Working from home is now the norm, but have you kitted out your office as well as you can?
Ensuring you have the right equipment can help make things much easier. If you want to get work done efficiently, setting aside a corner at home and making it your WFH set-up can keep things simple. In this Ultimate Guide to Working From Home, we’ll list the best hardware for your work-from-home set-up.
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For any designers that work freelance, we’ve got you covered too.
20+ Best Office Essentials for Working From Home 2024
Click to see our detailed reviews on each item or scroll on.
- Laptops
- Webcams
- Microphones
- Desks
- Chairs
- Laptop Stands
- Monitor + Monitor Arms / Stands
- USB Data Hubs
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- Ergonomic Mouse
- Earphones
- Speakers
- Printers
Other Home Office Essentials
Top Work From Home Tools Used by Jacob Cass
Peek behind the curtain of Jacob Cass’s setup and see the tools and other items he uses daily when working with clients all over the world.
If you’re a beginner or watching your spending, you may want to consider our post on the top gear for all career levels & budgets.
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Best Laptops for Working from Home
Now we understand that most people will already have a laptop or PC that they use at home every day to check their email and go on Facebook, not many home computers are built for doing work from home. While there are a lot of different options out there, for us there are four perfect options.
Best Overall: Apple 2023 MacBook Pro
The best laptop overall for WFH set-ups
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Display: 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with a 120Hz refresh rate; 3024-by-1964 resolution | Processor: Apple M2 Pro | Graphics: 16-core or 19-core Apple GPU | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 512GB/1TB SSD
MacBooks are the ideal choice for a laptop that’s both lightweight and with good processing power. For us, this laptop is a no-brainer! It’s suitable for creatives or anyone that wants a smooth experience with their work setup.
A step up from the previous M1 chip, the M2 chip from Apple makes the MacBook Pro the fastest Apple laptop. With Apple, buying the latest version of the device helps ensure you receive updates and that the product stays relevant for longer.
For creatives and designers, you’ll find the Liquid Retina XDR mini-LED display vibrant and with outstanding color accuracy. Also, it comes with a 120Hz refresh rate making it an excellent choice even for anyone that edits videos. If none of this sounds convincing, it may help to know the MacBook Pro series has been used by Jacob Cass (founder of JUSTCreative) for well over a decade.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Powerful performance | ➖ A bit expensive |
| ➕ Liquid Retina XDR display | |
| ➕ Impressive battery life |
- SUPERCHARGED BY M2 PRO OR M2 MAX — Take on demanding projects with the M2 Pro or M2 Max chip. M2 Pro has up to 12 CPU cores, up to 19 GPU cores, and up to 32GB unified memory. M2 Max has 12 CPU...
- UP TO 18 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Go all day thanks to the power-efficient design of the M2 Pro or M2 Max chip. And the MacBook Pro laptop delivers exceptional performance whether it’s running on...
- FULLY COMPATIBLE — All your pro apps run lightning fast — including Adobe Creative Cloud, Xcode, Affinity Designer, Microsoft 365, and many of your favorite iPhone and iPad apps.
- BEAUTIFUL PRO DISPLAY — The 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display features Extreme Dynamic Range, over 1000 nits of brightness for stunning HDR content, and pro reference modes for doing your best...
- ADVANCED CAMERA AND AUDIO — Look sharp and sound great with a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, a studio-quality three-mic array, and a six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio.
Best 2-in-1: Microsoft Surface Pro 9
The best 2-in-1 device for WFH set-ups
When it comes to tablet-laptop hybrids, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is an ideal choice. While limited in storage capacity, the Surface Pro is convenient to use. Compact to carry around with you, the Surface Pro comes with an i7 chipset and an impressive 16GB ram for processing.
With an Intel Iris Xe graphics card, the Microsft Surface Pro 9 can handle a reasonable amount of graphics. Working on creative software is easy for designers and digital artists.
