Jade Burke takes a look at the latest gaming accessories on the market

PCR’s guide to the latest gaming accessories

Gamers are often on the look out for the latest equipment to help enhance their gaming experience. Jade Burke takes a look at the current PC/console keyboards, headsets and gaming accessories on the market…

ASUS STRIX CLAW OPTICAL GAMING MOUSE

Distributor: VIP Computers

This optical gaming mouse packs 64KB of memory, while the adjustable DPI clutch button allows users to go as low as 50 DPI. The Claw has been made with Omron D2F-01F switches, for a smoother click. 

Specs: Single gold-plated USB connector, 5000 DPI, works with Microsoft Windows XP, Vista 7 and 8.

SRP: £54.99

STEELSERIES APEX KEYBOARD

Distributor: Exertis Gem

This keyboard features low profile keys, with a short travel distance and a fast response time. As well as macro keys and media controls, it features a varied multicolour LED light display along the edges of the board.

Specs: Ergonomic design, 1000 Hz polling speed, anti-ghosting keys, profile zone lighting, LED colour display.

SRP: £88.68

COOLER MASTER RAPID-I KEYBOARD

Distributor: Entatech

The Cooler Master keyboard is equipped with an ARM processor that enables individual lighting profiles. It also features ActivLite Technology, providing quick key response and trailing effects.

Specs: Full LED backlighting, ActivLite Technology, four individual key lighting profiles, mechanical switches.

SRP: £89.99

RAZER BLACKWIDOW KEYBOARD

Distributor: VIP Computers

Specifically designed for gaming, this keyboard has a backlight that lights up each key, as well as five dedicated macro keys. 200MB of hard disk space is available, and it’s also compatible with Windows 8, 7, Vista and XP.

Specs: Macro keys, backlight, 200MB hard disk space, 1000Hz ultrapolling, USB pass-through.

SRP: £124.99

TURTLE BEACH EAR FORCE ZLA

Distributor: Exertis Gem

Designed specifically for PC gaming, this headset combines high fidelity and stereo game audio for clear communication. It also includes in-line volume controls, large 40mm speakers and sound-isolating ear cushions.

Specs: In-line volume and mic controls, 40mm speakers, PC adapter cable, 3.5mm 4-pole connector.

SRP: £25.00

FUNC MS-2 MOUSE

Distributor: Entatech

The Func mouse features a 3090 LED optical sensor plus an Instant Aim button allowing users to change their DPI range instantly. Users are also able to fully customise the mouse’s profile setting and macro recordings.

Specs: 4000 DPI, 2.0 USB port, compatible with Windows, 10MB hard drive space.

SRP: TBA

THERMALTAKE LEVEL 10M MOUSE

Distributor: A One Distribution

The aluminium gaming mouse has a 3D-steering axis system, which allows users to customise the angle at which the mouse sits in the palm of their hand. It also comes with an Air-Through Ventilation system, to help cool hands.

Specs: Aluminium base, 128KB memory, weighs 185KG, Air-Through Ventilation system, customisable DPI.

SRP: £47 excluding VAT 

GENIUS GX GAMING SPEAKER

Distributor: Northamber

This surround sound gaming speaker delivers 80 watts of digital sound, from a 5.1-inch source input. The inclusion of a 6.5-inch subwoofer provides deep bass tones, and its LED light displays random colours when used.

Specs: 80 watts, 6.5-inch driver, standby mode selection, remote control and headphone included.

SRP: £56.95

MIONIX NAOS 8200 MOUSE

Distributor: Entatech

A 32bit ARM processor provides the mouse with an 8200 DPI laser sensor for added accuracy, while the rubber coating keeps players hands comfortable during play. 16.8 million LED colour options are also included, plus seven programmable buttons.

Specs: 128KB built-in memory, USB 2.0 connection with Plug and Play, 12000fps, 32bit ARM processor.

SRP: £59.98

POWERCOOL KB-768 LED GAMING KEYBOARD

Distributor: A One Distribution

Designed for use in low-light conditions, this keyboard comes with multi-colour backlighting so gamers can play in total darkness. LED colours range from red, green and blue, which can be switched off when the keyboard is needed for regular use. It is also waterproof and spill-proof.

Specs: LED backlighting, 12 multimedia keys, 4.5V to 5.5V, ergonomic design.

SRP: £9.00 excluding VAT

TURTLE BEACH X42 XBOX 360 HEADSET

Distributor: Exertis Gem

Powered by 2.4/5 GHz Dual Band Wi-Fi, this Xbox 360 headset can work alongside other Wi-Fi networks with minimal interference. The multiple EQ presets and variable surround sound angles allow users to optimise audio settings to their preference. It also features a lightweight design and breathable mesh ear cushions.

Specs: 2.4/5 GHz Dual Band Wi-Fi, adjustable surround sound angles, 50mm speakers.

SRP: £119.99

THERMALTAKE SHOCK HEADPHONES

Distributor: A One Distribution

With a foldable design, the shock headphones allow users to pack the headset for traveling or storage purposes. The headset has been designed for PC gaming, featuring square shaped ear cups, stereo surround sound and a foldable microphone, which can be concealed when the mic is no longer needed.

Specs: Adjustable headband, 20Hz- 20KHz, Plug and Play microphone, black or white colour design.

