Tag: mice

USB-C for laptops from today, can we do smartwatches next.

New laptops sold in the European Union must now support USB-C charging, as the final major phase of the EU’s common charger rules takes effect. If you recall USB-C was made mandatory back not so long ago for mobile phones etc and I would personally like the same for same for smartwatches and fitness trackers next and ditching their docking stations and proprietary chargers which are a nuisance.

The requirement applies to laptops from today the 28th April, extending rules that have already applied to mobile phones, tablets, digital cameras, headphones, headsets, portable speakers, handheld videogame consoles, e-readers, earbuds, keyboards, mice and portable navigation systems since December 2024.

This does not mean your current power cables at home will work on new ones if you do not get a charger in the box which will be more likely the case making it an add on sale but we will soon see how that works out as of now we barely get the cable with the phone today and no plug

Also to note just because you have a USB-C cable at home it will work it most likely will not if it is just a bog standard one you need to check the voltagle and the plug.

Best Tech and Gaming Gadgets Every Gamer Should Own

Gaming has evolved far beyond simple consoles and controllers. Today’s gamers have access to an incredible range of technology designed to enhance gameplay, improve comfort, and create immersive experiences. From advanced headsets to smart lighting systems, the right gadgets can transform an ordinary gaming session into a truly engaging environment. Just as players often explore guides like a GameZone Slots Strategy to improve their understanding of digital entertainment mechanics, modern gamers also look for the best technology to sharpen their skills and elevate their setups.

Whether you are a casual player or a dedicated enthusiast, investing in the right gaming gadgets can significantly improve your experience.

High-Performance Gaming Headsets

A quality gaming headset is one of the most essential accessories for any gamer. Sound plays a critical role in gameplay, particularly in competitive titles where audio cues can determine victory or defeat.

Modern gaming headsets offer features such as:

  • Surround sound technology for spatial awareness

  • Noise-canceling microphones for clear communication

  • Comfortable ear cushions for extended sessions

  • Wireless connectivity for flexibility

With these features, players can hear footsteps, environmental sounds, and team communications with greater clarity. This not only improves performance but also enhances immersion in story-driven games.

Mechanical Gaming Keyboards

Mechanical keyboards have become a staple in the gaming community. Unlike traditional membrane keyboards, mechanical models use individual switches under each key, providing faster response times and tactile feedback.

Many gaming keyboards also include customizable RGB lighting, programmable macro keys, and durable materials designed to withstand intense gameplay. For competitive gamers, these features allow greater precision and personalization.

Mechanical keyboards also tend to last longer, making them a reliable investment for serious players.

Precision Gaming Mice

A high-quality gaming mouse is another must-have gadget. Precision and responsiveness are crucial, especially in fast-paced genres like first-person shooters and real-time strategy games.

Modern gaming mice often include:

  • Adjustable DPI settings for sensitivity control

  • Programmable buttons for custom commands

  • Ergonomic designs to reduce hand fatigue

  • Lightweight construction for faster movements

Some advanced models even allow players to adjust weight distribution or create multiple profiles for different games.

Gaming Chairs for Comfort and Health

Long gaming sessions can strain the body, particularly the back and neck. A well-designed gaming chair provides ergonomic support that helps maintain proper posture.

Most gaming chairs feature:

  • Adjustable armrests

  • Lumbar and neck support cushions

  • Reclining mechanisms

  • Durable materials for long-term use

Comfort is not just about luxury—it also improves concentration and endurance during extended play.

High-Resolution Gaming Monitors

A high-quality monitor can dramatically change the way games look and feel. Gaming monitors often offer higher refresh rates and lower response times compared to standard displays.

Features to look for include:

  • Refresh rates of 144Hz or higher

  • Adaptive sync technologies like G-Sync or FreeSync

  • Low input lag

  • High-resolution displays such as 1440p or 4K

These specifications ensure smoother gameplay and sharper visuals, giving players a competitive edge while enhancing visual immersion.

Smart RGB Lighting Systems

Lighting plays an important role in creating the perfect gaming atmosphere. RGB lighting systems allow players to customize the color and intensity of lights around their gaming space.

Many systems can synchronize with games, music, or on-screen events. For example, lights may change color during intense moments in gameplay, adding a dynamic element to the environment.

Smart lighting can also reduce eye strain by providing ambient light that balances the brightness of the monitor.

