Do you often feel unproductive and uncomfortable in your home office? Picking the right work from home office can change everything. It boosts your efficiency and makes your work environment positive. With over half of the Wirecutter staff working from home1, having the right gear is key for success in telecommuting.
This guide will cover the must-have work from home office supplies. We’ll look at ergonomic desks, chairs, tech gadgets, and desk accessories. These items can turn your home workspace into a place where you can be super productive. Whether you’re setting up a new office or improving your current one, you’ll find the essential items and tips to make your work area comfortable, inspiring, and organized2.
Getting your home office ready with the right supplies is smart. It’s not just about feeling good; it’s about being productive and healthy over time. Research shows that 89% of remote workers say having a dedicated workspace at home is key for their productivity and comfort3. With the right gear, you can reach your full potential and succeed in remote work.
Essential Work From Home Gear
To create a great home office, start with a good laptop or desktop PC. Look at options like the MacBook Air with M2, Asus Windows 11 laptops, or Chromebooks. Your budget and needs will guide your choice4.
Don’t forget about your desk. An adjustable, ergonomic standing desk is key for your health. Consider the Fully Jarvis or Secretlab Magnus Pro for better posture and less sitting risks4. These desks help you switch between sitting and standing all day.
Laptops and Desktop PCs
For remote work, a reliable computer is crucial, with 90% of workers making it a top choice3. Laptops such as the MacBook Air with M2 or Asus Windows 11 models are great for their portability and performance. If you need more power, a desktop PC might be better, especially for tasks that require a lot of processing or special software4.
Ergonomic Desks and Standing Desks
An ergonomic desk setup is vital for your health while working from home. Adjustable standing desks like the Fully Jarvis Bamboo Standing Desk at $9184 or the Husky Adjustable Height Work Table starting at $2494 let you switch between sitting and standing. This helps improve your posture and cuts down on sitting risks3. Other options, like the Nova Microdermabrasion Adjustable Drafting Table ($74)4 or the Zinus Jennifer Modern Studio Collection Soho Rectangular Desk ($110)4, also offer ergonomic solutions for your home office.
Product | Price |
---|---|
Fully Jarvis Bamboo Standing Desk | $9184 |
Husky Adjustable Height Work Table | Starting from $2494 |
Nova Microdermabrasion Adjustable Drafting Table | $744 |
Zinus Jennifer Modern Studio Collection Soho Rectangular Desk | $1104 |
Ikea Micke Desk, White | Starting from $904 |
Artifox Desk, White Oak | $1,8904 |
Comfortable and Supportive Office Chairs
Working from home can be better with a good office chair. A chair that supports you well and can adjust is key. It helps prevent back pain and keeps you in a healthy position5.
The Hinomi X1 Chair is a top pick at $669, with a 12-year warranty5. The Vari Task Chair is $300 and great for your back during long hours5. For a luxury option, the Humanscale World One Task Chair costs $499 but might lack some adjustability5.
The Sihoo Doro S300 Chair is $800 and lets you customize it to fit you5. The BodyBilt Midcelli Mesh Chair is $949 and comes with a lifetime warranty on parts5. If you’re looking to spend more, the Razer Fujin Pro Chair is $1,049 and has a 5-year warranty5.
For those on a budget, the Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Lumbar Support Office Chair is $352 and great for long sits5. The Knoll Newson Task Chair is $1,195 and has a 12-year warranty but might not be perfect for everyone5.
Look for chairs that can hold 300 to 400 pounds, with most supporting 350-400 pounds6. Chairs around $1,000 usually have more options, better materials, and adjustments for your back6.
The best chair for you depends on your budget, what you like, and what you need for comfort and work56. A supportive and ergonomic chair can make working from home better and reduce back pain or other issues56.
Choosing Work From Home Office Supplies
Ergonomic Workstations and Accessories
When setting up your home office, think about adding ergonomic accessories to make your space better. This means getting things like laptop stands, portable monitors, and cable organizers. These items help keep your area tidy and boost your work efficiency7.
