some advice, it shouldn’t be that difficult, either.

Top Picks

Preview	Product
	Optoma HD28HDR 1080p Home Theater Projector for Gaming and Movies | Support for 4K Input | HDR...	Check at Amazon
	Optoma UHD38 Bright, True 4K UHD Gaming Projector | 4000 Lumens | 4.2ms Response Time at 1080p with...	Check at Amazon
	BenQ TH685 1080p Gaming Projector - 4K HDR Support - 120hz Refresh Rate - 3500lm - 8.3ms Low Latency...	Check at Amazon
	ViewSonic PX706HD 1080p Short Throw Projector with 3000 Lumens 22,000:1 DLP Dual HDMI USB C and Low...	Check at Amazon
	Epson Home Cinema 1080 3-chip 3LCD 1080p Projector, 3400 lumens Color & White Brightness,...	Check at Amazon
	LG CineBeam UHD 4K Projector HU70LA - DLP Home Theater Smart Projector with Alexa Built-In, White	Check at Amazon
	Optoma HD146X High Performance Projector for Movies & Gaming | Bright 3600 Lumens | DLP Single Chip...	Check at Amazon
	BenQ TK700STi 4K HDR Gaming Projector | 4K 60Hz | 1080p 240Hz 4.16ms Low Latency I 3000lm | 100”...	Check at Amazon
	Optoma GT1090HDR Short Throw Laser Home Theater Projector | 4K HDR Input | Lamp-Free Reliable...	Check at Amazon
	XGIMI Elfin Mini Projector, Ultra Compact 1080P Portable Projector 4K Input Supported for Movies &...	Check at Amazon

Last update on 2023-10-08 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best Gaming Projector

Similar to TVs and monitors, there are many aspects that influence the efficiency and the quality of a projector. However, a few of them make the biggest difference and they include the following:

Supported resolution

If you want to enjoy 4K content in the best possible way, your only option is a 4K projector.

On the other hand, if you are searching for something more affordable, 1080p projectors will do the job, especially if they are supplied with a pixel shifting feature that allows for image upscaling to a 4k resolution.

Brightness

Darkroom playing usually demands a projector with up to 2.000 Lumens of brightness. However, if you prefer more brightness in your surroundings, 2.500 Lumens is the minimum your projector should have to produce a reasonably clear picture, but if it is possible, go for at least 3000 Lumens.

Input Lag

One of the most important characteristics of a gaming projector is certainly its input lag. Although it isn’t that important for watching movies, it is, however, crucial for a good gaming experience, because it gives you those few extra moments to spot the opponent and react.

The input lag of 16ms is ideal, while it is acceptable for it to go up to 25ms. Everything above that value can significantly impact your overall gaming performance.

Connectivity

There is not that much to say about this category, except for the good old rule that more outputs and connection types mean higher versatility and ultimately lead to higher usability. For that reason, don’t hesitate and purchase a device with as much connectivity as possible.

Best Projectors for Gaming

Conclusion

Looking for a gaming projector? This guide hopefully helped you find your right fit – and if not, it gave you pointers and eased your search. Now go out there and get that device, so you can enjoy gaming on a large screen! Have fun!

But now you have a choice! Earbuds use more advanced technologies nowadays, so there’s no wonder we had to do a best gaming earbuds list. They may be small, but they come with impressive features in both sound and comfort.

So, if you want freedom from big headphones, a good pair of earbuds may be the best solution (especially during hot summers).

Top Picks

Preview	Product
	HyperX Cloud Earbuds - Gaming Headphones with Mic for Nintendo Switch and Mobile Gaming	Check at Amazon
	Sony MDRXB50AP Extra Bass Earbud Headphones/Headset with Mic for Phone Call, Red	Check at Amazon
	JBL Quantum 50 Wired, in-Ear Gaming Headphones with Inline Control - White	Check at Amazon
	Bose QuietComfort 20 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones, Apple Devices, Black	Check at Amazon
	ASUS ROG Cetra II in-Ear Gaming Headphones | Earbuds, Microphone, ANC, USB-C, Aura Sync RGB...	Check at Amazon
	Razer Hammerhead True Wireless (2nd Gen) Bluetooth Gaming Earbuds: Chroma RGB Lighting -60ms...	Check at Amazon
	Soundcore by Anker Liberty 2 Pro True Wireless Earbuds, Bluetooth Earbuds, ACAA Dynamic Driver and...	Check at Amazon

Last update on 2023-10-11 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best Earbuds For Gaming?

While the products we reviewed cover a wide array of budgets and preferences, we thought you should also have the list of features on which we based our selection. This way, if you want to do your own search, you have a solid base from which to start.

Comfort & Durability

Whether you’re a PC or a console gamer, you will spend countless hours performing tasks, taking quests, and battling enemies. As such, comfort is the first criterion that matters when selecting the best gaming earbuds.

Start with the ear tip; you should have at least three different sizes in the package and the material should be designed to fill the ear canal in order to provide passive noise cancellation. Also, the earbuds should be light and compact, so they won’t fall off when you make sudden moves.

Not to mention, if they are wired, the cable should be tangle-free and lightweight, so its weight doesn’t pull the earbuds down.

Sound Quality for Gaming Sessions

The second crucial criterion is sound quality. But gamers have different preferences compared to audiophiles, so you should be looking for:

• Powerful bass
• Spacious representation of the sound stage (so you can tell where your enemies are coming from)
• Clear trebles

Wired vs. wireless

Some gamers think that a wired design transmits sound better than a wireless one because it is via cable and not BT. However, modern BT technology is advanced, and you can hardly tell the difference between wireless and wired when it comes to sound quality.

Furthermore, a wireless design frees you from cables and gives you a good range to move around the device. On the other hand, wired designs don’t suffer from interference from other wireless signals and are a bit more durable.

At the end of the day, you are the one to decide which is best.

Mic Quality

Most MMORPG and online games, in general, require teammates to chat in order to share instructions, send out commands, and collaborate. This is difficult to do with a mic that doesn’t pick your voice properly or one that picks a bit too much.

That’s why some of the best gaming earbuds highlight the fact that their mic is at the higher end of the spectrum. It may cost a bit more, but it is definitely worth it!

7 Best Gaming Earbuds

HyperX Cloud Earbuds (HX-HSCEB-RD)

Perfect for Gaming on The Go

The HyperX Cloud earbuds are perfect for when you want to go and play outside (with your Nintendo Switch or phone/tablet).

First, the tangle-free cable is rubberized to reduce cable noise and make the experience of playing a handheld device a lot more pleasant. Second, the plugs are angled at a 90-degree, so they don’t fall off even if you’re jumping around, enjoying your victory.

But the HyperX Cloud earbuds are not just for mobile gaming! These are earbuds with mic, which means you can chat with your teammates in MMORPGs for as long as you want without sweating your ears off or getting a headache from the headband of some bulky headphones.

The audio is immersive, with crystal-clear lows, mids, and highs, and deep bass (yes, you’ll hear those explosions!). The surround sound is easy to interpret, which makes playing first-person shooter games quite fun.

Finally, the earbuds are slim, lightweight, and feature a multi-function button that makes controlling the audio in the game extremely easy.

Sony MDRXB50AP

Budget-friendly Earbuds with Big Bass

This wired in-ear headset is great for a wide range of scenarios, but they also make a good budget-friendly gaming accessory. The bass is indeed powerful and deep (due to the 12-millimeter dome type driver units) and the hybrid silicone tips help isolate you from the outside world. In addition, the 0.47” neodymium drivers deliver a well-balanced sound, which is great for those games where the audio is delivered via multiple channels.

To make it easy to wear, the headphones have a Y type flat cord (1.2m in length) with a slider. There’s also a built-in mic, a multi-function control button, and smartphone playback control (via the Smart Key app).

JBL Quantum 50

More Basic, yet Solid Gaming Earbuds

If you are looking for simple gaming earbuds that are easy to use and offer a solid audio experience at a reasonable price, JBL Quantum 50 are the earbuds for you. As mentioned previously, these earbuds come without any special features and are rather basic.

There is the 3.5mm connection, a volume slider with a mic mute, and a decent Inline Voice-Focus microphone that delivers a clear voice; however, is a bit quiet.

JBL Quantum 50 are comfortable to wear and more importantly, they bring accurate and clear audio, with a bit more emphasis on lows; nonetheless, the sound experience is still more than pleasant.

Therefore, if you are after one of the best gaming earbuds for the price, JBL Quantum 50 is a pretty nice option.

Bose QuietComfort 20

Impressive Quality and Control

Bose never disappoints when it comes to sound quality! With the QuietComfort 20, they managed to create an almost perfect portable headset that can be used in a wide range of situations. You can wear them while running or working out, they do an amazing job at blocking environmental sounds in an airplane, and they deliver spacious audio that let the listener imagine the position of every sound.

But Bose went one step further and included ANC in these earbuds! This means you can enjoy your game without being disturbed by external sounds regardless of your current location (at home, on the couch or on a busy train).

You also get an aware mode, so you can hear the outside world without removing the earbuds or interrupting your gaming session. Not to mention that due to Active EQ and TriPort technology the sound is deep and clear.

Finally, Bose QuietComfort 20 work on lots of devices, including Apple ones. You can even wear them for hours due to the StayHear+ tips which provide a comfortable and customizable fit.

ASUS ROG Cetra II

The King of Gaming Earbuds is in the House

Some devices offer great performance and raise your whole gaming experience to another, higher level, and ASUS ROG Cetra II earbuds are that type of product. They are sleek, attractive looking, fitted with the Aura Sync RGB lightings, and more importantly, they bring an excellent gaming audio experience.

They feature ANC that is doing more than a fair job and are equipped with liquid silicone rubber drivers that are one of the key reasons for its glorious performance. Moreover, they offer USB Type-C connectivity, an excellent microphone that delivers great voice clarity for both ingoing and outgoing calls, and a lightweight build that makes them perfect for travels.

In addition, they are also fitted with three different-sized pairs of earbuds, for easy finding of the best fit, offer onboard commands, and support three different working modes (ANC on, ANC off, and Ambient Mode).