What we liked most about the Surface Pro 9 was its compact and flexible build. Besides this, the laptop comes with impressive graphics and processing capabilities for a device of its size.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Powerful performance | ➖ A bit expensive |
| ➕ Vibrant and crisp touchscreen | |
| ➕2-in-1 device with detachable keyboard | |
| ➕ Solid battery life |
- Microsoft SQ 3 with 5G[2] for the Pro on the go.
- Up to 19 hours of battery life.[4]
- Adjust the angle with built-in Kickstand.
- Virtually edge-to-edge 13” PixelSense touchscreen designed for pen[1] and Windows 11.
- Surface Slim Pen 2[1]storage and charging built right into Surface Pro Signature Keyboard.[1,5]
Best Affordable Laptop: HP Envy 15
The best affordable laptop for WFH office setups
CPU: Intel Core i7-10750H – Core i9-10885H | Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics – GeForce RTX 2060 w/Max-Q design (6 GB) | RAM: 16 – 32GB | Screen: 15.6″ diagonal FHD (1,920 x 1,080) – 15.6″ diagonal 4K UHD (3,840 x 2,160) multitouch display | Storage: 256GB – 2TB SSD
While not the most mind-blowing option, the HP Envy 15 is a fast laptop with impressive performance. More on the affordable side when compared with the other laptops on this list, the Envy 15 has a lot to offer in terms of battery life and sleek design.
Capable of handling creative software and video games, when it comes to laptops that you can use for the next four to five years, HP always delivers quality customer support.
This laptop has a lot to offer, with an Nvidia Geforce GTX 1650 Graphics card and a 4k OLED display. When it comes to using this laptop for working from home, we feel it’s one the most reliable and functional laptops for designers and professionals in the price range.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Powerful RAM and processor | ➖ Gets quite hot |
| ➕ Touch screen | |
| ➕ Can be upgraded easily |
Best Powerful Laptop: MacBook Air
Regardless of whether you design or carry out basic tasks in your workplace, the Macbook is one of the most powerful and sleek laptops to use when working from home. Compact and reliable, the Apple Macbook Air has a touch bar making accessing apps simple and quick.
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Unlike the MacBook Pro, the Macbook Air comes in a slightly more affordable price range. That said, if you’re looking for a future-proofed laptop, we recommend you opt for the Macbook Pro (2022).
The screen is a 16-inch retina display, ensuring color accuracy and vibrancy. If your work entails reviewing branding or marketing material, the MacBook Air is an excellent choice.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕Consistent performance | ➖Faster alternatives available |
| ➕Lightweight build | |
| ➕Good battery life |
- GUARANTEED POWER: With 11th Gen InteI Core mobile processors, it’s now possible to enjoy incredibly immersive entertainment on a remarkably thin and light touchscreen laptop.
- KILLER WIRELESS: With Wi-Fi 6 techology, the Killer AX1650 prioritizes streaming video, communication, and game traffic in your system for fast, smooth online experiences.
- STUNNING IS AN UNDERSTATEMENT: Dolby Vision content can deliver highlights that are up to 40 times brighter, and blacks that are up to 10 times darker.
- START IN AN INSTANT: A built in lid sensor with a new press fit hinge allows you to open the lid with one hand and power up in milliseconds, no matter what power-state you are in.
- DELL SERVICES: Your Dell XPS includes 1 year of Dell Premium Support with priority access to deicated experts anywhere, anytime even when traveling internationally.
Best Webcams for Video Conferencing
If you’re working from home, that may not mean that you don’t still have conference calls or meetings that you need to attend and if you are video conferencing, you want a webcam that presents you in the best way. Our top choices are all from Logitech because they make the best webcams out there.
Best Overall: Razer Kiyo Pro Streaming Webcam
Best webcam for working from home overall
Making sure you have crisp and clear video quality can make all the difference on video calls. Unfortunately, however, most powerful laptops are cursed with potato cameras, so to speak. If you’re looking for a crisp camera for conference calls, the Razer Kiyo can shoot in 1080p.