External Storage for Expanding Game Libraries

Modern games require significant storage space. High-resolution textures, updates, and downloadable content can quickly fill up a console or PC’s internal storage.

External solid-state drives (SSDs) provide fast and convenient storage expansion. Compared to traditional hard drives, SSDs offer faster load times and improved system performance.

For gamers who maintain large libraries of titles, external storage ensures that favorite games remain easily accessible.

Streaming Equipment for Content Creators

Gaming has expanded beyond playing—it now includes streaming and content creation. Many gamers share gameplay experiences on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, or other streaming services.

Essential streaming gadgets include:

  • High-definition webcams

  • Dedicated microphones for clear audio

  • Capture cards for recording gameplay

  • Stream decks for controlling broadcasts

These tools help creators produce professional-quality content while interacting with audiences in real time.

Virtual Reality Gaming Gear

Virtual reality (VR) represents one of the most exciting developments in gaming technology. VR headsets immerse players directly into virtual environments, allowing them to interact with digital worlds in entirely new ways.

VR systems typically include motion controllers, sensors, and high-resolution displays that track movement with precision. The result is an experience that feels far more immersive than traditional screen-based gaming.

Although VR technology continues to evolve, it already offers unique opportunities for exploration, fitness gaming, and interactive storytelling.

Cooling Systems for Gaming Hardware

Powerful gaming systems generate significant heat, especially during demanding gameplay sessions. Proper cooling solutions help maintain optimal performance and prevent hardware damage.

Cooling gadgets include:

  • Laptop cooling pads

  • Advanced PC cooling fans

  • Liquid cooling systems

  • Console cooling stands

By keeping hardware temperatures under control, gamers ensure their systems run smoothly and efficiently.

The Importance of a Personalized Gaming Setup

Every gamer has different preferences, which is why customization plays a major role in modern gaming setups. Some players prioritize competitive performance, while others focus on immersive storytelling or content creation.

The right combination of gadgets allows players to design a setup that suits their needs. For example, competitive gamers may invest heavily in high-refresh-rate monitors and precision peripherals, while streamers may prioritize cameras and microphones.

Personalizing a gaming environment also increases enjoyment and motivation. A well-organized and visually appealing setup can make gaming sessions more comfortable and engaging.

 

SteeleSeries Valentines offers for the gamer in your life

Valentine’s Day is almost here, and gaming should could and can be at the heart of every great relationship, whether that’s for couples, roommates, friends, or just showing yourself a little self-love. From 6th-14th February, SteelSeries.com will be offering a buy one, get one 40% off on all products excluding Arctis Nova Elite & Arctis Nova 7 Gen 2.
Here are some strong SteelSeries picks that make it easy to treat someone (including yourself) this year, whether you prefer some cozy couch co-op or side-by-side PC battle stations:
Check out some of the offers below..
  • Arctis Gamebuds: Toggle between your phone and your console with these comfortably designed in-ear headphones. We have a review coming for these soon and they are fantastic 
  • Arctis Nova Pro Wireless: Enjoy the premium audio experience with SteelSeries’ signature, award-winning headset! 
  • Arctis Nova 3 Wireless: Available in multiple new colourways, meet the budget, lightweight king/queen with presets for over 200 games including Call of Duty, Fortnite and even Arc Raiders in the Arctis App and GG software.
  • Rival 3 Gen 2 Wireless: Available in multiple new colourways, meet the next-generation gaming mouse with subtle RGB lighting and pro-level performance at an affordable price.

SteelSeries reviews

CHERRY shortlisted at PCR Awards 2025

CHERRY has been shortlisted for Gaming Peripherals Vendor of the Year at the PCR Awards 2025 for its XTRFY range of performance-focused keyboards, mice and headsets.

The Gaming Peripherals Vendor of the Year category honours brands that have had a significant impact on gaming through innovation, performance and market presence.

The ceremony will take place on 24th September at The Brewery in London, bringing together leading names within the tech industry.

The CHERRY XTRFY line combines CHERRY’s expertise in mechanical switch engineering with XTRFY’s esports-driven innovation. The brand continues to redefine what gaming gear can be, from collaborating with professional players to co-developing enthusiast-grade technology.

In the past year, CHERRY has launched a range of products, including the MX Northern Lights Switch, the IK Magnetic Switch, the H3 Wireless Headset, the MX 8.3 TKL Wireless Keyboard and the KW 300 and 300W MX keyboards, which are CHERRY’s first hot-swappable models designed for productivity users.

