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Best PC Gaming Gear Gifts For 2024: Headsets, Keyboards, Mice, Controllers, And More

The holiday season is upon us, and while we're all excited for the celebrations ahead, it also means you only have a few weeks left to wrap up your gift shopping. If you happen to be buying for a PC gamer in your life, we've whipped up this handy


  • Nov 05 2024
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The holiday season is upon us, and while we're all excited for the celebrations ahead, it also means you only have a few weeks left to wrap up your gift shopping. If you happen to be buying for a PC gamer in your life, we've whipped up this handy buying guide so you can find the perfect gift for them.

Below you'll find recommendations for everything from new monitors, gaming headsets, and controllers, to chairs, desks, and other accessories that will help create the perfect PC setup for gaming, VR, and work.


SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds


SteelSeries makes some of the best headsets around, but now there's finally an option for those who prefer in-ear wireless earbuds to over-ear headsets. The SteelSeries GameBuds sports audio playback and mic quality that almost matches the Arctis Nova 7--our favorite gaming headset for any platform--but with a true wireless earbud form factor that's comfortable for all-day use and a friendly $160 price point.

There are PS5- and Xbox-dedicated models, but both also work on PC and Switch, support spatial audio, and offer roughly 10 hours of battery life with an additional 40 hours provided by the included charging case. The GameBuds have ANC and transparency modes, on-ear clickable controls, and can be synced to SteelSeries' mobile app to make further adjustments, including activating one of the 150+ EQ presets tailored for specific games. In addition to 2.4GHz wireless designed for a latency-free listening experience, the GameBuds have Bluetooth, which means you can use them on all of your Bluetooth-compatible devices. The black Xbox edition will work with all platforms, including PlayStation, while the PlayStation versions--available in black or white--support all platforms with the exception of Xbox.

If you're shopping for someone who prefers earbuds to over-ear headphones, the GameBuds are the best all-around option. Not only are they plenty good enough to replace a gaming headset, but they could replace your AirPods, too.


SteelSeries Wireless Gaming Headsets


The GameBuds are SteelSeries' latest gaming audio device, but the manufacturer's headsets also make great gifts for PC and console players alike. Our top recommendation is the Arctis Nova 7, which has the best balance of features, specs, and price. The standard Nova 7 is perfect for those who primarily play on PC, but there's also the PS5-specific 7P and Xbox-specific 7X models. The 7X has universal compatibility, so we generally recommend opting for the Xbox models if you own multiple platforms.

If you want the absolute best audio quality, however, there's the Arctis Nova Pro. It also has the most advanced feature set, including dual-audio playback--meaning you can connect and listen to audio from two devices simultaneously. The Nova Pro sports universal device compatibility and is available in wireless and wired models. Both versions use a USB DAC (digital audio converter) that upscales audio, and offers tons of extra controls like EQ presets, 3D audio controls, and more. Since everything is handled within the DAC and the headset, these features work on all platforms.

Then there's the Arctis Nova 5, which is the most affordable of the three flagship wireless models. It isn't that much of a change in quality or specs, and it does have the added benefit of being the only other SteelSeries device besides GameBuds with support for the companion app.


SteelSeries Keyboards and Mice


In addition to their audio equipment, SteelSeries also makes awesome PC gaming peripherals like mice and keyboards. We're big fans of the Apex Pro Gen 3 keyboard, which takes the top spot in our best gaming keyboards list. The Apex Pro Gen 3 is available in three models, including wired and wireless versions with full key layouts, and a wired TKL (ten keyless) model that's more compact.

For a slightly more affordable alternative, there's the Apex 7 wired gaming keyboard, while the Apex Pro Mini is one of the most compact options. And if you're looking for the most budget-friendly option, there's the Apex 3 TKL.

Then for mice, there's the SteelSeries Aerox line. There are multiple models available, but the standout is the flagship Aerox 9 model. The wireless mouse sports 18 buttons, 180 hours of battery life, and an ultra-lightweight honeycombed chassis design. The Aerox line also features the Aerox 5 and Aerox 3, which sport similar formfactors to the 9, but at lower price points and slightly different specs and features. SteelSeries also makes the Rival 3, which is a more straightforward gaming mouse that's perfect if you don't need flashy looks or tons of extra buttons. The Rival 3 has wired and wireless models, both of which make for great budget-friendly options.

And if you're looking for a combo deal, you can grab a Rival 3 wired or wireless gaming mouse with an Apex 3 mechanical keyboard.

SteelSeries Gaming Keyboards

SteelSeries Gaming Mice

SteelSeries Gaming Mice & Keyboard Combo Deals


PC Controllers


These days, a reliable controller has become an essential part of most PC gaming setups. Luckily, there are some amazing choices out there. The official controllers from the major console makers like the Xbox Wireless Controller, PlayStation 5 DualSense, and Nintendo Switch Pro Controller all work on PC and make for great picks--especially the Xbox and PS5 controllers if you plan to play Sony or Microsoft first-party games. However, there are other great options from third-party brands out there, many of which offer more features, better customization, and even more reliable durability.