Capable of shooting even wide angles, the camera uses USB 3,0 for connectivity, meaning there’s no lag in delivering video performance to your laptop or computer. This webcam stands out because it allows you to shoot in low lighting.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Impressive video quality | ➖ No microphone |
| ➕Reasonable price | |
| ➕ Captures low-lighting footage |
- UNCOMPRESSED FULL HD 1080P WEBCAM — Experience smooth and vibrant professional quality with the highest fidelity through uncompressed Full HD 1080p 60FPS video. Works great for streaming, gaming,...
- UNCOMPRESSED FULL HD 1080P WEBCAM — Experience smooth and vibrant professional quality with the highest fidelity through uncompressed Full HD 1080p 60FPS video. Works great for streaming, gaming,...
- SUPERIOR LOW-LIGHT PERFORMANCE — Reduces graininess and brings out details to show the person in the best light even in darker environments. The Razer Kiyo Pro’s light sensor performs better in...
- HDR-ENABLED — Make the stream pop with a full spectrum of vibrant colors by activating HDR at 30FPS, which ramps up the video’s dynamic range while correcting over and underexposed areas
- WIDE-ANGLE LENS WITH ADJUSTABLE FOV — Find the right amount of visual space need to display on camera with a large aperture, wide-angle lens that can be customized across three field-of-view options...
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Best Pro Microphones for Video Calls & Podcasting
With many people having to stay home to work, some have decided that maybe they should start a podcast and if you are going to, you need a good mic to do it. These are our choices to help get you started.
Best Overall: Razer Seiren V2 Pro
Best Microphone for Video Calls and Podcasts
If you value sound quality or are a streamer, the Razer Seiren definitely delivers on quality. Although it may seem like overkill for WFH station, having a setup that allows you to record podcasts or even software tutorials can bring immense value to your remote office.
This mic will enable users to achieve a warmer and deeper tone. It comes with a shock absorber to limit vibrations and background sound. What we liked most about this mic was its overall value in the price range. It is worth noting that some devices may require a little extra time to start up, but that’s only because of the noise reduction.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕Impressive sound quality | ➖ Some users faced issues installing the mic |
| ➕ Easy to change settings and customize EQ | |
| ➕ Sleek and stylish design |
- Dynamic Microphone: Has an incredible low end that gives your voice a deep, warm quality that sounds full and clear thanks to greater noise suppression compared to traditional cardioid mics - speak...
- High Pass Filter: Activated via Razer Synapse, the mic’s high pass filter eliminates any background humming and buzzing so your voice can be captured as if inside a soundproof studio
- Digital Analogue Limiter: The Razer Seiren V2 Pro is programmed to automatically prevent clipping and peaking so there's no reason to worry about your voice breaking up or sounding noisy while...
- Mic Monitoring: By plugging a headset into the mic you’re able to hear yourself speak, which makes it convenient for maintaining optimal mic audio levels and talking on chaotic voice channels
- Built-In Shock Absorber and Mic Windsock: The mic is not only able to dampen vibrations from knocks and bumps, but can also prevent pops and hisses so anyone listening is protected against potentially...
Best Ergonomic Desks for Working from Home
Now that you’re working from home, you’re probably using just about any space you can get to yourself, and that’s likely going to be the dining room table, which is great until dinner time. You need a real desk and a good standing desk can be just what you need. We like the options listed below to fit your needs.
Best Overall: SAMTRA 55-inch Computer Desk
Best Ergonomic Desk
Although you can make do with your dining table, having a dedicated workspace can make all the difference. We like this option from SAMTRA as it’s functional, minimalist, and affordable. Although limited in closed storage space, it has shelves that help you keep your workstation in order.
