Curating your dream gaming setup can be…a lot. With so many options to choose from and gadgets you may or may not need, actually making decisions on what deserves a precious spot in your space can feel anywhere between overwhelming and impossible — especially if you’re newish to gaming and don’t know where to start.
The good news? We’re here to make it a little easier by turning to the experts. We’ve asked a few pros — three Twitch streamers and one entrepreneur/co-owner of an esports organization — who spend hours upon hours each week gaming about the excellent, actually useful, and adorably aesthetic products in their own setups. Their choices include consoles, easy-to-use accessories, fun mood lighting, and personality-forward tech. Consider this list your one-stop shop for essentials, whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing the space you already have. Read on to discover more.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Gaming Controller
“Probably the best first-party gaming controller I’ve ever used is the Xbox Elite Series 2. It’s super-comfortable, has a bunch of attachments, and works great for both my console AND my PC gaming.” —ChelseaBytes, Twitch streamer/content creator
Xbox Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Gaming Controller, $, available at Amazon
Nintendo Switch
“I can’t understate how much fun I’ve gotten out of my Nintendo Switch. Of course, the main benefit is being able to be mobile with the console and play MANY cute games while I’m traveling. However, when you add in how easy it is to plug into a TV/monitor and play at your setup, it becomes one of my favorite gaming consoles.” —ChelseaBytes, Twitch streamer/content creator
Nintendo Nintendo Switch, $, available at Amazon
Logitech G Litra Beam LX
“Whether it’s for my stream setup or just for my work desk, I LOVE some good lighting! And, recently, Logitech did something amazing by upgrading the already-useful Litra Beam to the Litra Beam LX. Now, it not only gives you the lighting you need to look good on your webcam, but it also gives an RGB flare to the wall behind your desk. It’s a one-stop shop for functionality and aesthetics.” —ChelseaBytes, Twitch streamer/content creator
[Editor’s note: As a G2 Esports content creator, ChelseaBytes is sponsored by Logitech, but she was recommending its products long before that deal.]
Logitech G Litra Beam LX, $, available at Amazon
Govee Envisual LED Backlights
“For a different type of setup/mood lighting, I’d definitely go with Govee LED Backlights. There are a bunch of different sizes for different screens, but I definitely think the bigger the screen, the better the effect — so if you’re gaming on a big TV, this backlight really brings the wall behind your TV alive.” —ChelseaBytes, Twitch streamer/content creator
Govee Envisual LED Backlights for 75-85 inch TVs, $, available at Amazon
Logitech G Pro X 2 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Headset
“I need a lot of comfort when it comes to my headset if I’m streaming for long periods of time. The G Pro X 2 is not only super-comfortable, but I can also use it for most of my setups (PC/PS5/Switch/etc.). And the included USB dongle means that I have multiple ways of connecting the headset to a device.” —ChelseaBytes, Twitch streamer/content creator
[Editor’s note: As a G2 Esports content creator, ChelseaBytes is sponsored by Logitech, but she was recommending its products long before that deal.]
