October Extreme Gaming PC Buyer's Guide - Page 6

Mouse: Logitech G5 Laser Mouse

Cost: $55
Months on list: New
Price Change: N/A

The way you interact with a computer is one of the most important components of the PC gaming experience. We place particular emphasis on our input devices here at SE, which is why we are recommending the brand-new Logitech G5 Laser Mouse. This mouse is geared toward the gamer, as it has an incredibly fine 2000 dip laser sensor, full-speed USB support, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) mouse feet, on-the-fly sensitivity switching, and comes with a set of adjustable weights. The G5 is one of the most impressive mice we have ever seen, and is currently the best gaming mouse on the market. The Logitech G5 Laser Mouse is backed by a 3-year warranty, and can be found for about $55 online.

Make sure you choose an appropriate mousing surface when using any optical mouse, as these work best on dark non-solid color surfaces. Some of the best mouse pads currently on the market are those from fUnc, Ratpadz, and Everglide, and any serious gamer will want to take a look at those pads for one that might fit your tastes.

Keyboard: Microsoft Multimedia Natural Keyboard OEM

Cost: $22
Months on list: 10
Price Change: +$1

Here at SE we have been using split design keyboards for years, which is why they have made their way into our guides for so long. Currently, our favorite split design keyboard is the Microsoft Multimedia Natural Keyboard as it is a very solid and economical keyboard that is built to last. The OEM version of the keyboard can be found for about $22 with a qualifying hardware purchase.

The Multimedia version of the Microsoft Natural Keyboard offers a number of additional, and sometimes useful, multimedia function keys. These are used for accessing and controlling tasks such as windows media player and audio volume, along with launching mail, web and instant messaging programs.

For those who are not interested in split design keyboards, we recommend the Microsoft Digital Media Pro Keyboard. This keyboard has all the same functions and features as the basic Microsoft Multimedia keyboard it replaced, but adds a few new wrinkles such as a zoom slider, additional customizable buttons and an eye-catching design. Priced at only a few dollars more than the Multimedia Natural Keyboard, it is a real bargain for those of you who prefer traditional keyboards.

Gamepad: Saitek P3000 Wireless Pad & Docking Station

Cost: $31
Months on list: 10
Price Change: $0

These days, many hardcore gamers have little use for a gamepad; however, we find that they can still come in handy every now and then. Racing and sports games are designed with a control pad in mind, so it makes sense to invest in one if frequently play those types of games. While the current PC controller market is quite poor, there are still a still a few gems that really stand out. Take for instance the Saitek P3000, which has been included in this guide for the past seven months. The controller allows for unprecedented wireless freedom, and has performance that can match the best of the console world, not to mention it is extremely comfy in your hands.

The P3000 Wireless ships with two battery packs, and has its own docking station that recharges it when not in use. Currently you can find this controller online for about $31, not a bad price to pay, even if you only use it for the occasional racing game.