Every gamer knows that comfort at the gaming desk isn\u2019t a luxury but a necessity. When headphones lie wherever, cables tangle under your feet and the controller slides across the desk, it\u2019s irritating and makes it hard to focus on the game. 3D printing lets you create exactly the accessories your setup is missing \u2014 in precise sizes, with the design you want and at an affordable price.<\/p>\n
In this article we look at the most popular gaming accessories that can be printed on a 3D printer: from custom keycaps to mounts for streaming gear.<\/p>\n
A mechanical keyboard is the heart of any gaming setup. But standard keycaps don\u2019t always satisfy: you want to highlight the WASD keys, mark your macros or simply add some personality. 3D printing handles this perfectly.<\/p>\n
If you want keycaps in translucent plastic for RGB backlighting, that\u2019s possible too. Just choose clear or translucent PLA.<\/p>\n
DualSense, the Xbox Controller, the Pro Controller for Nintendo Switch \u2014 each of them deserves its own place on the desk. 3D-printed stands hold the controller upright or flat, protect the sticks from accidental knocks and look neat.<\/p>\n
A stand can be designed for a specific controller model, with a compartment for the charging cable or even an integrated smartphone holder for those who play on a mobile device. PLA is the best choice for these items: it\u2019s strong enough, holds its shape well and comes in dozens of colours.<\/p>\n
Gaming headphones are often big and heavy. Just putting them on the desk is inconvenient: they take up space, slide around and the headband deforms over time. Printed holders come in several types:<\/p>\n
Each type can include a groove for the cable so the wire doesn\u2019t dangle about. It\u2019s a small detail that makes the desk much tidier.<\/p>\n
A PlayStation, Xbox or Nintendo Switch needs a stable position with good ventilation. Manufacturers\u2019 standard stands cost quite a lot, while a 3D-printed equivalent is several times cheaper.<\/p>\n
The main thing when designing one is to take the console\u2019s vents into account and not block them. A good stand lifts the body 10\u201315 mm above the surface, ensuring natural air circulation. If needed, you can add compartments for storing game discs or cartridges upright \u2014 and the console area becomes compact and tidy.<\/p>\n
Collectors of physical game copies will appreciate printed organisers. For Nintendo Switch cartridges, these are compact boxes with a slot for each cartridge \u2014 handy for taking on the road. For PS5 or Xbox discs, upright racks for 10\u201320 cases that sit on a shelf or inside a cabinet.<\/p>\n
These organisers are printed in PLA, are light and easy to modify: need more slots \u2014 just print an extra section.<\/p>\n
Cables are the enemy of every gaming setup. Controller chargers, USB hubs, cables from the monitor, headphones and microphone \u2014 it all turns to chaos within days. 3D printing offers an elegant solution:<\/p>\n
TPU works well for clips and retainers \u2014 its flexibility means it doesn\u2019t break when bent and holds the cable firmly. Larger items such as channels are better printed in PLA. You can learn more about the properties of the materials on the 3D printing materials<\/a> page.<\/p>\n VR headsets aren\u2019t cheap, and they deserve proper storage. A printed stand for a Meta Quest, PlayStation VR2 or Valve Index holds the headset in a stable position, keeps dust off the lenses and looks much better than a headset left on the sofa.<\/p>\n A good option is a stand with a separate holder for the controllers, so the whole VR kit is kept in one place. It\u2019s also handy when you want to get ready quickly and start playing.<\/p>\n If you stream or record video, you\u2019ll need mounts for a camera, microphone, ring light and other devices. Off-the-shelf solutions don\u2019t always fit: a standard holder may be too big, have the wrong tilt angle or not attach to your desk.<\/p>\n 3D printing lets you create a mount made exactly for your webcam or microphone model, with the rotation angle and type of fixing you need. For more complex designs with electronics \u2014 for example, mounts with an integrated USB hub \u2014 take a look at our experience in making enclosures for electronics<\/a>.<\/p>\n For most gaming accessories, PLA<\/strong> is optimal. It\u2019s strong, has a smooth surface, comes in a wide range of colours and is easy to post-process \u2014 sanding and painting. Stands, organisers, holders, mounts \u2014 all of these print reliably in PLA.<\/p>\n TPU<\/strong> is the one to choose where flexibility or softness is needed: keycaps with a pleasant tactile feel, cable retainers, protective covers for controllers. The material is springy, wear-resistant and doesn\u2019t crack when bent.<\/p>\n If you have an idea for a gaming accessory, we\u2019ll help bring it to life. Send us a 3D model or simply describe what you need: we\u2019ll choose the material, colour and best print settings. We take custom orders of any complexity.<\/p>\nStands for VR headsets<\/h2>\n
Mounts for streaming gear<\/h2>\n
Which material to choose<\/h2>\n
Ready to perfect your setup?<\/h2>\n