Ben Wilson
Ben is the editor for everything in our tech channel at Windows Central, including desktop PCs, the components inside, and practically any accessory. Since most of this hardware tends to be compatible with Xbox, he also keeps an Xbox Series S close by for testing headsets, external storage, and anything with enough versatility to cover all the bases. A lifelong gamer since his first console, the SEGA Mega Drive, he has an affinity for taking things to pieces to see how they work.
Pursuing a recent career in technology journalism follows over a decade of experience in electronics retail and tech support roles, offering repairs and recommendations to consumers. A personal hobby in custom PC building built a strong desire to follow the latest cutting-edge hardware in a never-ending search to find the parts genuinely worth buying. Always on the hunt for the best value for money, he's fueled by a steady diet of caffeinated drinks and coffee-flavored food.
Forever a Windows XP fan, he's keeping up with the latest releases from Microsoft but dabbles in Linux to experiment with the inner workings of Valve's Steam Deck handheld. He'll look out for your best interests if you're considering tinkering with hardware upgrades and want the best bang for your buck. Find him on Mastodon @trzomb@mastodon.online to ask questions or share opinions.
Latest articles by Ben Wilson
Secretlab joins forces with Lucasfilm for Star Wars Imperial collection of gaming chairs
By Ben Wilson published
Dark side Teaming up with Lucasfilm, the Star Wars | Secretlab Imperial collection features two ergonomic gaming chairs with an aesthetic leaning toward the dark side.
WaterField Designs pouch for Steam Deck review: Subtle and stylish with space for essential extras
By Ben Wilson published
Review The official Steam Deck case is rugged, if on the chunky side. WaterField Designs offers a flexible pouch for quick travels, but is it worth the asking price?
Earthworks Audio Ethos XLR microphone review: Perfect broadcast audio for creators
By Ben Wilson published
Review Graduating from a USB microphone to XLR? The Ethos is an incredible condenser mic from Earthworks Audio, but newcomers will need some extra parts.
RODE reveals its next-gen NT-USB+ condenser microphone for creators
By Ben Wilson published
USB-C RØDE reinvigorates one of its USB microphones with a wealth of upgrades. The NT-USB+ combines high-end hardware and software for studio-grade audio and is available now.
Cooler Master CK720 mechanical keyboard review: Hot-swappable switches for everyone
By Ben Wilson published
REVIEW Cooler Master expands its keyboard range with the CK720 aimed at enthusiasts, but can this affordable option appeal to curious beginners looking to enter the scene?
Best motherboard for Intel Core i5-13600K 2023
By Ben Wilson published
13th Gen We rate the i5-13600k as the best mid-range CPU, but every processor needs a motherboard to call home. Here are the best choices to fit your budget.
How to pick a good Xbox headset on a budget
By Ben Wilson published
Smart budget Hundreds of Xbox headsets are advertised as the best around, but how do you cut through the jargon? Follow our tips to make the best choice on a budget.
11 tips and tricks for your Steam Deck
By Ben Wilson last updated
Steam Deck Bagged yourself a Steam Deck, or you're considering a purchase? Here's everything you need to unlock the full potential of Valve's portable PC.
Corsair Katar Elite wireless mouse review: Comfortable gaming with a compact construction
By Ben Wilson published
REVIEW This lightweight wireless mouse is designed for comfortable, fast-paced gaming. At 69g, it should be exactly as agile as Corsair claims, so let's see how it performs in testing.
Latest Cyberpunk 2077 patch supports AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution 2.1 on Xbox Series X|S and PC
By Ben Wilson published
Upscale 2077 AMD's answer to NVIDIA's DLSS upscaling tech is now available on Cyberpunk 2077 for PC and next-gen consoles, with FSR 2.1 officially added to patch 1.61.
Roccat Vulcan II Max mechanical keyboard review: A staggering amount of RGB
By Ben Wilson published
Review Roccat declares there's no such thing as too much RGB and crams multi-colored switches into the Vulcan II Max, but does anyone have space for this gigantic keyboard?
Rode X XCM-50 USB condenser microphone review: Pro-level audio for live streams and gamers
By Ben Wilson published
REVIEW Rode X targets gamers looking to join the livestreaming craze with new hardware and software, starting with this gorgeous USB-powered condenser mic.
Valve is finally replacing Big Picture mode on desktops with the Steam Deck UI
By Ben Wilson published
Steam Say goodbye to the drab Big Picture UI on desktops; it's time for a visual overhaul inspired by Steam Deck.
Rode X sub-brand unveils professional USB mics and software for streamers
By Ben Wilson last updated
NEW BRAND Rode launches its new streaming and gaming division: Rode X, featuring all-new USB mics and audio software on sale now.
Thrustmaster T128 racing wheel review: Unbeatable value for rookie newcomers
By Ben Wilson published
Review Thrustmaster's new entry-level wheel offers tremendous value by cutting costs in the right places, keeping it affordable for curious newbies at just under $200.
Corsair HS50 Pro stereo gaming headset review: Premium quality with a budget price
By Ben Wilson published
Review You won't find many gaming headsets under $50 as comfortable as these; Corsair admirably dominates the entry-level category with the HS50 Pro.
Valve revamps Steam Mobile app with QR code logins and more cool stuff
By Ben Wilson published
A visual revamp brings 2FA improvements and a new remote download feature, but Steam Mobile keeps chat separated to its own app.
Best SEGA Genesis emulator for Steam Deck
By Ben Wilson published
Valve's Steam Deck can take your classic SEGA Genesis games with blast processing power anywhere, and these are the best emulators for the job.
Grab TP-Link's Wi-Fi 6E PCIe adapter at a $20 discount for Amazon Prime Day
By Ben Wilson published
DEAL TP-Link upgrades your desktop PC to the latest Wi-Fi 6E standard with its TXE75E PCIe adapter, discounted by 25% during Amazon's Prime Day Early Access sale.
Netgear's Orbi mesh boosts your Wi-Fi with a 20% Prime Day discount
By Ben Wilson published
DEAL Netgear's Orbi Wi-Fi mesh sets are easy to set up and can strengthen your home wireless network. Pick them up at a discount during Amazon's Prime Day sale.
TP-Link offers a $70 Prime Day discount on the AX10000 Wi-Fi 6 gaming router
By Ben Wilson published
DEAL TP-Link offers to eliminate lag and prioritize gaming network traffic at home with its beefy Archer AX10000 Wi-Fi 6 router, now with a $70 Prime Day saving for a limited time.
TP-Link's Deco P9 solution to weak Wi-Fi is $150 off during Amazon Prime Day
By Ben Wilson published
DEAL Wi-Fi dead spots are a thing of the past with mesh systems, like the fantastic Deco P9 three-pack from TP-Link discounted for Amazon's Prime early access sale!
Best racing wheel for PC 2022
By Ben Wilson last updated
Racing games are bigger and better than ever, with plenty of titles ranging from arcade fun to serious simulators. Here's the best racing wheel to use with your PC.
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