Game Consoles - Other Gaming Products

The most useful console accessories today

For most players, the accessories that matter most are:

• extra controllers
• charging docks or battery packs
• headsets and wireless earbuds
• storage expansion
• steering wheels and racing controls
• cameras or motion accessories on supported platforms
• gaming chairs and racing chairs
• better audio or display connections where needed

Which ones are worth buying depends on the type of games you play and whether the console is used solo, online or for local multiplayer.

Controllers remain the most important accessory

The controller is still the main way most people interact with a console, so it is usually the first extra accessory buyers add. A second or third controller is especially useful if you:

• play local multiplayer
• have a family console in the living room
• want a spare while the other pad charges
• enjoy specific game genres that benefit from a dedicated controller

Modern controllers are usually wireless and rechargeable or battery-powered, depending on platform and model. Wireless play is now the standard expectation for most console buyers because it offers a cleaner setup and more freedom of movement.

It is also worth remembering that controller compatibility is not always universal. Some accessories are platform-specific, but the older claim that games or controllers are always tied to only one exact console is too simplistic. In reality, many games are now cross-platform, and accessory support can vary by generation, platform and connection standard.

Storage expansion matters more than it used to

Older guides often refer to consoles using an internal hard drive as the default. That no longer reflects the current market well enough. In 2026, console storage is much more likely to involve:

• internal SSD storage
• official expansion cards on some platforms
• compatible internal SSD upgrades on supported systems
• external USB storage for certain use cases, depending on platform rules

This matters because modern games are large, and internal fast storage is often required for current-generation titles. If you buy digitally or subscribe to game libraries, you may run out of space surprisingly quickly.

Racing wheels and specialist controls

Some accessories transform specific genres. Racing wheels and pedal sets can make a huge difference in driving games, especially if you enjoy:

• circuit racers
• rally games
• simulation-focused driving
• competitive racing

Likewise, there are still specialist accessories for some games and platforms, such as cameras, rhythm-game controllers or motion-based devices where supported. These are more niche than standard controllers, but they can be worthwhile if they match the games you actually play.

Gaming headsets and sound upgrades

Audio is one of the most worthwhile upgrade areas for console players. A good headset can improve:

• voice chat clarity
• immersion in story games
• directional sound in online multiplayer
• late-night gaming without disturbing others

Buyers are choosing between:

• wired gaming headsets
• wireless gaming headsets
• wireless earbuds designed for gaming
• external speakers or soundbars for living-room setups

If you mainly play online with friends, headset microphone quality matters almost as much as sound itself.

Charging accessories

Because wireless controllers are now standard, charging accessories have become much more useful than in the past. Popular options include:

• charging docks
• spare rechargeable battery packs
• USB charging cables
• controller stands with charging support

A charging dock is especially handy in shared or family setups because it keeps controllers organised and ready for use.

Gaming chairs and racing chairs

For longer sessions, comfort matters more than many players expect. That is why gaming chairs and racing chairs are now a more relevant part of the console-accessory conversation than older generic multimedia extras.

Gaming chairs

A good gaming chair can help with:

• posture during long sessions
• overall comfort
• support for back and arms
• making a desk or gaming corner feel more complete

Racing chairs

If you use a wheel and pedal setup, a racing chair or racing stand can create a much more immersive and stable driving position. These are particularly popular with players who want a more simulation-style setup rather than casual pad-based racing.

Multimedia and streaming: think modern, not legacy

The relevant entertainment features in 2026 are:

• streaming apps
• wireless audio support
• capture and sharing features
• 4K and HDR display compatibility where supported
• fast HDMI connections for modern TVs

Cables and connectivity still matter

Even though many accessories are now wireless, some physical connections still matter. Depending on your setup, useful extras may include:

• HDMI cables that support the display features you need
• USB charging cables
• wired Ethernet accessories or adapters where relevant
• cable management solutions

The key is not to buy cables blindly, but to match them to your console, TV and audio setup.

What to check before buying console accessories

Before purchasing any accessory, make sure you know:

• which console generation you own
• whether the accessory is officially supported
• whether it is wired or wireless
• how it charges or powers itself
• whether it works with your games
• whether it suits your space and play style