For a great home office, consider these key items:
- Comfortable desk and chair –7 Most employers say an ergonomic chair is key for better focus and work8.
- Laptop or desktop computer –8 About 80% of companies offer laptops or desktops for work from home.
- Mouse and keyboard –8 90% of companies recommend extra chargers for remote workers.
- Laptop stand or riser –9 The SOUNDANCE Silver Laptop Stand costs $28.
- Desk lamp and lighting solutions –9 The Uncommon Goods Cloud Desk Sculpture is $30.
- Noise-cancelling headphones –8 60% of companies suggest noise-canceling headphones for less distraction at home.
- Cable management accessories –9 The Exputran 4-Piece Clear Acrylic Desk Organizer is $30.
Also, think about tools that help you work better, like project management software and digital organizers. These tools might cost upfront but can make your work more efficient and your company more productive7.
Laptop Stands and Portable Monitors
Using a sturdy laptop stand can make your posture better and ease neck pain10. The Lifelong Upryze Ergonomic Laptop Stand is great for this, lifting your laptop up to 17 inches10. Portable monitors also let you expand your workspace and help with multitasking. The Flexispot Adjustable Table and the Lillipad Standing Desk offer adjustable heights for sitting or standing.
Look for a laptop stand that’s adjustable, portable, and stable. The Tonmom Laptop Stand is light, weighing about half a pound, and can lift your laptop 4 to 7 inches10. It’s also compact, easy to carry, and supports good ergonomics and productivity.
Recent studies11 show the ObVus Solutions laptop stand was discontinued in April 2024. Now, the Branch stand is the top choice11. Logitech’s Casa Pop-Up Desk is also recommended for laptop stands11. When picking a stand or monitor, think about what you need, like portability and adjustability11. Adding a separate keyboard and mouse can also make your setup better11.
Choosing the right laptop stands and portable monitors can make your workspace better, whether at home or on the move.
WIRED magazine has a special deal for readers. For just $5, you get full access to their gear coverage and exclusive newsletters, saving you $2511.
Multi-Port Hubs and Cable Management
Setting up your home office is easier with multi-port hubs and docking stations. These tools let you connect many devices, charge your devices, and keep your area clean by managing cables12. When picking a USB hub, think about how many ports you need, the USB standard, data speed, power, portability, build quality, and cost12.
Docking Stations and USB Hubs
USB hubs can really boost your productivity12. But, you might face compatibility problems with your operating system, device drivers, and power12. Make sure USB-C hubs have the features you need, like Power Delivery (PD) support, fast data transfer, and good reviews1213.
The Anker 555 USB-C Hub is a top choice, with fast USB-A and USB-C speeds13. The Anker 341 USB-C Hub also performs well, with great USB-A and USB-C speeds13.
When choosing a USB hub or docking station, think about what you need. Consider how many devices you’ll connect, the speed you need, and extra features like Power Delivery support. The right multi-port hub can make your workspace better, keep cables tidy, and increase your productivity1214.
Keyboards and Mice for Productivity
Choosing the right keyboards and mice is key to a productive home office. Ergonomic options like the Logitech Pop Keys and Razer BlackWidow V4 keyboards help reduce hand and wrist strain. They improve your productivity and comfort all day15.
Wireless keyboards and mice, like the Logitech MX Keys Mini and Anywhere 3 Compact Mouse Combo, add flexibility and cut down on desk clutter. This boosts your productivity15. Also, monitor stands like the 2 Pack Computer Monitor Riser help keep screens at eye level. This reduces neck strain and improves ergonomics15.
For more productivity, consider dual monitors like the HP 27h Full HD Monitor. They give you extra screen space for better efficiency15. Portable monitors, such as the 15.6-inch option, also help streamline workflows and keep your workspace organized for laptop users15.
