Peripherals

Choose and configure keyboards, mice, monitors, and audio devices.

Understanding Computer Peripherals

Computer peripherals are external devices you connect to your PC. Your keyboard lets you type, your mouse controls the cursor, your monitor displays everything you see, and speakers or headphones play sound. These input and output devices connect through USB ports, HDMI cables, audio jacks, or wireless Bluetooth. Choosing good peripherals improves your comfort, productivity, and enjoyment when using your computer for work, gaming, or entertainment.

Keyboards come in different types: membrane keyboards use rubber domes under keys, while mechanical keyboards use individual switches that feel better and last longer. Gaming mice offer high DPI sensors for precise movement and programmable buttons. Monitors vary by screen size, resolution (1080p, 1440p, 4K), refresh rate (60Hz, 144Hz, 240Hz), and panel type (IPS, TN, VA). Audio options include built-in motherboard sound, USB headsets, dedicated sound cards, or external DACs for better quality.

Why Peripherals Matter

You use peripherals every time you touch your computer. A bad keyboard causes typing fatigue and wrist pain. A cheap mouse lacks precision and feels uncomfortable after hours of use. Poor monitor quality leads to eye strain, headaches, and washed-out colors. Low-quality speakers or headphones ruin music, movies, and game audio. Webcams matter for video calls and streaming. These devices affect your daily experience more than most internal computer parts.

Good peripherals last for years and work across multiple PC upgrades. Mechanical keyboards often outlive the computers they connect to. Quality monitors provide accurate color for photo editing and design work. Gaming headsets with good microphones improve voice chat clarity. Ergonomic mice prevent repetitive strain injuries. USB hubs expand connection options. Wireless keyboards and mice reduce desk cable clutter. Investing in the right peripherals makes every computing session better.

What You'll Discover in This Section

Our peripheral guides explain keyboard layouts (full-size, TKL, 60%), mechanical switch types (Cherry MX, tactile, linear, clicky), and why some keyboards need two USB cables for RGB lighting. Learn about mouse sensors (optical vs laser), DPI settings, and polling rates. Discover monitor specs like response time, contrast ratio, color gamut, and adaptive sync (G-Sync, FreeSync). Find out if you need a dedicated sound card or if onboard audio works fine.

We cover practical topics for home offices, gaming setups, and content creation. Compare wired versus wireless peripherals, USB-A versus USB-C connections, and analog versus digital audio. Learn about dual monitor configurations, ultrawide displays, and curved screens. Understand backlit keyboards, programmable macro keys, and hotswap switches. These guides help you choose peripherals that fit your desk space, budget, and needs without wasting money on marketing hype.

60% Keyboard: How To Use Arrow Keys

60% Keyboard: How To Use Arrow Keys

Use Fn+IJKL to access arrow keys on 60% keyboards. Press Fn+I (up), Fn+K (down), Fn+J (left), Fn+L (right) for navigation without dedicated arrow keys.

Do I Need a Sound Card? The Complete Guide

Do I Need a Sound Card? The Complete Guide

Most users don't need a sound card since modern motherboards have quality integrated audio, but gamers and audio professionals may benefit from dedicated cards.

Keyboard Types and Technologies Explained

Keyboard Types and Technologies Explained

Discover the differences between membrane, mechanical, and specialized keyboards. Learn about switch types, features, and which keyboard suits your needs best.

Onboard Audio vs. A Sound Card: Key Differences

Onboard Audio vs. A Sound Card: Key Differences

Compare onboard audio vs dedicated sound cards. Learn about sound quality, design differences, features, setup complexity, and cost to make the right choice.

What Is A Computer Monitor? Types Of Monitors Explained

What Is A Computer Monitor? Types Of Monitors Explained

A monitor is a visual display device that shows graphics from your computer's GPU. Learn about different monitor types, resolutions, and features.

Why Do Keyboards Have 2 USB Ports?

Why Do Keyboards Have 2 USB Ports?

Keyboards have 2 USB ports for power requirements (RGB lighting), USB pass-through functionality, and enhanced performance. Both connectors are needed for full functionality.