Are you looking to improve your remote work setup? Around 77% of employees report higher productivity with a well-designed remote workspace, highlighting the importance of the right tools and technologies. A proper setup includes more than a desk and chair; it considers peripherals that enhance efficiency and comfort.
Practical remote work relies on essential devices tailored to boost performance and streamline daily tasks. IT departments often recommend key peripherals, such as a second monitor, docking station, communications headset, and external hard drive, to improve remote teams' workflow and connectivity.
This guide explores the best gadgets and devices for optimizing your home office. From ergonomic accessories to advanced technology, discover how these peripherals can transform your remote workspace into a productivity powerhouse.
Key takeaways
Investing in essential peripherals, such as a second monitor, docking station, and ergonomic accessories, significantly increases remote work productivity and comfort.
Ergonomic tools such as chairs, desks, and mice are vital for maintaining health and preventing strain during long hours of remote work.
Utilizing modern communication tools and reliable connectivity solutions, like noise-canceling headphones and mobile hotspots, enhances collaboration and ensures a smooth workflow.
The correct peripherals are essential home office essentials for remote workers. Poor ergonomics can severely impact productivity and lead to health problems. Employers typically equip remote employees with a laptop, monitor, keyboard, mouse, power strip, and a remote work accessory so they have the tools needed for success.
Here are some essential peripherals that can significantly enhance your remote work experience:
A secondary display, like the Dell UltraSharp U2720Q or the LG 27UK850-W, is crucial work-from-home equipment that boosts remote work efficiency by facilitating better multitasking. With multiple applications visible simultaneously, you can manage tasks more seamlessly without frequent window switching. A second monitor can significantly enhance productivity and workflow, providing a clearer and more organized working space.
A desktop computer is popular for remote workers who prefer a more traditional working setup. Unlike laptops, desktop computers offer more power and flexibility, making them ideal for tasks that require heavy processing, such as graphic design, video editing, or software development.
Consider choosing a desktop computer with a dependable operating system like Windows or macOS, ensuring compatibility with your company's software and tools. Brands models like Dell XPS Tower, HP Envy Desktop, and Apple iMac are excellent options that provide robust performance for remote work tasks.
Docking stations, such as the Dell WD19, CalDigit TS3 Plus, and Plugable UD-6950H, are crucial to work-from-home equipment. They streamline connectivity, expand functionality, and facilitate device switching. These docking stations simplify the connection of multiple devices, making transitions easier.
With multiple ports and connections, docking stations enhance home office usability by providing a centralized hub for all your peripherals, ensuring a seamless and efficient working environment.
Work-from-home equipment, such as external hard drives like the Western Digital My Passport or Samsung T5, are vital for securely backing up data and expanding storage options. In today’s data-driven world, having a reliable backup solution is crucial.
These drives safeguard against data loss from hardware failure or accidents. They expand storage capabilities beyond internal limits and are easily portable, making them ideal for remote workers who need on-the-go data access.
Ergonomic accessories are essential work-from-home equipment that promote health and comfort during extended work periods. Investing in ergonomic gear helps prevent physical strain from prolonged sitting. These tools offer greater positioning flexibility, enabling a comfortable working posture.
Adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, mice, and laptop stands are designed to enhance your working environment. They are crucial for remote workers who spend long hours at their desks, ensuring comfort and efficiency without sacrificing health.
An adjustable desk improves comfort by allowing users to customize the height according to their needs. Standing desks encourage movement and reduce the sedentary lifestyle linked with remote work.
A stable desk is essential for supporting equipment like monitors and laptops without wobbling. Some of the best brands and models to consider include the Fully Jarvis Bamboo Standing Desk, Uplift V2 Standing Desk, and Flexispot EC1 Electric Standing Desk.
Ergonomic chairs offer essential support, significantly enhancing comfort during long sitting hours. Adjustable office chairs with lumbar support are crucial for maintaining comfort. They support the spine’s natural curve, reducing the risk of back pain and improving posture.
Some of the best brands and models to consider include the Herman Miller Aeron Chair, Steelcase Leap Chair, and Secretlab Titan Evo 2023 Series.
An ergonomic mouse reduces hand fatigue and enhances comfort during extended use. The Logitech MX Master 3S, for example, is wireless, offers fast scrolling, and has an ergonomic design. It fits the natural shape of your hand, reducing wrist and finger strain.
Laptop stands elevate laptops to head level, helping maintain proper posture by positioning the screen at eye level. This setup alleviates neck and shoulder strain. A laptop stand is a crucial ergonomic accessory for remote workers. It promotes natural posture, reducing the risk of neck and shoulder pain. This simple adjustment significantly enhances overall comfort and productivity.
Some top picks include the Rain Design mStand, which has a stylish and sturdy aluminum build, and the Roost Laptop Stand, which is known for its portability and adjustable height settings.