Product | Price | Key Features |
---|---|---|
Logitech Pop Keys Mechanical Keyboard | $99.99 | Ergonomic design, customizable emoji keys, Bluetooth connectivity |
Razer BlackWidow V4 Mechanical Keyboard | $149.99 | Tactile and clicky mechanical switches, media controls, USB pass-through |
SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless Gaming Mouse | $39.99 | Wireless connectivity, lightweight design, programmable buttons |
Razer Basilisk X Hyperspeed Wireless Mouse | $49.99 | Hyper-fast wireless, 6 programmable buttons, long battery life |
Choosing the right keyboards and mice for your workspace setup boosts your productivity. It also reduces fatigue and makes your home office more comfortable and efficient151617.
External Storage and Backup Solutions
In today’s work-from-home world, keeping your data safe is key. External storage solutions like portable hard drives and solid-state drives (SSDs) are great for backing up your files. They make sure you can access your files from anywhere18.
Western Digital offers a variety of external storage options, from 1TB to 22TB18. The My Passport series is small enough to fit in your hand, perfect for remote work and being on the move18. If you need more space, the My Book drive can hold up to 22TB, keeping your files safe18.
WD’s storage solutions protect your data with 256-bit AES hardware encryption18. The My Passport for Mac also works well with Apple devices and has the same strong encryption18.
WD’s backup software does automatic updates, so your files stay safe and current without you having to do anything18. This is great for home offices where keeping things running smoothly is important18.
Product | Capacity | Price | Key Features |
---|---|---|---|
WD My Passport | 1TB – 5TB | $59.99 – $149.99 | Portable design, 256-bit AES encryption, automatic backup software |
WD My Book | 3TB – 22TB | $99.99 – $599.99 | Large storage capacity, 256-bit AES encryption, automatic backup software |
WD My Cloud Home | 2TB – 8TB | $149.99 – $299.99 | Personal cloud storage, wireless backup and access, mobile app integration |
Looking for a small drive or a big storage solution? WD has a wide range of options. They offer data protection, productivity, and convenience for your home office1819.
Headphones and Computer Speakers
Make your work-from-home better with top-notch audio gear. Get a pair of noise-cancelling headphones like the HyperX Cloud III or Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700. They help you stay on track and ignore distractions20. These headphones give amazing sound and block out noise, letting you dive into your work without any breaks.
Also, think about getting computer speakers for your home office. Brands like Monoprice Monolith deliver great sound, making your work more enjoyable20. With quality speakers, your work area becomes more engaging and fun, boosting your productivity and happiness.
Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Focus
Noise-cancelling headphones are a big deal for remote workers and students needing focus. They cut out background noise, giving you a quiet space to work20. Whether you’re writing, in online meetings, or working on tough tasks, these headphones help you stay in the zone and improve your work-from-home life.
Product | Price | Key Features |
---|---|---|
HyperX Cloud III | $99.99 | – Noise-cancelling technology – Comfortable memory foam earcups – Durable and flexible design |
Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700 | $379.00 | – Advanced noise-cancelling capabilities – Sleek and modern design – Integrated touch controls |
Monoprice Monolith | $249.99 | – Powerful and immersive sound – Versatile connectivity options – Compact and stylish design |
Choosing noise-cancelling headphones or quality speakers can really upgrade your work-from-home setup2021. It helps you stay focused, productive, and fully engaged all day.
Webcams and Microphones for Video Calls
In today’s world of remote work and virtual meetings, having good webcams and microphones is key. They make video conferencing and virtual team collaborations smoother. High-quality gear can really boost your productivity and how you look during online presentations and video calls. Think about improving your home office with these.
- Get a top webcam like the Insta360 Link or Logitech StreamCam. They offer clear 1080p video and cool features like tracking and adjusting the light22.
- Choose a great microphone, like the Blue Yeti or Rode NT-USB. They ensure your voice sounds clear and professional in video calls and virtual meetings23.
