10 Esports Gadgets Under $200 to Level-Up your Gameplay

Though we admit there’s something a bit ironic about quoting Benjamin Franklin to kickoff a post on some of the best Esports gadgets out there today (which also makes us wonder, what game title do you think old Mr. Franklin would’ve found to be his favorite?), credit must be given where credit is due—this old adage still holds true, particularly in the world of competitive Esports.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or booting up your PC for the first time, here are 10 gadgets that are certain to give you the upper hand:

#10: — RESPAWN’s 110 Gaming Chair

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They say sitting is the new smoking; as gamers, we don’t spend much time thinking about gaming chairs, but rather gaming cards, monitors, processors, and mechanical keyboards or controller grips—and we’re not even including time spent thinking about that next match or tournament. There’s already growing awareness around the importance of posture when spending long period of time in a chair, and as Esports more and more people make a profession out of playing video games competitively (we like to think we’ll get some credit for that!), a char that is both ergonomic AND looks cool is Blue While’s Gaming chair. With lumbar support, a headrest, and a series of color options so you can make sure it matches the vibe of your setup, this GTracing chair is a must-have for any gamers on a budget. It might seem expensive but, just like everyone spends a lot of time on mattresses, competitive gamers spend a lot of time in their chairs!

#9: Drop ALT Mechanical Keyboard

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With a compact layout, sleek design, and well thought-out features, the Drop ALT is really just the younger brother of the CTRL—the only difference is the CTRL has 87 keys compared to the Drop’s 67. The solid aluminum frame with a built-in switch plate, dual UUSB-C connecters, and fully programmable QMK (what allows you to assign custom keybinds or micros to any key), this keyboard is easily one of the best values if you’re looking to save some cash but also stay competitive.

#7: RENPHO’s Foot Massager Machine

RENPHO

We bet you weren’t expecting that! It might seem like a joke, but trust us—it’s not. There’s no doubt i't’s important to get in the zone for an upcoming match, but it’s also healthy to relax when doing things at your desk other than competing, like reviewing highlight reels, discussing strategy, streaming (or simply browsing the web!). For that reason, a solid foot massage is what we’d recommend, as it’s not only inexpensive but also fits nicely under any gaming desk. Think of it like a little vacation for your feet (now THAT should be their slogan).

#6: Razer Kraken Tournament Edition Headset ($64.99 - ON SALE - Normally $99.99)

Razer Kraken Tournament Edition THX 7.1 Surround Sound Gaming Headset: Retractable Noise Cancelling Mic - USB DAC - For PC, PS4, PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X & S, Mobile – Black

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Now, while this obviously isn’t the Lamborghini of gaming headsets, it does come for a reputable manufacturer; between the surround sound, in-line audio controls, a mic that blocks out background noise, AND that at the time of this writing there’s a 35% discount, these bad boys will stay comfortable on your head while your communicating with your players (or taunting your opponent in the lobby!)

#5: Mad Catz The Authentic R.A.T.

Mad Catz The Authentic R.A.T. PRO X3 Gaming Mouse - Black

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Arguably one of the most important arrows in any gamers quiver is their mouse. There are too many awesome features to list out without turning this post into a novel, so you’ll either just have to trust us on this one (or click the link and check it out for yourself!).

#4: FLOPAD’s RGB Gaming Mouse Pad and Keyboard Mat

Large RGB Gaming Mouse Pad - 14 Light Modes Extended Computer Keyboard Mat with Durable Stitched Edges and Non-Slip Rubber Base, High-Performance Mouse Pad Optimized for Gamer 31.5X 11.8in

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In yet another instance where style meets comfort, this RGB-underlit keyboard mat and mouse pad are two stylish accessories that most competitive gamers wouldn’t be caught without. The mouse pad is nano-textured to ensure mouse movement translates seamlessly, and the keyboard mat touts an anti-slip base—GameStake definitely approves!

#3: A USB & USB-C Charging Station ($27.99)

Multiple USB Charger, 8-Port Desktop Charging Station with Quick Charge 3.0 USB Port, Type C Port and LCD Display for Smart Phones, Tablet and More

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The exact make & model isn’t as important in this case, just make sure whatever you go with has good reviews (and ideally one that has at least one USB-C port). It’s easy to focus only on the equipment related directly to gaming, but hey—gamers have phones they need to keep charged, too!

#2: CNLO Blue Light Blocking Glasses ($17.99)

CNLO Blue light blocking Glasses,Computer Glasses,Radiation protection Gaming Glasses,For UV Protection, Anti Eyestrain,Lightweight Frame Eyewear,Men/Women (Crystal)

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As an attractive pair with a variety of colors to choose from, these make for an excellent choice. Not everyone can afford to pony up the cost for a pair of Felix Gray’s—but that’s perfectly fine. In fact, there’s not much difference between most blue light blocking glasses out there, as a lot of it is just marketing. The important thing here is reduce your intake of blue light, especially for competitive gamers who spend a lot of time in front of the screen.

#1 Dell S2421HGF 24in FHD TN, Anti-Glare Gaming Monitor

Dell S2421HGF 24 Inch FHD TN, Anti-Glare Gaming Monitor - 1ms Response Time, 1080p 144Hz, LED Edgelight System, AMD FreeSync Premium, VESA, Gray

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This wouldn’t be a proper ‘top 10’ review without including perhaps the most important piece of hardware for Amateur gamers without giving a nod to one of the most consequential items in a player’s toolbox—the monitor. With a 1ms response time, VeSA mount, and height/tilt adjustability, this is one of Dell’s best monitors in terms of what you get for the price—it’s also one of the few items we’ve ever seen on Amazon with a full five-star review. As a competitive gamer, the FPS and response time of your monitor can often times mean the difference between a win and a loss. And at GameStake, losing is simply not a word in our vocabulary.