In short, they bring exactly what the best gaming earbuds should, offering an impressive gaming experience; however, they aren’t that versatile. Therefore, if you are after the best gaming earbuds, the thing is pretty simple, yet if you are planning to use them for some other activities, such as watching movies, or listening to music, some earbuds may come as a better, or at least, more affordable option.

Razer Hammerhead True Wireless (2nd Gen)

Very Good Gaming Earbuds

Razer Hammerhead True Wireless (2nd Gen) are well-built, excellent performance earbuds, with plenty of features that are one of the major reasons for their high price. These earbuds come with the Razer Chroma RGB that is fully customizable over the Razer Audio app, and they offer ANC that could have been a bit better, especially considering the price tag.

Moreover, Razer Hammerhead True Wireless (2nd Gen) features Bluetooth 5.2 and supports AAC and SBC codecs. Their battery life is modest at 6.5 hours that can be increased by the additional 26 hours, thanks to the charging case, while the presence of very good Dual Environmental Noise Cancelling (ENC) Microphones guarantees great voice clarity.

In addition, these earbuds also feature adjustable EQ and have a special Low Latency Gaming Mode, perfect for any gamer. On top of that, they are compact and practical, and more importantly, they deliver excellent audio, with a strong bass, ideal for all sorts of activities, including high-end gaming.

In other words, they are an ideal option if the combination of attractive looks and a great audio experience is what you are after in the best gaming earbuds.

Anker Soundcore Liberty 2 Pro

Bluetooth Earbuds with Astria Coaxial Acoustic Architecture

Designed to fit perfectly in your ear, these in-ear buds are also fitted with advanced audio technology for audiophile sound quality. As such, they come with customized Knowles balanced armature and an 11mm dynamic driver for a well-balanced sound without interference.

The expanded sound stage is extremely well detailed and the depth and nuance are impeccable in delivering harmonious representations where you can hear each instrument and vocal. In addition, the earbuds are fitted with HearID (a technology used to deliver the sound according to your hearing profile), an adjustable EQ, and 22 preset sound profiles.

Lastly, there are 4 microphones and cVc 8.0 noise reduction technology that isolates your voice and ensures high-clarity phone calls.

Wrap Up

We reviewed a wide array of products, but you are the only one who can choose the best gaming earbuds for your needs. You know your budget limitations and the experience you want to access every time you put on the earbuds.

So, don’t waste any more time! Read our reviews, learn about the features that matter, and buy the perfect earbuds to make your gaming a bit more fun and immersive!

So, if you’ve had enough of your bulky headset that’s making your ears sweat, have a look at our top picks. But first, let’s discuss the main features that a gaming speaker should have in order to be considered the best.

Top Picks

Preview	Product
	Logitech Z623 400 Watt Home Speaker System, 2.1 Speaker System - Black	Check at Amazon
	Klipsch R-51PM Powered Bluetooth Speaker,Black	Check at Amazon
	Razer Nommo Chroma: Custom Woven 3" Glass Fiber Drivers - Rear-Facing Bass Ports - Bass Knob...	Check at Amazon
	Logitech G560 PC Gaming Speaker System with 7.1 DTS:X Ultra Surround Sound, Game based LIGHTSYNC...	Check at Amazon
	Bose Companion 2 Series III Multimedia Speakers - for PC (with 3.5mm AUX & PC Input) Black	Check at Amazon
	Creative Labs 51MF1610AA002 GigaWorks T20 Series II 2.0 Multimedia Speaker System with BasXPort...	Check at Amazon
	Edifier R980T 4" Active Bookshelf Speakers - 2.0 Computer Speaker - Powered Studio Monitor (Pair)	Check at Amazon
	Razer Leviathan: Dolby 5.1 Suround Sound - Bluetooth aptX Technology - Dedicated Powerful Subwoofer...	Check at Amazon
	Audioengine A2+ Wireless Bluetooth Computer Speakers - 60W Bluetooth Speaker System for Home,...	Check at Amazon
	Logitech Z407 Bluetooth Computer Speakers with Subwoofer and Wireless Control, Immersive Sound,...	Check at Amazon
	Creative Pebble V3 Minimalistic 2.0 USB-C Desktop Speakers with USB Audio, Clear Dialog Enhancement,...	Check at Amazon

Last update on 2023-09-22 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best Gaming Speakers?

With or Without Subwoofer

The main purpose of a subwoofer is to amp up the bass by delivering better and more powerful low-end notes. When it comes to gaming, bass is important because it helps enhance the action and immerses the players in the world they are exploring.

Still, if you don’t have the budget or you don’t want to wake up your neighbors, a subwoofer is not necessary. There are several great speakers that deliver good bass response even without a subwoofer.

Speaker’s Configuration

For those of you who don’t have that much space in the room, a 2.0 (or 2.1) speaker system will work just fine. But if you want a more immersive experience, you may want to consider a 5.1 or a 7.1 system. Of course, these include a subwoofer and 5 to 7 satellites that must be installed correctly around the main audio source.

Still, if you want something simple and easy to install, go with a 2.0 or 2.1 system.

Additional Features

Usually, there’s not much to add to a speaker that can deliver amazing sound quality, but users may enjoy one that comes with remote control. Also, if the speaker supports multiple inputs and has Bluetooth connectivity besides the wired one, things start to look a lot better.

These are features you never know you wanted until you had them, so don’t dismiss the extra features section when you’re buying a new audio system!

11 Best Gaming Speakers

Logitech Z623

Captivating Sound for an Incredible Experience

Designed with true THX sound, the Z623 2.1 speakers from Logitech go great for immersive movies and games, impressive music, and other gorgeous audio experiences.

The subwoofer delivers bold and booming bass experience, while the speakers create the ideal stereo effect. And, the installation is extremely simple: you only need an audio source (TV, PC, or gaming console) with the appropriate port and you’re done.

Not to mention that you can collect up to three different devices at once! The speakers support different inputs (RCA and 3.5 mm), so you can hook up your TV, gaming console, and PC. This way, you just need to switch between devices, there’s no need to rewire everything.

Even though the speakers aren’t big, the subwoofer helps them deliver 400W of peak power without any distortions. Also, the controls are easily accessible, which means that fine-tuning the system is a breeze.

Klipsch R-51PM

The Best Computer Speakers for Gaming

While the R-51PM powered monitors from Klipsch will work with almost any audio source, we recommend them as best for gaming due to the sound quality they deliver. The low ends are booming while the mid and high notes are crisp and spacious, immersing games into their favorite worlds.

Of course, the speakers work just as well for movies and music or for just listening to an audiobook or a speech. The room-filling sound will never disappoint or leave you wanting for more!

The speakers are a bit big, so you’ll need to make some room for them, but they come with a minimum amount of gear. Once they are installed (which goes easily), there’s not much you need to do than hit that Play button.

Among other cool technologies, the speakers are equipped with a built-in all-digital amplifier, 1” aluminum LTS tweeters, and dual 5.25” spun-copper IMG woofers. They also support multiple inputs from Bluetooth to USB and 3.5mm analog mini jack, which is why we think they’ll make for amazing home theater speakers as well.

The overall design is a bit butch but elegant, with a note of class and style. The speakers come with all the necessary cables for installation and remote control that lets you fine-tune the system from your couch.

Razer Nommo Chroma

Small in Size but Powerful in Sound

If you’re looking for the best PC gaming speakers but your budget is not too large, the Razer Nommo Chroma may be the right choice!

Razer created these speakers with gamers in mind, which is why they come with a very interesting and lively design. First, they’re small, so you can easily place the satellites on your desk, by the monitor. Second, at the base of each speaker, there is an LED light ring that supports 16.8 million colors that can change according to your settings (using special software). This feature allows you to personalize the listening experience and enjoy the ambient lighting that reacts to your every move while in the game.

The speakers are equipped with 3.5” woven glass fiber drivers that manage to deliver room-filling sound without distortions. Furthermore, you can connect to them using both USB and 3.5mm connections.

The Razer Nommo 2.0 system is easy to install and control due to the bass knobs available on the right speaker. Overall, they sound and look amazing, and any gamer would be proud to have them!

Logitech G560 LIGHTSYNC PC Gaming Speakers

Driven by Light & Sound

Historically speaking, Logitech has created some of the best speakers for gaming, so there’s no wonder we included a second product from Logitech on our list!

G560 is among the first speakers on the market to combine and synchronize RGB lighting and sound to create an immersive gaming experience. They can also be paired with Logitech products from the same line (mice and keyboards) to make your games come to life since the colors change according to the action in the game.

With 240W at peak power and multiple inputs (Bluetooth, USB, and 3.5mm jack) the speakers can be used in a wide variety of scenarios; not just for gaming. The system delivers powerful bass (due to the subwoofer) and comes with integrated DTS:X for ultra-surround sound. As a result, you’ll be able to hear the action from every angle, just like you would be in the game!

Overall, with the G560 speakers you get to hear and see the music, which lets you live the fun at a whole new level!

Bose Companion 2 Series III

The Best Gaming Speakers Under $100

These are the perfect computer speakers! They are small in size, deliver a strong audio performance with clear sound even at higher volumes, and can be connected to an additional device using the auxiliary input (to expand your entertainment).

The controls and headphones jack input are situated on the right speaker, so they’re quite easy to reach when you sit at your PC. Not to mention that the overall design is simple and beautiful, which makes them easy to install in any room or setting.

The Companion 2 Series III from Bose can deliver a world of sounds, and they have a wide soundstage, which helps enhance the overall experience. Even more, while they don’t look like a bass-heavy system, speakers are designed to work with clear and beautiful low-end notes.

As such, they may not get the walls shaking, but they do support high-quality sound with good bass presence.

Creative Labs 51MF1610AA002 GigaWorks T20 Series II

Fine-Tuned by Professionals

Whether you want the best gaming speakers or the best system to transform movies and music into a more pleasant experience, the T20 GigaWorks speakers are a fantastic choice.

The two-way speakers are professionally fine-tuned to respect a new level of acoustic fidelity, delivering clear and natural sounds that surround the user and immerse them in new and wonderful worlds. They come with BasXPort technology, which supports a rich and extended bass that’s so powerful and deep that you won’t feel the need to add a subwoofer to the mix.

