Video games are a major source of entertainment for many people across the United States. Studies show that about 43% of adults still play video games either on their computers, television, gaming console, and mobile devices. That Is a pretty big deal, right? Whether you are a new gamer or an experienced gaming grandmaster, you have probably spent a lot of time looking forward to playing new releases.
With the release of next-gen gaming consoles later this year, your anticipation and excitement are most likely hitting the roof! Gaming is fun but can quickly go south if you have a terrible setup. So, before you settle down with your console, here are some gaming essentials that you might need to enhance your gaming experience.
Headset
Many gamers usually use headsets to interact with other gamers when playing online. A high-performing headset provides clear, balanced sound, as well as some comfort for extended periods. Headsets look like regular headphones, but what distinguishes it from the average headphone is that it has a microphone attached to it. These gaming essentials provide excellent audio and surround sound. The quality of your headset largely depends on how much you are willing to pay, nonetheless, you can find some really good ones at affordable prices.
- Gaming chair
You might be asking yourself what a gaming chair is and why you even need it. You might even be thinking that regular chairs serve the purpose already, right? Well, gaming chairs are incredibly vital to video gamers, especially those that spend long hours playing. They are also designed to improve your posture while sitting. Technology is great, but it comes with its effects, including making people live more sedentary lives. Studies show that 11% of people spend eight or more hours sitting than performing any physical activities. So if you are a gamer, especially a professional one, you might find yourself spending the bulk part of your day sitting. If you are doing it in the wrong chair, that might have severe consequences on your posture and health. Gaming chairs are padded to support your neck and back. Many of them also allow you to make adjustments to its height, armrest, and recline to keep you well postured.
Controller
Using controllers to play video games on your PC or gaming console can make a difference in how your gaming experience will turn out. Controller manufacturers are continually making changes to its ergonomic design, and a well-designed gaming controller should feel comfortable to hold. Additionally, gamers that use properly designed devices are less likely to experience cramps. There are many options to choose from when selecting a controller to buy. If you are not comfortable with the standard ones that come with popular consoles, you can purchase a third-party controller.
Portable hard drive
If you’ve been gaming for many years now, you might have realized how installs have grown exponentially bigger. It can be frustrating, especially when it means having to clear essential data on your PC or console to install a new game to play. Thankfully, external hard drives are here to help. There are many portable hand drives that gaming systems can support, and you can also store your games on these devices. All you have to do is to connect it via a USB cable to your console, and you will have access to your games with no installation issues. When purchasing a hard drive, it would be best to pay particular attention to the size as that would determine the number of games you can store on it. Many gaming hard drives have storage spaces of more than one terabyte.
Gaming router
A gaming router is very different from a regular router because of its Quality of Service (QoS) features. QoS allows your router to focus on where to send your data. If you live in a household with other people, chances are they are all connected to your regular router, which might cause your game to lag when playing online. With a gaming router, however, QoS prioritizes traffic for your game so that you have a smooth online gaming experience. It separates other inbound and outbound data into different components.
Gaming eyewear
Gaming glasses are a popular choice among many gamers because they spend many hours in front of a bright screen. In effect, it causes them to get tired eyes, blurs their vision, and they are often left with headaches (Computer Vision Syndrome). These glasses are designed to reduce the effects of blue light and glare on the eyes. There are many designs available to all gamers that suit their personality and fashion sense. For example, when getting your glasses, you can opt for different lens tints. Amber lens tints, in particular, minimize screen glare for users. Liquet tints, on the other hand, block about 35% of harsh blue light from entering your eyes.
Gaming keypad
A gaming keypad is used for just that; gaming. Unlike the standard computer keyboard, this keypad has a limited number of keys on it. Many gamers swear by gaming keypads because of the comfort they provide. They are usually designed to fit your hand so that you play for longer durations without any discomfort. Many of them also come fully equipped with control pads. These pads are often found on the left side, and they make it easier for you to control your characters effortlessly.
USB Desk Fans
Your PC or video game console brings out a lot of hot air, and if you are playing in warmer weather or climate, your rooms might heat up and cause discomfort. USB fans are pretty powerful. While they cannot fully cool down a large area as compared to an air conditioner, they are pretty effective at short distances such as the area around your gaming device. They are also relatively inexpensive.
Gaming is a fun activity loved by many people, but you can enhance your gaming experience with these essential tools. Hopefully, this article has provided you with information to guide you on what your next gaming essential should be.
