Using a controller to aim comes second-nature to a lot of players, but a tighter thumbstick results in better accuracy and finer control. If you know a competitive gamer that wants to eek out every bit of edge they can, these thumbstick adapters are perfect. They increase resistance on the thumbstick to make it easier to control. These are compatible with most all modern systems. 

Whether it’s the Steam Deck or the Nintendo Switch, handhelds need a bit of extra memory. This SanDisk 256GB memory card gives you a significant boost in storage capacity for just $20, and it would be a welcome sight in any gamer’s stocking come Christmas morning. 

There’s a pervasive idea that gaming headphones have to cost a fortune, but it’s just not true. In fact, ‘gaming’ headphones are usually beaten by real audio equipment, each and every time. That’s an area where JBL excels, and these headphones come with plus ear cups for long-term comfort, wide range compatibility with nearly every game console, and a huge soundstage to help you pick out even the most minute sounds in your favorite games. 

More like a GameCube controller than a Switch Pro Controller, this nifty controller is a fantastic gift for the Animal Crossing fan on your list. It’s described as a racoon-print, but come on: we all know it’s a racoon. Tom Nook, specifically. It’s not the most practical, but it’s so stinkin’ cute that it earns a place on the list. 

This nifty stand combines the best of both worlds. Not only does it come with storage for games, but it also has two charging ports for controllers, as well as a headphone stand. It also works to increase airflow through the PlayStation 5 for better performance. 

I love retro gaming, and if you know someone who shares that affinity, you should toss this in their stocking. It’s a Bluetooth replica of the original Sega Genesis controller and is perfect for emulating those old-school titles while capturing the feel of the hardware. 

Tired of charging only one controller at a time, especially after those long Baldur’s Gate 3 sessions? I understand. It’s a tough life when you’re on the verge of ousting a goblin encampment and your controller gives up the ghost. This dual charging stand makes it possible to keep two controllers charged at once, either as a backup for when your main one goes out, or so that you and someone special can fly through coop content together. 

No one likes fiddling with wires, and no one wants a faulty mouse that will make them miss the game-winning shot. The Logitech G305 is a budget-friendly pick that is adjustable, has a whopping 250 hour battery life— enough to keep them going throughout even the most intense gaming binge — and six programmable buttons that can be mapped to any command they need. 

PowerA is a great brand for third-party controller (and so much better than MadKatz devices ever were). Aside from that, they emulate the actual controllers extremely well, often with fun color variants you can’t find anywhere else. This one is just $35 (down from $45) and is a great alternative to buying an official controller. It’s also wired, so you never have to worry about batteries. 

The Meta Quest 2 is a fantastic experience, but the default headstrap is less than comfortable — and that’s putting it mildly. This replacement strap better distributes weight and even includes a balanced container for a spare battery to extend your dives into virtual reality, all without being a literal pain in the neck.