In 2021, the viewing market of online gaming has reached an eyebrow-raising 474 million global viewers. So, as a gamer, wouldn’t you want to be performing at your best if you knew millions were going to be watching you and your vengeful opponents? HomeLinkd’s gaming guide gives you the low-down on the best internet for gaming, the top gaming accessories, and our tips to get the edge on your opponents.
What’s important for online gaming?
You may be expecting us to suggest that a new, high-tech gadget that’s just hit the gaming market is the most important aspect of online gaming —but the answer is quite simple: High-speed, reliable internet. You could have all the tech and toys a gamer could ask for, but if your internet connection is experiencing lagging and high latency, it’s the difference between a win and loss.
Best gaming internet
Out of all the options available at your fingertips, fiber optic internet is certainly the top choice for gamer internet. While it’s usually measured in gigabits instead of megabits, fiber offers one of the highest internet speeds for gaming. And, one gigabit is equivalent to 1,000 megabits!
Fiber also guarantees consistency with upload and download speeds, meaning the data you send and receive while gaming is delivered with the same speed.
In addition, fiber moves data to and from your server up to 20x faster than WiFi, making high latency and lagging a problem only the losers must face. Want to find out what the ideal gaming internet speeds are?
Ideal internet speeds for gaming
For competitive gaming like Fortnite, Overwatch or Rocket League, we recommend you begin your gamer internet standard at a minimum of 50-100Mbps. Anything less than 20Mbps may result in lagging or rubber banding (a gaming term used to describe random, jerky movements in a multiplayer game because of slow internet.) HomeLinkd has several fiber packages on offer from various internet service providers to help you climb the gaming ladder.
5 of the best accessories for online gaming right now
1. A game-changing headset
A quality headset for multiplayer gaming is a must. The HyperX Cloud Revolver headset has an over-the-ear design with true stereo sound and simulated surround sound. You’ll be able to hear the enemies from a mile away while sitting in the comfort of your bedroom.
2. A high-resolution monitor
Millions are spent on the graphics for competitive gamers, so why not fully enjoy it? Elevate the gaming experience by investing in a high-resolution monitor. Make sure to get a monitor that has a 1 millisecond response time so there is no lag between what you’re doing on your console or keyboard — and what you’re seeing onscreen.
3. An ergonomic gaming mouse
This is something true gaming fanatics are going to drool over. One of the most exciting gaming tools on the market is the Logitech G502 ergonomic mouse. It has a 25,600 dots-per-inch optical sensor to track your every move; 11 programmable buttons for various profiles for different games; and the ability to change the physical weight of the mouse to improve your gaming performance.
4. A gaming desk
Up the ante with a designer gaming desk! The Mr Ironstone gaming desk is built for long hours and sweet victories: Offering a metal frame with a cast iron tabletop; a curved front for close-up viewing; built-in sockets with USB ports and outlets; a hook for your headset and a cup holder.
5. An HD webcam
Show your winning face with a 4K HD webcam from Logitech. It has 5x digital zoom and can be used for gaming, video chatting, Zoom meetings and more. In addition, it is compatible with Mac OS, Windows 7 and up, Chrome OS and Cisco. Clip it onto your laptop and PC and get your game face on.
How to create the perfect online gaming set-up
Looking to get a competitive edge on your gaming opponents? Even the smallest improvement in your home network set-up could make a difference.
Reset the modem or router
Before entering a battle, reset the modem or router and ensure that it is up to date with the latest firmware. You can check the manufacturer’s website to see if there have been updates and how to do it manually.
Run a speed test
Run a quick speed test, and if your upload and download speeds are looking low, make sure to contact your service provider. They may be throttling your bandwidth, which will certainly result in high latency and lagging.
Upgrade your router
Using a router that’s fit for multiplayer gaming versus the average router for internet browsing will add a couple points to your gaming performance. Coupled with a quality fiber package, you’ll be good to go.
Set up Quality of Service (QoS)
Nowadays, most routers have the ability to set up QoS. This setting allows the router to specifically identify gaming data as it transfers back and forth. You can set up your router to prioritize gaming traffic over other kinds of traffic like Netflix, email or social media browsing.
Get the best gaming internet with HomeLinkd
Before jetting off to get your accessories, make sure the basics –like your fiber connection —are covered first. HomeLinkd has several fiber packages from some of the best service providers in the US, making your choice an informed, quality one, fit for your gaming needs.
Compare and choose the best gaming internet from HomeLinkd!