As a remote worker, having the right gadgets can make all the difference in ensuring productivity, comfort, and efficiency. With so many of us working from home nowadays, it's essential to create a conducive environment where we can focus while also minimizing distractions. In this article, I'll share the top 10 most valuable gadgets for remote workers, each designed to improve your overall work-from-home experience.
Working remotely requires a seamless integration of technology, ergonomics, and functionality to create a space that is both inspiring and comfortable. From high-quality noise-cancelling headsets to reliable wi-fi mesh systems, there's a gadget out there to help make your job easier and more enjoyable. Whether you're looking to upgrade your home office or you're just starting to build a remote work setup, these gadgets can help maximize productivity and efficiency.
When choosing gadgets for remote work, keep in mind factors such as durability, user-friendliness, compatibility, and versatility. You want to invest in products that will last and suit your individual needs, allowing you to focus more on your work and less on troubleshooting issues. Additionally, pay attention to the ergonomics of items such as desks, chairs, and keyboards to prevent strain on your body and maintain a healthy posture during long work hours.
After much consideration, I've compiled a list of the top 10 most valuable gadgets for remote workers that can help improve your work-from-home life. From state-of-the-art tech to everyday essentials, these gadgets will revolutionize your remote work setup and help you excel in your career.
Top 10 Most Valuable Gadgets for Remote Workers
As a remote worker, I know how essential it is to have the right tools at my disposal. That's why I've compiled this list of the top 10 most valuable gadgets that can make your work-from-home experience more productive and enjoyable.
This VIVO Electric Height Adjustable Desk offers smooth height adjustments, a spacious surface, and impressive durability, making it an excellent purchase for remote workers seeking a comfortable and functional work setup.
Pros
Easy transition from sitting to standing
Large and spacious tabletop for multiple monitor setups
Strong construction supports up to 176 lbs
Cons
Pre-drilled holes might not suit all preferences
Assembly might be time-consuming for some
Ships in two boxes that may not arrive simultaneously
I recently started using the VIVO Electric Height Adjustable Desk and immediately noticed the ease and fluidity in switching between sitting and standing. The single motor and powerful legs enable smooth height adjustments within a range of 28.8" to 48", making it possible to find my ideal working position. The push-button controller with customizable memory settings is a great addition, allowing me to save my preferred heights.
The spacious 70.9" x 29.5" tabletop provides ample space for monitor and laptop setups, as well as work essentials, decorative items, and stationery. The tabletop's particle board construction ensures a scratch-resistant surface, enhancing the desk's lifespan. I found the all-steel frame construction with a weight capacity of 176 lbs to be a reassuring feature, as it enables the desk to bear the weight of my multiple monitors and other peripherals without any wobble or instability.
However, assembling the desk took longer than I had anticipated, so potential buyers should anticipate investing time during the initial setup. Additionally, the pre-drilled holes may not cater to everyone's preferences in terms of leg placement. While the desk ships in two separate boxes, they may not arrive simultaneously, which could lead to an incomplete assembly experience until the other box arrives.
Overall, the VIVO Electric Height Adjustable Desk is a reliable and ergonomic solution for remote workers seeking both comfort and functionality in their work setup.
I highly recommend these headphones for their exceptional noise cancelling, comfort, and high-fidelity audio experience.
Pros
World-class noise cancelling
Comfortable and durable design
High-quality sound with adjustable EQ
Cons
Slightly expensive
22-hour battery life may be insufficient for some users
Lacks some advanced features found in competitors
The moment I put on the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones, I noticed a significant reduction in external noise. The enhanced Acoustic Noise Cancelling technology allows me to focus on my tasks by drowning out distractions, especially during remote work. Additionally, the Aware Mode is a useful feature when I want to stay connected to my surroundings without taking off the headphones.
When it comes to comfort, these headphones excel thanks to the plush synthetic leather, glass-filled nylon, and cast-metal hinges. I can wear them for extended periods without feeling any discomfort or fatigue. The lightweight materials used in the construction ensure that I often forget I'm even wearing the headphones. The smooth cushions and clean look of these headphones also contribute to their overall appeal.
One of the things that make the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones stand out is the high-fidelity audio experience they provide. The TriPort acoustic architecture and volume-optimized Active EQ deliver deep, clear sound and ensure consistent performance at any volume. Tuning my music with the adjustable EQ is a breeze, allowing me to personalize the bass, mid-range, and treble levels to suit my preferences.