Moreover, to deliver crystal-clear highs without interferences, the system is equipped with silk dome tweeters and woven fiberglass drivers. Still, if you don’t like the standard settings, the controls are easy to reach in a desktop setting.

Finally, the speakers support several inputs due to the dual RCA-to-stereo adapter which allows users to connect them to a wide array of audio sources (TV, DVD player, gaming console, and more).

Edifier R980T

The Best Budget Gaming Speakers

Edifier R980T stereo speakers come with classic wooden cabinets that make them look more elegant but also support an enhanced sound experience. The sound has depth and the bass is rich due to the flared bass reflex port.

The speakers are a bit bigger and bulkier than most PC speakers, but they are great in delivering the right sound for gaming and movies. In fact, the R980T are bookshelf speakers that produce 21W of sound (12W RMS each). Also, each speaker comes with a 4-inch bass driver and 13mm tweeter that help create clear and natural-sounding notes.

Even more, the speakers have the connections for more than one audio source, due to the two RCA inputs. This means you can have both your PC and TV connected and simple switch between sources. This eliminates the need to fiddle with cables every time you want to switch between devices.

The volume and bass controls are placed on the back of the speakers, which may be a bit inconvenient. But the speakers support a clean look, so they can be used in any setting.

Razer Leviathan

The Soundbar You Never Knew You Wanted

Some of the best 5.1 gaming speakers are messy, difficult to install, and require a lot of fine-tuning. That’s why Razer decided to create Leviathan – the soundbar that sounds like a 5.1 system but doesn’t need more than 2 minutes to start delivering amazing sounds.

To add up to the good news, the bar fits under monitors, TVs or console setup which makes it versatile regardless of the indoor setting. It also features Dolby technology and comes with a dedicated subwoofer that enriches the bass and keeps you on the edge.

The bar is made of 4 finely tuned drivers that are optimized to create a virtual surround sound without all the mess of installing satellites everywhere. Now, to reduce your efforts even more, the soundbar supports Bluetooth 4.0 with aptX technology and a proved range of 30 feet.

Finally, the dedicated 5.25-inch downward firing subwoofer solves the weak bass problem most soundbars have. Also, the subwoofer is tuned to eliminate distortions that usually show up around low frequencies.

Audioengine A2+

Small, but Powerful Computer Speakers

Audioengine A2+ are well-built, attractive-looking speakers that are bringing ease of use and very good connectivity to the user. To be exact, there is Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, with support for AAC, aptX, and aptX HD codecs, as well as Stereo RCA inputs/outputs, USB input, and stereo mini-jack. In other words, great connectivity is there.

In addition, these speakers come with a built-in power amplifier and provide 60W of total power output. Moreover, they are fitted with 2.75″ aramid fiber woofers and 3/4″ silk dome tweeters that produce excellent sound, with clear mids, lows, and highs. Unfortunately, the speakers come without a subwoofer; therefore, expect limited bass performance.

On the other hand, they are fitted with the PMC2704C DAC and compatible with both PC and Mac. They bring a simple design, and are available in black, red and white. More importantly, they are fitted with a three-year warranty that is another proof of their high level of build and quality.

Therefore, if you are after one of the best gaming speakers out there that can successfully be used in multiple configurations, Audioengine A2+ speakers are right for you.

Logitech Z407

Affordable, yet Great-Performing Speakers

If you are seeking powerful, but not too expensive speakers that will raise your gaming to another, higher level, Logitech Z407 speakers are what you need. These are great-looking speakers, with the 80W power output and decent connectivity that involves Bluetooth connection, a 3.5mm jack, micro-USB connection, as well as RCA.

Above all, these speakers produce excellent audio quality, with a rich and warm sound and strong bass. In other words, they are an ideal option for any gaming setup.

Logitech Z407 is a sleek-looking, graphite gray device fitted with oval-shaped satellite speakers that can be positioned either vertically, or horizontally. Also, they are compact, easy to use, and reasonably priced. All in all, they have everything that the best gaming speakers should, so go get them!

Creative Pebble V3

Affordability and Practicality in One

Creative Pebble V3 are compact, easy to use, budget-friendly speakers ideal for limited spaces, or as a nice bonus to the notebook gaming configurations. Sure, they won’t blow you away with their performance; however, considering their small size, they will bring more than a significant audio boost.

These speakers are bringing the plug-and-play functionality, and they offer pretty decent connectivity that involves a USB Type-C connection, Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, as well as 3.5mm connection. More importantly, they produce pretty solid audio, with a decent sense of depth and clarity. Unfortunately, the lack of the subwoofer takes its toll, resulting in a pretty weak bass, yet still pretty decent, considering the size of the speakers.

Creative Pebble V3 is fitted with 2.25” drivers and a gain switch that can boost the peak power up to 16W. In other words, although rather small, they can still give you a serious push.

Therefore, if you are after affordable and compact speakers that will give a bit of a boost to your gaming adventures, Creative Pebble V3 speakers are right for you.

Wrap Up

As you can see, if you are on the lookout for the best gaming speakers, there are plenty of options on the market. From low budget options that still deliver amazing sound quality to high-end bookshelf speakers that won’t let you down.

All you need to do is decide which features matter the most and find the speakers that work for your budget.

Of course, finding the best gaming router isn’t an easy task, particularly if you are not that familiar with the subject, but some advice here and there will certainly help you a lot in that search.

Top Picks

Preview	Product
	NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR300 WiFi Router with 4 Ethernet Ports and Wireless speeds up to 1.75...	Check at Amazon
	Linksys WRT3200ACM: AC3200 Dual-Band Gigabit Wi-Fi Router, Beamforming Tri-Stream Wireless Signal,...	Check at Amazon
	TP-Link AC5400 Tri Band WiFi Gaming Router(Archer C5400X) – MU-MIMO Wireless Router, 1.8GHz...	Check at Amazon
	NETGEAR Nighthawk 4-Stream AX4 Wi-fi 6 Router (RAX40) – AX3000 Wireless Speed (Up to 3 Gbps) |...	Check at Amazon
	ASUS ROG Rapture WiFi 6 Wireless Gaming Router (GT-AX11000) - Tri-Band 10 Gigabit, 1.8GHz Quad-Core...	Check at Amazon
	D-Link WiFi Router, AC2600 MU-MIMO Dual Band Gigabit 4K Streaming and Gaming with USB Ports, 4x4...	Check at Amazon
	TP-Link AC1900 Smart WiFi Router (Archer A9) - High Speed MU-MIMO Wireless Router, Dual Band,...	Check at Amazon
	NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500 Wi-Fi Router with 4 Ethernet Ports and Wireless Speeds Up to 2.6...	Check at Amazon
	ASUS RT-AX82U (AX5400) Dual Band WiFi 6 Extendable Gaming Router, Gaming Port, Mobile Game Mode,...	Check at Amazon

Last update on 2023-10-03 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best Router for Gaming

If you want to get the best gaming router possible, it is important to have a couple of things in mind and pay closer attention to the following details during your pursuit:

Band

Before the purchase, think through what you really need. If you are a regular user, you probably don’t need for more than a one or two-band device. On the other hand, if you are into simultaneous multiple streaming, a tri-band, with a MU-MIMO function is your necessity. In other words, see what your current needs are and try to predict what they will be in the future – and choose in accordance with that.

Supported Speed

When talking about the supported speeds, things are simple. The faster the device, the faster the data transfer and overall network traffic. For that reason, always go for the higher numbers.

Futureproof

Be sure to get yourself a device with functions that allow you to use it for many years to come. Therefore, go for routers with advanced, modern features such as MU-MIMO or Beamforming.

Features

Parental control, VPN server, or malware protection maybe aren’t needed by everyone, but still, they can be very handy from time to time, especially if your network is the target of an online attacks, or you need to limit the access to the network for a certain device. Therefore, although it may seem as you don’t need certain features, be sure of that before the purchase, or even better, if your resources allow it, buy a feature-rich device that will prevent any possible future issues.

Connectivity

Considering connectivity, things are straightforward. More LAN ports, USB ports, etc. means that you will be able to connect more devices. For that reason, calculate well and be sure that there are enough outputs to accept all your hardware.

9 Best Routers for Gaming

NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR300

A Decent Entry-level Device Ideal for Easy Setup Lovers

NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR300 is a solid, nice performing device, packed with numerous features, which make it highly appealing not only to gamers but a wide range of users. It comes equipped with four Gigabit LAN ports and one WAN port and offers very fast 802.11ac wireless dual-band connectivity that allows for speeds of up to 450Mbps in the 2.4GHz band, and up to 1300Mbps in the 5GHz band.

The router itself runs on a modest dual-core CPU, with 1GHz speed, 128 MB of Flash, 512 MB RAM and the Duma OS, that aren’t much but are still sufficient to allow for a great gaming experience. Among others, this device comes with some highly useful features that include connection prioritization, with upload and download speed limitations and customizable Gaming Dashboard, which allows for easy network tweaking and therefore, reduces lag, lowers the ping and ultimately creates a network up to your needs.

XR300 is compatible with PC, Xbox, PS, Nintendo Switch and many other devices, which makes it highly versatile. Also, it comes supplied with three highly-efficient antennas that guarantee quality performance, but only if that area isn’t too large, in which case it demands “reinforcements” such as Wi-Fi extenders.

All in all, if you are searching for the best gaming router for Xbox One, PS4, or any other similar type console that doesn’t demand for too much network knowledge and allows for easy setup at the same time, NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR300 is the perfect choice for you.

Linksys WRT AC3200ACM

A Quality Router Meant for the Gamers Who Want Full Control

Full customizability is a primary issue for many users and Linksys WRT AC3200ACM router really shines in that department, allowing for the installation and use of the open-source firmware, as for example OpenWRT or DD-WRT. With this firmware change, users have the opportunity to use many advanced features, as for example TOR or VPN, and more importantly, have full control over the device and the network itself.

If you are not into these advanced aspects, you will be glad to know, that you can also use it with its own firmware, which allows for easy setup and offers a very handy configuration over the phone or any other mobile device.

