Buying a wired gaming headset and keyboard comes down to a handful of specs. This guide explains what each one means, so you can compare products on the details that matter and avoid the ones that don't fit your setup.

Why choose wired

Wired gear has no battery to charge and no pairing to set up. You plug it in and it works. The tradeoff is the cable, so check the listed cable length against how far your device sits from you.

Gaming headset: what to check

Connection type

Most wired headsets use either a 3.5 mm plug or USB. A 3.5 mm headset plugs into a controller or a device with a headphone jack. A USB headset plugs into a computer or any device with a matching USB port. Check the platforms listed on the product page before you buy.

Driver size

Drivers are the speakers inside each ear cup, and sizes of 40 mm to 50 mm are common. A larger driver doesn't automatically sound better, because tuning and build matter as well.

Microphone

Some headsets include a built-in or boom microphone, and some are listening-only. If you plan to talk in games or on calls, confirm the listing says the headset has a microphone. If a listing doesn't say, ask us before you order.

Comfort

Check the weight and the ear cushion material. Soft PU leather cushions are common, and long sessions are easier in a headset that isn't heavy.

Gaming keyboard: what to check

Mechanical or membrane

A mechanical keyboard has a separate switch under each key. A membrane keyboard uses a rubber layer under the keys. Many gaming keyboards at lower prices are membrane keyboards with a gaming look, and there's nothing wrong with that as long as the listing is clear. Check the listing for the switch type. Where the supplier doesn't list one, don't assume a keyboard is mechanical. One of our keyboards says outright on its page that it isn't.

Size and layout

A full-size keyboard has 104 keys, including a number pad. Compact layouts drop keys to free up desk space for your mouse.

Backlighting

Backlighting ranges from a single color to RGB with several modes. Check whether you can change the mode or turn the lights off.

Cable length and compatibility

Confirm the cable length and the operating systems the keyboard supports.

What about the mouse?

If you're buying a keyboard and mouse set, look at the mouse's DPI, which measures how far the cursor moves for a given hand movement. Higher DPI isn't always better. Many people settle on a middle setting they can control.

A quick checklist

• Does the connection type match your device?
• Does the listing say the headset has a microphone?
• Is the keyboard mechanical or membrane?
• Is the cable long enough?
• Does it work with your operating system or console?

Browse our gaming accessories. Product pages list the connection type and size where the supplier provides them.

Frequently asked questions

Is a USB or 3.5 mm headset better?

Neither is better in general. Choose the one that matches the port on your device.

Is a membrane keyboard bad for gaming?

No. Membrane keyboards work fine for many players. Mechanical keyboards offer a different feel and typically cost more.

Is wired better than wireless?

It depends on how you play. Wired gear avoids batteries and charging, and wireless gear removes the cable.