SRP: £18.50 excluding VAT

ZOWIE CELERITAS GAMING KEYBOARD

Distributor: CaseKing

The Zowie keyboard has been developed with a 0.2 second response- time, and a durable metal inner chassis. It is also compatible with the Zowie RTR technology and has six anti-ghosting keys. Gold-plated mechanical switches and USB connectors are also included. 

Specs: Six keys for anti-ghosting, USB connectors, ergonomic design, metal inner chassis.

SRP: £102.95

ASUS STRIX GLIDE MOUSE PADS

Distributor: VIP Computers

The Glide Control pad has been designed with a textured surface for games that require fine control, while the Glide Speed has been made with a fine-weave fabric for a smooth finish, allowing the mouse to glide easily. Both mice pads work with laser and optical mice, with fray-resistant edges for added durability.

Specs: Broad 400x300mm surface, 3mm depth, Glide Speed weighs 219g, Glide Control weighs 208g.

SRP: Both £15.99

MAD CATZ STRIKE TE KEYBOARD

Distributor: Entatech

The Strike keyboard detects up to 30 keys pressed at the same time, while the track layout delivers anti-ghosting to the highest APM (actions per minute) point. The keyboard also offers users the option to brighten specific areas, plus 12 programmable micro buttons are also available.

Specs: 50 million key strokes, removable wrist rest, compatible with Windows 8.1, 8, 7 Vista, XP, XP 64-bit.

SRP: TBA

GENIUS GILA GAMING MOUSE

Distributor: Northamber

Gila has a built-in over-clocking SG Core ii engine with a DPI range from 200 to 8200, allowing users to shift around easily during play. 32KB of memory and a full speed MCU reduces signal failure, with an extended lifecycle of eight million clicks. It also comes with six adjustable metal weight options.

Specs: 12 button MMO/RTS, DPI range of 200 to 8200, Scorpion gaming user interface, 72 macro keys.

SRP: £31.00

RAZER KRAKEN PRO NEON GAMING HEADSET

Distributor: VIP Computers

The Razer headset’s 40mm neodymium magnet drivers provide clear high and mid-ranges, as well as deep bass tones. The closed ear cup design also ensures external noise is cancelled out. It is available in a range of neon colours.

Specs: Retractable microphone, 3.5mm audio jack, 40mm neodymium, lightweight, foldable.

SRP: £79.99

ZOWIE FK1 GAMING MOUSE

Distributor: CaseKing

The Zowie mouse combines two thumb buttons on either side, to help serve both left-handed and right-handed users. It also features an adjustment DPI setting of 400 to 3200, for added accuracy for gamers.

Specs: Ambidextrous mouse with claw grip, two thumb buttons, DPI range of 400-3200.

SRP: £49.99

RAZER ABYSSUS MOUSE

Distributor: VIP Computers

This mouse has added glide grips and an optical sensor with a DPI of range of up to 3500. The Abyssus can also be used with Synapse, Razer’s cloud-based hardware configurator. Rapid-fire tactile switches are also included.

Specs: 3500 DPI, ergonomic design, textured side grips, lifespan of five million clicks, compatible with Synapse.

SRP: £34.99

GUILLEMOT FERRARI RACING WHEEL

Distributor: Exertis Gem

This Ferrari replica comes with a practical V-shaped clamping system, allowing users to attach the wheel to any table or desk. The wheel features eight action buttons, an engine start D-pad, and rubber grips.

Specs: Eight action buttons, 11-inch diameter, two-position switch, pedal base.

SRP: £79.99

THERMALTAKE CHALLENGER KEYBOARD

Distributor: A One Distribution

The Challenger keyboard features a built-in adjustable fan to help keep gamers hands cool during play. Six programmable macro keys are also included, as well as media keys that can change music tracks and volume.

Specs: Built-in 2.0 USB port, macro and media keys, 32KB memory, 10 million keystroke lifecycle.

SRP: £17.50 excluding VAT

ZOWIE MASHU GAMING HEADSET

Distributor: CaseKing

The headset features neodymium speakers, offering clear and distortion free sound, while the closed ear cups help to optimise the sound experience. The uni-directional microphone also provides clear voice transmission.

Specs: Uni-directional microphone, closed-ear design, neodymium speakers.

SRP: £109.99

XBOX 360 WIRELESS CONTROLLER

Distributor: Exertis Gem

The wireless controller can be used across different Microsoft gaming systems, including Xbox and Windows XP. Plus the integrated 2.4 GHz wireless technology allows gamers to move freely during play.

Specs: Compatible with Windows XP and Xbox 360, vibration feedback, ergonomic design.

SRP: £40.84

WIRELESS GAMING KEYBOARD AND MOUSE

Distributor: Dynamode

This duo features a 2.4 GHz USB nano adapter, meaning gamers can play without wires. The keyboard also includes colour coded keys for preferred games or apps.

Specs: Bundled 2.4 GHz wireless USB nano adapter, adjustable DPI range, driver-free wireless installation.

SRP: Starting at £29.99

CONTACT:

A One Distribution…… 0161 763 3633

CaseKing…………………. 01782 444 488

Dynamode………………..0845 375 2023

Entatech …………………. 0333 101 1000

Exertis Gem …………….. 01279 822 822

Northamber ……………. 020 8296 7000

VIP Computers ………… 0871 622 7500

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