Having a nice ergonomic chair isn’t going to help anyone increase their FPS speed. Yet it’s still going to provide a much nicer gaming experience than that old dining room chair in the den. No, the gear doesn’t make the gamer, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to have the best!
Pro gamers have been picking out their favorite gaming gear for years. Some are specifically tailored towards the type of game they play, like many CS:GO players’ tendency for picking Zowie gaming mice. While others simply choose their gear based on the specs and aesthetic values they like best.
Contrary to what most people would expect, most professional and esports gamers tend to pick out the same models. There are outliers, of course, but enough overlap so that a pattern starts to emerge. So, here are the best peripherals that pro gamers currently like to use.
Gaming Mice
If any gaming peripheral can make a true difference in a gamer’s performance, it’s their mouse. A comfy, ergonomic mouse can be a life-saver during a weekend-long game session. No one wants to struggle with a painful wrist that’s impeding their movement.
But it’s also more than that. Consistent tactile feedback and a high level of responsiveness are also essential factors that come into play. Especially for FPS gamers where even a millisecond can make a world of difference. Which is why most CS:GO players like nitr0 and TACO prefer simple, lightweight mice like the Zowie FK2.
Though it really depends on the game. MOBA gamers might prefer mice with a bit more customizability, like the Razer DeathAdder Elite that Seagull prefers. While MMO and strategy gamers usually prefer mice with as many programmable buttons as possible, like the Corsair Scimitar Pro RGB.
Keyboards
There are three important considerations to take into account when choosing a keyboard: comfort, switch types, and lighting.
One keyboard that does a great job of filling all three of those requirements is the Razer BlackWidow TE Chroma v2. There are different versions available, depending on a person’s key switch preference. And the magnetic wrist rest is faux leather and plush enough to last for years. Plus the tenkeyless design looks pretty sleek.
Monitors
When it comes to monitors, there are two competitors that get pro gamers’ attention: BenQ and Asus.
The BenQ Zowie XL2540 wins out here as it’s by far the most used monitor under pro gamers. It’s even beloved by big names like Shroud and RUSH. Probably because of that amazing 240 Hz refresh rate that ensures a smooth experience every time. Or maybe it’s those removable shield ‘flaps’ on the side that helps them avoid distractions. Either way, it’s a pretty good monitor and no matter the game, it’s bound to look stunning on this.
Those who prefer Asus should have a look at the equally brilliant ASUS VG248QE. It’s also beloved by many esports gamers and clocks in at 144Hz. Which is lower than the Zowie, but the price difference more than makes up for that. Plus, unless someone’s playing an FPS game like PUBG, where the small details matter, it won’t make much of a difference anyway.
Software
Software might not count as “gear” per sé, but it’s important enough to feature in this list anyway.
One must-have gaming tool that might come as a surprise to most gamers is VPN technology. A lot of people in the gaming community used to be against using VPNs (and for a good reason). But the service providers behind this cybersecurity tool have made great strides in perfecting gamer-friendly options in recent years.
Considering the surge in cyberbullying, DDOS attacks, swatting, and malicious software lately, VPN downloads have become more necessary than installing RGB lights. Yes, using a VPN has become more important than having RAM modules that light up in a rainbow display. Who would’ve thought?
Gaming Chairs
What’s a king without his throne? Well, to be honest, those medieval thrones don’t really look all that comfy, but a nice gaming chair should be.
An old favorite is the DXRacer Office Gaming Chair with its classic race car seat style and breathable material for those hot summer days. It’s used by plenty of people, including Fnatic’s KRiMZ. This chair is a little on the plain side, but not everyone wants funky colors in their gaming chairs.
Those who want a little more spice in their life can check out the DXRacer Racing Series which comes in bright orange, blue, and green.
That’s a Wrap!
Everyone’s going to have their own opinion about what constitutes as the best gaming gear, and that’s okay. There are plenty of options out there to choose from. And just because something is popular with pro gamers, it doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. Still, if someone wants to play like the pros, then this list will get them there.
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Cover image by: Zany Jadraque
I remember I had major ping and lag problem. I thought that I’ll kill myself, so pissed I was . The only thing that helped me was using a VPN and connecting to the nearest to game server. I got NordVPN with a coupon salenord and thank God it’s cheap and it works. So, no pings for me now.
I remember I had major ping and lag problem. I thought that I’ll kill myself, so pissed I was . The only thing that helped me was using a VPN and connecting to the nearest to game server. I got NordVPN with a coupon salenord and thank God it’s cheap and it works. So, no pings for me now.