8BitDo's offerings are among our favorites, with the 8BitDo Ultimate ranking high on our list of recommendations thanks to its comfortable design, customizable settings, and surprising number of "pro" level features like extra buttons despite its highly affordable price point. The company also makes other great pads like the 8BitDo Pro 2 and SN30 Pro that are perfect for retro games.

Other noteworthy models from other brands include the modular Victrix Pro BFG, the PowerA OPS v3 Pro with Lumectra lighting features, and Razer's Wolverine V3 Pro. Check the list below for even more of the best gaming controllers for PC.


Fight Pads & Arcade Sticks


If you're shopping for a fighting game fan, a new fight stick is an excellent gift idea. These peripherals replicate the look and feel of classic arcade controls, which many fighting game fans prefer over standard gamepads. There are models to suit every player's preferences--for example the Victrix FS from PDP offers high-quality design with the robust footprint of classic arcade sticks. There's also a leverless model, the Victrix FS-12, which features an all-button layout without a joystick. It's an unorthodox design, but one that's quickly gaining popularity among players.

If you're looking for a sleeker, more modern aesthetic that doesn't compromise on quality, Razer's leverless Kitsune pad is a great choice.

Razer and PDP's sticks are expensive, so if you need a more budget-friendly option or are shopping for someone still new to fighting games, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick is an excellent alternative. It offers many of the same features as the sticks above--include some decent customization and modding potential--at a fraction of the cost. There are Switch and Xbox-specific models, and both work wirelessly on PC.


Flight Sticks & Racing Wheels


Flight sticks and racing wheels are another subcategory of game controllers that appeal to fans of vehicle simulation games. If the person you're shopping for is planning to play the upcoming Microsoft Flight Simulator, a setup like the Thrustmaster HOTAS Warthog will help make the in-game flying experience feel more authentic. Similarly, if they're into realistic racing sims like Gran Turismo 7 or EA Sports F1 24, then a racing wheel like Logitech's G Pro is a great choice. You can even bundle it with the Pro Racing Pedals add-on for even more life-like control. These picks are admittedly on the premium end, so to balance things out with a selection of more budget-friendly racing wheels and flightsticks below.

Racing Wheels

Flight Sticks


Meta Quest 3S VR Headset


The Quest 3S is the latest entry-level VR headset from Meta. Part of the draw with the Quest is the cord-free, standalone experience--everything you need to start playing is in the box. That said, the Quest 3S can be connected to your PC wirelessly via Air/Steam Link to play Steam VR games. Meta also has a 16-foot USB-C Link Cable, if you have issues with performance or latency. But keep in mind your gaming PC needs to be capable of playing the games you want to stream on your headset.

So while it's true the Meta Quest 3S and its more powerful older sibling, the Quest 3, are technically standalone VR platforms that don't require a computer, PC gamers can expand the catalog of games available to them with ease.

The Quest 3S comes with two Touch Pro controllers and comes in two storage configurations: 128GB for $300 and 256GB for $400. It's priced the same as the now discontinued Quest 2 while offering considerably better performance. It's equipped with the same chipset and RAM as the $500 Quest 3, Meta's flagship VR headset. The Quest 3 offers better resolution via its 2064 x 2208 pancake lenses. To cut costs, the 3S is fitted with the 1832 x 1920 fresnel lenses found in the Quest 2.

As an added bonus, all Quest 3 and 3S headsets come with the newly released exclusive Batman: Arkham Shadow for a limited time. You'll also get three months of Quest+, a subscription program featuring a rotating library of games for subscribers as well as two freebies to keep, even if you cancel your subscription.

The Quest 3S is an impressive piece of hardware that offers the best introduction to VR for newcomers. If you own the original Quest or Quest 2, the performance improvements combined as well as exclusive games (Arkham Shadow only works on 3S) are worth the upgrade. -- Steven Petite, commerce managing editor


Razer Gaming Accessories


Razer is another top-rated PC accessories brand with everything from keyboard and mice to headsets and audio equipment available. These make a great alternative to the SteelSeries devices listed above, and are an especially good choice for gamers who enjoy peripherals with highly customizable RGB lighting.

Keyboards

Mice

Headsets

Controllers


Secretlab Gaming Chairs


The secret to a great long-term PC gaming setup is a good chair. The best gaming chairs have to be comfortable and supportive enough to withstand long gaming sessions. This is even more important for streamers or esports professionals who spend most of the day at their desks. In our opinion, Secrelab's gaming chairs are the best on the market, with the Titan EVO standing out as the top choice and the Titan Evo Lite as a close runner-up. These models offer many of the same ergonomic benefits, like adjustable lumbar support and armrests. The primary differences are their size, color, and upholstery material options. Some materials include common choices like leatherette, NAPA leather, and microsuede, as well as proprietary fabrics like SoftWeave Plus and the new NanoGen Hybrid Leatherette, which is Secretlab's softest material yet.

