Controllers

If you're building a system from scratch, you probably won't give much thought to the keyboard and mouse. Deciding which graphics card or CPU to buy is far more important, so input devices are often the last additions to your shopping trolley.

But they're actually one of the parts of the PC that you'll be in contact with the most, so not only do they have to look good, they have to be comfortable to use - especially if you're planning some late-night Unreal Tournament 2004 sessions. It's almost impossible to buy a wired set these days, which is why there are four wireless bundles on test. But, we've tracked down a matching wired set and the classic KeyTronic KT2001PRO for those who don't want the hassle of replacing batteries every month.

We've covered most budgets, ranging from just over £20 to £75 for Logitech's all-singing, all-dancing Cordless MX set. There are more expensive devices around, but we can't see any reason to spend over £100 on a new keyboard and mouse.

Most keyboards come with a myriad of extra multimedia buttons, allowing you to take charge of music playback and launch common applications without having to resort to the mouse. Several even have a scroll wheel for those who are too lazy to reach for their rodent.

We tested each set by doing usual day-to-day tasks as well as gaming. For the latter, we played Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, and we let you know if we experienced any lag or connection problems.

Not all games are suited to keyboards and mice though, so we've also rounded up half-a-dozen of the finest gamepads around. From basic, wired controllers to cordless rumbling monsters, there's one to suit every taste and pocket.

As with keyboards and mice, comfort should be a primary consideration as well as features - we've all come away from a heavy session with aching fingers and thumbs. We used Need for Speed: Underground for testing the gamepads and checked for analog responsiveness, rumble effectiveness and any delays with the cordless pads.

Not all gamepads, keyboards and mice are created equal though, and only a select few find our favour. Find out which ones on the next few pages.