13 Essential Gaming Accessories Every Gamer Will Need in 2026

9. Streamer Essentials: Microphone, Webcam, and Capture Card

If you stream or create clips, audio quality matters first—viewers will forgive a shaky camera more than muffled voice. A dedicated USB or XLR microphone with cardioid pickup will reduce background noise and elevate your broadcasts. Pair that with a clean webcam; if you stream console gameplay, an external capture card makes the difference between lag and professional output. Capture cards also let you record high-quality footage for highlights and clips. Expect quality mics from $80 on up to several hundred dollars for XLR rigs (which need an interface). External capture cards range $100–$250. For console streamers, a reliable capture workflow reduces CPU load and keeps streams stable. Also invest in a mic arm, pop filter, and a simple acoustic treatment—these low-cost additions dramatically improve recorded sound clarity without expensive studios.