Asda, a popular UK supermarket chain, has recently ventured into the world of PC gaming hardware by offering a range of own-brand peripherals at affordable prices. This move has sparked curiosity among gamers, as the idea of buying gaming gear alongside groceries is certainly a novel concept. The Asda Tech 4-in-1 Gaming Kit, which includes a keyboard, mouse, headset, and mousemat, caught the attention of many due to its low price point compared to well-known gaming brands.
Upon initial inspection, the peripherals in the Asda Tech Gaming Kit seemed decent for the price. The keyboard had a simple yet functional design, while the mouse featured multiple thumb buttons and a braided cable. However, concerns arose when it came to connecting the devices to a PC. The USB connectors on the mouse and keyboard were unusually large, making it difficult to plug them in adjacent ports. Additionally, the headset had a complicated wiring setup with multiple plugs, including a USB connector solely for powering the lighting on the earcups.
Despite these initial challenges, the peripherals performed adequately during gaming sessions. The keyboard, although a membrane/rubber dome type, had responsive keys that were comparable to more expensive mechanical keyboards. However, the mouse fell short in terms of comfort and durability. Its flat design and flimsy construction made extended gaming sessions uncomfortable, and the DPI switch was misleading in its functionality.
The headset, while lacking in build quality, surprised with its excellent microphone performance. The microphone provided clear and crisp voice recording, outperforming more expensive gaming headsets. However, the audio quality of the headset itself was subpar, with weak bass and muted trebles, resulting in a lackluster gaming experience.
The Asda Tech software utility, used for customizing the peripherals, was also lacking in functionality. It only allowed customization for the mouse, with limited options for lighting and button rebindings. The overall user interface of the software was basic and unimpressive.
In conclusion, while the Asda Tech Gaming Kit may offer an affordable entry point into PC gaming peripherals, the overall quality of the devices leaves much to be desired. The keyboard stands out as the most reliable component, while the mouse and headset fall short in terms of comfort and performance. Despite the shortcomings of these specific peripherals, the concept of supermarket-branded gaming gear is not inherently flawed. With improvements in quality control and supplier selection, supermarket chains could potentially offer budget-friendly gaming peripherals that cater to a wider audience of gamers. Ultimately, while the Asda Tech Gaming Kit may not be the best choice for serious gamers, it does highlight the potential for accessible and affordable gaming hardware in non-traditional retail settings.