PC and console gamers alike know that a good gaming setup can make all the difference in terms of performance and overall enjoyment. Not to mention some of today’s video game setups are truly remarkable: fully immersive, well-designed environments, with ample space for both work and play.
As you might suspect, video gaming setups vary based on use. PC gamers have very different needs than console gamers; casual gamers have very different needs than hardcore gamers; streamers have different needs than content creators, etc. It can get complicated quickly.
Below, we’ll cover the basic setup for beginning gamers who are interested in acquiring the right pieces for success.
So, if you’re relatively new to gaming and think that you’d like to create a beginner gaming setup, you’re in the right spot. Keep reading to learn how to choose the gaming setup option that best fits your gaming style, overall budget, and gaming room dimensions, and provide some shopping tips. Noob no more; you’re ready for the big leagues now.
Tip One: Choose the Right Gaming Desk
We hear it all the time: What is the best computer desk for gaming? Or, for people who are slightly tighter on space: What is the best computer desk setup for gaming and work? Folks also want to know: How can one choose the best gaming desk? And of course: What size of a normal gaming desk should I get?
If you’re struggling with answering those or similar questions, you are not alone. It’s hard to pick out the right gaming desk – and it’s an expensive and annoying mistake if you choose wrong. Below are a few key features to focus on and help narrow down the choices.
- Ergonomics: Make sure the desk has an adjustable height option for maximum comfort, regardless of it’s a standing desk or not.
- Shape: Choose between a standard, U-shaped or an L-shaped desk, depending on the available space, amount of peripherals you have, and budget.
- Durability: The more stuff you want on your desk, the sturdier it needs to be. Look for a desk made from high-quality materials (like tempered glass, steel, or engineered wood).
- Cable management: Avoid the clutter and mess of disorganized cables by buying a desk with a built-in cable management system. If that’s not in the budget, search online for tips on how to DIY or buy an off-the-shelf solutions.
- Storage: Some desks come with loads of storage options – shelves, racks, drawers, hooks, cup holders, you get the picture. Others are a bit more minimalist. Consider the bulk of what you’ve got – and what you plan to get. No need to invest in a giant desk with all the bells and whistles if you aren’t planning on acquiring a load of peripherals or gaming monitors.
At the end of the day, the more gear and accessories you’ve got – the more desk space you need to keep everything well-organized and tidy.
Check online forums and read reviews before you purchase a video game desk to avoid any “gotchas.” And remember: you can always start small and build, especially with modular options.
Tip Two: Pick Your Monitor Size and Mount Wisely
We’re not going to get into the technical details of which type of monitor to get beyond saying you’ll definitely want one with a high refresh rate and low response time. What we are going to focus on is how to pick your monitor size and whether or not to use wall mounts or monitor stands.
When it comes to picking monitor size, you first want to think about how far back you’re going to sit or stand from the monitor. According to Dell, “24-inch monitors are best if you are sitting less than 3 feet from the screen, while 27-inch displays work best when sitting 3 to 4 feet away.”
You’ll also want to consider the display resolution (pixels per inch or PPI). The higher the PPI, the clearer the image. Generally, 24-inch monitor looks best at 1080 PPI and a 27-inch looks best at 1440 PPI.
You then need to decide how you want to mount the monitor. How you mount the monitor really depends on how you want to use your setup. Wall mounts save desk space but can cost a lot and be a bit of a pain to install. Monitor stands are great for gamers who also want to work from their gaming setup, and who don’t feel like busting out the drill and level quite yet.
Tip 3: Select the Right Gaming Chair
A quality gaming chair is the key to long sessions. Gamers need both comfort and support to play at their best. The best advice we can give is to find one with plenty of flexibility so you can find the best fit based on your playing style and body type. Make sure any chair you consider is as adjustable as possible (armrests, head rest, chair height, etc.) to reduce neck and back pain.
Although we love buying most things online, a gaming chair is one purchase that should be done in person if possible. Give yourself plenty of time to sit in all the available options before you commit to one. Once you get the chair home, take the time to read the instructions and size it correctly to yourself. A few minutes on the front end might save some aches in your back end.
Tip 4: Make Your Space Unique – Shop Storage
If you’re asking yourself, “What can I add to my gaming setup to make it unique?” – we’ve got one tip: shop your storage. You might find some LED strips, task, or holiday lighting that would add an awesome ambiance to your gaming setup. You might even rediscover an old desk or table that could be retrofitted to a gaming desk. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Shopping from your storage is also the most earth-friendly, budget-friendly, and best-organized gaming setup option. Do your research to figure out clever ways to use what you’ve got – for whatever you need. Don’t feel like you have to spend tons of money on your setup from the start. Wait to see how you use it – and then figure out how you could use it better – and go from there.
We hope we’ve given you enough basic information to get started. For even more info on the subject, check out this comprehensive guide to building a beginner gaming setup.
