8 Must-Have Gaming Accessories Before Tariffs Hit
▼ Summary
– The Trump Administration’s tariffs on global trading partners are paused until July 8, with higher tariffs against China paused until August 12.
– Tariffs have already impacted gaming hardware and accessory manufacturers, leading to price increases or halted shipments to the U.S.
– Gaming accessories like headsets, controllers, and monitors, often manufactured in China, are likely to see price hikes when tariffs resume.
– Amazon Prime Day (July 8-11, 2025) offers a final major sale opportunity before tariffs take effect in August.
– Key gaming accessories to consider buying now include headsets, controllers, chairs, monitors, keyboards, mice, microphones, and soundbars.
With potential tariff increases looming, now is the ideal time to upgrade your gaming setup before prices rise. The current pause on import taxes gives gamers a narrow window to secure high-quality accessories at today’s rates. Industry analysts predict significant price hikes once tariffs resume, particularly on electronics manufactured overseas. Here are eight essential gaming upgrades worth considering before costs escalate.
Headsets remain a cornerstone of competitive gaming, offering crisp audio and clear communication. Wireless models provide freedom of movement, though wired alternatives often deliver lower latency. Brands like SteelSeries and HyperX dominate this space, but with most production based in China, their products could see notable price jumps soon.
Controllers have already felt the ripple effects of trade policies. Microsoft and Nintendo recently adjusted accessory pricing, signaling broader market shifts. While standard Xbox controllers remain stable for now, third-party and specialty models may become pricier. The PS5 DualSense Edge and Xbox Elite Series 2 stand out as premium options worth grabbing before tariffs take hold.
A proper gaming chair transforms marathon sessions from painful to pleasant. Ergonomics matter just as much as aesthetics—whether you prefer understated designs or bold racing-style seats. Brands like Secretlab rely heavily on Chinese manufacturing, making early purchases a smart move.
For PC enthusiasts, monitors are non-negotiable. High refresh rates and adaptive sync technologies like G-Sync or FreeSync eliminate screen tearing, while ultrawide panels enhance immersion. Though some brands have diversified production to Vietnam, tariffs could still disrupt supply chains and inflate costs.
Mechanical keyboards cater to different playstyles, from clicky switches for tactile feedback to silent linear keys for rapid inputs. Most gaming keyboards originate from China, leaving little insulation from tariff impacts. Niche custom builds might avoid hikes, but mainstream options from Razer or Corsair likely won’t.
Precision matters in competitive titles, making a responsive gaming mouse invaluable. Lightweight wireless models excel in FPS games, while MMO players benefit from programmable side buttons. While Logitech manufactures some devices in Taiwan, broader industry trends suggest rising prices across the board.
Streamers and content creators should prioritize microphones over headset mics for professional-grade audio. Standalone USB or XLR models capture cleaner sound, though many popular options come from tariff-vulnerable regions. Brands like RODE with diversified production may offer more stability.
Soundbars elevate both gaming and entertainment with cinematic audio. Features like Dolby Atmos and wireless subwoofers create immersive environments, but global supply chains mean tariffs could disrupt availability. U.S.-made alternatives exist, though selection may be limited.
Amazon Prime Day arrives just before tariffs resume, offering one last major sale opportunity. The event typically features deep discounts on electronics, making it a strategic moment to upgrade. Whether hunting for headsets or monitors, acting now could mean substantial savings before prices climb.
Gamers weighing purchases should consider their priorities, comfort, performance, or future-proofing against cost increases. With uncertainty around trade policies, securing gear sooner rather than later might be the wisest play.
(Source: IGN)
