Unveiling the Ultimate Gaming Setup: 6 Essential Elements Beyond Your PC

Key Takeaways

Peripherals like monitors and sound systems are just as important as the internal hardware for an optimal gaming experience.

When selecting a gaming monitor, take into account factors such as HDR support and visual quality, rather than solely prioritizing refresh rates.

Ensure that you invest in top-quality keyboards and mice that will not impede your performance, as your input is vital to maintaining a competitive edge in games.

Gaming, unlike other forms of entertainment, necessitates the use of a device that meets a certain standard in order to derive enjoyment. Nevertheless, power alone does not guarantee a satisfactory experience; the use of appropriate peripherals, suitable furniture, and even the right lighting can make all the difference between an enjoyable time and a frustrating one.

Have you ever thought about everything you need to enhance your gaming setup? We have compiled a few key factors that can elevate your gaming sessions.

1. Peripherals Shouldn't Be an Afterthought

Before we proceed further, it is important to clarify that this is not your typical hardware purchasing guide. Our website offers various articles encompassing the basics of assembling a gaming PC, highlighting the fact that you can still enjoy gaming without investing in an overly powerful machine. Moreover, we also present comparisons between gaming laptops and desktops for your reference.

Guides such as the ones mentioned above play a crucial role in helping you prioritize your spending on hardware that aligns with your preferred styles, thus preventing unnecessary overspending. Just like finding the right balance is essential when selecting RAM sticks, CPUs, and GPUs, it is equally important when investing in peripherals.

Moreover, peripherals should not be treated as an afterthought during the purchasing process. They are the key interface through which you connect with the gaming experience. The quality of your monitor and sound system, alongside your memory and graphics card, determine what you see and hear in the game.

2. Good Monitors Improve Game Experience

While gamers often prioritize monitors with the highest refresh rates, it is crucial to consider that this metric may not hold the same significance for every individual, particularly depending on their preferred gaming genres.

Instead of solely focusing on smooth animations, it's important to consider other factors that can enhance the visual experience of gaming. While smooth animations are great, newer titles may not achieve high frame rates unless you have a high-end GPU. So, instead of solely relying on frame rates, why not invest in a gaming monitor with HDR support? This can provide a more impressive jump in quality compared to simply increasing the refresh rate from 120 to 240 Hz. Additionally, having HDR support can give you a competitive advantage by allowing you to spot enemies in darker areas more easily.

Also, the quality of the monitor determines what you will be viewing in front of you for the foreseeable future. As a result, it might be less aggravating to opt for a mediocre computer that delivers breathtaking visuals rather than a faster one with a subpar display.

3. Keyboards and Mice Matter to Performance

In order to achieve the MVP badge in your favorite shooter game, it is crucial to address any issues with ghosting on your keyboard or frequent double-clicking of your mouse. Neglecting these input devices will significantly hinder your ability to compete effectively.

It is not necessary to invest in the most expensive keyboard available, but if you want to enhance your gaming experience, it is advisable to purchase a good mechanical keyboard. Opting for a TKL (tenkeyless) model instead of a full-sized one can also save you some money if you don't require a number pad. If you're uncertain about what features to look for in a keyboard specifically tailored for your preferred game genre, our comprehensive buying guide is worth checking out.

When it comes to choosing the best gaming mouse, there is no definitive formula. Priorities can vary depending on the type of game being played. For racing simulators, the inclusion of macro keys may not be of much help. However, for enthusiasts of MOBAs and MMORPGs, these macro keys can prove to be incredibly useful. Real-time strategy games benefit from higher-resolution mice, whereas first-person shooters typically work more effectively with a lower DPI setting. Additionally, other factors to consider when selecting a gaming mouse, regardless of genre, include the size of your hands and your preferred grip style.

4. Headsets Are the Difference You Can Hear

Audio devices are also of great importance. Having access to spatial audio or high-quality stereo gaming headsets greatly enhances your ability to identify the direction from which enemies are approaching, especially in first-person shooter games. Additionally, a good sound system provides significant advantages to the overall gaming experience, whether it's the immersive background music in real-time strategy games or the realistic engine sounds in racing titles.

5. Gaming Furniture Isn’t (Always) Superfluous

To ensure your voice is heard while engaging in online gaming sessions with friends, it is essential to use microphones. These can be standalone devices or built-in features on headsets, serving as a crucial addition.

While a chair with 18 adjustable positions or a desk with numerous slots may appeal to professional streamers, the average person won't find much benefit from such extravagant features. However, this doesn't mean that you shouldn't take your gaming furniture seriously.

In general, a gaming desk doesn't have to be drastically different from a regular desk. It may be necessary to ensure that it can handle the weight of all your gaming equipment, but any standing desk should suffice for the task. Models with additional cable management options may be more effective in organizing your setup, but when it comes to features like RGB LED strips, there isn't a noticeable distinction.