What we liked most about this desk is that the company allows customization options. With this desk, you can add on and make it an L-shape desk at a slightly higher price. Besides that, this table is quite easy to set up and even comes with a 1-year warranty. For those looking to create your own workspace at an affordable price, this 55-inch computer desk is an excellent way to go.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Compact and minimalist design | ➖ No closed storage space |
| ➕ Multiple shelves | |
| ➕ Budget price |
- 👍👍 Multi Dimensional Storage --- This computer gaming desk with storage shelves is easy to fit snugly in a corner to maximize your limited space, you can partition storage your PC host, books,...
- 👍👍 Large Desktop & Ample Space --- The gaming computer desk with storage With size 55" * 23.6" * 45.5", this gaming desk with hutch and storage is big enough for the keyboard, two big monitors...
- 👍👍 Durable and Sturdy Construction --- The home office desk with storage shelf gaming is constructed by premium metal frame & high-quality MDF Board. The writing table has foot pad can move...
- 👍👍 Reversible Shelves & Fast Installation --- The shelving units of the gaming computer desk can be fixed on the left or right side according to working scenario, so you can maximize small space...
- 👍👍 Customer Service --- We provide 1 years warranty and lifetime customer support. If you have any problems related to our gaming desk computer table, please feel free to contact customer...
Best Office Chairs for Working at Home
While using a standing desk can be healthier, we wouldn’t expect you to stand all day long so when you do sit down, you should sit in something comfortable and these would be the chairs we and our very own Jacob Cass would recommend.
Best Overall Chair: Aeron
Best Ergonomic Chair
Even with an update to our choices for the best office chair, the Aeron from Herman Miller is by far the best office chair you can buy. With its mesh design and clean lines that contour to the shape of the human body.
Working long hours is a given when working from home, and you must stay comfortable full-time.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕Ergonomic design | ➖Cannot adjust seat depth |
| ➕ Good reclining function | |
| ➕ Suitable for users working long hours |
- Your purchase includes One Herman Miller Aeron Ergonomic Chair – Size B, graphite color
- Chair dimensions: 41" H x 27" W x 16.75" D. Seat heights: 16”-20.5”.
- Tilt Limiter lets you set the recline range at one of three postures. Tension control lets you adjust the amount of effort needed to recline comfortably. Seat Angle Adjustment changes seat angle from...
- Try the Adjustable PostureFit Sacral/Lumbar support. Two individual pads flex independently and can be adjust to fit the curve of your spine
- Fully Adjustable Arms adjust from a height of 6.8” above the seat to 10.8 inches above the seat, slide backward and forward over a range of 2.5 inches, pivot 15 degrees outward and 17.5 degrees...
Top Laptop Stands for Reducing Strain
Putting your laptop at eye level can help reduce any eye strain and help you focus on your work instead of feeling tired during the day. To help keep your eyes on your work, here are the choices we like for a laptop stand.
Best For Macs: Twelve South Curved Stand
Best Laptop Stand for Macs
Twelve South Curved Stand is the best laptop stand exclusively created for MacBooks. It sports a sleek-looking and low-profile design and takes minimum space. This laptop stand has a modern aluminum design that makes it look great.
At the same time, it will improve the airflow for your MacBook. Twelve South Curved Stand is the best laptop stand for MacBooks, and we highly recommend it – this is one of the best Macbook Pro accessories, hands down!
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Ergonomic build | ➖ Not great when standing |
| ➕ Reasonably price | |
| ➕ Convenient design |
- Designed, sold & supported by Twelve South, a family-owned small business in Charleston, South Carolina.
- Protection - Anti-slip silicone pads and bent arms keep laptop in place and prevent scratches
- Better Ergonomics - Curve raises laptop 6 inches (15cm) off your desk to relieve neck and shoulder strain
- Multiple Uses - Pair with a full-size keyboard & mouse for a comfortable desktop setup or use with a monitor for dual screen functionality
Best Affordable: Laptop Stand
Best Affordable Laptop Stand
Weight: 2.43 pounds | Material: Metal | Features: Comes with a 6-slotted cord organizer
Sometimes, the most basic stand can be just what you’re looking for. At an extremely affordable price, this laptop stand has a lightweight build perfect if you’re on the go.