High-quality audio and reliable communication tools are crucial work-from-home equipment in a remote work environment for effective collaboration and minimizing distractions. Noise-canceling headphones, VOIP phones, and communication headsets greatly enhance the remote work experience.
These tools enable precise and effective communication with your team, regardless of location. They create a focused work environment, allowing you to concentrate on tasks without background noise disturbances.
Noise-canceling headphones enhance focus by blocking background distractions, creating a peaceful work environment. They are essential for remote workers aiming to maintain concentration and productivity. Whether in a busy household or a noisy café, these headphones help you stay on task.
Some of the best models include the Sony WH-1000XM4, known for its superior noise cancellation; the Bose QuietComfort 45, offering all-day comfort; and the Apple AirPods Max, with immersive sound and seamless Apple device integration.
VOIP phones ensure precise and reliable communication in remote work settings, providing high-quality audio during remote conversations, including video conferencing. They are essential for successful remote collaboration, especially when using a company phone.
VoIP technology offers flexible communication options, enabling internet-based calls using various devices. This flexibility ensures connectivity with your team and clients, regardless of location. You can consider the Cisco 8845, the Polycom VVX 450, the Yealink T58A, or other top models.
Headsets with built-in microphones are essential for clear audio during video conferences, enhancing clarity and ensuring effective communication. They improve voice clarity during virtual meetings, fostering better communication. Go for reliable models like the Jabra Evolve2 85, the Plantronics Voyager Focus UC, Logitech Zone Wireless, etc.
Work-from-home equipment, including reliable connectivity solutions, is vital for sustaining productivity in a remote work environment. Without them, work can come to a halt. Surge protectors, UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply), and mobile hotspots ensure continuous and reliable power and internet access. Here’s how these tools help maintain a smooth and uninterrupted workflow for working remotely.
Surge protectors shield sensitive electronics from power spikes caused by internal or external factors. By redirecting excess voltage, they prevent electrical overloads from damaging devices, ensuring the longevity of your home office equipment.
The APC SurgeArrest P11VT3, known for its robust protection and reliability; the Belkin 12-Outlet Power Strip Surge Protector, which offers excellent energy rating and versatile spacing; and the Tripp Lite TLP1008TEL are some good options you can consider.
A UPS provides immediate backup power during outages, preserving vital operations and data without interruption. These systems maintain temporary power, ensuring devices remain operational and helping prevent data loss.
Some top brands and models to consider include the APC Back-UPS Pro 1500VA, known for its reliability; the CyberPower CP1500PFCLCD, which offers a sine wave output; and the Eaton 5S 1500, providing efficient protection for your home office equipment.
Mobile hotspots ensure consistent internet access for remote workers anytime and anywhere. They create a personal Wi-Fi network using cellular signals, providing reliable internet when away from traditional sources. Consider models like the NETGEAR Nighthawk M1, the Skyroam Solis Lite, and the Verizon Jetpack MiFi 8800L.
Modern home offices often need efficient work from home equipment, including printing and scanning devices, for effective document management. All-in-one printers combine printing, scanning, and copying functions, making them ideal for home office setups.
These devices streamline tasks and save space, meeting all document management needs without cluttering your workspace. Here are the benefits of all-in-one printers and portable scanners.
All-in-one devices enhance efficiency by combining printing, scanning, and copying functions into a single machine. They save space and reduce clutter, making them essential for any home office setup.
A top brand to consider is the HP OfficeJet Pro 9015e, which offers excellent performance and features. Choosing the right all-in-one printer depends on printing volume, scanning needs, and color printing requirements.
Portable scanners are ideal for quickly digitizing documents and simplifying paperwork management without bulky equipment. They enable easy document digitization, which is convenient for on-the-go professionals. Consider the Fujitsu ScanSnap iX100, Brother DS-940DW, and Doxie Go SE for reliable and efficient scanning solutions.
Besides the essential peripherals, other gadgets can further enhance your remote work experience, including high-quality webcams, wireless keyboards and mice, and cable management solutions.
These peripherals create a more organized and efficient workspace, ensuring you have everything needed to work comfortably and productively. Additionally, using personal devices and implementing bring-your-own-device (BYOD) policies can offer benefits like comfort and familiarity.
High-quality webcams, as part of personal devices, improve corporate image by ensuring clear visibility during video calls, even in low-light settings. Using superior webcams fosters a sense of connection among team members, enriching overall communication. You can consider models like the Logitech Brio Ultra HD Pro, the Razer Kiyo Pro, or the Microsoft LifeCam Studio.
Personal devices like wireless keyboards and mice provide the flexibility needed to operate from various locations without the clutter of cables. The Apple Magic Keyboard, for example, is recommended for use while working from home due to its sleek design and functionality.
Personal devices and cable management are essential for maintaining an organized and efficient workspace, which can positively impact productivity. Organizing cables helps to reduce clutter, minimize the risk of damage to devices, and create a more aesthetically pleasing environment.