Many laptops have okay webcams, but an external one can make a big difference. It can improve your video and image quality, especially in dim rooms22. Pair it with a good microphone for a top-notch video conferencing setup. This will help you look and sound great in virtual interactions.
Product | Price | Key Features |
---|---|---|
Logitech C920 HD 1080p Webcam | $200 | – 1080p video at 30fps – H.264 video encoding – Autofocus and auto light correction – Works with Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS |
Apurture AL-F7 Dimmable LED Video Light | $100 | – Adjustable LED lighting for better webcam images and videos – Changes color temperature from 3000K to 6000K – It’s small and easy to carry |
ATR2100 USB Directional Microphone | $100 | – Picks up your voice clearly with a cardioid pattern – Easy to use with a USB plug – Can be used on a desk or in your hand |
Choosing the right webcam and microphone for your home office can change your video call game. It can increase your productivity and make a strong impression in virtual meetings2322.
VPNs and Password Managers for Security
In today’s world, keeping your home office safe and your work data secure is key. Using a good virtual private network (VPN) and a strong password manager is a smart move24.
A VPN, like Mullvad, encrypts your internet and hides your online actions. This keeps your data safe and private when you’re working from home24.
Adding a password manager, such as LastPass or 1Password, helps you keep your login details safe on many devices and accounts. Choose ones that use zero-knowledge security for better safety24. They should also use AES 256-bit encryption and pass security checks24.
Prices for password managers vary, with free and paid options available24. When picking one, make sure it works on all your devices, syncs automatically, and has features like extra login security, password making, and safe sharing24. Some even offer secure file storage and check for data breaches24.
Using a VPN and a password manager makes your remote work safer. It keeps your online actions and work data secure242526.
Desk Lamps and Lighting Solutions
Good lighting is key for a comfy and productive home office. Think about getting an adjustable desk lamp or a ring light, like the Lume Cube Ring Light Mini. These can give you the right amount of light to cut down eye strain and help you focus better during long work hours27.
Adjustable Desk Lamps and Ring Lights
Putting your desk near a window can get you more natural light. This might lower eye strain by up to 63%27. Using task lights, like desk lamps, can also reduce eye fatigue and make you more focused. This can lead to a 15% boost in productivity27.
For a custom feel, look for adjustable lighting that lets you change the brightness and color to what you like. This can save energy by up to 12% and make you feel better mentally. People say they enjoy their work up to 30% more27.
Product | Key Features | Pricing |
---|---|---|
BenQ e-Reading LED Swing Arm Desk Lamp | Extends vertically up to 30 inches, 22 brightness settings, 13 temperature options | Varies |
IKEA FORSÅ Work Lamp | Wide range of motion due to three hinges, uses standard E12 light bulb | $28 |
Honeywell Foldable Modern Desk Lamp | Compact base, adjustable brightness and color temperatures | Affordable |
Using the right desk lamps and lighting solutions can make your workspace better. It can reduce eye strain and increase your productivity and well-being27.
Or, you might want to look into budget-friendly home office design ideas. This could mean using furniture in new ways, adding natural light, and finding space-saving desk solutions to make your space better28.
Choosing wisely with your desk lamps and lighting can make your home office more comfy and productive. It supports your workspace illumination needs and boosts your productivity2728.
Desk Pads and Workspace Organization
Adding a high-quality desk pad can make your home office better. It protects your work area and makes writing smooth. Items like a printer stand or cable manager help keep things tidy29.
Choose a desk pad that also makes your space look better. Accessories like organizers and trays keep things in order and boost your productivity30.
- Freestanding copyholders hold documents upright, preventing neck strain29.
- Telephone stands with storage keep small items handy during calls29.
- Chair mats prevent floor and chair damage29.
- Desk pads protect against scratches and spills29.
- Workspace organizers keep documents tidy29.
- Drawer organizers keep desk items organized29.
