Previously released buyer’s guides:
COG’s Christmas 2014 Wii U Buyer’s Guide, COG’s Christmas 2014 Xbox One Buyer’s Guide,Â
COG’s Christmas 2014 3DS and PS Vita Buyer’s Guide, COG’s Christmas 2014 Multi-Platform Buyer’s Guide,
COG’s Christmas 2014 PC Buyer’s Guide, COG’s Christmas 2014 Family Games Buyer’s Guide,
COG’s Christmas 2014 PS4 Buyer’s Guide
Christmas is almost upon us, and if you’re anything like me then this is the time to get those pieces of gear that you want but don’t necessarily need. From your ears to your ass, here’s a comprehensive list of the best accessories that you should absolutely consider investing in to up your gaming lifestyle by 2015. Of course with it being the holidays and all you could just as easily slip this list to someone doing a little Christmas shopping for you too.
Headsets
Whether you’re listening for footsteps in Counter-Strike or the radio in Far Cry, you need a nice headset to hear what you’re playing and potentially talk to your friends while you game. Here are my top three picks for gaming headsets this holiday season.
Luxury: Sennheiser PC 363D ($349.99)
While these won’t work with your XB1, for PC or PS4 I just have to go with the 363D from Sennheiser. I don’t own this headset because I’m too poor, but a good friend has let me experience their amazing sound quality and comfort when we were LANning a while back. The mic is solid as well; whenever I game with this guy his voice is always crisp and clear. If you have the extra cash, spoil yourself with a pair of these for Christmas.
Business: Plantronics RIG ($99.99)Â Â
At less than a third of the price of the 363Ds, the RIG steps and offers some bang for your buck. Not only do they look sharp, but they deliver a comfortable design as well. No 5.1 surround, but the noise detail you’ll get here for the price makes up for that. To top it all off, you get a sound mixer in the box as well that allows you to throw on your own music over game audio.
Economy: Creative HS800 ($34.98)
If you’re on a budget, this will do. While it’s an older headset the HS800 is cheap and durable. You won’t get fancy features like noise cancelling or 5/7.1 surround sound, but the mic is clean and the audio is crisp. These did wonders for me when I was between jobs and the mic broke on my usual headphones.
Chairs
Many people neglect their posture when gaming, and that really is terrible for your back. The couch might be comfortable for a while, but I assure you that if you take the money to invest in a nice chair, your ass is going to thank you when it’s been five hours and you still have to do Destiny’s raid on hard mode later.
Luxury: DXRACER OH/MY08/N0 ($679.99)
These are hailed as some of the best gaming chairs on the market and I have to agree. Many pro gamers use DXRacer and after taking a seat in one, I understood why. It’s like sitting on a cloud. I’ve gone with this particular model because it’s the only one my butt has had the grace of sitting on, but all of their products are built to last and keep you comfortable. If you have the money, go with DXRacer.
Business: Boss B991 Big & Tall ($366)
Listed at just over $350 on Amazon, this is one comfy chair. If it’s good enough for a business executive working twelve hour days, surely it’s good enough for your six hour gaming session, right? This chair is sturdy, giving a formal but cushiony seat for whatever activities you might be taking part in. Definitely worth the investment.
Economy: Office Star FL660-U Work Smart FL Series ($157)
While it’s hardly cheap, chairs aren’t something you want to skimp on. With the Office Star, you get a very reliable seat with durable arm rests and decent mobility. Please do yourself a favour and don’t go cheaper than this guy; you won’t find a better option for the price.
Wireless Keyboards
It’s so much easier to just type and use a keyboard than it is to use a controller. Not only is it faster, but if you own multiple consoles all with a different command list for their virtual keyboards then having your own keyboard is essential.
Luxury: Logitech G19s ($199.99)
This is one of the best keyboards you’re going to get without going mechanical. Definitely more in tune with someone who’s going to be raiding in the latest MMO, this keyboard boasts 12 programmable keys and 16 million colours for the backlight. I want it… but my wallet is going to hate me.
Business: Perixx PX-1100 ($69.99)
A backlit keyboard is a bit of a must for me, and the PX-1100 is a solid piece of hardware for the price. I was weary at first because the design looks a bit unique, but typing is easy and the keys are well-spaced. If you want something a bit fancier than a K120, I’d definitely recommend the PX-1100.
Economy: Logitech Keyboard K120 ($19.99)Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
Simple yet effective. If you’re broke like me and only plan on using your keyboard as a communication tool, don’t look any further than this guy right here. I’m a big fan of Logitech whenever I’m low on funds, and the K120 is a nice addition to your set-up if you’re looking to add a new feature but not break the bank.