This laptop stand is perfect for offices and even work-from-home set-ups. Also, its aluminum, sturdy build makes it the better laptop stand for its price.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Affordable price | ➖The metal elbow can be cumbersome |
| ➕Mesh allows for ventilation | |
| ➕ Easy to adjust |
- 7 Adjustable Height Positions：Designa laptop stand with height adjustable, easily adjusted to achieve a comfortable and ergonomic viewing angle as needed. Metal mesh laptop stand relieve your...
- Metal Mesh Panels：Computer stand is made of fine-gauge metal mesh, tilt construction to supply more efficient Cooling Ventilation for laptop. Metal mesh laptop stand prevent laptop from overheating.
- Cord Organizer：Six slots for wire organizers on the back of designa laptop stand, mesh laptop stand keep desk tidy. Computer stand accommodates power cords and USB cables.
- More Stable & Durable：Metal mesh laptop stand with anti-slip and damper mat. Allows for fixed positions and protects your desk from scratches.
- Light Weight Design：Computer stand can be fold up for space saving storage, portable and adjustable.
Best Under-desk Tray: VIVO Large Underdesk Tray
Best under-desk tray for home offices
Size: 26 x 11 inches | Weight: 10.5 lbs | Colors: Black, Dark Wood, Light Wood, and White | Adjustable: No
When you’re working with limited space, optimizing your available deskspace with an under-desk tray is smart. This under-desk tray from Vivo is an excellent option as it’s easy to set and does not require drilling any holes into your desk.
The tray is retractable or pulls out, making it convenient to push back in when not in use. This tray can support up to 11 pounds and is a sturdy addition to your workplace. Also, with its easy-to-set-up clamp mechanism, setting up is a small task.
What we liked most about this under-desk tray was its impressive size and durability. Also, if you’re picky about your workplace aesthetic, it’s comforting to know this under-desk tray comes in various colors.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Sturdy build | ➖ Non-adjustable |
| ➕ Affordable price | |
| ➕Impressive size |
- Save Desk Space - This 26.8” (32.5" including clamps) x 11” under-desk keyboard tray holds your keyboard, mouse, and other small accessories below the desktop for added work space. PLEASE NOTE:...
- Comfortable Typing Angles - Easily slide the tray in and out and enjoy ergonomic typing angles that relieve stress on your wrists and shoulders. The tray extends a maximum of 8.5” from the edge of...
- Sturdy C-Clamps - Attach the keyboard tray to your workstation without causing any damage to your desk (1.25” Maximum Desk Thickness) with sturdy C-clamps that hold everything tightly in place and...
- Easy Installation - All necessary hardware and instructions are provided for assembly, and mounting your keyboard tray to the desk is an easy process with the adjustable clamps. The tray holds weights...
- We've Got You Covered - This product comes with a limited 3-year Manufacturer Warranty, as well as friendly tech support to help with any questions or concerns.
Best Monitors for Working at Home
As beautiful as some laptop screens can be, sometimes they are just too small to get any real work done and that can put a lot of strain on your eyes. Hooking your laptop up to a monitor can give you that desktop feels without a bulky tower. Here are our suggestions if you’re looking for a monitor.
Best Overall: LG 27MD5KL-B 27 Inch UltraFine Monitor
Best Monitor for WFH Set-Ups
Screen size: 27-inch | Aspect ratio: 16:9 | Resolution: 5,120 x 2,880 | Brightness: 500 nits | Viewing angle: 178/178 | Contrast ratio: 1200:1 | Color support: 99% DCI | Weight: 14.11lbs
LG 27-inch monitor displays everything beautifully with its 5K resolution that is supported by color support of 99% DCI-P3 and a contrast ratio of 1200:1.