This router comes with a 1.8GHz dual-core processor, 256MB of flash and 512MB of RAM and is equipped with five Gigabit LAN ports (one is reserved for the modem), USB3.0 port for printer and file sharing and ESATA port that can also be used as a USB port. In other words, great performance and versatility are guaranteed.

Linksys WRT AC3200ACM offers a dual-band Wi-Fi, with speeds of up to 600Mbps in 2.4GHz range and up to 2600Mbps in 5GHz, and also offers an MU-MIMO function, which basically allows for simultaneous use of its Wi-Fi by multiple devices, at the same high speeds.
Altogether, one of the best routers for gaming and streaming is in front of you.

TP-Link Archer C5400X

An Exceptional Gaming Router with a Powerful Performance

For everyone looking for an amazing performance and easy setup (it can be also done by mobile devices such as phones or tablets) in one, TP-Link Archer C5400X comes as a great option. Although quite expensive, this router offers a superior set of features and more importantly, premium work stripped of any compromise.

This 802.11ac wireless router offers tri-band networking, with speed of up to 1000Mbps in 2.4GHz band and with speeds of up to 2167Mbps in both of its two 5.0GHz bands. It comes equipped with Broadcom BCM4366 Wi-Fi chip, quad-core 1.8GHz CPU, 1GB of RAM and 128MB of memory, which altogether makes a nice PC, packed in the shell of a router.

Archer C5400X also offers many interesting features, such as MU-MIMO function for simultaneous connection of multiple devices, or beamforming that allows for the transmission to adapt to the receiving hardware and exploit all its potentials. Furthermore, there is a built-in VPN server for anonymous connecting and a great set of security features, such as a Malicious Content Filter (blocks bad cites), Intrusion Prevention System (it prevents attacks) and an Infected Device Quarantine, which basically makes this router’s networking a perfectly safe place.

Even though it is a power-hungry and maybe lacks some of the features such as geo-filtering, Archer C5400X is still an amazing device that comes with a two-year warranty, good reach that is pretty resistant to the obstacles such as walls and ceilings, and overall a great performance. As a whole, this is probably the best wireless router for gaming you can have – of course, if you can pay for it.

NETGEAR Nighthawk AX4 WiFi 6 Next-Gen Router AX3000

A Great Entry-Level Device in the Wi-Fi 6 World

If you are following trends and want to get yourself a future-proof device that won’t cost you a fortune at the same time, NETGEAR Nighthawk AX4 Wi-Fi 6 Next-Gen Router AX3000 is a great option. This Wi-Fi 6 router allows for simultaneous, multi-device 4k streaming, without any lag or network congestion.

Thanks to its compliance with the ax standard, this router offers faster speeds than most highly adopted ac routers and, more importantly, allows for concurrent use of both of its bands (2.4GHz and the 5.0GHz) on the contrary to the ac standard that only supports the use of one band at the time.

NETGEAR Nighthawk AX4 AX3000 itself is equipped with the 1.8GHz quad-core CPU, 512MB of RAM and 256MB of storage space and comes with numerous features, which include Beamforming, VPN support, MU-MIMO (it supports for up to four simultaneous streams), Nighthawk App for easy setup and a lot more.

In the 2.4GHz range, this router allows for speeds of up to 600Mbps, while in 5.0GHz range, these speeds can reach up to the 2400Mbps mark, making a total speed of 3000Mbps when combined, which is highly respectable for today’s routers.

Altogether, if you want to get yourself one of the best gaming routers that is bringing new technology to the game, NETGEAR Nighthawk AX4 AX3000 is an ideal choice.

ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000

The Best of the Best

Purchasing something that can deliver amazing performance and offer all the best that a certain technology can bring is a dream for many, but because of the high price, reality just for a few… and ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 is exactly that type of device. There are great features, amazing speeds, appealing looks and the final result: the best router for gaming that money can buy.

Similar to other premium models, this router comes with 1GB of RAM, 256MB of flash memory and quad-core 1.8GHz CPU, that are the most responsible for its great performance, and a kind of a modest set of outputs that includes one USB3.1 port, four LAN and one WAN port. When talking about its features, it is good to know that there is Beamforming, OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access), Dynamic QoS, WTFast, VPN Fusion (it separates gaming traffic from VPN), and many other functions that make this router a one-of-a-kind device.

With support for ax standard, this tri-band device allows for simultaneous use of all its bandwidth, which includes one 2.4GHz band, with maximum speeds of up to 1148Mbps, and two 1.5GHz bands that allow for speeds of up to 4804Mbps, or over 10000Mbps when all the bands are combined.

All in all, if you want the best gaming router available on the market, and spending a ton of money isn’t a problem for you, ASUS ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 should be your ultimate choice.

D-Link EXO AC2600 MU-MIMO Wi-Fi Router

A Midrange Router Perfect for People Who are Looking for Quality rather Than Features

D-Link EXO AC2600 is not a device that will bring you super-fast speeds, or come with an endless list of features, but still, its decent performance and good usability make it highly appealing to a large base of users.

Its 880MHz dual-core processor, 128MB of RAM, and 128MB of memory aren’t much but are enough to support a dual-band networking with speeds of up to 800Mbps in 2.4GHz band and 1733Mbps in the 5GHz band, which is very good for any ac standard router.

D-Link EXO AC2600 MU-MIMO Wi-Fi Router, as its name suggests, supports the MU-MIMO function, but also Beamforming, Advanced Smart Beam, Intelligent QoS and many other features. Nevertheless, handy functions such as parental control or antivirus protection are nowhere to be found, but that is something that could be expected from a mid-range device.

This router allows for up to four simultaneous streaming of 4k content and offers super-easy setup, which makes it practical for both gamers and ordinary households. Therefore, if you are looking for the best router for gaming, but also a good everyday router, D-Link EXO AC2600 is an ideal, affordable choice.

TP-Link AC1900 (Archer A9)

An Affordable, but Highly Useful Wireless Router

If you are searching for a cheap, but highly efficient device, TP-Link AC1900 (Archer A9) is the router you should pay your attention to. Thanks to its easy setup, quality performance and a decent set of features that cover every important aspect (security, simultaneous streaming, parental control, etc.), this device offers everything that a regular user might need.

There is the MU-MIMO function, firewall, Beamforming, support for guest networks and much more, except for a VPN server, but that is something expected from a router under $100.

Archer A9 comes with dual-band connectivity and offers speed of up to 1300Mbps in 5GHz range and 600Mbps in 2.4GHz, and is equipped with four gigabit LAN ports, one WAN port and one USB2.0 – a rather sluggish port, but still, USB connectivity is there.

Overall, with TP-Link AC1900 (Archer A9), you are getting exceptional value for the money, and more importantly, one of the best budget routers for gaming devices available on the market.

NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500

Everything You Need for an Excellent Gaming Experience

NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500 is a futuristic-looking, feature-rich gaming router that presents one of the best gaming routers out there due to its fast data transfers speeds and excellent build quality. This device accepts no compromise.

It is run by the Qualcomm dual-core 1GHz processor, while Qualcomm QCA 9984 Wi-Fi chip is responsible for its Wi-Fi performance. This dual-band router comes with four Gigabit LAN ports and supports 2.6Gbps Wi-Fi data transfer speeds (800Mbps in 2.4GHz range and 1733Mbps in 5GHz range). On top of that, it is fitted with a ton of features, such as 256QAM support, Geo-fencing, Congestion Control, Ping Heatmap, Application QoS, and many others. In other words, you will be able to fully control your traffic, and more importantly, you will be able to manage it with ease thanks to the very good 2.0 NetDuma’s DumaOS software.

NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR500 comes with four antennas; it offers MU-MIMO support, and above all, provides god range coverage. This, combined with its great performance, makes nothing less than a networking monster that will help raise your gaming to the highest level.

ASUS RT-AX82U AX5400

A Space-Ship in a Router Body

If you are seeking a premium-performing gaming router that will bring the best out of your network and satisfy your game-hungry teenagers, or the game-hungry teenager in your heart, ASUS RT-AX82U AX5400 is the device you need.

As you may guess, this isn’t an everyday router, but a supreme gaming machine that supports 4804Mbps data transfer speeds and offers a ton of features that will satisfy even the most demanding among you.

ASUS RT-AX82U AX5400 comes with Beamforming support, Game Acceleration feature, Mesh WiFi Support, Mobile Game Boost, Game prioritization, MU-MIMO, QoS, and even fully customizable Aura RGB lighting that will let you pair this router with your gaming rig. Moreover, there is a special Gaming mode that offers the lowest possible latency and lag, numerous security features that include WPA3 security, Parental controls, as well as free lifetime ASUS AiProtection Pro subscription that will make your network as secure as possible.

ASUS RT-AX82U AX5400 Wi-Fi6 router is easy to use, it delivers long-range coverage and allows for full management over the Mobile App. It is fitted with four Gigabit LAN ports, one WAN port and offers one USB connection that isn’t much, but should be enough for the majority of users.

All in all, if you are after the best gaming router there is, ASUS RT-AX82U AX5400 is certainly a device that will give you plenty for the price and, above all, it will shine in every department, as it should be the case with the best gaming router there is.

Conclusion

Hopefully, after reading this guide, your search for the best gaming router has become a much simpler task and you are a one step closer to the best choice possible. If that is the case, this guide’s mission is fulfilled! Good luck!

It’s not a secret that in modern headsets the sound is prioritized over the mic quality. Some headphones may even not have a built-in mic. So, if you are aimed to win it’s better to get the best microphone for gaming.

