Gift ideas for a computer gamer

If you have a friend, family member, or significant other that is a fan of video games, specifically games played on the computer, this guide may help you pick out a great gift for the computer gamer in your life.

Keyboards and mice: A hardcore computer gamer needs a durable keyboard and mouse. Consider a keyboard with backlit keys to aid in low light use. For the mouse consider one that has two main buttons, a click or scroll wheel, and programmable side buttons. Since gaming on a computer can get uncomfortable, ergonomic keyboards and computer mice are the best idea.

Chairs and desks: Going along with the comfort concept, a comfortable chair is a must for a computer gamer. Look for a chair with arm rests, good back support, and adjustable features for height, tilt, and even adjustable headrests. For the hardcore gamer a chair with a built in speaker system and/or a built in massage system is even better.

If their playing space is cramped or the position of the keyboard and mouse cause discomfort a new desk may be a great gift idea. Look for desks with slide out keyboard drawers, a raised platform for the monitor, and plenty of space for snacks, drinks, and game discs.

Gift cards: A computer gamer can always use a gift card. Whether its to a computer hardware supply store such as NewEgg.com or a gamer gift card to a store such as GameStop, its often best to buy a gift card for the gamer if you don't know what games they like or what hardware they may need for an upgrade. For hardware make the gift card over $100 and for games, a card as low as $50 is usually sufficient. For online gamers or those who buy digitally, a gift card to a service such as Valve's Steam is a great gift idea.

Monitors and speaker systems: If you know they'd love a bigger playing screen, a good LCD monitor is a great gift idea if you can afford it. You don't need specific hardware details about their system to purchase a good monitor. Just double check to see if their computer users VGA, serial, or digital. Also note the monitor should be labeled for computer use, standard TV LCDs are often too pixelated for up close usage.

A surround sound speaker system can be a great gift for a gamer. Even a higher end 3.1 system with subwoofer can add to the gaming experience.

Carry cases: For the LAN gamer (those that go to all night sessions with multiple gamers and play in the same room) carrying all the equipment back and forth can be tiring, a hassle, and a risk to the equipment. Padded cases exist for laptops, desktops, monitors, keyboards, and accessories. Get measurements before proceeding.

While this guide is far from all inclusive it offers some great ideas outside of the standard video game purchase or video game gift card.