While I appreciate the 22-hour battery life, I understand that it might not be adequate for users who require longer-lasting headphones. The Quick Charge feature, providing 3 hours of playtime with just a 15-minute charge, partly compensates for this limitation. However, it's worth noting that some competitor headphones offer longer battery life.
Overall, the Bose QuietComfort 45 headphones are an excellent investment for remote workers seeking top-notch noise cancelling, comfort, and sound quality. Some users may find the price tag slightly high, and the headphones lack a few advanced features seen in competitors, but the strengths of these headphones undoubtedly justify their value.
I recommend the HP DeskJet 2755e for its essential features, all-in-one capabilities, and bonus of six months Instant Ink subscription if you need a basic printer for home or office.
Pros
Easy setup process through HP Smart app
6 months of free Instant Ink subscription with HP+
Wireless printing, scanning, and copying
Cons
Occasional connectivity issues
Cartridges provided aren't standard ink cartridges
Takes time to set up, and the printing speed is relatively slow
I recently tried out the HP DeskJet 2755e Wireless All-in-One Printer, and for the most part, I was satisfied with my experience. Its essential features allowed me to print, scan and copy easily, perfect for doing some basic office tasks. The setup process was quite manageable using the HP Smart app, guiding me step-by-step through the process.
The bonus of a six-month Instant Ink subscription with HP+ activation was a pleasant surprise. With this subscription, I didn't have to worry about running out of ink, as it ships directly to my doorstep. After the six months, I could either cancel the subscription or continue the service at a discounted rate.
The printer does have its drawbacks, however. During my usage, I noticed occasional connectivity issues and problems with the wireless printing feature. Moreover, the cartridges provided with the printer aren't standard ink cartridges, which was somewhat disappointing. Additionally, the setup took a bit longer than expected, and the printing speed seemed to be relatively slow compared to other printers I've used.
In conclusion, the HP DeskJet 2755e is a decent choice for those looking for an affordable, all-in-one printer for their home or office. Though it has a few drawbacks, the essential features, wireless capabilities, and free Instant Ink subscription make it a valuable asset for basic printing tasks.
The Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard offers incredible comfort and versatility for remote workers in various operating systems.
Pros
Responsive and comfortable typing experience
Smart illumination and hand proximity detection
Supports multiple devices and operating systems
Cons
Requires a separate unifying receiver for non-Bluetooth devices
Slightly higher priced than some competitors
Some users may experience Bluetooth connectivity issues
I recently started using the Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard, and I must say, it has been a game-changer for my remote work setup. The perfect stroke keys are a delight to use, offering satisfying feedback as I type on their spherically dished surfaces. I noticed that I have been able to type faster and with less fatigue thanks to the keyboard's comfort and stability.
Another feature that has impressed me is the smart illumination with hand proximity detection. The automatic backlighting ensures that I can work comfortably even in low-light conditions without having to adjust my screen brightness or squint at the keys. Furthermore, the ability to connect up to three devices and easily switch between them has streamlined my multitasking across various devices and operating systems.
However, I must mention that the MX Keys requires a Logitech Bolt unifying receiver for devices without Bluetooth—a minor inconvenience, but something to note for potential buyers. Additionally, the price point may seem slightly higher than some other options, but with its advanced features and multi-device compatibility, I believe it is well worth the investment.
In conclusion, the Logitech MX Keys Advanced Wireless Illuminated Keyboard is an exceptional tool for remote workers striving to enhance their productivity and comfort. Its comfortable typing experience, smart illumination, and versatile connectivity make it a valuable addition to any work setup.
The Garmin Venu 2 is an excellent choice for remote workers seeking a well-rounded smartwatch with advanced health monitoring and fitness features.
Pros
Impressive battery life with rapid recharging
Extensive health monitoring and fitness options
Phone-free music listening with wireless headphone compatibility
Cons
Slightly slow user interface
Some desirable watch faces are paid
Limited smart notification customization
I recently started using the Garmin Venu 2 as my smartwatch and I've been quite impressed with its overall performance. Its battery life is exceptional, lasting up to 11 days in smartwatch mode and up to 8 hours in GPS mode with music. Rapid recharging and a battery saver mode are added bonuses for busy remote workers who require their gadgets to be always ready.
