Ah, the humble PC.

It truly is a modern Jack of all trades. But as much as you can do with your basic off-the-shelf desktop or notebook, there's lots of stuff it can't do. Or can't do well.

So here we've listed our 10 favourite treats for your PC. These add-ons and upgrades will transform your computer from simply being Jack, to being master.

Some are practical, some are fun, some are groundbreaking, and some are simply indulgent. But all 10 of these products are great at what they do, and none of them will break the bank.

The prices listed are average street prices; for our full review of each of our top 10 PC essentials, click on the product name.

Logitech Z-5450

5.1 speakers. £200. What does it do? Brings 5.1 surround sound output to your PC, getting over one of the major problems of multi-speaker setups by having wireless rear speakers. Why would you buy? Because every single person who has ever bought a 5.1 speaker system has thought it was great until they had to figure out how to trail wires around the room to the rear speakers. In addition, sound quality is strong for PC speakers and the Z-5450 set look impressive too.

Wacom Bamboo

Graphics tablet. £65. What does it do? Allows you to ditch your mouse - and theoretically even your keyboard - and use a tablet and pen combination instead to control your PC. Why would you buy? Despite its quirky name, this graphics tablet is one of the most elegant and serious alternatives yet to the mouse/keyboard ergonomic nightmare. If you're worried about RSI, it's worth the learning curve.

Yoggie Pico Personal

USB security computer. £95. What does it do? It's a Linux-based computer on a USB stick that takes over your computer's entire security needs, freeing up a huge chunk of system resources. Why would you buy? If you want to slow down even the fastest PC, install a complete security suite on it. The Pico takes that burden away, using all its own resources for security so you don't have to use any of yours. Speed and security receive a boost.

Roxio Easy Media Creator 9