With three USB-C downstream ports and a single USB-C port that allows you to transmit 5K video and data while also charging your MacBook.
This is our top pick as the best monitor for graphic designers, artists, and creatives in general, especially if you’re a Macbook user.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Impressive color accuracy | ➖ Ports positioned in the middle of the monitor make connecting devices annoying |
| ➕ Value for money | |
| ➕ Has brightness up to 500 nits |
- 27 Inch 5K (5120 x 2880) IPS Display.Aspect ratio:16:9.Viewing Angle:178.0 degrees.Response time:14.0 milliseconds. Contrast Ratio 1100:1, Pixel Pitch (mm) 0.11685 x 0.11685 mm. Power Consumption...
- DCI-P3 99% Color Gamut / 500nits Brightness
- Thunderbolt 3 Port with up to 94W PD
- 3 USB Type C Ports
- Mac OS Compatibility
Best Budget Monitor: LG 4K UHD 27UD88-W 27″ LED-Lit Monitor
The best budget 4k monitor for home offices
Screen size: 27-inch | Resolution: 3840 x 2160 | Brightness: 350 cd/m2 | Contrast ratio: 1000:1 | Colour support: SRGB 100%
While finding a great 4K, 5K, or even 8K monitor can be what any graphic designer might want, many of the options out there, or even on our list, don’t come cheap. Enter the 27UL850 from LG, one of the best budget monitors for graphic design.
With a beautiful 27-inch, 4K display, everything you work on will look incredible. With excellent color quality and its incredible price tag, there are few better options.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Affordable price | ➖ Low refresh rate when compared to competitors |
| ➕ Ergonomic design | |
| ➕ Impressive display |
- 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) IPS Monitor; Response Time: 5ms GTG; Refresh Rate: 60Hz
- SRGB over 99%; On-Screen Control with Screen Split 2.0
- Color Calibration Pro; No Built In Speakers
- USB 3.0 Quick ChargeUSB Type C; Brightness (cd/m2) : 350 cd/m2; Contrast Ratio : 5M:1
- OS Compatibility Windows 8
Monitor Arms & Stands for Saving Space
Not really float mind you but using a monitor mount can save you space on your desk and the way many mounts are designed now don’t take up much room themselves. Here are our choices for the mounts you should consider.
Best Overall: Amazon Basics Single Monitor Stand
The best monitor arm for WFH set-ups
Weight: 7.8lbs | Dimensions: 25.6 x 6 x 16.2in | Max monitor size: 32in | Max monitor weight: 25lbs
Having a monitor arm can help with space constraints and help significantly with posture. We found this Amazon Basics Monitor Arm the perfect fit for its affordability and sturdy build. Although several more elaborate monitor arms are on the market, this one can be mounted on either desk or wall.
With its adjustable tilt, your work style is made more flexible. So if you’re inclined to work at varied angles or heights, this Single Monitor Stand is an excellent choice for your work-from-home setup.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Affordability | ➖ Cable management system could be better |
| ➕ Lightweight build | |
| ➕ Flexible yet sturdy design |
- Single-arm monitor stand frees up desktop space and offers ergonomic viewing comfort
- Works with almost any LCD monitor up to 32 inches and up to 25 pounds
- Adjustable arm extends and retracts; adjustable tilt (70 degrees back, 5 degrees forward) to change reading angles; 360 degree rotation for easily transitioning from landscape to portrait mode
- VESA compatible (100 x 100mm and 75 x 75mm); table-mount clamp fits desktops between 0.4 and 2.4 inches thick
- Made of durable yet lightweight aluminum for reliable strength
A USB-Hub to Plug Your Toys Into
With everything you’re going to be hooking up, you’re going to run out of USB ports pretty quickly which is where a USB hub comes in handy. To make things easier, here are your choices for your next USB hub:
Best Overall: Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub
When it comes to USB Hubs that are perfect for desktop and laptop setups, the Anker 4-Port is an option worth considering. Although this USB does not have charging functionality, it is minimalist, reliable, and allows users to connect four devices to their laptop or computer simultaneously.