Secretlab Titan chairs can be customized with optional add-ons as well, including memory foam armrest tops, lumbar pillows, themed fabric covers, and the recently launched ergonomic recliner footrest--this pairs well with the soft NanoGen chair. These extras, especially the footrest, could also make for great gifts for someone who already owns a Secretlab gaming chair.

If you need (slightly) more budget-friendly options, the Mavix M4 and Razer Enki X gaming chairs are solid alternatives with plenty of adjustable features for support and comfort.


Gaming Desks


Remember when we said a gaming chair is the key to a a great PC gaming setup? Well, that was only partly true, because a quality gaming desk is alos just as important. Finding the right desk is trickier since there are more factors to account for, including the size of the room, the number of devices it has to support--such as monitors, PCs, consoles, and so on--and whether it needs to double as a standing desk.

To help, we pulled some of the most-affordable options from our Best Gaming Desks lists, including picks for compact desks, L-shaped models, and sit-to-stand options. However, if you're looking for the absolute top-of-the-line choice, the Secretlab Magnus Pro is our current favorite premium gaming desk, offering excellent build quality, sit-to-stand functionality, and tons of customization with Secrelab's various add-ons. Check the links below for even more gaming desk recommendations.


Elgato Streaming Accessories


If your PC gamer also stream--or wants to start--there's a long list of necessary equipment that can make the perfect holiday gift, including mics and mic stands, cameras, and streaming control hardware.


USB-C Hubs


As you have probably noticed, PC gaming setups often feature a bunch of peripherals. However, PCs only have so many USB slots, most of which are taken up by crucial equipment like mice and keyboards. Luckily, a USB hub can solve this issue, as they add a bunch of extra USB ports--and sometimes even HDMI, ethernet, or SD card reader slots--and only take up a single slot on the PC.


Oversized Mouse Pads


While not a must-have item, you'd be surprised just how helpful an oversized mouse pad can be. Not only to they make mouse movements smoother--and even more accurate--the larger surface space makes them double as protective desk mats that can prevent scratches or dents, and some are even spill-proof.

There are plenty of giant mouse pads either, SteelSeries' QcK pads and Razer's line of RGB-lit mouse mats are some of the coolest. Both offer multiple sizes and fabric options, and the SteelSeries QcK even comes in unique skins based on games like Destiny 2 and Diablo IV.


Budget-friendly Gaming Monitors


The hardware inside your PC might power your games and apps, but your monitor is also an important part of the setup. Whether it's higher refresh rates making gameplay smoother or high resolutions making the picture crisper, a new gaming monitor can make a big difference to gaming visuals. While many monitors can be super expensive, we've sourced a few of our favorite budget-friendly options from our Best Monitors Guide to help one find a new display that won't break the bank, including picks with 4K resolutions, ultra-wide aspect ratios or super-high refresh rates.


Extra Storage Space


Video game file sizes have ballooned over the last few years and will likely only get bigger, so upgrading your system's storage space is always a smart move. There are a few different options--for example, a new internal NMVe M.2 SSD will not only add more space, but can make your system and games run faster. There are many good options available, including some like the WD-Black SN850P 2TB SSD that comes with a heatsink preinstalled (meaning it can also be used with a PS5). While 1TB and 2TB models can make an appreciable difference, you can opt for larger (and more expensive) models with even more space, like the Samsung 990 Pro 4TB SSD.

An external USB SSD is another options. These are great for important files you need to access all the time. Price and storage capacities are similar to internal SSDs, but they feature dedicated enclosures that keep them safe (and mean you can't slot them into a PC or console). You can grab models with lots of space, like the 8TB SanDisk Desk Drive, but smaller drives, like the 1TB Toshiba Canvio Advance, are also available and much more affordable.

Lastly, there are also eternal hard drives that can store big files so you can make room for more games on computer and work great for backing up your system. Unlike SSDs, hard drives use moving parts, which make them comparatively slower and in some cases more susceptible to damage, but they can also hold much more data, and at lower costs per GB. For example, you can grab a giant 24TB external hard drive from Western Digital, or an 18GB model from Seagate. Here are a few more picks from each category.

Internal NVMe M.2 SSDs

Eternal SSDs

External Hard Drives


Phillips Hue Bluetooth Lightstrips


$140

PC gamers love their lighting. Whether its programmable RGB elements on their PC and peripherals, or external lights for setting the right mood in your gaming space, you can't go wrong with some extra lighting. These Bluetooth lightstrips from Philips are a great choice. They are bendable and can be adhered to walls, desks, shelves--anywhere you want some extra lighting. The lights can also be controlled via your smartphone so you can set a specific hue or program dynamic color gradient effects.


Blue Light Blocking Gaming Glasses


Staring at screens (and all those RBG lights) for long hours is straining on your eyes, which is why many recommend wearing blue-light-blocking glasses to help reduce eye fatigue and even damage from long-term blue-light exposure.

Gunnar's line of blue-light-blocking gaming and PC glasses are among the best and most popular brands, but there are other options that are more affordable like the gaming glasses from Horus X, Anyluv, and Oilway.


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