Top Picks

Preview	Product
	V-MODA BoomPro Microphone for Gaming & Communication - Black, Wired	Check at Amazon
	Blue Yeti USB Microphone for PC, Mac, Gaming, Recording, Streaming, Podcasting, Studio and Computer...	Check at Amazon
	Razer Seiren Mini USB Condenser Microphone: for Streaming and Gaming on PC - Professional Recording...	Check at Amazon
	NZXT Capsule - AP-WUMIC-W1 - USB Cardioid Streaming, Gaming & Podcasting Microphone - Crystal Clear...	Check at Amazon
	HyperX QuadCast - USB Condenser Gaming Microphone, for PC, PS4, PS5 and Mac, Anti-Vibration Shock...	Check at Amazon
	Logitech for Creators Blue Snowball iCE USB Microphone for PC, Mac, Gaming, Recording, Streaming,...	Check at Amazon
	Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone with Cardioid - Plug-and-play with iOS, Mac, PC, Onscreen...	Check at Amazon
	Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ Cardioid Condenser USB Microphone, With Built-In Headphone Jack & Volume...	Check at Amazon
	Elgato Wave:3 - Premium Studio Quality USB Condenser Microphone for Streaming, Podcast, Gaming and...	Check at Amazon

Last update on 2023-09-26 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best Mic for Gaming

Sure, a perfect microphone is suitable for any kind of activities. It can be a great mic for streaming and at the same time an excellent item for gaming or studio recordings. Still, if you need a mic for a specific purpose then it’s better to get the best one of that category.

So what does the best mic for gaming look like? It has got a lifelike sound, easy setup, reasonable price and, of course, it’s versatile. A perfect mic will turn your game into a real adventure. But how to find it? Here are some tips which will help you choose a suitable mic for gaming.

Sound quality

Great mics have high-grade recording quality. It is achieved through wide frequency response, which will let you select a necessary mode. Another thing that affects audio quality is the level of noise reduction. Some mics come with vibration dampening or have special filters for background noise. This aspect is responsible for sound clarity and accuracy. Undoubtedly, no one wants the audio with picked up keyboard cluttering.

Don’t forget to pay attention to pattern selection as well. Some mics are versatile while others offer only one audio setting. A universal mic is a multi-pattern one and includes all directional properties such as omnidirectional, bidirectional and unidirectional (cardioid). Here you can learn more about the difference between them.

Form factor

Though there are a lot of microphone form factors, those which are typical for mics for gaming are desktop, clip on and mini. Desktop mics are usually more expensive than mini. Nevertheless, they are richer in options and usually have better sound quality.

Comfort

Comfortable mics are easy to set up and simple in use. Besides, you can easily adjust them to the necessary conditions. Such mics are highly adaptable.

Some other things to pay attention to is the quality of material and construction. Check whether it is a durable item and won’t break after the slightest push or drop.

Accessories should be also taken into account. Some mics come with additional desktop stands, Y-adapters, a carrying case, pop filters and ports. Just makes sure there is everything you need for gaming.

9 Best Mics for Gaming

V-MODA BoomPro Microphone

Great Budget Mic for Gaming

In case you are looking for something inexpensive and compact but at the same time with great audio quality V-MODA BoomPro is one of the models to take into account when selecting the best mic. It is especially recommended for those who need a mic not only for playing games but also communicating with family, friends or business partners. Note that despite its low price V-MODA BoomPro delivers clear audio as it comes with background noise reduction.

It is a highly compatible model which can be used with nearly all kinds of devices including PCs, tablets, smartphones and gaming consoles. V-MODA BoomPro is a detachable mic with a unique bendable SteelFlex design, thanks to which it can be easily adjusted to different conditions. This mic for gaming is also durable as it is equipped with a reinforced cable and 24k gold plated plug.

Blue Yeti USB Microphone

The Best Microphone for YouTube Gaming

Need a premium mic for gaming? Then have a look at Blue Yeti USB microphone. There are a lot of things to like about it. This mic comes with Blue’s proprietary tri-capsule technology. It means that there is a tri-capsule array with three condenser capsules, which can record almost anything even under less-than-ideal conditions.

What is more, there is multiple pattern selection including cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional and stereo pattern settings. Such variety allows you to use this mic for different purposes –podcasting, video recording, conference calls, music, and, of course, game streaming.

Blue Yeti USB microphone has a simple control system and doesn’t require any driver install. All you need to start using it is just to plug this mic into your device’s USB port with the included USB cable.

Another reason why Blue Yeti is considered to be one of the best mic for gaming is its up-to-date design. You can easily adjust its desktop stand and pivot mic in a way you need it. You can also use set screws to secure it in the most suitable position.

Razer Seiren Mini

Built From The Ground Up For Streamers

Razer knows about the modern gamer’s needs, so they created the Seiren Mini – a microphone designed for in-game chat and streaming. As such, this is a plug-and-play easy-to-use microphone, that can be installed almost anywhere, without too much of a fuss.

The case is made from anodized aluminum, which makes it lightweight and durable. Also, the mic is delivered with a built-in shock mount and has a super-cardioid pick-up pattern. In addition, it is equipped with a professional-grade single dynamic capsule for a rich and warm vocal effect. This means that your broadcasting experience will be as true to life as possible, due to minimal electronic interference.

There’s also a built-in high-pass filter for ultra-clean recording – it cuts out any unwanted low-frequency vibrations (such as background noise). This way, you can record your streams and publish them on your channel without too much editing.

Lastly, the microphone also has a digital/analog vocal limiter for zero distortion and supports 16 bit/48kHZ resolution.

NZXT Capsule

A Simple, yet Powerful Gaming Microphone

If you seek a solid audio-performing microphone for your gaming activities that will do more than a good job, the NZXT Capsule is the device for you. To be exact, this microphone offers a simple design and plug-and-play functionality, perfect for a large portion of gamers.

Yes, there is no EQ tweaking, yet luckily the overall performance and the default profile are more than good and will certainly satisfy the majority of users. In addition, its build is rugged, while the gain is set at the ideal 50%.

NZXT Capsule is a unidirectional microphone, with a Cardioid polar pattern and 24-bit/96kHz resolution voice pickup that drastically reduces background noise. Moreover, this microphone brings low-latency performance, USB-C to USB-A Cable connectivity, and much-needed ease of use, which is always welcomed, no matter the class of the device.

All in all, NZXT Capsule is a very good product, and certainly one of the best microphones for gaming, especially if the simplicity and great performance are the main goals of your search.

HyperX QuadCast

Intuitive & Versatile on a Wide Range of Platforms

The HyperX QuadCast microphone is not just for gamers as it delivers amazing quality for podcasts, streaming, interviews, and even recordings. Designed with an anti-vibration shock mount and a mount adapter that lets you install it in any position, the microphone is easy to use and setup.

It has four selectable polar patterns (stereo, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and cardioid), a pop filter, and gain control adjustment that’s easy to reach and switch. Furthermore, it has tap to mute with an LED indicator that lets you avoid any accidental tea spilling. This way, you know for sure that when the light is on the mic is active and when the light is off, you can talk freely.

Lastly, the mic has a headphone jack, so you can hear your own voice. This feature is great for gaming sessions, streaming, and even podcasts.

Blue Snowball iCE Condenser Microphone

The Best Affordable Microphone for Gaming

For those with some financial constraints, we would recommend paying attention to Blue Snowball iCE Condenser Microphone. It’s also a good option in case you just don’t want to spend a fortune on a new mic for gaming.

This Blue Snowball mic is designed with a custom condenser capsule which provides crisp and clear sound for communication and recordings. Having this mic you can also create podcasts or add narration to home movies. By the by, Blue Snowball iCE Condenser is very easy to set up. You don’t need any driver installation – just plug and play.

Shure MV5 Digital Condenser Microphone

The Best Affordable Gaming Microphone

Finding the perfect equipment for your gaming is never easy, especially if you have a limited budget. However, some products deliver excellent performance and still don’t have a premium price, and Shure MV5 is precisely that type of device.

This is a highly compatible microphone that can work along with Windows, Mac, and iOS, offering a clean and clear voice, surprisingly good for its price. Moreover, this microphone also comes with a built-in headphone output and both USB and Lightning cable, offering a great level of versatility.

Its frequency range is between 20Hz and 20kHz, while the microphone itself has the 16/24-bit, 44.1/48kHz recording quality.

Shure MV5 is available in black/gray color combination, as well as black/red color. Also, it features three DSP Preset Modes (Vocals, Flat, and Instrument), and brings an excellent value for the price, as it should be the case with one of the best microphones for gaming available.

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+

The Best PC Mic for Gaming

Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ is another mic for gaming with unparalleled sound quality. Its high-grade A/D converter provides 16bit and frequency response, which is quite extended and smooth. Add to this 44.1/48 kHz sampling rate as well as high-output internal headphone amplifier and you will get lifelike and detailed sounding suitable for gaming, podcasting and home studio recording.

This USB microphone comes with mix control due to which you can blend the mic signal and pre-recorded audio. There is also volume control using which you can monitor the signal any time you need it. Audio-Technica AT2020USB+ is compatible with such OS as Windows 7/Vista/XP/2000 and Mac OS X.

Elgato Wave:3

Premium Condenser Microphone & Digital Mixer for Streaming

Designed with a streamer’s needs in mind, the Wave:3 has several impressive features that also make it a gamer’s dream!

On the surface, Wave:3 looks like a regular streaming microphone with a steel grille. It also has a built-in control interface (the multifunctional dial), a capacitive mute button, and comes with a heavy-duty desk stand (U-mount with padded base). It also has the necessary fittings for your boom arm of choice).

Under the case, you’ll find superior circuitry that supports 24bit/96kHz analog to digital conversion and can deliver broadcast-grade detail and clarity. There’s also a premium condenser capsule with a cardioid polar pattern (fine-tuned for speech) and a multi-layered noise shield.

Wave:3 is a USB-C plug-and-play microphone that can be used for any production (from podcasts to gaming, even to ASMR).

Now all these cool features can be perfectly controlled and fine-tuned with the Wave Link app that lets users control up to seven audio sources and create two independent mixes. Lastly, the mike comes with proprietary Clipguard technology that makes distortion virtually impossible.

Summary

When it comes to gear for gaming, a high-quality mic is one of the things a gamer should have. We offer the list of mics which vary both in price and options, so you can easily choose the most suitable one.

Most people don’t use their gaming PCs strictly for gaming, but also for many other tasks, which is where the significance of CPU comes into the picture. This is the main reason why choosing the best CPU for gaming shouldn’t involve just a gaming component, but be observed from a broader perspective.