- Storage cabinets hold large office supplies29.
- Desk bins dispose of small office waste29.
- Monitor stands improve ergonomics and save space29.
- Sticky note dispensers make tasks more efficient29.
Desk Accessory | Benefits |
---|---|
Desk Pads | Protect work surface, provide smooth writing surface, maintain organization |
Workspace Organizers | Keep documents and desk items neatly arranged, improve accessibility |
Cable Management Solutions | Eliminate clutter, maintain a tidy and organized workspace |
Monitor Stands | Enhance ergonomics, save desk space |
Storage Cabinets and Drawers | Accommodate larger office supplies, keep smaller items organized |
Choosing the right desk pads and workspace organization tools can change your home office setup. Focus on both function and looks to make a space that boosts your productivity3031.
Tech Gadgets and Desk Accessories
Make your home office better with cool tech gadgets and desk accessories. Items like the Gantri Lamps, Secretlab Footrest, and Plufl Human Dog Bed add style and comfort to your space. They also boost your productivity and mood. Check out these desk gadgets and tools to make your workday better.
Innovative Desk Gadgets and Tools
Out of 24 desk accessories reviewed, the Rocketbook Everlast Reusable Smart Notebook and the ODISTAR Desktop Vacuum Cleaner stood out for work-from-home setups32. The CloudValley Magnetic Phone Holder for Laptop and the Headphone Stand with USB Charger were great for boosting productivity32. The Zanzibar Gem plant was praised for being “near-indestructible” by Leon & George, making work areas nicer32.
The Purple Royal Seat Cushion made sitting more comfortable and improved posture, said a blog contributor32. Light therapy lamps like the Happy Light Therapy Lamp were suggested to fight the lack of sunlight in winter and increase energy32. Fidget toys such as the Speks Magnets were recommended to help stay focused and clear-minded at work32.
The Fluidstance balance board, especially the Fluidstance The Level, was praised for easing standing fatigue and encouraging movement at work32. Transparent sticky notes, like the 6 Pack Transparent Sticky Notes, were seen as great for notes without hiding the text below32. The iOttie iON Wireless Plus Fast Charger was noted as a must-have for a tidy desk, offering wireless charging32.
The Nomad Rustic Brown Leather Mouse Pad was used as a desk pad, showing its versatility and good looks32. The Ember Temperature Control Travel Mug 2 was celebrated for keeping drinks warm for a long time32. A wireless charging pad, such as the Courant Catch 3 Wireless Charger, was praised for its mix of functionality and style32.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds are now 27% off at £219 on Amazon33. Soundcore Space Q45 headphones are currently 22% off at £109 on Amazon33. Loop Quiet earplugs can reduce distractions by up to 27 decibels for better focus33.
Amazon Echo Dot (5th generation, 2022) is priced at £55 on Amazon, £55 at Argos, and £65 at JD Williams UK33. Tech Shade To Go Portable Laptop Sun Shade is available for £57 on Amazon33. The Honeywell TurboForce Power Fan costs £23 on Amazon, £24 at Argos, and £25 at Dunelm33.
Nexstand K2 Laptop Stand is priced at £25 on Amazon33. Twelve South Curve is available for £46 on Amazon, £50 at JD Williams UK, and £50 at Curry’s33. Huanuo Laptop Monitor Stand with Cushion costs £32 on Amazon33.
Hoflera Laptop Bed Table with Foldable Legs & Cup Slot is priced at £27 on Amazon33. ANYDAY John Lewis Hinton Office Chair is available for £179 at John Lewis33. AmazonBasics Office Chair is priced at £108 on Amazon and comes with a one-year warranty33.
Hanlin Wood Framed Kneeling Chair is currently 17% off at £110 on furniture-work.co.uk33. Logitech Zone Vibe 100 headset costs £109 on Amazon, £143 at littlewoods.com, and £110 at Very33.
