It has been nearly three years since the launch of the Microsoft Xbox Series X and S, and in that time, manufacturers have wasted no time in delivering a wide range of useful Xbox accessories. Whether you need extra storage, additional controllers, or a wireless headset, there are plenty of options to enhance your gaming experience. In this article, we will recommend some must-have accessories for every Xbox gamer.
Controllers are an essential accessory for any gamer, and having a second controller on hand is always a smart move. Even if you don’t play multiplayer games often, you never know when a friend or family member might want to join in. While the stock Microsoft controller is a reliable choice, there are other options worth considering. The official Xbox Anniversary Edition gamepad, although more expensive, features a spiffy translucent design that will add a touch of style to your gaming setup. If you find yourself constantly running out of battery power, PowerA’s dual controller bay is a great solution as it comes with two AA batteries and allows you to charge your controllers in style. For dedicated Xbox gamers, Microsoft’s second-generation Elite gamepad is one of the best controllers on the market, with replaceable thumbsticks, rear buttons, and a comfortable grip. Another great option, particularly for playing older games or for PC gaming, is 8BitDo’s Pro 2 controller, known for its comfort and excellent directional pad.
Specialized controllers are also making a comeback in the gaming world. For flight simulator enthusiasts, we highly recommend Thrustmaster’s T-Flight Hotas One joystick. This compact joystick offers realistic five-axis control, 14 buttons, and a detachable throttle, making it the perfect accessory for Microsoft Flight Simulator. If you’re more into racing games, Logitech’s G923 racing wheel is a high-quality investment that will greatly enhance your racing experience with its comfortable grip, steel paddle shifters, and solid pedals. Although it comes with a hefty price tag, it’s worth it for serious racing gamers.
Storage is a crucial aspect of gaming, especially with the limited storage space on the Xbox Series X and S consoles. Luckily, Seagate offers storage expansion cards that are just as fast as the consoles’ internal SSDs. In addition to the 1TB card released at launch, Seagate has recently unveiled 512GB and 2TB options. We recommend opting for the 1TB card, but if you can afford it, the 2TB option provides even more storage. Alternatively, you can connect traditional external hard drives, such as Seagate’s 2TB Game Drive, to the Xbox Series X and S over USB. While these hard drives may not run current-gen games at full speed, they provide a cost-effective solution for storing older games and can also be used for “cold storage” to free up space on your SSD.
Sound is another crucial aspect of gaming, and investing in a wireless gaming headset can greatly enhance your gaming experience. The SteelSeries Arctis 9X is one of the best options for Xbox consoles, with its powerful drivers, comfortable fit, and sturdy build quality. These wireless headphones provide excellent sound quality, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the game without the hassle of cords.
Controlling media playback on your Xbox console can be a hassle with a controller, so 8BitDo’s Media Remotes are a great accessory to have. Available in long and short designs, these remotes are well-made and fit seamlessly with the Xbox’s clean aesthetic. They provide a convenient way to control streaming apps and 4K Blu-rays, making it easier to navigate and enjoy your media content without having to rely on a controller.
In conclusion, there is a wide range of accessories available to enhance your Xbox gaming experience. From controllers and specialized controllers to storage expansion cards, wireless headsets, and media remotes, there are plenty of options to suit every gamer’s needs. Investing in these accessories will not only improve your gameplay but also provide added convenience and comfort during your gaming sessions. So, go ahead and level up your Xbox gaming experience with these must-have accessories!