As coronavirus spreads around the globe, more and more workers are forced to work from home. For many, this is a foreign experience that may take a few days, if not weeks, to get adjusted to. Once you have a grasp on how to maintain productivity at home, the next best thing to do is to create a dedicated workspace.
The dining room, coffee table, or ironing board may get the job done for a week, but to be productive at home for a prolonged period requires a dedicated work-space, close to, if not better, than the one at your office. We’ve compiled a list of everything you need to create a highly productive workspace for every budget.
Expand your screen real estate
Your Monitor is among the first things you’ll miss when transitioning from the office to your home. The extra screen size does wonders for productivity and multitasking.
Premium Dell Ultrasharp U3818DW ($943)
If you’re looking to maximize every inch of real estate, an ultra-wide curved monitor is the way to go. The 38 inch Dell is one of the largest monitors available. It’s a durable, versatile monitor, with an extra-wide 3,840 x 1,600 resolution, 60Hz refresh rate, and strong monitor controls.
Mid-Range Dell Ultrasharp U2718Q 27-Inch 4K ($568)
To get the most bang for your buck, a modest-sized, top of the range higher resolution monitor is well worth it. One of the best 4k monitors for some time, the Dell Ultrasharp may not be the largest monitor out there, but it makes up for size with its impressive 4K resolution.
Budget Acer SB220Q ($89)
Most people don’t need to spend loads of money on a monitor to be productive working from home. The Acer is a stylish, great resolution monitor (1,920 x 1,080) that looks great in any location thanks to a narrow frame and minimal stand.
Invest in an external keyboard
Once you have picked the right monitor, and have your laptop properly positioned (next to your external display) you won’t want to awkwardly reach over your Desk every time you want to type.
Premium Das Keyboard 4 Professional ($169)
Consistently rated one of the most beloved keyboards, the Das Keyboard 4 is a mechanical keyboard that offers the fastest and most accurate switches. It features the standard 104-key layout with multimedia keys and an attractive volume dial in the top right.
Mid-Range Logitech K800 Wireless ($63)
If you want more freedom and less cable clutter on your desk, the Logitech K800 that strikes a great balance of comfort, size and features. With backlit keys, the K800 will provide all the light you need to work into the night.
Budget Arteck 2.4G Wireless ($35)
Loved by Amazon customers, the Artek Wireless keyboard is an easy way to upgrade your typing experience. The keyboard connects easily, has an ergonomic design and has a rechargeable battery that lasts 6 months.
Give your hand some relief
Ditch the trackpad for a mouse that will provide all-day comfort and enhanced productivity. A great mouse can offer a better experience and save your wrist from unnecessary pain.
Premium Logitech MX Master 3 ($100)
Winner of the CES 2020 Innovation award and countless other accolades the Logitech MX is one of the most advanced wireless mice you can buy. With its ability to be used with multiple PCs simultaneously, USB-C for charging, software customization, 70 day battery life, and ergonomic support, the MX Master 3 is a near-perfect wireless mouse.
Mid-Range Logitech Master 2S ($72)
The second edition of the MX Master series, which is very similar to the MX Master 3 for a fraction of the price. The main differences between the two are the slightly narrower shape of the 3, the upgraded scroll wheel on the 3 and the extended battery life.
Budget Razer DeathAdder Elite Gaming Mouse ($36)
The Razer is widely known to be one of the best gaming hardware manufacturers, but there’s no need to be hoarded by that group. The Razer Deathadder Elite is a fantastic all-rounder that is accurate, long-lasting and a great choice for gamers and everyday use.
Up your video conferencing game
Working from home means a lot of video conferencing. The webcam on your laptop will suffice in a pinch, but if you use a desktop monitor or a higher-quality camera, an external webcam is the way to go.
Premium Logitech Brio ($199)
You won’t find a lot of competition for the Brio, which is currently the only webcam we could find from a major brand with 4K video capture. Image quality is great, it’s compact and attractive, and the price isn’t far out of reach compared to other professional conference room options.
Mid-Range Logitech 920S ($69)
Logitech’s C920S is a solid camera for a decent price. It supports a 1,920 × 1,080 resolution (30fps) during Skype conferences, and a 1,280 × 720 resolution using Apple’s FaceTime, Facebook Messenger, and more.
Budget Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 ($39)
Microsoft’s LifeCam HD-3000 may give you the most bang for the least buck. It’s not business-call quality at 720p, but it should get the job done in more casual settings.
Get a chair that will provide support
Anyone who works a typical 9-to-5 job knows that sitting all day can be brutal. If you’re going to sit all day, at least sit in a chair that’s designed for maximum support and comfort.
Premium Herman Miller Embody ($1,495)
The Herman Miller Embody is notably one of the most expensive office chairs available today and for good reason. The chair offers a dynamic matrix of “pixels” that allow the seat and back to automatically conform to your body’s every movement, while the chair’s central spine and flexible ribs work to maintain proper posture, regardless if you’re leaning forward or reclining.
Mid-Range Steelcase Leap ($880)
The Steelcase Leap has long stood as the company’s flagship. It’s one of the more popular office chairs in existence, offering ergonomic support by mimicking the natural shape of your spine throughout the day.
Budget Ikea Markus ($200)
Ikea is the undisputed king of low-cost solutions that not only look great but are thoughtfully designed. The Ikea Marcus chair is a great budget option, offering a breathable mesh backing and built-in lumbar support for extra ergonomic comfort.
Consider getting a new desk
Yes, having all of the tech for your workspace is important, but so is it’s home. When was the last time you thought about getting a dedicated work desk? If you’re spending a lot of time working from home it may be time to upgrade your desk.
Premium Artifox Desk 02 ($1,490)
Artifox is known for its minimal design that combines aesthetics with practicality. The Artifox Desk 02 is the pinnacle of the Artifox range and has all sorts of unique features including; grooves and magnetic clips for organizing cables, a slot for your power bar, and even a section set aside for slotting your smartphone and tablet computer in while you are working.
Mid-Range Jarvis Electric Standing Desk ($734)
While you may be used to it, sitting at a desk all day isn’t the best for your health. Investing in a standing desk like the Jarvis Electric can help you improve posture, burn calories and be more energized. The Jarvis Electric features an adjustable sit/stand motor that makes it easier to alternate between both options.
Budget Wayfair Daniel Computer Desk ($205)
If you are looking for an affordable desk because you just spent all your money on supplies— then this Wayfair Daniel desk is probably just what you’re looking for. The desk has a few features that offer more practicality than a standard desk; including extra storage space, cable management options, and even a cup holder.
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