Chasing buttery-smooth gameplay? Or aiming to grow a Twitch empire? One thing’s certain: the right gear makes a big difference. A powerful PC or console is a solid start. But it’s the gaming accessories and streaming tech that truly transform your experience. The right tech accessories don’t just make your gaming more enjoyable. From keyboards and mice to microphones, ergonomic gaming chairs, and even racing wheels, they can improve performance, comfort, and content quality.
With so many options (and shiny RGB lights) out there, how do you know what’s worth your money? In this computer accessories guide, we’ll walk you through tech must-haves for gaming and streaming. We’ll break it all down so you can shop smart and build a setup that works for you.
Gaming vs. streaming: understanding accessory needs
Let’s start with the basics. Gaming and streaming may go hand in hand, but your accessory needs will vary depending on your goals.
- Gamers typically want gear that boosts performance. Ultra-responsive mice with high dots-per-inch (DPI) settings offer precise aiming and rapid reaction in competitive shooters or action-packed games. High refresh rate monitors—think 144Hz or 240Hz—ensure ultra-smooth motion and a fluid gameplay experience, while mechanical keyboards with tactile switches provide faster, more reliable keystrokes for split-second combos and faster input response. In fast-paced games, every millisecond counts.
- Streamers, on the other hand, are all about content quality. Good lighting makes your videos clear and sets their tone. High-quality sound via a good mic ensures your commentary is crisp and professional. Camera angles and viewer engagement tools (like stream decks or chat overlays) help keep your stream interactive and visually interesting. A decent webcam or mirrorless camera setup with proper lighting can mean the difference between amateur and pro.
Of course, many folks do both. That’s where hybrid setups shine. Take a moment to identify your primary goals. Are you aiming for competitive FPS gameplay, or perhaps hoping to grow your Twitch or YouTube channel? Understanding your content style will help tailor your setup with accessories that support what you’re trying to achieve. A cozy Let’s Play vibe might benefit more from ambient lighting and a dynamic mic, while a hardcore FPS setup leans into lower-latency gear and ultra-fast displays.
Keyboards and mice: wired, wireless, and customizable options
Let’s talk about two of the most-used (and abused) pieces of any gaming and streaming setup: your keyboard and mouse. These tools are your digital sword and shield—don’t skimp here!
Keyboards
First up, wired and wireless keyboards. Here’s the deal:
- Wired keyboards tend to offer lower latency, which is crucial in fast-paced games like shooters or MOBAs. Lower latency means your keystrokes register faster—so when you dodge, shoot, or combo, it all happens in real time. You also won’t have to worry about battery life or interference.
- Wireless keyboards have come a long way. Many new models now rival wired ones in responsiveness, especially those using low-latency tech. However, they’re main appeal? A cleaner, cable-free desk. But you may still experience slight lag or occasional dropouts, especially if you’re gaming in a wireless-heavy environment. They’re ideal for casual or mid-core gamers who prioritize flexibility and aesthetics.
Many gaming keyboards also come with customizable keys, so you can assign specific commands or macros to a single button. They’re great for streamers managing overlays or sound effects mid-stream. And don’t forget about RGB lighting. While it won’t improve your K/D ratio, it does add a personal flair, and can even help with key visibility in low-light setups. Plus, it just looks cool.
Mice
Historically, wired mice were king for precision and zero-lag response. But times have changed. Many high-end wireless mice now offer lightning-fast response times and long battery life. That said, if you’re a competitive gamer playing twitch shooters, a wired model might still give you a slight edge. But wireless mice shine for general gaming and streaming setups where flexibility, clean aesthetics, or portability are key. They’re also a win for streamers who need space for mixers, decks, and mics.
Look for gaming mice with adjustable DPI settings. DPI controls how sensitive your mouse is: high DPI is good for rapid movement, while lower DPI is ideal for pinpoint accuracy. Lastly, don’t overlook ergonomic design. A mouse that fits your hand properly reduces fatigue and helps avoid wrist strain over long sessions. Some even come with weights so you can tweak the feel to your preference.
Choosing a monitor for smooth gameplay and visual immersion
Your monitor is your window to the gaming and streaming world, so it better be up to the task. Here are the key things to consider:
Key monitor specifications
- Refresh rate: A higher refresh rate (like 144Hz or 240Hz) gives you smoother gameplay, especially in action-heavy titles, reducing screen tearing.
- Response time: Measured in milliseconds, lower response time is better. Aim for 1ms or less to reduce motion blur and ghosting, which is crucial for competitive games.
- Resolution: 1080p is the standard, but 1440p and 4K offer sharper images and better immersion. Higher resolution gives you more screen real estate and detail, but also demands more GPU power.
Curved vs. flat monitors
Curved monitors are designed to mimic the natural curve of your eyes, offering a more immersive, panoramic view. This makes them excellent for single-player RPGs, simulation games, and racing titles where immersion matters. Flat monitors, however, still dominate the competitive gaming space. They’re easier to align in multi-monitor setups, and their uniform viewing angles make them ideal for FPS and eSports.