Maybe your gaming demands only for a Pentium processor, but what if you are also into casual rendering, or content creation, not to mention 4k video streaming or similar? Your CPU will simply be unable to complete all that.

Also, you must take into consideration the fact that the games’ system requirements are constantly rising. Therefore, when purchasing a new CPU, you should always be at least one step ahead and always get yourself something that will allow for decent gaming at least for a couple of years to come, without a need for hardware improvements.

Top Picks

Preview	Product
	Intel Core i9-12900K Gaming Desktop Processor with Integrated Graphics and 16 (8P+8E) Cores up to...	Check at Amazon
	AMD Ryzen 9 5950X 16-core, 32-thread unlocked desktop processor	Check at Amazon
	Intel Core i7-12700K Gaming Desktop Processor with Integrated Graphics and 12 (8P+4E) Cores up to...	Check at Amazon
	Intel Core i5-12600K Desktop Processor with Integrated Graphics and 10 (6P+4E) Cores up to 4.9 GHz...	Check at Amazon
	AMD Ryzen 7 5800X 8-core, 16-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor	Check at Amazon
	AMD Ryzen 5 5600X 6-core, 12-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor with Wraith Stealth Cooler	Check at Amazon
	Intel Core i3-10100 Desktop Processor 4 Cores up to 4.3 GHz  LGA1200 (Intel 400 Series Chipset)...	Check at Amazon
	AMD YD195XA8AEWOF Ryzen Threadripper 1950X (16-core/32-thread) Desktop Processor	Check at Amazon
	i9-10850K Desktop Processor 10 Cores up to 5.2 GHz Unlocked LGA1200 (Intel® 400 Series chipset) 125W" rel="nofollow noopener sponsored" target="_blank">Intel® Core i9-10850K Desktop Processor 10 Cores up to 5.2 GHz Unlocked LGA1200 (Intel® 400...	Check at Amazon

Last update on 2023-10-08 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best CPU for Gaming

If you are not familiar with the important aspects of a CPU, or just need a quick refresher, here are the most important characteristics of processors you should pay your attention to.

Clock Speed/Operating Frequency

Clock speed is probably the most important CPU characteristic. The higher it is, the quicker your tasks will be finished. Therefore, always go for higher numbers, which includes both high base and boost clock speeds.

Cores

Cores are necessary for multitasking, but more cores don’t guarantee for fast performance. If you have a dual core with a speed of 3.6 GHz and a quad-core processor with a speed of 2 GHz, the dual core will be faster, and it will completely outperform the quad-core.

Don’t be fooled and drawn by the high number of cores, six or eight cores are the maximum you will need, while the majority of the users are perfectly good with just four. Only the heavy users will demand 16 or so cores. For that reason, first of all, look at the processor’s speed and only after that check number of cores that should, as mentioned, be at least four.

Socket

If you are building a brand new rig, you should purchase a CPU with the same socket as your motherboard. Keep that in mind whenever you are building your own PC: all the components need to be compatible and the same socket of your motherboard and the CPU is a necessity.

CPU Cache

More CPU cache means that the CPU will have more space to store the copies of the most frequently used data. In other words, the more CPU cache MBs, the quicker the data access and overall faster computing. Because of that, just as in the case of a clock speed, always go for higher values.

9 Best Gaming CPUs

Intel Core i9-12900K

The Best Gaming Processor There Is

Intel Core i9-12900K is a fast, high-performing Alder Lake CPU, with great characteristics and equally importantly, amazing gaming capabilities. In other words, if you want the best gaming CPU, this one is pretty much it.

The reasons for that are numerous; however, the most prominent ones are its eight P-cores, with a base clock speed of 3.2GHz and boost speed of very nice 5.2GHz. In addition, there are also eight E-cores with base speed of 2.4GHz and boost speed of 3.9GHz, as well as a total of 24 threads (16 on P-cores and eight on E-cores) that make a true difference, especially if used in the workstation PC.

Intel Core i9-12900K comes unlocked and features 30 MB of L3 cache. Also, it has 20 PCIe lanes and supports both PCIe Gen 5 and DDR5. In addition, this CPU offers support for Thunderbolt 4 and Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6/6E and base power of 125W.

More importantly, Intel Core i9-12900K is superior to any Ryzen processor and surpasses them in almost any category, especially if used on the Windows 11 platform that unlocks its Intel Thread Director features.

All in all, if you are into high-end gaming and money isn’t an issue for you, Intel Core i9-12900K is certainly a great choice.

AMD Ryzen 9 5950X

The New King Has Come

A battle between AMD and Intel is like a Neverending Story and both sides turn in the lead. For a long time, the top spot was reserved for the Intel babies; however, with the arrival of the AMD’s new Zen 3 architecture, things are changing and the new generation of AMD CPUs, with their flagship Ryzen 9 5950X on top, is here to take the throne.

Simply, Ryzen 9 5950X, with its 16 cores and 32 processing threads, along with 3.4 GHz base clock, 4.9 GHz boost clock, and especially L3 cache that is impressive at 72MB, is more than capable of delivering an amazing gaming performance that is neck and neck with the Intel’s leading Core i9 10900K and even surpasses it when it is paired with the PCIe 4.0 compatible GPU that isn’t supported by Intel processors.

Considering the number of cores and threads, it is no wonder that AMD Ryzen 9 5950X’s multi-thread performance and overall multitasking are without real competition. At the same time, its excellent 105W TDP, along with the very good overclocking capabilities, makes this CPU the best AM4 processor available and one of the best gaming processors out there, although a bit costly.

Intel Core i7-12700K

The Ideal Gaming CPU

If you seek the best ratio between price and performance in the Intels CPU portfolio, Intel Core i7-12700K comes as one of the top picks, thanks to its performance which is close to i9-12900K, and a much smaller price tag. In other words, if you want a high-performing gaming CPU with the best value for the money, this one is pretty much it.

This processor comes with 12 cores (eight P-cores and four E-cores) and features 25MB of L3 cache. Also, it has 20 PCIe lanes and has support for DDR5 memory, Thunderbolt 4, Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6/6E, as well as PCIe Gen 5. The processor itself is unlocked, offering plenty of space for tweaking, while the improved power efficiency presents a nice bonus.

When talking about performance, its P-cores have a base speed of 3.6GHz and can reach up to 5.0GHz in boost mode, while the E-cores come with 2.7GHz base clock and can be boosted up to 3.8GHz. In other words, a flawless performance is guaranteed, or at least the one that outperforms Ryzen rivals.

Intel Core i7-12700K comes with 20 threads (16 on P-cores and four on E-cores) and features great single and multithread performance. In short, this processor has everything needed for an excellent gaming performance. Therefore, if you are after one of these, you may be sure you won’t make a mistake.

Intel Core i5-12600K

The Ultimate Value-for-the-Money CPU

Finding the perfect budget-friendly gaming CPU is never easy; however, there are CPUs, such as the Intel Core i5-12600K, that are exactly that. This is an excellent-performing, yet affordable processor that offers a bit less than the premium i9-12900K, or i7-12700K, yet more than enough for an exceptional gaming performance. In other words, Intel Core i5-12600K is the ideal option, if you want a premium product, at a reasonable price.

This CPU comes with 10 cores (six P-cores and four E-cores) and features 16 threads (12 on P-cores and four on E-cores). Moreover, it has 16MB of L3 cache and offers support for PCIe Gen 5 and DDR5 memory. Furthermore, there is support for Thunderbolt 4, Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6/6E, as well as Intel Thread Director.

Intel Core i5-12600K also comes with built-in Intel UHD Graphics and a total of 20PCIe lanes. It is unlocked and has a base power of 125W. Its P-cores have a base clock of 3.7GHz that can be boosted up to 4.9GHz, while the E-cores offer a 2.8GHz base speed and can reach up to 3.6GHz in the boost mode. In other words, amazing gaming is guaranteed with this CPU.

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X

An Outstanding CPU

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is a high-performing CPU that offers excellent performance in both single and multi-thread work, which makes it a great overall option for workstations, as well as high-end gaming machines.

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X comes with eight cores and 16 threads, as well as a base clock of 3.8 GHz that can boost to a very respectable 4.7 GHz. More importantly, it is fitted with 36 MB of L3 cache; it offers support for DDR-3200 and comes with a very good power efficiency and TDP of 105W, which makes it a pretty good deal.

What, on the other hand, isn’t that great, is its price, since Intel Core i7 10700K, which is neck and neck with the Ryzen 7 5800X in gaming performance, costs significantly less, which ultimately makes it a better gaming choice. However, if you are multitasking and are looking for productivity as well, Ryzen 7 5800X makes much more sense.

In other words, Ryzen 7 5800X is an excellent processor that offers quite a lot; however, it is a more all-in-one processor that delivers excellent gaming capability, among other things. Therefore, if you are after a processor that will give you a whole package and instead of only a strong gaming performance, AMD Ryzen 7 5800X is an excellent choice.

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X

A Perfect Budget-Friendly Gaming CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is an affordable, yet very efficient gaming processor that is neck and neck even with the flagship processors such as Ryzen 9 5950X and Intel Core i9-10900K according to its performance. This processor offers excellent value for the money and presents a great choice for gamers that want to get top-class performance at more than a reasonable price.

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is fitted with six cores and 12 processing threads and offers a respectable boost clock of 4.6 GHz that gives this processor enough firepower to fight the big guys. Moreover, there is also 35MB of L3 cache, support for DDR4-3200 high-performing gaming memory, as well as excellent power efficiency and TDP of 65W.

Also, this processor comes with a quiet and capable Wraith Stealth cooler, an unlocked multiplier that will allow for additional tweaking and even better overall performance.

To make a long story short, if the best budget-friendly gaming CPU is your main target, AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is without a doubt an excellent choice.

Intel Core i3-10100

The Optimal Budget-Friendly Gaming Solution

Intel Core i3-10100 is an affordable, yet very good gaming CPU that won’t blast you with its performance, but it will do more than a fine job. Its four cores and eight threads, along with the maximum boost clock speed of 4.3GHz and Hyper-Threading support, are doing some serious work and if you are after the best cheap gaming processors, this one is a great choice.