Logitech G PRO X 2 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Headset, $, available at Amazon
Nintendo Switch Animal Crossing: New Horizons Edition
“Infusing the Nintendo Switch with an enchanting charm, this snug game not only beckons gameplay but also doubles as a delightful ornament. Its pastel palette weaves a tapestry of warmth, extending a welcoming embrace to all gaming enthusiasts.” —Erin Ashley Simon, part owner of XSET
Nintendo Nintendo Switch Animal Crossing: New Horizons Edition, $, available at Amazon
Stardew Valley Mug
“No prerequisite knowledge of this fantastic game is required to savor the craftsmanship of this exquisitely designed mug. It’s tailored for aficionados of tea or, in my case, fellow coffee enthusiasts — because, let’s face it, we’re all in this together! This charming cup extends an invitation for anyone to relish the gift, brimming with warmth and a dash of affection.” —Erin Ashley Simon, part owner of XSET
BerrySpecialShop Stardew Valley Mug, $, available at Etsy
Logitech Key Caps
“Inject a dose of personality and panache into your Logitech keyboard by crafting custom keycaps. Elevate your keyboard’s style, whether you’re immersed in gaming or steering clear of it. The allure lies in owning a uniquely personalized keyboard and mouse, transforming your setup into an expression of individuality that resonates with everyone.” —Erin Ashley Simon, part owner of XSET
Logitech G Key Caps, $, available at Logitech
Logitech Carrying Case
“Guard your headsets from mishaps on the move, and don’t settle for just any case. This offers a chic solution, ensuring you carry your gaming style wherever you go.” —Erin Ashley Simon, part owner of XSET
Logitech G Carrying Case, $, available at Logitech
Logitech G305 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse
“I got this mouse as a gift from my gamer cousin who highly recommended it, and I personally love it. Your PC doesn’t need Bluetooth to use it, and the battery life is amazing.” —PlayWithMae, Twitch streamer/content creator
Logitech G G305 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Mouse, $, available at Logitech
Samsung 32’’ M80B UHD Smart Monitor
“This monitor is HUGE and comes in so many colors. I have the pink, and I think it adds so much character to my PC setup. I always get so many compliments!” —PlayWithMae, Twitch streamer/content creator
Samsung 32″ M80B 4K UHD Smart Monitor, $, available at Samsung
Govee RGBIC TV Light Bars
“I use these to add some mood lighting to my setup. They look great for photos, and I can make them any color to match the vibe I’m going for.” —PlayWithMae, Twitch streamer/content creator
Govee RGBIC TV Light Bars, $, available at Amazon
HROEENOI Active Noise Canceling Wireless Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones
“I love how affordable and comfortable these headphones are. The pink is so precious, and they sync perfectly using Bluetooth or they come with a cable. The noise canceling is truly impressive for the price.” —PlayWithMae, Twitch streamer/content creator
HROEENOI Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Bluetooth Over-Ear Hea, $, available at Amazon
iCasso Keyboard Wrist Rest Set
“I have been on the hunt for a unique wrist rest for a while, and this leaf one checked all the boxes. It’s actually comfortable as well as cute. It looks great with a huge keyboard, too.” —PlayWithMae, Twitch streamer/content creator
iCasso Keyboard Wrist Rest Set, $, available at Amazon
My Melody Keyboard
“I’m a sucker for keyboards, and I know so many people are keyboard connoisseurs, too. The switches on this one are so satisfying. This one features my favorite Sanrio character: My Melody! But I think the color combo is what really sold me.” —PlayWithMae, Twitch streamer/content creator
Akko x My Melody My Melody 3108v2 Keyboard, $, available at Akko
NanLite LumiPad 25 High Output Bi-Color Soft LED Panel
“I love these lights because they are affordable and reliable. I have had mine since I started streaming in 2019, and they have stood the test of time. Highly recommend them.” —AshSaidHi, Twitch streamer/content creator
NanLite LumiPad 25 High Output Bi-Color Soft LED Panel, $, available at B&H Photo Video
Zipcode Design Haigh 48” Desk
“I love this desk. Perfect for a multi-screen setup, it’s compact and cute!” —AshSaidHi, Twitch streamer/content creator
Zipcode Design Haigh 48″ L-Shaped Computer Desk, $, available at Wayfair
RoomMates Super Mario Brothers Peel and Stick Wall Decals
“These cute decals are awesome to bring a little theming into your room. Perfect for decorating your walls and showing off your love of Nintendo.” —AshSaidHi, Twitch streamer/content creator
RoomMates Super Mario Brothers Peel and Stick Wall Decals, $, available at Walmart
Corsair K65 RGB Mini 60% Mechanical Keyboard
“I love a good clicky mechanical keyboard. Look at how cute the colors on this Pastel Twilight one are! A must-have for any gamer.” —AshSaidHi, Twitch streamer/content creator
CORSAIR K65 RGB MINI 60% Mechanical Keyboard, $, available at Corsair
Logitech G735 Wireless Gaming Headset
“I loooove this headset. It is comfy and super-cute, and it lights up. Goes perfect with any gaming setup!” —AshSaidHi, Twitch streamer/content creator
Logitech G G735 Wireless Gaming Headset, $, available at Logitech
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