Logitech MK270 wireless keyboard and mouse combo is now 43% off at £20 on Amazon33. Logitech K380 Wireless Multi-Device Keyboard is priced at £47 on Amazon, £45 at Curry’s, and £45 at Very33. Logitech M185 Wireless Mouse is currently 38% off at £10 on Amazon33.
Logitech MX Anywhere 3 Wireless Mouse is available for £82 on Amazon, £60 at Argos, and £71 at scan.co.uk33. Logitech Lift Vertical Ergonomic Mouse costs £70 on Amazon and £70 at Curry’s33. Canon Pixma TS3355 All-in-One Wireless Inkjet Printer is now 11% off at £40 on Curry’s33.
Optimizing Your Home Office Setup
Creating a great home office setup is key for staying productive and keeping a good work-life balance while working remotely. Choose the right office supplies, ergonomic gear, and tech to make your workspace inspiring and focused. Don’t forget to think about your, take breaks, and keep improving your home office to do well in your remote job34.
Getting the right office furniture and tech can really help your comfort and productivity. For example, an ergonomic chair can make you 17.7% more productive, as shown in a 2003 study34. Adding natural light and calming music to your space can also boost your mental and physical health34. Plus, smart assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant can make your daily tasks easier, making your home office more efficient34.
When setting up your workspace, remember that 58% of workers can work from home at least one day a week. But, they might face distractions. With people spending about 2,000 hours a year in their home offices, it’s important to make a space that helps you stay productive and comfortable35. By choosing the right home office supplies and tech, you can create a space that helps you succeed in remote work35.
Source Links
- https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/work-from-home-starter-kit/
- https://www.wired.com/story/work-from-home-home-office-gear-guide/
- https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/need-work-home/
- https://nymag.com/strategist/article/best-work-from-home-essentials.html
- https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-office-chairs/
- https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-office-chair/
- https://www.ganttic.com/blog/essentials-your-employees-need-to-work-from-home-permanently
- https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/remote-worker-office-supplies-employers-typically-provide/
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/g31677927/work-from-home-essentials/
- https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-laptop-stands/
- https://www.wired.com/gallery/best-laptop-stands/
- https://www.ugreen.com/collections/usb-hub
- https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-usb-c-hubs-and-docks/
- https://www.cablestogo.com/adapters-docks-and-hubs/docks-and-hubs/usb-hubs/11in-4-port-usb-2-0-hub-cable/p/cg-27402
- https://www.virtualvocations.com/blog/telecommuting-survival/home-office-help/22-top-home-office-accessories-you-need-for-ultimate-productivity/
- https://www.rtings.com/mouse/reviews/best/work
- https://www.logitech.com/en-us/promo/work-from-home-tips.html
- https://www.westerndigital.com/solutions/home-backup-solutions
- https://www.pcworld.com/article/406861/best-external-drives.html
- https://www.worldwidestereo.com/blogs/guides/best-office-headphones-speakers-and-gear
- https://medium.com/@mikewolfson/my-work-from-home-setup-d1271c25b4f7
- https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/the-best-webcams/
- https://tommorkes.com/home-office/
- https://www.cnet.com/tech/services-and-software/best-password-manager/
- https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-password-managers-for-businesses
- https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-password-managers/
- https://store.haworth.com/blogs/articles/13-home-office-lighting-tips-you-need-to-know
- https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/home/best-desk-lamp
- https://buydirect.missionlinen.com/category/office-desk-accessories-workspace-organizers
- https://oakywood.shop/collections/home-office-essentials
- https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/blog/wirecutter-desk-organization-picks/
- https://www.businessinsider.com/guides/home/useful-desk-accessories
- https://www.digitalspy.com/tech/best-tech-deals/g31781690/best-home-office-tech/
- https://todoist.com/inspiration/home-office-upgrades
- https://www.pfu-us.ricoh.com/guide/work-from-home-setup