After 3 years of working a toxic tech job in a tight cubicle and a noise-filled environment, I was burnt out and decided that enough was enough. I took a 3-month break and began exploring other options, and I luckily came across the work-from-home lifestyle. Immediately, I knew it was my calling.
I quickly explored the requirements of this form of working, and to my surprise, it was as simple as a fast and reliable internet connection along with a few basic accessories.
I researched, compared, and contrasted the best internet providers in my area, which was quite an arduous task. Finally, the affordable Spectrum Internet prices for high-speed internet piqued my interest, leading me to choose it as my provider, which is still my ally! It is a lifesaver, offering up to 1 gigabit speeds and 99.9% network reliability!
Looking for the right computer accessories was not an easy feat either. Luckily, all that research paid off because I’ve been working from home for 4 years now, and these accessories have greatly helped me improve comfort, focus, and productivity. If you’re planning to transition to working from home, these accessories can help you.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at 5 must-have computer accessories to work from home.
Laptop Stand
If you’re someone who’s worked in an office, you can probably relate to the number of physical problems that come with it. We spend long hours sitting in front of a laptop with poor posture and a lack of proper support, both of which result in damage to our muscles and spine.
After working in an office, I value comfort above anything else while working, and a laptop stand can bring more comfort to your workstation than you think. For example, by bringing the laptop right in front of your eyes, you can improve your posture and reduce strain on your back and neck. It can also help protect your laptop by preventing it from overheating. I’d recommend looking into the options below:
- Branch Adjustable Laptop Stand:$65 on Branch
- Rain Design mStand:$40 on Amazon
Keyboard and Mouse
If you’re going to be using a laptop stand, you will have to invest in a separate keyboard and mouse for comfort. Without them, your arms would hang up all day like you’re riding a chopper, which could cause a lot of physical discomfort.
With an external keyboard and a mouse, you can create a highly comfortable and productive work setup. It helps even more if they are wireless, as this allows for easier, clutter-free movement. This removes interruptions, provides flexibility, and improves productivity even more. Below are the top choices for both.
Suggestions:
- Logitech Pop Icon Keys (Keyboard): $50 on Amazon
- Logitech M720 Triathlon Multi-Device (Mouse): $35 on Amazon
See also: 5 Must-Have Computer Accessories to Work from Home
Noise-Canceling Headphones
Let me warn you, if you’re thinking that working from home is totally free from distractions, boy, are you in for a surprise? It is way more comfortable and flexible, but not distraction-free. You’ll often be faced with the voices of your kids running around the house or the constant honking of traffic outside. In such conditions, noise-canceling headphones can help you tune out the noise and center your focus on working.
Noise-canceling headphones come with outward-facing microphones that can measure surrounding sounds and produce waves to prevent them from reaching your ears. With this high-end accessory in your work-from-home kit, you can continue working even if lightning strikes right next to you. When it comes to headphones, I’d recommend choosing models from the best in the business, Sony and Bose.
Suggestions:
- Sony WH-1000XM5: $399.99 on Amazon
- Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones: $449.00 on Amazon
AI-Powered Webcams
Remember those unnecessary meetings that could’ve been emails? When working from home, they take the form of video calls. Trust me, you will see a good share of them, so you’ll have to look your best. Unfortunately, most laptops have kind of low-quality webcams, so you’ll need a specialized one.
There are some quite advanced webcams available now, some even with AI features. AI-powered webcams are smart accessories that can improve image and audio quality with advanced features like AI tracking, gesture control, and voice control. Below are two of the models I’d recommend.
Suggestions:
- Insta360 Link – PTZ 4K Webcam:$179 on Amazon
- OBSBOT Tiny 2 AI-Powered PTZ 4K Webcam: $179 on Amazon
Wireless Chargers
When working from home, seeing a bundle of wires all tangled up on your workspace can be highly frustrating and unsafe. Wireless chargers can help greatly here. These compact devices free your workspace of unnecessary clutter while improving the security, convenience, and smoothness of your workflow.
The best part is that wireless chargers are not limited to just your smartphone. Some of these can also be used to simultaneously charge many other devices you need to work from home, such as your tablets, and wearables like earbuds, fitness trackers, or smart watches. Here are two of my top suggestions.
Suggestions:
- Anker 315 Wireless Charger (Pad): $15 on Amazon
- Belkin Quick Charge Wireless Charging Pad: $34 on Amazon
Work From Home – The Future Standard
Working from home is expanding globally because of its unparalleled flexibility, convenience, and increased work-life balance.
With the computer accessories shared in this article, you can create a personalized, productive, and comfortable home office and prepare yourself for this future standard of work.
