The peripherals and accessories category covers monitors, keyboards, mice, headsets, microphones, webcams, UPS units, networking equipment and software for a home or office workspace. Our range includes over 48,000 products, with brands such as Logitech, Microsoft, Lenovo, ASUS, Cherry and APC.
How to choose peripherals and accessories
Connection and compatibility. Check which ports your computer has before buying: USB-A, USB-C, Bluetooth or a 3.5 mm jack. Wireless keyboards and mice often connect through a USB receiver, while Bluetooth models can usually be paired with several devices.
How you will use it. For long typing sessions and office work, a full-size keyboard with a comfortable key travel is the sensible choice, while gaming calls for fast response and an accurate mouse sensor. Choose a mouse by hand size and weight, not by the DPI figure alone.
Monitor specifications. A screen between 24 and 27 inches with Full HD or QHD resolution is usually enough for office work. If you edit photos, an IPS panel gives wider viewing angles and more consistent colour, and gamers should look at a higher refresh rate.
UPS capacity. Add up the power of the devices you will connect in watts and leave some headroom, because the VA figure alone is not enough. Most home UPS units are not meant for long work without mains power, but for giving you time to save your files and shut the computer down safely.
Software licence. Check how many devices or users the licence covers, how long it lasts and which operating system it supports. For security software, also see whether it is intended for home or business use.
Brands we carry
- Microsoft: best known for Windows and Office software, and also makes keyboards and mice.
- Logitech: specialises in mice, keyboards, webcams and headsets for computers.
- Cherry: known for mechanical keyboard switches and office keyboards.
- APC: known for uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) for computers and network equipment.
- TP-Link: makes Wi-Fi routers, switches and other networking equipment for homes and small offices.
- WatchGuard and Trend Micro: both work in network and computer security: WatchGuard builds firewalls, Trend Micro makes anti-malware software.
- Lenovo, Dell and ASUS: offer monitors and computer accessories, and ASUS has its ROG line for gamers.
- HPE: a maker of servers and networking equipment for businesses.
Also in our range: Kofax/Indy. The subcategories include monitors, keyboards and mice, headsets, microphones, webcams, chairs and desks, streaming accessories, USB flash drives, UPS units, software, networking equipment and simulator equipment.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a mechanical and a membrane keyboard?
A mechanical keyboard has a separate switch under each key, while a membrane keyboard registers presses through a shared rubber layer. Mechanical models usually give a clearer keypress and their keycaps are easier to replace, but they are louder. Membrane keyboards are quieter and generally cheaper.
Do I need a UPS for my computer?
A UPS is worth having if power cuts are frequent or you work with important files. It keeps your equipment running for a few minutes, so you can save your work and shut down without losing data. It also protects against voltage spikes.
Is a wireless mouse good enough for gaming?
Yes, wireless mice designed for gaming use a dedicated USB receiver and have very low latency. Poorer response is more often caused by a Bluetooth connection or a basic sensor. For gaming, choose a model with a gaming-grade wireless connection and a low weight.
Which webcam should I choose for video calls?
A Full HD webcam with a built-in microphone is enough for regular video calls. Autofocus and decent performance in dim light are also worth checking. If audio quality matters for meetings or streaming, a separate microphone is the better option.
