Input Devices & Gaming
Input Devices
I’m a sucker for cool input devices. Because they’re the interface to the world we deal with every day (assuming you’re in front of the computer a lot), why not get some peripherals that will make your life easier or a bit more fun? There are a lot of devices out there, but here are some of the ones that have caught my eye.
The Gyration mouse can be used in the air or on a surface. It totally liberated me from a keyboard on my HTPC and with a 30ft radio frequency range, you can hide your computer away and tidy up your livingroom! For more information, read our review of the Gyration UltraGT here. Lowest price at time of publishing: $68.59 | |
Gyration also makes a Media Center remote control with navigational buttons and quick keys. Lowest price at time of publishing: $125.00 | |
The Logitech MX510 is an amazing product. While it’s the choice for many gamers, it’s also a great mouse for desktop applications. The quick switch button and the scroll buttons help quickly navigate windows and programs. Lowest price at time of publishing: $29.99 | |
If optical technology is too retro for you, then perhaps the Logitech MX1000 will pique your interest. It uses a laser instead of an optical sensor for finer mousing resolution. The response has been pretty positive and seems well suited for gaming too. Lowest price at time of publishing: $63.96 | |
For the ultimate geek input toy, you have to get the Logitech DiNovo Bluetooth keyboard and mouse. The coolest component is the Media Pad which allows you wireless control over your media desktop, and even scrolls emails and instant messages across its LCD display. Lowest price at time of publishing: $147.00 |
Gaming & Gaming Devices
What’s the use of a computer if you can’t kick back and enjoy it with a game once in a while? Here we look at some stuff for the gamer on your gift list.
There are some big games being released for this Holiday Season and if you’re a frequent reader of our Gaming Forum, you already know which two titles top the list. Halo 2 and Half-Life 2 have totally eclipsed all other game releases in recent weeks and they should be the first games to buy as a gift. But there’s a good chance they may already own it, so here’s a list of some other great games that snuck in under the radar while Halo and Half-Life hogged the spotlight. | |
If you’re looking for something to help your gaming, perhaps you should look into the Logitech MX510. It looks sexy in dark blue or red and comes with handy special buttons. The resolution is very fine and has helped my game (well I can’t blame the mouse any more). Lowest price at time of publishing: $29.99 | |
There is also the Razer Viper with an amazing 7200DPI. It may fit your hand better than the MX510, so best to try them both out before deciding. Lowest price at time of publishing: $36.15 | |
To keep things affordable, the Saitek P880 dual-analog controller is a great gift for the gamer without breaking a budget. Any self-respecting FPS gamer won’t be caught dead with one of these in their hands, but if you play sports, driving, and even simulators then this is a great solution. Lowest price at time of publishing: $15.86 | |
After many, many posts in our Gaming forum, it would appear that the fUnc Surface is one of the more popular mousing surfacing for gamers. Our forum members report it to be very durable and always slick. It’s a great gift and doesn’t cost a lot! Price @ NewEgg at time of publishing: $19.00 |