There are numerous reasons for such a claim, such as Intel Optane Memory Support, included cooler, as well as integrated graphics that maybe aren’t the decisive factor for gamers, but they still present a decent bonus. Also, there is excellent power efficiency when compared to the more expensive Intel CPUs from the Comet Lake series, Turbo Boost Max 2.0, and Quick Sync video engine, as well as 6MB of L3 cache – not too much, but good enough for a fine gaming performance.

Moreover, Intel Core i3-10100 has a 65W TDP; it supports DDR4-2666 memory and provides up to 40 PCIe lanes. When talking about the competition, the biggest one is the Ryzen 3 3300X that offers slightly more for the price. Nevertheless, if you are in the Intel corner and are looking for an affordable gaming option, Intel Core i3-10100 should certainly be among your top picks.

AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950X (Socket TR4)

A Heavy Multitasker that Isn’t that Great When Gaming is on Table

If you want something that will amaze you, you should consider buying the AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950X. Its staggering 16 cores and 32 threads, 40MB of cache and 64 PCIe Gen3 lanes will do any job with ease. Content creation, 4K streaming, video editing, you name it – it can do it all without breaking a sweat.

This is simply a CPU that is made for extreme loads and multitasking and every other use is just a waste of its resources. Although it can also be used for gaming and its base clock of 4.0 GHz is above i9-9900K’s and i7-9700K’s 3.6 GHz, its boost clock of only 4.2 GHz is significantly below 9900K’s 5.0 GHz or 9700K’s 4.9 GHz, which results in a worse gaming performance.

In other words, if you are into gaming, AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950X isn’t that great option. Tests show that this CPU is outperformed by many older and much cheaper processors in GTA V, Civilization 6, Rise of the Tomb Raider, and many other mainstream games.

Therefore, if you are into heavy multitasking, this CPU can be a great option; if, on the other hand, gaming is your priority, better go for some other solution. At the same time, you will get better performance and save money.

Intel Core i9-10850K

The King, with a Slightly Lower Price Tag

If you seek top-notch gaming performance and are looking for a processor that will give you that at the best possible price, Intel Core i9-10850K CPU is the device for you.

This processor offers almost the same performance and specification as the flagship Intel Core i9-10900K, at a lower price, as well as better energy efficiency and thermal performance that. Ultimately, these features are delivering a better overall value for the customer.

When talking about the specs themselves, have in mind that Intel Core i9-10850K comes with 10 cores and 20 threads and that it offers a 5.2GHz boost and 3.6GHz base clock speed. Moreover, it provides support for Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0, two-channel DDR4 2933MHz memory, and up to 40 PCIe lanes that are only PCIe 3.0 ones, unfortunately.

Intel Core i9-10850K CPU provides 125W TDP, 20MB of L3 cache, and allows for the Hyper-threading technology. In other words, it supports everything as its bigger brother; nevertheless, it costs significantly less. For that reason, if you are looking for one of the best gaming CPUs, with the optimal performance for the price, Intel Core i9-10850K is a sure thing.

Conclusion

If this guide has helped you with your CPU purchase, its goal has been fulfilled. On the other hand, if it didn’t, we hope it was at least beneficial enough to equip you with some knowledge and give you a slightly better perspective of what exactly it is that do you need. Good luck with your CPU shopping!

The thing about arcade sticks is that they arguably make for the best way to play fighting video-games, as they’re built and designed to be the perfect hardware for this particular genre. Not even the best fight stick in the world will necessarily make you a better player, as they’re no magic wands by any metrics; however, they are clearly superior to game-pads or keyboards for fighting games. Finally, it’s up to you to decide if you’re a fight stick guy, or you’ll “stick” to your gamepad or keyboard.

However, keep in mind that Street Fighter inspired fight sticks are tailor-made for the best virtual fighting experience, and if you’ve ever watched professional E-sports events like East Coast Throwdown, you may have a clue about why pros never use Xbox One or PS4 controllers but fight the good fight with an arcade stick.

Now, if you’ve already decided to go the way of the samurai with a fight stick, keep reading, as we’ll give you the basics on how to choose your gear, and we’ll also provide you with some of the best fight sticks to suit anyone’s budget.

Our Top Picks

Preview	Product
	HORI Real Arcade Pro 4 Kai for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, and PC	Check at Amazon
	Qanba Obsidian USB Joystick for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3 and PC (Fighting Stick) Officially...	Check at Amazon
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	MAYFLASH Universal Arcade Fighting Stick F500 for Switch, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Xbox 360, PS4,...	Check at Amazon
	HORI Real Arcade Pro N Hayabusa Arcade Fight Stick for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, and PC...	Check at Amazon
	Mayflash F300 Arcade Fight Stick Joystick for Switch, Xbox Series X, PS4,PS3, Xbox One, Xbox 360,...	Check at Amazon
	Razer Atrox For Xbox One: Fully Mod-Capable - Sanwa Joystick and Buttons - Internal Storage...	Check at Amazon
	Qanba Dragon Joystick for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3 and PC (Fighting Stick) Officially...	Check at Amazon
	Mad Catz The Authentic EGO Arcade Fight Stick for PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC (Windows...	Check at Amazon
	Qanba Drone Joystick for PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3 and PC (Fighting Stick) Officially Licensed...	Check at Amazon

Last update on 2023-09-28 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose an Arcade Stick

There are quite a few options with regard to arcade/fight sticks, whether we’re talking about Qanba, HORI, Mayflash or Razer. Since Mad Catz “has left the building”, HORI is now arguably the best-known arcade stick manufacturer out there. Speaking of budgets, there are $99 or less and over $100 fight sticks. The latter fall in the “premium” category so to speak.

Experience

If your fight-stick experience is very limited or zero, we’d recommend you to buy a cheaper model until you figure things out. Since we’ve been using loosely the words arcade stick and fight stick, you should know that they’re basically the same thing, except the fact that fight sticks are specifically designed for fighting games, especially in terms of joystick responsiveness and button layout.

They’re “fine-tuned” so to speak to deliver more accurate input in order to bring a more realistic gaming experience to your home console. An “arcade-like” experience if you want, as arcade fight games were played back in the day in arcade cabinets, but we are getting nostalgic here.

Compatibility

So, novice players should stick with cheaper fight sticks, that’s rule number one. Rule number two: be careful on how you’re spending your money, as these bad boys are hugely addictive. Besides fighting games, you can use them also for other arcade style video-games, such as Puzzle Fighter, Metal Slug 3 or Ikaruga. So, you should be extra careful on what gaming platforms are you going to use your arcade stick.

Some of them are specifically designed for Xbox, others work exclusively on PlayStation. The good news is that all of them work on PC if you know a bit or two about how to tinker with the drivers.

Size and Weight

Size and weight come to mind next. This is important for a number of reasons: do you have small hands or big hands? Where do you keep the fight stick, on your lap or on the table? If you’re far away from the console, you should also consider cable length, for cable management issues. Size matters, in all these situations. If you have big hands, stay away from extremely small fighting sticks, such as the Hori Fighting Stick Mini 4. On the other hand, there are beasts like Hori Real Arcade Pro 4 Premium VLX KURO out there, and this one’s an absolute unit.

Modding

Finally, there’s the modding and parts thing. If you’re going deep down the arcade rabbit hole, you may want to engage in “modding”, as in to swap the buttons/joystick at some point in the future. Even if it sounds intimidating, modding your fight stick is very easy, once you get the hang of it. Modding is defined as replacing (as in upgrading)original parts of your arcade stick, things like the joystick, actuators, restrictor plates, plexis, Sanwas, boards, bat-tops, different size buttons and so on and so forth.

Replacing them with what, you asked? Well, with “tuning parts”, as in better parts, from brands like Seimitsu or Sanwa. Usually speaking, all is needed for these “complex tasks” is a screwdriver, so don’t sweat it too much, as most arcade/fight sticks are designed to be easily customizable. The golden standard when it comes to “tuning parts” for one’s fight stick is the brand Sanwa Denshi, followed closely by Hori Hayabusa and Seimitsu, so keep that in mind for future upgrades. Also remember that modding your gaming gear usually voids manufacturer’s warranty, but not necessarily.

Razer-made arcade sticks are cool with modding, i.e. Razer is a mod-friendly company (it doesn’t void warranty), as long as you’re not modifying the printed circuit board. As the general rule of thumb, HORI’s RAP models (Real Arcade Pro) are excellent for beginners, as they’re not very expensive, yet they’re built with high-quality parts, hence you won’t feel like modding them right away, thus risking voiding warranty.

On the other hand, the Razer Pantera or Atrox can be modded anytime, without fear of voiding the warranty, but the question is: can you afford them?

Ideally, you should go for a high quality/premium fight stick, provided you’re in it for the long haul, as these bad boys are built with arcade quality components that will last you forever, as they’re designed to support unimaginable levels of abuse. The next level is to buy a custom fight stick, but that’s another story altogether. So, let’s get right into it.

Best Fight Sticks (Arcade Sticks)

Even though they have been long gone from the spotlight, they can still produce some decent performance that will satisfy most gamers. Therefore, buying the best hard drive for gaming purposes is still a welcome move.

Our Top Picks

Preview	Product
	Western Digital 4TB WD Black Performance Internal Hard Drive HDD - 7200 RPM, SATA 6 Gb/s, 256 MB...	Check at Amazon
	Seagate BarraCuda Pro 6TB Internal Hard Drive Performance HDD – 3.5 Inch SATA 6 Gb/s 7200 RPM...	Check at Amazon
	Seagate FireCuda 2TB Solid State Hybrid Drive Performance SSHD – 3.5 Inch SATA 6Gb/s Flash...	Check at Amazon
	Western Digital 1TB WD Blue PC Internal Hard Drive HDD - 7200 RPM, SATA 6 Gb/s, 64 MB Cache, 3.5" -...	Check at Amazon
	Toshiba X300 4TB Performance & Gaming 3.5-Inch Internal Hard Drive - CMR SATA 6.0 GB/s 7200 RPM 128...	Check at Amazon
	Seagate Portable 5TB External Hard Drive HDD – USB 3.0 for PC, Mac, PS4, & Xbox - 1-Year Rescue...	Check at Amazon
	WD 4TB Elements Portable HDD, External Hard Drive, USB 3.0 for PC & Mac, Plug and Play Ready -...	Check at Amazon
	Seagate (STEA4000402) Game Drive for Xbox 4TB External Hard Drive Portable HDD – Designed for Xbox...	Check at Amazon

Last update on 2023-10-01 // The links above are affiliate // Images from Amazon

How to Choose the Best Hard Drive for Gaming

When choosing the perfect hard drive, you should keep a couple of things in mind. Think about what you need it for, what your budget is, how often you are going to use it, etc. Having those answers will help you a lot because it will give you the proper perspective of what you are really looking for and which of the following characteristics of a hard drive you should pay your close attention to.

