Level up your setup with the controllers, headsets and gadgets that make every gaming session even more exciting.
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Laura Ward Last updated 28 August 2026 |
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Whether you're deep into a PS5 campaign or gaming on the move, the right accessories make all the difference. From wireless controllers to VR headsets, we've picked out the gaming gear worth adding to your collection – and where to find it.
If you're gaming on PS5 or PS5 Pro, the DualSense Wireless Controller is the obvious place to start. It's built around haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, so you feel the tension of a bowstring or the resistance of a speeding car rather than just pressing a button. There's also a built-in microphone for quick in-game chat without reaching for a headset. It isn't locked to PS5 either – the controller pairs with PC, Mac and mobile too, which makes it a versatile pick for anyone who games across more than one screen.
Why we love it: Immersive haptic feedback that most other controllers can't match. A brilliant all-rounder for PS5 owners who also game on PC or mobile.
The Xbox Wireless Controller is one of the most comfortable pads around, thanks to its sculpted grip and hybrid D-pad built for precise inputs. It connects over Xbox Wireless or Bluetooth, so it works with Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Windows PCs and Android devices, with iOS support on the way. A dedicated Share button makes capturing and posting your best gaming moments simple. For anyone who splits their time between console and cloud gaming on their phone, this is a controller that keeps up.
Why we love it: Comfortable enough for marathon sessions and flexible enough to work across Xbox, PC and Android. A smart pick if you use Xbox Cloud Gaming on the go.
For gamers who want to go beyond the screen, the Meta Quest 3 is a standout VR headset. Powered by the Snapdragon XR2 Gen 2 chip, it delivers sharper visuals and roughly double the graphics performance of its predecessor, with full-colour passthrough that blends mixed reality into your actual room. The 4K+ display makes virtual worlds feel truly lifelike and with more than 500 games and experiences on offer, there's plenty to explore beyond the headline titles.
Why we love it: Sharp, immersive visuals with useful mixed reality passthrough. Best for gamers who want the most capable VR headset available.
Want a taste of VR without the higher price tag? The Meta Quest 3S runs on the same Meta platform and supports the same library of games, apps and social experiences, just with a slightly lower resolution and shorter battery life than the Quest 3. It still handles mixed reality passthrough well, letting you blend gameplay with your surroundings and it's just as easy to set up and use straight out of the box.
Why we love it: All the core VR gaming experience at a more accessible price point. Ideal for anyone dipping a toe into virtual reality for the first time.
The PlayStation Portal solves a problem every PS5 owner has faced – someone else wants the TV. It streams the games installed on your PS5 straight to its 8-inch Full HD display over WiFi, complete with DualSense-style haptic feedback and adaptive triggers built into the handheld itself. It isn't a standalone console, so you'll still need a PS5 running and connected to the internet, but for playing in another room or from the sofa without touching a screen, it's hard to beat.
Why we love it: Full PS5 gaming away from the TV with no compromise on controls. Perfect for households sharing one screen between gamers.
Not every gamer wants a full headset covering their ears and AirPods 4 with ANC are a useful alternative for mobile and cloud gaming. Active Noise Cancellation blocks out background noise during long sessions, while Adaptive Audio and Transparency Mode let you dip back into the real world without taking them out.
They pair instantly with iPhone for gaming on the go, but they're not limited to Apple devices. Thanks to the Switch's built-in Bluetooth audio support, you can pair AirPods 4 directly with a Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 for wire-free game sound.
Why we love it: Comfortable enough to forget you're wearing them with the flexibility to jump between phone and Switch. A great pick for anyone who games across multiple devices.
For Android gamers, the Samsung Galaxy Buds4 Pro cover the same ground with studio-quality sound and Active Noise Cancellation built in. Pairing seamlessly with Samsung phones, you can even customise the equaliser straight from the Galaxy S26 Ultra’s display to fine-tune game audio to your taste.
Like most modern true wireless earbuds, they connect over standard Bluetooth too, so they work just as well paired with a Nintendo Switch or Switch 2 for cable-free gaming on the sofa or out and about.
Why we love it: Rich, detailed sound with deep Samsung integration. The natural earbud pick for anyone gaming on Android or Nintendo Switch.
It's easy to overlook, but a good power bank might be the most-used gaming accessory on this list. Long mobile gaming sessions, cloud streaming and VR headsets all drain battery quickly and running out of charge mid-match is never fun. Keeping a compact power bank in your bag means you can top up your phone, Switch or PlayStation Portal wherever you are – without hunting for a plug socket.
Why we love it: A simple, affordable way to avoid low-battery interruptions. Essential for anyone who games on the move.
No single gaming accessory transforms your setup on its own, but the right combination does. Start with a controller that suits how you play and add a VR headset or handheld if you fancy exploring beyond the TV.
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