PS5 and Xbox Series X Setup Essentials: What You Actually Need
Console gaming is supposed to be plug-and-play. And it is — until you realize you can't fit your game library, your single controller dies in the middle of a co-op session, and your TV doesn't actually support the 120Hz mode the game is offering. This guide covers the four accessories that actually matter and the ones you can safely skip.
1. 4K 120Hz TV with HDMI 2.1
The single most impactful console upgrade. Both PS5 and Xbox Series X output 4K at 120Hz via HDMI 2.1, and over 100 games on each platform support 120fps performance modes. The difference between 60Hz and 120Hz console gaming is significant — smoother camera movement, lower input lag, more responsive feel.
What to look for: HDMI 2.1 (not 2.0), 120Hz native refresh, VRR support, and low input lag mode. Sweet spot price for a 55" 4K 120Hz TV in 2026 is around $480.
Check current prices on Amazon →
2. Extra Wireless Controller
The first accessory most console owners need. Reasons to have a backup: charging the primary while playing, couch co-op, hosting friends, and avoiding the dead-controller-mid-boss-fight problem. The standard PS5 DualSense and Xbox Wireless Controller are both around $70.
Premium options like the Xbox Elite Series 2 (~$170) and PS5 DualSense Edge (~$200) add back buttons, customizable thumbsticks, and adjustable trigger stops. Worth it for competitive players, overkill for casual use.
PS5 controller → • Xbox controller →
3. Wireless Gaming Headset
Necessary if you play with voice chat, very useful if you game late at night, and a quality-of-life upgrade for everyone else. Both consoles work with most wireless gaming headsets. Top picks: SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 (~$180) for the best overall, Razer Barracuda X (~$100) for budget wireless.
Console-specific headsets like the Sony Pulse 3D (~$100) work great with PS5 and offer 3D audio support. Xbox-licensed headsets are similar for Series X owners.
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4. Additional Storage
The most-overlooked console accessory. Modern AAA games are routinely 100GB+, and the base storage on both consoles fills up within a few weeks of regular use. Two options:
- PS5: Compatible NVMe SSD (Gen 4, 5500MB/s+ read speed). 1TB drives run $80-120 in 2026. Installs in the dedicated expansion slot inside the console.
- Xbox Series X: Seagate or Western Digital expansion card. 1TB cards run $130-160. Plugs into the rear expansion port.
Both options preserve the full speed and feature support of internal storage (unlike USB drives, which only work for last-gen games).
What to skip
Premium HDMI cables. The cable that ships with your console is fine. Premium "gaming" HDMI cables are marketing.
Most controller skins and grips. Mostly aesthetic. The standard grip is fine for the vast majority of users.
Cooling stands. Both consoles have adequate built-in cooling. Stands are a solution to a problem most users don't have.
RGB lighting strips. Aesthetic only. Buy them if you want them, but they're not essential.
Priority Order
If you can only buy one thing, buy the TV upgrade. If you have a 4K 120Hz TV already, buy storage next. After that: extra controller, then wireless headset.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a soundbar with my console TV?
Built-in TV speakers are usable but not great. A soundbar significantly improves the experience and is much cheaper than a full surround system. Budget around $200-400 for a quality gaming-friendly soundbar.
Can I use a monitor with PS5 or Xbox?
Yes — many gaming monitors work great with consoles, especially for desk setups. Make sure the monitor has HDMI 2.1 to support 4K 120Hz output. Most 1440p 144Hz gaming monitors only support 1080p or 1440p output from consoles.
Are charging stations worth it for controllers?
Yes if you have multiple controllers. A $25 charging dock keeps everything topped up automatically. If you only have one controller, just plug it into the console — no dock needed.