Peripherals buying guide – Monitors, keyboards, printers & supplies
Updated: · Techbox, Thessaloniki
What a monitor’s Hz means, which switches make a mechanical keyboard, which printer costs less over time, and when a compatible ink is worth it. What to know about everything you plug into a computer.
Monitors
Three numbers matter: resolution (Full HD, QHD, 4K), refresh rate in Hz, and panel type. For office work 60-75Hz is enough, for gaming you want 144Hz or more. IPS panels have better colour, VA panels deeper blacks. All are under monitors and mounts.
Keyboards, mice and audio
On mechanical keyboards the switches set the feel: linear (red) are smooth, tactile (brown) have a noticeable bump, clicky (blue) are loud. See the keyboards and mice.
For calls and remote work, a good webcam and a headset from the speakers and headphones with a microphone make a big difference.
Printers and supplies
A laser printer is cheaper for large volumes of black-and-white documents, an inkjet for photos and colour. Look at the cost per page, not just the printer’s price. All are under printing and scanning.
Under supplies you will find original and compatible inks and toners. Compatibles cost considerably less. Originals are preferable while the printer is still under warranty or when photo quality is critical.
Network, power and storage
A UPS protects the computer from outages and voltage drops. For better home Wi-Fi see the networking products, and for moving files the USB sticks.