Cable ties, sleeves, and clips can help group and secure cables together, preventing tangles and making connections easier to identify.
A desk organizer is necessary for remote workers who want to stay organized and focused. Keeping your workspace clutter-free is essential for maintaining productivity and reducing stress. A desk organizer can help by providing designated spaces for essential items such as pens, papers, and office supplies, ensuring everything is within easy reach.
In the fast-paced world of remote work, prioritizing wellness and self-care is crucial for maintaining productivity and mental well-being. Here are five essential tips to help remote employees create a balanced and healthy work environment:
1) Create a dedicated workspace: Designate a specific area in your living space for work that promotes good posture and minimizes distractions. Invest in ergonomic furniture, such as an ergonomic chair, standing desk, or laptop stand, to reduce the risk of back and neck pain.
2) Incorporate regular breaks: Regular breaks are necessary to stretch, move around, and rest your eyes. To stay balanced and focused, incorporate wellness activities such as meditation, yoga, or short walks into your routine.
3) Establish work-life boundaries: To maintain a healthy work-life balance, set clear boundaries between work and personal life. This includes setting specific work hours and disconnecting from work-related tasks outside those times.
4) Stay connected: Combat isolation by communicating regularly with colleagues, friends, and family. Use video calls and messaging apps to stay in touch and foster a sense of community.
5) Prioritize health: Ensure you sleep well, maintain a balanced diet, and exercise regularly. Consider adding a humidifier, air purifier, or plants to your workspace to enhance your working environment.
Setting up a home office can be straightforward and rewarding with the right approach. Here are some easy steps to help employees create an efficient and comfortable workspace:
Choose the Right Space: Select a dedicated area in your living space for your home office. Ensure it has enough space for your office desk, chair, and necessary equipment.
Organize Your Desk: Use a desk organizer or monitor stand to keep your workspace tidy. This will help reduce clutter and make your work environment more pleasant and efficient.
Ensure Reliable Connectivity: To ensure uninterrupted work, set up a strong internet connection with a reliable router or mobile hotspot. This is vital for video conferencing and accessing company networks.
Incorporate Ergonomic Accessories: Use an ergonomic mouse, keyboard, and laptop stand to improve posture and reduce strain during long hours of work.
Manage Cables Effectively: Utilize cable management solutions like ties and clips to keep cords organized and prevent tangles.
Create a Comfortable Atmosphere: Add personal touches such as plants, a desk lamp, or family photos to make your workspace inviting and comfortable.
Managing IT assets for remote workers can be daunting, but GroWrk offers a comprehensive solution. GroWrk simplifies the management of IT assets across multiple countries by overseeing the entire lifecycle from purchase to repair.
GroWrk specializes in managing IT assets for remote workers. It simplifies processes like purchasing, shipping, and repairs across various countries. It is a global IT lifecycle management platform that automates every stage of the IT asset lifecycle.
Global Reach and Services: GroWrk operates in over 150 countries, making it easy to manage devices worldwide. It provides consistent IT services, ensuring all remote employees get the same support, boosting productivity and efficiency.
Advanced Analytics and AI Support: GroWrk uses AI tools to improve customer support. It offers instant help with a real-time chatbot and provides detailed analytics on equipment use and costs, helping companies better manage remote teams.
Complete Lifecycle Management: GroWrk excels at managing the full lifecycle of IT assets, covering every stage from procurement to retrieval and disposal. By managing the entire lifecycle, GroWrk helps companies maintain an organized and sustainable IT asset environment, reducing waste and improving resource allocation.
User-Friendly Interface: GroWrk's platform boasts a user-friendly interface designed for ease of use by IT administrators and remote workers. The intuitive dashboard simplifies tracking, managing, and maintaining IT assets.
Full Compliance with Local and Global IT Regulations: GroWrk ensures full compliance with local and global IT regulations. By adhering to these regulations, GroWrk helps organizations avoid legal pitfalls and ensures that all IT asset management practices align with industry standards.
Transparent Pricing Model: GroWrk's pricing is clear and straightforward. Charges are based on managed workstations and logistics, and there are no hidden fees, making it easier for companies to control expenses for remote work support.
Embrace the future of remote work with confidence and ensure you have everything you need to succeed. Need help shipping IT equipment to your employees overseas? Schedule a demo and let GroWrk manage the logistics while you focus on growth strategies.
Ergonomic accessories are crucial for remote work. They enhance comfort and support physical health, preventing strain and improving posture during long hours. Invest in these tools to ensure a healthier, more productive work environment!
Noise-canceling headphones significantly boost remote workers' productivity by eliminating background noise, allowing for a more focused, distraction-free work environment. Embrace the quiet and watch your concentration soar!
Mobile hotspots guarantee reliable connectivity for remote workers by leveraging cellular signals. They create a personal Wi-Fi network that ensures consistent internet access even in areas with weak signals. Stay connected and productive no matter where you are!