CHERRY XTRFY products are now available both online and in Curry’s stores across the UK.

Recent collaborations with gaming enthusiasts have reinforced CHERRY XTRFY’s presence within competitive gaming. The brand’s first wireless gaming headset was recently endorsed by Counter-Strike legend Emil “HeatoN” Christensen, who praised it as “perfect for FPS games” with standout directional audio.

As the brand expands its presence across retail and esports, the PCR Awards recognition highlights CHERRY XTRFY’s role in shaping the future of gaming peripherals.

Robin Bithrey, Channel Marketing Manager at CHERRY Europe said: “We’re proud to be shortlisted for this award. At CHERRY, we’re gamers ourselves, and that passion fuels everything we create. From working closely with eSports pros to obsessing over the tiniest design details, our mission is to help every player get the most out of their game. Recognition like this tells us we’re on the right path.”

SteelSeries Unveils Rival 3 Gen 2 and Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2

On the road to glory and the brand’s 25th anniversary in 2026, SteelSeries, the global leader in premium gaming and esports peripherals, today unveiled the Rival 3 Gen 2 and Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 gaming mice. Building on the legacy of the original Rival mice, which debuted in 2013, the new generation of mice marks an evolution of the beloved Rival 3 Series, delivering top-tier speed, all-new performance, and durability at an accessible price point in the “affordable luxury” category.
The award-winning Rival Series mice have been the staple gaming peripheral for players entering the PC gaming arena for the first time, making them true ‘game-changers.’ Crafted for versatility and durability, the Rival 3 Gen 2 and Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 are the marathon performers in the world of gaming mice, offering a battle-tested design powered by precision-engineered mechanical switches that are guaranteed for 60 million clicks. Speed is key, and an ultra-optimized 1.35ms (wired) and 1.9ms (wireless) click latency, combined with fast TrueMove Optical Sensors that have been co-developed in collaboration with PixArt, plus 100% PTFE feet for ultimate glide, deliver near-instant responsiveness for lightning-fast reactions and pixel-perfect accuracy.
RIVAL 3 GEN 2 SERIES
The Rival 3 Gen 2 Series gaming mice are engineered for superfast performance, featuring ultra-optimized click latency of just 1.35ms. This ensures near-instant responsiveness for lightning-fast reactions, allowing gamers to outperform the competition. Additionally, a True Move Core 8,500 DPI optical sensor ensures precision and accuracy with every glide.
Durability and endurance are hallmarks of the Rival 3 Gen 2 Series, with 60 million clicks guaranteed. Weighing in at 77g (95-106g for the wireless version), the battle-tested design of the Rival 3 promises long-lasting performance, ensuring reliability for years to come.
The Rival 3 Gen 2 places a strong emphasis on style, featuring a 360° enhanced underglow powered by SteelSeries Prism lighting technology.
RIVAL 3 GEN 2 WIRELESS SERIES
In addition to all the key features of the Rival 3 Gen 2 wired mouse, the Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 introduces substantial enhancements with the True Move Air 18k DPI optical sensor, delivering exceptional in-game execution for both flicks and drags. Coupled with a maximum acceleration of 40g and ultra-optimized click latency of just 1.9ms, players can experience best-in-class performance.
Quantum 2.0 Dual Wireless technology is yet another benefit for players, providing a wide array of flexibility with a USB dongle for gaming-grade wireless connectivity along with Bluetooth 5.0. This enables connectivity to a wide array of devices, enhancing the overall versatility and convenience, and is ideal for those switching between work and play.
To prevent those inconvenient interruptions, the battery life of the Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 has been significantly extended, offering 45 to 200 hours on 2.4GHz and up to 450 hours with Bluetooth. This allows gamers to enjoy many months of uninterrupted play without the need for frequent battery replacements. The mouse operates on a single AAA battery and is compatible with rechargeable options, achieving a reasonable weight reduction while maintaining the full Rival feel. This ensures the Rival 3 Gen 2 Wireless mouse remains efficient, durable, and lightweight for extended gaming sessions.
Additionally, gamers can now add a splash of color to their setups with new vibrant color options, including aqua, lavender, and white, alongside the classic black colorway.
Available at SteelSeries.com and retailers around the world, the Rival 3 Gen 2 and Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 are available for the following MSRPs:
  • Rival 3 Gen 2 – US $34.99 | EMEA €39.99 | UK £34.99 | APAC $39.99
  • Rival 3 Wireless Gen 2 – US $59.99 | EMEA €59.99 | UK £54.99 | APAC $59.99

Reviews from SteelSeries

ENDORFY – A new European brand on the international technology stage

Cooling, the owner of SPC Gear and SilentiumPC, has today introduced its new global brand – ENDORFY – to the world. The move is as a result of international business expansion and the broadening of the target audience. ENDORFY goes beyond the gaming sector, wanting to reach all modern technology fans with both its message and products you will see some reviews soon here on techbuzzireland so stay tuned.

