Accessories - Holiday Gift Guide
When it comes to getting gifts for a gamer, a new game is always nice, but sometimes it’s the accessories that mean something great. Now we could have listed heaps of options, from steering wheels to cases, but no plastic junk to go around a Joy-Con.
Instead we opted for some headphones and controllers and while it’s easy on the second to list the controllers made by the console makers, we went for multiplatform options. Headphones, the list could have been 50 deep and with plenty not included, but instead what we considered is what offer the best for each platform and have connections for others. As such we have a PC/General, PlayStation, Xbox and Switch suggestion, so let us start with the one for all.
Just a note on the pricing, what is below is the RRP, so you might find it cheaper or on sale, just double check.
Headphones
ASTRO A30 WIRELESS
Price: $429.95
Compatible with: Switch, PC, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation, Mobile
Available: Amazon | EB Games | JB HiFi | The Gamesmen | Officeworks | Computer Stores
Suggested for: All
The Astro A30 are the headset we recommend if you are someone who games on multiple devices, as it covers all of them, through its various connection methods. There are two models, one geared to Xbox and the other PlayStation, with extra features tied to each platform. You can use the PlayStation one on Xbox, but won’t get the chat mix or wireless connection and vice versa. As it sports a Bluetooth connection it can be used on any device that has that, but the 3.5mm connection means it will work with any supported device as well. There is also a limited Mandalorian Edition still floating around, so double win if your gift receiver is also a Star Wars fan.
PULSE 3D Wireless Headset
Price: $159.95
Compatible with: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PC, Mac, PlayStation VR, Mobile, Switch
Available: Amazon | EB Games | JB HiFi | The Gamesmen | Officeworks
Suggested for: PlayStation
As the only headphones - at least at the time of writing, that are made for PlayStation 5, the Pulse 3D Headset is the best companion for the console. Not only does it offer the 3D Audio that many PlayStation 5 games make full use of, but it comes in multiple colours, it even has a camo print. Yes there are more options that work and deliver great sound, but this is the headset that was designed by the same folks behind the console.
Xbox Wireless Headset
Price: $149.95
Compatible with: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Mobile, Switch
Available: Amazon | EB Games | JB HiFi | Microsoft
Suggested for: Xbox
What we said for the headset above, take that and apply it here, just swap out PlayStation for Xbox. While this headset didn’t launch with the console, its arrival was much appreciated. It offers great sound and sits very comfy on the head. There is a wired version for those who are ok with that and want to save a few dollars and while its not being made anymore, there is a Starfield edition around, if you don’t want black.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless
Price: $399.95
Compatible with: Switch, PC, Mac, PlayStation, Mobile
Suggested for: Switch
Nintendo are the only console maker that don’t have their own produced headset, but that is ok as SteelSeries have stepped up to deliver. The Arctis Nova 7 is one of the best headsets for the Switch, you can connect it via Bluetooth or insert the included dongle. With incredible battery life and comfort levels that will have you shouting just how good it is, I mean we did.
Controllers
HORI Split Pad Compact
Price: $99.95 - $149.95
Compatible with: Switch, OLED Switch, PC
Controllers are a hard thing to judge, there are countless brands that make all sorts of options, but most of them are the standard single unit controller, which is perfect for those who want to sit in front of the TV. However if you are gaming on Switch in handheld form, the options are much smaller. Which makes the Hori Split Pads such an astonishing product as they deliver on all fronts. There are three different styles of device, the older and much chunkier version, but we recommend the Compact model, which is below. It has two options the controller only or as pictured, with the wired adapter. This lets you take the controller and use it when the Switch is docked, or connecting it to a PC.
8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller
Price: $99.95
Compatible with: Switch, OLED Switch, Switch Lite, PC, Mobile
Available: Amazon | JB HiFi | MWave
If you are looking for a controller that is premium across the board, then the 8BitDo Ultimate Controller is the one we suggest. Not only does it offer fantastic battery life, crucial in a wireless controller, it also offers up some great comfort with its shape. The best part though is that it uses Hall Effect sensors, meaning stick drift will be a thing of the past with this one. The ability to use it on PCs or Mobile devices means it covers a lot of platforms, making it an easier sell.
RIG Nacon PRO Compact Wired Controller
Price: $79.95
Compatible with: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Available: Amazon | EB Games | JB HiFi
All of the controllers above are mostly wireless, but this one is a wired only option and for Xbox and PC, but it has something that most controllers don’t offer, a much smaller design. While not the smallest controller on the market, the design is smaller than your average Xbox controller, making it perfect for those gamers with smaller hands. It still offers a great fit for those gamers with larger hands, so don’t think it’s only for smaller hands. It also comes in Black and White, but there are also Blue, Red and Grey colours online. Check out our review to see why we love it.
So there you go, a few gaming related accessories for the gamer in your life, or yourself. There are of course countless more than we listed, so be sure to check your local retailer for other options if none of these appeal to you.