If you don't wish to purchase a brand new desk, opting for a keyboard tray could provide the desired upgrade while also improving ergonomics. Nonetheless, it is important to take into account the extra effort involved in correctly installing an aftermarket tray.

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Gaming chairs differ significantly from office chairs, both in terms of their appearance and functionality. However, it is important to not simply gravitate towards gaming chairs without considering your specific requirements.

In addition to their visually striking designs, gaming chairs provide greater versatility in terms of usage scenarios. They typically offer a wider range of reclining angles. On the other hand, office chairs prioritize maintaining an optimal body posture to prevent discomfort and pain in the back, neck, legs, and arms.

6. Lighting and Ambiance to Get You in the Mood

For those seeking a setup that guarantees both comfort during long gaming sessions and a professional appearance in online meetings, any of the top-rated office chairs would be an ideal choice. However, if your gaming area is primarily designated for leisure activities and you have no intention of using the computer for work purposes, investing in a high-quality gaming chair will provide ample support and comfort.

If you grew up in the pre-2000s era (or if you're familiar with the popular series Stranger Things), you might recall that arcades were always dimly lit. This deliberate design choice aimed to enhance the gaming atmosphere, similar to how movie theaters are dimly lit as well.

Bias Lighting Reduces Eye Strain

Firstly, let's discuss bias lighting or backlight, which is a crucial feature found in top gaming monitors, making it an effortless task to accomplish.

In case your screen lacks its integrated RGB LEDs, there's no need to worry as you can easily create your own setup. Personally, I have attached a group of yellowish-white LEDs to the wall behind my monitor. Alternatively, you can find RGB light strips at any hardware store nowadays if you prefer the more conventional gaming aesthetic.

Ambient Lighting and RGB LEDs

However, there is also the remainder of the room to consider. Adequate illumination plays a vital role in every gaming setup. Otherwise, we wouldn't find RGB LEDs incorporated into various gaming equipment such as desktops, keyboards, mice, headsets, and cooling fans. I hope you see my perspective.

However, simply adding a strip of blinking lights and calling it a day is not enough. While this may be the case for low-end gaming peripherals, it is precisely why they fall into the low-end category. In order to truly enhance the gaming experience, the lighting should be thoughtfully designed.

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Many gaming peripherals come with companion software that often includes RGB configuration options. It is advantageous to have devices from the same manufacturer as it allows for synchronization of lighting effects. However, it is still possible to achieve this even when using peripherals from different manufacturers with some effort.

The next factor to consider is the lighting in the room. Indirect lighting is generally considered the ideal choice (while still having a traditional light bulb for non-gaming activities), and the use of fixed-color LED strips can further enhance the atmosphere. Alternatively, you may choose to forgo additional lighting altogether.

Complete With a Good Decor

This particular task may appear more challenging than it truly is. As an illustration, during the process of conducting reviews, I frequently capture photographs of the products placed on my work desk. In order to add a touch of creativity, I include the boxes of my current and previous gadgets as an aesthetic backdrop. Nowadays, this arrangement remains a permanent fixture on my desk, not solely for the purpose of reviews, but also because it harmonizes nicely with the overall ambience of the room.

Looking to spruce up your gaming desk without using boxes? Consider using your Funko Pops to add some personality. Simply gather them around your desk along with game and/or movie posters for an effortless setup. If you're lacking in items but have the budget, check out our buying guide for geeky gear to help you out.

7. Don't Forget the Environmental Comfort

If you're trying your hand at gameplay streaming, it's important to create a captivating atmosphere for your audience. However, don't forget to invest in a high-quality capture card for an optimal gaming experience. Additionally, upgrading your webcam is crucial to ensure that your viewers can fully immerse themselves in the gaming scenario.

If you have invested in a remarkable gaming setup, you undoubtedly wouldn't want the enjoyment to diminish due to an unpleasantly hot or cold room. Ensure that there is adequate ventilation to dissipate heat, whether it is through the use of an air conditioner or a fan. Just as you wouldn't neglect heating in any other room during severe winter conditions, there is no reason why the room where you indulge in gaming should be any different.

PC Gaming Is More Than Just the PC

Don't underestimate the importance of doing things properly, even when you're just doing them for fun. However, there's no need to complicate your gaming setup either. Remember, finding the right balance is crucial. It's unnecessary to invest in items that won't truly enhance your experience, regardless of whether you play for leisure or as a professional.

Nevertheless, the aforementioned tips offer valuable enhancements to your overall gaming experience. While each tip may not seem significant on its own, implementing them collectively can greatly maximize the enjoyment and productivity of your gaming sessions.