8 things every PC gamer should own

16 November 2016
ifixit-pro-tech-header

Being a PC gamer gives you more control over your hardware setup than console gaming, but with an open, unrestricted platform comes great responsibility.

PC gamers need to work on their gaming rigs and their setup, as gaming on a computer means you can use a wide array of peripherals and displays.

Because of this, there are certain items every serious gamer has which are necessary for the full PC gaming experience.

We’ve rounded up eight things every PC gamer should own, excluding the basics like an actual PC and display device, check them out below:


Magnetic Screwdriver

The magnetic screwdriver is the most useful tool when it comes to working on computers.

Apart from most PC’s requiring a screwdriver to take apart and mount parts, a magnetic screwdriver can prevent you from dropping screws behind your motherboard or losing important crews.

A ratcheting screwdriver is even better, as you can quickly mount and unmount components.

screwdriver


Tools

While a magnetic screwdriver is great, chances are, you’ll need some other tools if you’re working on computers.

These could include anything from an antistatic wriststrap to angled ESD tweezers.

A good example of a high-end toolkit is the iFixit Pro Tech kit, but any small toolkit with the instruments you need will suffice.

ifixit-54-bit-kit


Dust Cleaner

In order to clean dust from your PC, it is recommended you use compressed air.

You should always have a can of compressed air or similar solution on hand to clean your PC when you work on it.

You can also use a specialised electric PC duster, but don’t use a vacuum, as you will risk ESD damage to your components.

datavac-duster


Mousepad

A mousepad is one of the most underrated objects in a PC gamer’s setup.

That expensive mouse you bought won’t make a difference if you’re using the back of a magazine as a mousepad.

Decent mousepads cost a bit more but make a very noticeable difference, especially to gamers.

SteelSeries Qck Plus


Spare screws and standoffs

It’s always a good idea to keep spare screws and standoffs around in case you lose some parts or a new component doesn’t come with the right fixtures.

This is also a good idea when buying second hand components, as many gamers don’t store their screws and standoffs properly.

screws


Good quality peripherals

All PC users will have a keyboard and mouse, but gamers require a good peripheral setup in order to be both comfortable and accurate.

Bad mice and keyboards can cause a lot of frustration, and should be swapped out for high-quality peripherals.

Keep in mind that this does not mean you need an expensive gaming mouse, but you do need a comfortable and accurate one.

logitech-g-pro-gaming-mouse


Headset

A headset is a necessity for competitive and social gamers, as it is the easiest setup for multiplayer commmunication.

It is also important that your microphone is relatively clear, for the sake of your online teammates.

You could also get headphones and a good desktop microphone if you don’t mind the extra peripherals.

Sennheiser PC 373D


Cable ties

Cable ties are among the most useful pieces of plastic on the planet, and can be used for tons of different things.

The most common use for cable ties however, is to manage cables and create a clean and orderly cable path from your PSU to your components.

If the inside of your gaming rig looks like electrical spaghetti, it’s probably a good idea to order your power cables with some cable ties.

cable-ties


Now read: Insane USB gadget turns your display into a touchscreen

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  1. Blapartheid Zulu
    18.11.2016 at 15:37

    Where can where can one buy that dust cleaner vacuum ?

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