Capacity

When talking about the important aspects of a hard drive, capacity is probably at the top of the list. No matter how large your storage space is, eventually it will be full. That’s a simple fact of a life.

Therefore, always buy the hard drive that offers more capacity than you think you need. If you think you need 500GB of storage, buy one with 1TB. If you need 2TB, buy one that has at least 3TB, etc. Always go for bigger numbers, you can’t go wrong with that.

Speed

Speed is the second most important characteristic of a hard drive. No one wants to spend half of his/her day waiting for a data to transfer. For that reason, choose the drives that have the fastest possible maximum sequential read/write speeds. They are more expensive, but every cent will pay off.

Transfer speed above 150MB/s is more than good for an internal hard drive, while for external drives, the acceptable speed is around 100MB/s.

Cache

In the past, this used to be a much bigger issue, but today, the difference between 32MB and, for instance, 64MB cache drive is represented in some 10% faster loads of 64MB cache drives. These differences are hardly noticeable by an ordinary user.

In other words, unless you are buying outdated second-hand drives with 8MB, or less cache, there is not that much to be worried about. If you can, purchase the drives with more cache, but on the other hand, you won’t notice for significant difference even if you take the ones with fewer MB.

Connectivity

Internal hard drives usually offer SATA connectivity. In the recent times, SATA3 is a standard, but you might also bump on slower SATA2 drives, that are left on the stock. If you can, always go for a faster SATA3 option.

When talking about external hard drives, they mostly offer USB connectivity. Although USB2.0 is still acceptable, it is better to go for the drives that have a USB3.0 standard, which ultimately leads to faster data transfer.

8 Best Hard Drives for Gaming

WD Black HDD

An Excellent PC Hard Drive Made for Serious Gamers

If you are into serious hard drives that will deliver a high-quality performance, 3.5” WD Black should be high on your list. Reliable, with a promising 5-year warranty and enhanced performance, all thanks to StableTrac and Dynamic Cache Technology, this hard drive will fulfill every task that gamers put in front of it.

The rotational speed of 7200 rpm, 64MB (500GB-2TB) or 256MB (4TB-6TB) of cache and the usual SATA3 connectivity, is nothing impressive when compared to the competition, but its average reading/writing speed of 180MB/s, that can rise to the staggering 281.9MB/s when reading large files, is more than a convincing argument that shows how good this drive is. Equipped with a dual-core processor and FIT tested, just like the data center HDD’s, this hard drive will never leave you in the most important moments.

WD Black is simply the best hard drive for gaming you can find. Its combination of great performance, reliability and good value for the money are a winning formula that will leave no one disappointed.

Seagate BarraCuda Compute Pro

Solid Choice for Gaming

The Seagate BarraCuda Compute Pro is part of the company’s Guardian series and it’s designed to bring affordable performance to everyday users, i.e. faster data transfer speeds at bargain prices. Specs-wise, the BarraCuda Pro 6TB HDD plays in the “uber-normie” category and it features 7200rpm and 256MB of cache via optimized read/write caching technology; in layman’s terms, this is a pretty quick HDD from an “ancient technology” standpoint.

We know, there are SSD drives out there which offer 6 TB of storage capacity and blazing fast access speeds compared to old school HDDs, but if you take a look at the price tag, you’ll understand why the BarraCuda Compute Pro is the definition of no-compromise capacity, performance and reliability for enterprise environments and, why not, even for hard-core home users: this HDD offers 250MB/s maximum sustained transfer rate and a 300TB/year workload rate limit reliability, which means you can use it for long-term storage whether we’re talking cloud, movies, games, music or whatever.

Here’s a hint for our readers: remember to download and install the Seagate Disc Wizard software from the company’s official website if you want the installation process to go smoothly and hassle-free.

Seagate FireCuda Gaming SSHD

A Quality Upgrade of a Traditional Hard Drive

If you want to enjoy the benefits of SSD technology, but are limited with budget resources, Seagate FireCuda may be the best fit for you. This drive presents a combination of 8GB NAND MLC flash and a traditional hard drive, which places this hybrid above regular hard drives, but slightly below SSDs according to performance. All this makes a Seagate FireCuda a great option for a primary drive or a very fast secondary drive.

When talking about sheer performance, mostly due to the flash drive component, this drive makes maximum sequential read speed of 216.9MB/s and write speed of 211.4MB/. The hard drive itself has SATA3 connectivity, the rotational speed of 7200 rpm and 64MB of cache that are basically today’s standards for a hard drive. Its capacity of 1TB or 2TB should be enough for most users, while its 5-year warranty guarantees for its longevity.

You should know that this is not an SSD for gaming, but a hybrid drive, with 8GB of flash that are enough for playing a game, or opening one or two apps. This drive just isn’t made for a simultaneous work on multiple applications and in that case, its performance may deteriorate even below regular hard drive performance. If you are fine with that, Seagate FireCuda may be a great companion and the best hard drive for gaming you can find for yourself.

WD Blue HDD

An Affordable Hard Drive that Will Keep Everyone Satisfied

WD Blue is a decent-performance hard drive which can be successfully used both as a secondary drive, and as a budget solution for a system drive. SATA3 connectivity, the rotational speed of 7200 rpm and 64MB of cache are its specifications, and they won’t impress anyone. That can also be said for its transfer data speed of around 150 MB/s that certainly isn’t among the best in the class, but on the other hand, high performance is not what makes this drive so attractive.

Its key advantage is a combination of different aspects that include its price, good reliability, variety of capacities and modest, but still good enough, performance – the features according to which it can be compared only to the Toshiba DT01ACA hard drives.

WD Blue is the drive that does the job without breaking the bank and that is its key advantage over the competition that makes it so attractive for numerous users and variety of purposes.

Toshiba X300 HDD

A Hard Drive Designed for Gamers

If you are into hard drives that deliver extreme performance and offer plenty of capacity at the same time, Toshiba X300 should be your choice. Its variety of capacities (4TB-10TB) will certainly allow for more than a handful of installed games, while its very recognizable maximum sequential read/write speeds of over 200MB/s (that can almost be compared with the Seagate FireCuda, which is a hybrid drive) will guarantee for the fluidity of games.

Toshiba X300 offers quiet performance even under full load, while its internal shock sensor and dual-stage actuator are ensuring the data integrity. Its SATA3 connectivity and the rotational speed of 7200 rpm are up to today’s standards, while its 128MB or 256MB (10TB) of cache help this drive stand out from the bunch, and help its high-quality performance.

You can’t expect much more than this from the best hard drive for gaming. Therefore, if you are a hardcore gamer, you won’t go wrong with this one.

Seagate Portable External Hard Drive

Gaming on the Go

If you’re looking for an affordable back-up solution on the go, this external hard drive from Seagate has your name on it. For something like $100, give or take, you’ll get 5 GB of storage, and this HDD works just as well on Windows and Mac in a “plug and play” fashion, i.e. all you have to do is to connect it to your computer via the 3.0 USB cable (18 inch USB cable included in the retail package) and the automatic recognition software will kick in.

As usual, when it comes to dirt cheap storage solutions, there are caveats, and the most annoying one, in this case, is the 5400 RPM writing speed, which means this Seagate drive is pretty slow for today’s standards; however, if you’re only looking for cheap storage solutions to complement your, let’s say PS4 gaming console, this portable external hard drive from Seagate would make for a nice addition to your gaming rig. The setup is super simple, as your PlayStation/Xbox One will recognize the drive instantly, and moving files around between the drive and the console is easy as pie.

Also, playing games off the drive presents no significant problems, like slowdowns or glitches, so, if you’re looking to expand your gaming console’s storage capacity, look no further than this cheap Seagate external HDD.

WD Elements Portable External Hard Drive

A Hard Drive that Offers Sheer Storage Space for Small Bucks

Similar to Seagate Expansion, WD Elements also offers plenty of space, but for even a lower price. The price difference lies in the fact that the WD Elements is a much slower drive since its sequential read/write speeds of around 95MB/s, are some 30% slower than those of its Seagate rival.

WD Elements is highly affordable and offers capacities from 1TB to 4TB of space, has USB3.0 connectivity, but similar to the Expansion, it lacks special features such as encryption or backup software. Therefore, if you want cheap storage space, devoid of extra features, this drive is a great option for you.

You won’t get super-fast speeds but will get a Windows- and Mac-compatible device, with a ton of space for your games and other data, and all that for a ridiculous price.

Seagate Game Drive for Xbox One

An External Hard Drive Destined for Xbox Gaming

If you are into Xbox gaming, this drive is made for you. Seagate Game Drive for Xbox One is the only external hard drive made solely for Xbox. That includes Xbox One, Xbox One S and Xbox 360 consoles.

This drive comes in 2TB or 4TB capacity that will certainly be enough for you to keep all your favorite titles in one place, has USB3.0 connectivity and offers a plug-and-play function for easy use. Its sequential read/write speeds are very fast (140MB/s), which is impressive for an external hard drive.

Highly compact, with a 2-year warranty and an overall great performance, Seagate Game Drive for Xbox One is without a doubt the best hard drive for Xbox one can find.

Conclusion

Hard drives have been with us for a long time and they are going to be with us for at least a couple more years to come, but that doesn’t change the fact that their days are numbered. Luckily, they can still deliver great performance for an acceptable. Therefore, enjoy them while you can.