Other considerations when choosing a monitor
If you’re a streamer, consider a dual monitor setup—one screen for gameplay, the other for managing your stream chat, alerts, or editing software. For solo gaming, 24″–27″ monitors are ideal for FPS and competitive titles, while 32″ or ultra-wide monitors are great for immersive experiences in RPGs or open-world games. High refresh rates and at least 1080p resolution should be your baseline.
Is High Dynamic Range (HDR) for gaming?
HDR is a display feature that boosts brightness, contrast, and colour fidelity, making games appear more vivid, lifelike, and immersive. In this guide, we’ll break down what HDR really brings to the table—its pros, cons, and whether it’s worth turning on for your setup.
Streaming lights and microphones: what to look for
These days, you could be the funniest, most talented gamer on Twitch, but if your stream looks and sounds like it’s being beamed in from a potato, people will bounce. Proper lighting and audio aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re essential. Viewers expect clear visuals and clean sound.
Lighting
Proper lighting is essential for clean, professional-looking video. It reduces shadows, enhances image quality, and helps your camera focus better. Top options include:
- Ring lights: Great for a soft, even glow on your face, ring lights reduce harsh shadows and are popular for face cams and close-up streams. Super popular among streamers and YouTubers.
- Key lights: These offer more power and control. You can adjust brightness and temperature to flatter your skin tone or create mood lighting. They’re ideal for multi-point setups that separate you from your background and highlight your best angles.
Many lighting kits also come with colour temperature controls, so you can go warm and cozy or bright and crisp depending on your vibe.
Microphones
Built-in headset mics might cut it for casual gaming. But, serious streamers need better sound. There are two popular types of computer microphones:
- Condenser microphones: Highly sensitive, perfect for capturing your voice in detail, they’re a go-to for podcasts or solo commentary. Just be sure you’re in a quiet environment—they’ll pick up everything.
- Dynamic microphones: Less sensitive to background noise, they’re better if you have a clicky keyboard, roommates, or a nearby fan. Perfect for high-energy streamers or gamers with noisy setups.
When choosing a mic—whether condenser or dynamic—check if it has a cardioid pickup pattern, often listed right in the product specs. “Cardioid” refers to the heart-shaped area in front of the mic where it captures sound most strongly. This directional pattern focuses on your voice and minimizes unwanted background noise from the sides and rear. The result? Cleaner, more isolated audio that gives your stream a professional edge—without picking up your clicky keyboard or your roommate microwaving soup in the background.
Want next-level control?
Consider investing in an audio mixer for live streaming. It lets you balance your mic, game audio, alerts, background music, and even guest inputs—all in real time. A good audio mixer allows for on-the-fly tweaks, perfect for reacting to your stream without taking your eyes off the game.
Ergonomics matter: chairs, wrist support, and desk setup
You can have the flashiest RGB setup on the block, but if your back’s in agony after two hours, you’re not going to be in peak performance. Ergonomic gaming chairs are worth the hype. They offer lumbar support, adjustable armrests, and recline features that help prevent strain during long sessions. Look for breathable materials and a solid build and your spine will thank you. Pair your gaming chair with
- Wrist rests to reduce pressure on your joints
- Adjustable desks or monitor risers to keep screens at eye level
- Cable organizers or sleeves to reduce clutter and tripping hazards
A clean, ergonomic setup isn’t just more comfortable—it also helps you stay focused.
Add-on gear: racing wheels and more
Once you’ve nailed the basics, it’s time to level up with specialty gear tailored to your style of play or content creation.
Racing wheels
If you’re into racing games or sims, a quality racing wheel setup can completely transform your experience—from arcade fun to full-on immersion. Look for force feedback wheels that replicate the feel of the road, giving you realistic resistance and tactile feedback during sharp turns or rough terrain. Pair that with a good set of pedals for throttle, brake, and clutch control, and you’ll feel the difference instantly.
Want to take it even further? Add a separate gear shifter to complete the setup, giving you that satisfying manual gear-change feel. Together, these accessories turn casual laps into full-throttle simulation, perfect for everything from Forza to iRacing.
For streamers, the right gear can include:
- Stream decks are a streamer’s best friend—think instant scene changes, sound effects, emoji reactions, or switching camera angles without fumbling through menus. It’s like having a shortcut for everything.
- Green screens allow you to remove or replace your background, making your stream look cleaner or more creative. Want to game on a beach or inside a spaceship? No problem.
- Capture cards are essential if you’re streaming from a console like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. They allow you to send console footage to your PC for overlays, commentary, and stream enhancements.
Level up your game with the right gaming accessories
Sync your gear with your goals—especially if you’re gaming and streaming at the same time. To achieve high-level gameplay and broadcast-worthy content simultaneously, you’ll need accessories that support both speed and style. Prioritize responsive tools like wired mice, fast refresh monitors, and mechanical keyboards for precision in-game, while also investing in lighting, audio, and workspace comfort to make sure your stream looks as good as it plays. The right hybrid setup doesn’t force you to compromise—it helps you dominate the game and wow your viewers in one go.
Ready to upgrade your gaming accessories and streaming setup? Best Buy Canada offers a huge range of gamer-tested, streamer-approved accessories—from ergonomic gaming chairs to audio mixers for streaming, and everything in between.
This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.