What we like about USB hubs is that they allow you to neaten up your workspace and let you use so many devices simultaneously. If you’re worried about your battery draining, using USB Hubs to have their own internal battery (with charging) is an excellent alternative.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Improved functionality in your workplace | ➖ Relies on the laptop for power |
| ➕Neater set-up | |
| ➕Easy accessibility |
![Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub with 5Gbps Data Transfer, Ultra-Slim Data USB Hub [Charging Not Supported],...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41rsnBx1KLL._SL160_.jpg)
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 80 million+ powered by our leading technology
- SuperSpeed Data: Sync data at blazing speeds up to 5Gbps—fast enough to transfer an HD movie in seconds.
- Big Expansion: Transform one of your computer's USB ports into four. (This hub is not designed to charge devices.)
- Extra Tough: Precision-designed for heat resistance and incredible durability.
- What You Get: Anker Ultra Slim 4-Port USB 3.0 Data Hub, welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty and friendly customer service.
Best USB-Hub for Macbooks: Anker USB-C Hub (With Charging)
Best USB-Hub for Macbooks
While Macbooks and most laptops have powerful processing and battery life, using USB hubs can make it a whole lot easier. A lot of the time, connecting drawing pads or laptop accessories can result in them draining power, and USB Hubs help users circumnavigate this.
Besides this, the USB hubs enable a bigger range of accessibility for accessories, storage devices, and even monitors. This USB Hub from Anker comes with a sturdy build and can use seven different devices simultaneously.
Preferably what we like about USB hubs is the improved accessibility and the fact that it doesn’t drain the laptop battery.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Improved functionality for your set-up | ➖ Gets quite warm |
| ➕ USB 3.0 for faster connectivity | |
| ➕ Lightweight and portable |
- 7 ports in 1 compact hub: USB-C, 2 USB-A, HDMI, microSD and SD card readers
- High-speed data transfer up to 5 Gbps
- 4K HDMI output
- 100W Power Delivery pass-through charging
- Premium aluminum casing
Best Keyboards for Working from Home Productively
If you’re at home working on a laptop and you have bigger hands like many of us do, trying to type on a small keyboard can be an arduous process. Using an external keyboard helps save your fingers and with their wireless capability, means that you’re not tied to your desk. We picked these out from the crowd.
Best Overall: Apple Magic Keyboard
Best keyboard for Macbooks
Macbooks and iOS devices are typically preferred for graphic designers due to their consistent and reliable performance with creative software. For anyone looking double down on efficiency, The Apple Magic Keyboard is a recommended option for iOS users.
While laptop keyboards suffice for most individuals, for anyone needing to work with a larger screen or type faster, using the Magic keyboard can help significantly. Personally, what we love about this keyboard are its battery life (which lasts several weeks) and its ergonomic design.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Sleek, minimalist design | ➖ Limited versatility in tilt |
| ➕ Impressive battery life | |
| ➕Lightweight |
- WIRELESS, RECHARGEABLE CONVENIENCE — Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad connects wirelessly to your Mac, iPad, or iPhone via Bluetooth. And the rechargeable internal battery means no loose batteries...
- WORKS WITH MAC, IPAD, OR IPHONE — It pairs quickly with your device so you can get to work right away.
- ENHANCED TYPING EXPERIENCE — Magic Keyboard delivers a remarkably comfortable and precise typing experience. Its extended layout features document navigation controls for quick scrolling and...
- GO WEEKS WITHOUT CHARGING — The incredibly long-lasting internal battery will power your keyboard for about a month or more between charges. (Battery life varies by use.) Comes with a Lightning to...
- SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS — Requires a Bluetooth-enabled Mac with macOS 10.12.4 or later, an iPad with iPadOS 13.4 or later, or an iPhone or iPod touch with iOS 10.3 or later.
Best Wireless Keyboard: Logitech Craft
Best Wireless Keyboard for WFH
When it comes to developers or designers that can be required to work on more than one device in a particular instance, the Logitech Craft is an excellent choice. This wireless keyboard is backlit, making it easier to work with in low lighting. Besides this, the backlight gets activated once the user is close proximity, making us find this keyboard both fun and practical to use.
While there are several features like noseless typing, one drawback is that you cannot adjust backlight levels to conserve battery power. Something we didn’t appreciate with this keyboard was the need to charge the battery every few days. Besides this, however, for designers, the Logitech Craft is one of the most intuitive keyboards.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕Noisless keys with backlighting | ➖ Underwhelming battery life |
| ➕Sturdy build and design | |
| ➕Cutomizable knob |
- THE CROWN – A UNIQUE CREATIVE INPUT DIAL. The Crown is a tactile aluminium dial that adapts to the app you’re using – giving you instant control of the tool you need. Touch the Crown to access...
- OPTIMISED WORKFLOW. Install profiles in Logitech Options to enhance the Crown for use with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, InDesign, as well as Microsoft PowerPoint, Excel and Word. Adjust...
- PREMIUM TYPING. Type with confidence on a keyboard crafted for efficiency, stability and precision. Your fingers glide effortlessly between the matt surface of the keys. The large strike area and...
- SMART ILLUMINATION. The backlit keys light up the moment your hands approach and automatically adjust to suit changing lighting conditions.
- INTUITIVE USER EXPERIENCE. Enjoy a balanced and natural creative experience. Use the Crown to adjust your work, the mouse to navigate and the keyboard to type with precision. Be more efficient by...
Best Ergonomic Mouse for Working at Home
The touchpad on your laptop can be good in a pinch and the mouse that comes with a desktop computer is basic at best. If you’re going to be working from home, having a high-quality mouse can make work easier and also help keep your wrist safe from repetitive strain injuries.
Best Overall: Logitech MX Master 3S
For designers, mouse sensitivity and functionality are crucial. Although you can work around these two things in cases where you have a drawing pad or tablet, it always comes in handy. The Logitech MX Master is one of the most popular choices.
Although there are several different mice, The MX Master also has an ergonomic build suitable for those that work long hours.
Using a mouse for long hours can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome when working from home. A good way to avoid this is using ergonomic keyboards and mouses in your workplace set.
With an astounding 8K DPI, the capability to function on up to 3 different devices, and the capability to function on glass surfaces, the MX Master is one of the best mice for those working from home.
What we liked |
What we didn’t like |
| ➕ Impressive sensitivity | ➖Slightly pricey |
| ➕Customizable buttons | |
| ➕Comfortable, ergonomic build |
- Any-surface tracking - now 8K DPI: Use MX Master 3S cordless computer mouse to work on any surface - even glass (1) - with the upgraded 8000 DPI sensor with customizable sensitivity.
- Introducing quiet clicks: MX Master 3S Bluetooth mouse introduces Quiet Clicks - offering the same satisfying feel but with 90% less click noise. Sensor Technology: Darkfield high precision.
- Install free Logi Options+ App to enable Logi AI Prompt Builder for your Logitech mice and keyboards.
- Magspeed scrolling: A computer mouse with remarkable speed, precision, and near silence - MagSpeed scrolling is 90% faster , 87% more precise, and ultra quiet.
- Ergonomic design : Work comfortably with a precision mouse featuring a silhouette crafted for a more natural wrist posture and optimally placed thumb controls.
Best Headphones for Clear Focus
Whether you rocking to your favorite songs or listening to your favorite podcast, a good pair of headphones or earbuds can help you focus, or drown out the sounds of other family members in the room. Here are the ones we like the best.
