Reviews and buying guides
Buying guides for PC games and gaming gear
SteelGames is a veteran-owned site that helps PC players pay less and buy the right thing. Our gear guides collect picks from published reviews by outlets such as Tom's Hardware, PC Gamer and TechRadar, add plain-language advice on how to choose, and say clearly when we have not tested something ourselves. Our game guides use live prices from stores and show the lowest price we can find. Read how it works on the About page.
Gear buying guides
Each guide explains what matters at the price, then lists the picks reviewers recommend. Prices change, so check the store page before you buy.
Budget mouse, keyboard and headset
One pick of each from the lists reviewers keep recommending, for a solid desk without overspending.
Read the guideBudget gaming desk setup
A full parts list: monitor, keyboard, mouse, headset, mic and controller.
Read the guideBest budget gaming mouse
Wireless mice reviewers recommend, plus how to match size, grip and weight to your hand.
Read the guideBest budget mechanical keyboards
Wired boards from published tested picks, and what switches, layout and hot-swap mean.
Read the guideWireless mechanical keyboards under $70
Tri-mode 75% boards and what to check about connection modes and battery.
Read the guideGaming headset under $50
Wired value picks, and how to judge comfort, plugs and microphones.
Read the guideGaming headset under $100
A light wireless pick and a wired value pick, with a guide to wireless types.
Read the guideUSB microphone for streaming
Budget microphones from tested picks, and how to choose between condenser and dynamic.
Read the guideGaming monitor under $200
Budget panels from 1080p 144 Hz to 1440p, and how to read refresh rate and panel type.
Read the guideBest budget PC controller
A well-reviewed budget pad, plus what to check for compatibility and stick drift.
Read the guideGaming gifts under $50
Gift ideas at or under about $50 for PC players.
Read the guidePC game buying guides
Practical answers to the questions players ask before spending money on a game: where to buy, when to wait, and how to avoid fake discounts.
Best PC games under $5
Well-reviewed games at the lowest current prices, and how to tell a cheap game worth playing.
Read the guideBest PC games under $10
Eight well-reviewed picks with lowest-price links.
Read the guideReal sale or fake sale?
Check price history, ignore inflated list prices and know the refund rules.
Read the guideSteam vs Epic vs GOG
Refund rules, DRM and free games compared.
Read the guideAre cheap game keys safe?
Authorized stores versus key marketplaces, with a checklist.
Read the guideHow to track game prices
Wishlists, price history and a buy-or-wait rule.
Read the guidePre-order or wait?
How launch prices drop and when pre-ordering makes sense.
Read the guideFree PC games, legally
Epic giveaways, Prime Gaming and Steam free promos.
Read the guideBlack Friday 2026 game deals
Dates and how to shop smart.
Read the guideSteam Winter Sale 2026
Dates and how to spot a real discount.
Read the guide