When you invest in an Xbox or PlayStation console, it’s easy to overlook the accessories that can enhance your gaming experience. However, certain accessories are essential to getting the most out of your console.
Whether you’re looking to improve your comfort, streamline your setup, or just level up your gameplay, the right accessories can make a huge difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the essential accessories for your Xbox or PlayStation console.
Essential Accessories for Your Xbox or PlayStation Console
1. Controllers
Xbox: Xbox controllers are known for their comfort, responsiveness, and durability. While your console comes with one controller, it’s worth investing in additional ones, especially if you’re playing multiplayer games. The Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller offers premium features like adjustable thumbsticks, paddles, and an extremely comfortable grip, making it ideal for competitive gamers.
PlayStation: The DualSense wireless controller is a major leap from the DualShock 4, offering features like adaptive triggers and haptic feedback that provide a deeper, more immersive gaming experience. Consider getting extra controllers for multiplayer or when friends come over, especially if you’re a fan of games like Rocket League or FIFA.
- Why You Need Extra Controllers: Multiplayer sessions, game sharing, or simply replacing a worn-out controller are all reasons to keep a few extra controllers on hand. Controllers are the primary tool for interacting with the game, so having reliable ones is key to enjoying uninterrupted play.
2. Headsets
A good gaming headset is crucial for immersion, communication, and comfort during long gaming sessions.
Xbox: The SteelSeries Arctis 9X is one of the best wireless gaming headsets for Xbox. It connects seamlessly with the console without needing a dongle, offering excellent sound quality, comfort, and long battery life.
PlayStation: The Sony Pulse 3D Wireless Headset is designed specifically for the PlayStation 5 to take advantage of 3D audio features, enhancing your gaming experience with spatial sound. It also features a built-in microphone for clear communication with teammates.
- Why You Need a Gaming Headset: A high-quality headset allows you to hear every detail of the game’s environment and communicate effectively with teammates. Whether you’re playing first-person shooters or story-driven games, good audio and communication are essential.
3. External Storage
Both Xbox and PlayStation offer built-in storage, but with modern games reaching 100GB or more, you’ll quickly run out of space. An external hard drive or SSD is a must-have accessory.
Xbox: The Seagate Storage Expansion Card is designed specifically for Xbox Series X/S consoles and provides fast storage expansion with seamless integration. You can store Xbox Series X/S optimized games, Xbox One titles, and even backward-compatible games.
PlayStation: The WD Black P50 Game Drive is one of the best external SSDs for PlayStation, offering super-fast loading times for PS5 games. While you can’t play PS5 games directly from a traditional hard drive, an SSD is perfect for PS4 games or PS5 games that are temporarily off your internal storage.
- Why You Need External Storage: Running out of storage can limit your ability to download and play new games. External storage ensures that you always have room for your favorite titles without sacrificing load times or game performance.
4. Charging Stations
If you’re tired of dealing with AA batteries or constantly plugging in your controllers, a charging station is a great solution.
Xbox: The Xbox Quick Charging Stand can charge up to two controllers at once, saving you the hassle of replacing batteries and ensuring your controllers are always ready for your next gaming session.
PlayStation: The DualSense Charging Station is designed specifically for PlayStation 5 controllers, allowing you to dock two controllers at once for easy charging. It’s a cleaner and more organized way to keep your controllers powered up without needing to plug them into the console.
- Why You Need a Charging Station: Charging stations keep your controllers organized and charged, allowing you to quickly grab a ready-to-use controller and keep the action going without the worry of running out of power mid-game.
5. Game Streaming Devices
If you want to stream your gameplay or watch media in a more convenient way, you might want to invest in a game streaming device.
Xbox: The Xbox Series X/S consoles support game streaming through Xbox Cloud Gaming (formerly known as Project xCloud), allowing you to play your games anywhere. If you plan to stream via platforms like Twitch or YouTube, a good streaming device like the Elgato Game Capture can help elevate your production value.
PlayStation: The PlayStation Camera and PlayStation VR system are essential for streamers who want to engage with their audience using facial capture or VR streaming. If you want a simpler solution, the PlayStation App allows you to stream your games to your phone.
- Why You Need a Streaming Device: If you’re into content creation, streaming your gameplay adds an interactive layer to your gaming experience. Streaming gear like cameras, capture cards, and microphones can significantly improve your stream’s quality.
6. PlayStation VR / Xbox VR Accessories
Virtual reality is an exciting avenue for gaming that immerses you even further into your favorite worlds.
PlayStation: The PlayStation VR is the only major console-based VR system available for PlayStation users, offering a library of games and experiences that range from action-packed shooters to relaxing exploration games. The PlayStation VR2 system is an upcoming improvement with higher resolution and advanced tracking, which promises an even more immersive experience.
Xbox: Xbox has not yet fully embraced virtual reality in the same way PlayStation has, but with the future of VR looking bright, you can expect potential compatibility with Xbox Series X/S in the future.
- Why You Need VR Accessories: VR offers a totally unique gaming experience. If you’re into exploring new ways to play, investing in VR headsets and accessories is a must.
7. Media Remotes
If you’re using your Xbox or PlayStation to stream movies and shows on services like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+, a media remote can make it easier to control playback without using your controller.
Xbox: The Xbox Media Remote gives you easy access to all the basic functions you need when watching movies or shows on your Xbox console.
PlayStation: The PlayStation Media Remote provides similar functionality for PS5 users, allowing you to control volume, media playback, and switch between apps seamlessly.
- Why You Need a Media Remote: If you watch a lot of content through your console, a dedicated media remote can simplify navigation and provide a more enjoyable, hassle-free experience compared to using a controller.
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FAQs
Can I use Xbox accessories with PlayStation or vice versa?
Generally, no. Xbox and PlayStation use different technologies and proprietary features, meaning accessories like controllers, charging stations, or headsets are usually platform-specific. However, there are some cross-compatible third-party options available for items like headsets and external storage.
Do I need to buy an external SSD for the PS5?
While not strictly necessary, an external SSD is highly recommended for storing PS4 games or expanding storage for PS5 games, especially as the base internal storage is limited. PS5-compatible SSDs offer faster load times than traditional hard drives.
What’s the benefit of the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller?
The Elite Series 2 offers adjustable thumbsticks, paddles, and a longer battery life compared to standard controllers. It’s designed for competitive and hardcore gamers who want a high level of customization and performance.
Can I stream directly from my console to platforms like Twitch?
Yes, both Xbox and PlayStation support streaming to platforms like Twitch. The Xbox Series X/S offers native support for Twitch streaming, while PlayStation also has integrated streaming capabilities, especially when combined with accessories like the PlayStation Camera.