The creation of the ENDORFY brand is a response to the dynamically changing nature of the technology market. It is also a long-term investment in securing the company’s path towards further growth on the global market. Cooling has created a single and powerful brand that follows modern communication trends, meeting the demands of global consumers, as well as establishing itself across the technology market.

“After the success on local markets, the next natural step for us is further expansion,” says Łukasz Zdziech, CEO of Cooling. He goes on to say, “Our company constantly strives to develop both the quality of offered products and the range of operations. We have already noted promising results on several foreign markets, e.g. in the Czech Republic and Germany. However, the time has come to significantly increase the scale of our operations. We will be present in nearly all of Europe, and in the future, all over the world. We want to compete with the biggest companies in the industry.”

The formation of the brand is also the result of an expanded target audience. ENDORFY provides its products to all types of technology users. Their communication reaches far beyond just the gaming industry. “We originate from the gaming world, and we will always acknowledge this. Nevertheless, our audience has long since shifted from being exclusively gamers. They are also content creators, such as streamers, podcasters, writers or casual users, who do not need to play games at all to enjoy technology,” explains Łukasz Zdziech. Following this he states, “In response to these dynamic changes, we decided to adapt the brand to be relevant to both our gaming audience and those who do not come from the world of gaming. We want to be a brand associated with positive emotions delivered by technology.”

ENDORFY is a brand for everyone who wants to have fun using technology. This close, almost collegial relationship between the company and its audience is at the heart of ENDORFY’s creation, and the entire vision behind the new Cooling brand.

 

“During the design development of ENDORFY, we wondered what all our extremely diverse customer groups had in common. We finally found the answer. It’s the emotions they experience through technology,” adds Jacek Serwański, Cooling’s Marketing Director. He then says, “It is the joy of winning a match in a game, or the pride when you show your friends your self-built PC. It is also a moment of unwinding after a long day with your favourite music playing in your headphones. These small moments are very precious to us, because although they are characterised by great individuality, they actually bring all technology users together.”

The brand has also ensured that its visual communication stands out from the crowd. ENDORFY’s image is based on a unique colour palette. It is not used by any entity known in the industry. The two main colours are yellow and blue, supported by black, white and various shades of grey. “We pay a lot of attention to details, which can be seen for example, in the packaging boxes

we designed for ENDORFY,” explains Jacek Serwański. He states, “The white box immediately stands out on the shop shelf, where black usually dominates in the technology department. On the box, we show the product from almost every angle. This allows the customer to see what they are buying even without opening the packaging.”

Key products that will be available as early as the 5th of October 2022:

 

  • Navis F280 Cooling System – ensuring silent operation with no fan noise
  • Solum Studio & Solum Broadcast Microphones – a solution that provides clear sound and ultimate comfort during long hours of recording
  • Wireless Thock Compact Keyboard Series – allowing you to forget about tangled cables and focus on your tasks
  • GEM and GEM Plus Mice in the “Onyx White” colour – combining incredible accuracy and original design with a unique colour scheme

The history of Cooling began in 1993, when Zbigniew Zdziech founded a company that sold computer accessories. Ten years later, the company began offering its products online, and in 2007, the manufacturer created its first brand, SilentiumPC, which produced fans. The brand quickly expanded, and went on to offer PC cases, air coolers, and power supplies as early as 2012. Another breakthrough came in 2016, when the company decided to also target the computer accessories and peripherals market, launching its second brand, SPC Gear. The new brand’s first product was a high-quality gaming chair, followed by two series of gaming keyboards, a streaming microphone, an ultra-light mouse, and the “VIRO” headphones, which became a huge sales success. The company currently holds a leading position on the Polish market in the sales segments of PC cases, power supplies, and air cooling, and the SPC Gear VIRO headphones continuously hold first place on the sales charts.