Having tried several other smartwatches in the past, I find the health monitoring features on the Venu 2 incredibly useful for staying in tune with my mind and body. The watch tracks sleep, stress, Body Battery energy levels, and even offers a fitness age estimation. The variety of preloaded workouts and GPS sports apps has made it easy for me to switch up my routine and try new activities, helping me stay active and focused during long workdays.
As someone who enjoys listening to music while working, the Venu 2's phone-free music feature has become a lifesaver. I can download up to 650 songs, including playlists from Spotify and Amazon Music, and pair the watch with my wireless headphones for seamless listening.
However, the smartwatch is not without some minor drawbacks. The user interface can be a bit slow at times, which can be frustrating when you're trying to quickly access a feature. Additionally, many of the attractive watch faces are paid, requiring an extra investment for customization. Lastly, I would have preferred more options for customizing smart notifications.
Despite these minor issues, I believe the Garmin Venu 2 is a valuable gadget for remote workers, offering extensive health monitoring and fitness features that can help boost overall well-being and productivity.
The LEPOWER Desk Lamp is an excellent investment for remote workers due to its eye-caring design, brightness, and convenience features.
Pros
RG0 certified eye-caring technology
50% wider LED panel for increased lighting area
3-axis arm design and dual USB charging ports
Cons
Limited rotation on the light itself
Buttons could be more intuitive
Slightly bulky design for small desks
I have been using the LEPOWER Desk Lamp for a while now, and I must say, it has significantly improved my work-from-home experience. The RG0 certified eye-caring technology and the absence of blue light hazard really help reduce eye strain during long work hours. It's especially important to me, as I'm always reading documents or working on the computer.
The 50% wider LED panel is a game-changer, providing an even, bright light coverage on my workspace. Its 35 lighting choices, with 5 color temperatures and 7 brightness levels, make it incredibly versatile for different tasks and situations, be it late-night reading or working on a sunny afternoon. The lamp's 3-axis arm design also allows me to adjust its height and angle easily, providing the right amount of light where I need it.
I appreciate the two built-in USB charging ports. The convenience of charging my devices like my smartphone and tablet right at my desk without reaching for extra chargers has been great. However, I did find the lamp a bit bulky, which might be an issue if your desk space is limited. Moreover, the buttons on the lamp could have been more intuitive, as it took me some time to get used to them.
Overall, the LEPOWER Desk Lamp has been a valuable addition to my remote work setup, significantly improving my comfort and productivity. Its eye-caring technology, versatility in lighting choices, and convenience features make this desk lamp worth considering for any remote worker.
I highly recommend the Logitech M720 Wireless Triathlon Mouse for its versatility, durability, and comfort.
Pros
Easy pairing with up to 3 devices
Hyper-fast scrolling feature
Long-lasting battery life
Cons
May have occasional connection issues
Requires downloading software to unlock full features
Not ideal for users with very large hands
Having used the Logitech M720 Wireless Triathlon Mouse, I can confidently say that it offers excellent performance for remote workers who need to switch between multiple devices. The Easy-Switch technology allows me to flawlessly swap between my laptop, desktop, and even my smartphone by just pressing a button.
The hyper-fast scroll wheel is one of my favorite features of the M720, enabling me to quickly go through lengthy documents and web pages. When I need more precise control, the click-to-click scrolling option is quite handy. In terms of design and build quality, this mouse is truly a winner. It's comfortable to use during long working hours and its buttons are built to last, with a durability of up to 10 million clicks.
Battery life is another area where the Logitech M720 shines, providing up to 24 months of use on a single AA battery. However, keep in mind that you'll need to download the Logitech Option Software to take full advantage of its customization features on both Mac OS X and Windows. If you're in the market for a reliable, comfortable, and versatile mouse for remote working, the Logitech M720 Wireless Triathlon Mouse is an excellent choice.
This FelixKing Ergonomic Office Chair is a great investment for remote workers who need comfort and support during long hours of sitting.
Pros
Adjustable height and flip-up arms for customization
Ergonomic S-curve design for better back support
Breathable mesh to keep you cool
Cons
May not be suitable for larger individuals
Armrests could cause discomfort for sensitive skin
Limited recline angle compared to other chairs
As a remote worker, I prioritize comfort while working for long hours, which is why I chose the FelixKing Ergonomic Office Chair. After using this chair for several weeks, I can confidently say that it offers excellent lumbar support, thanks to its ergonomic S-curve design. Plus, the breathable mesh backrest keeps me feeling cool even after more than 10 hours of sitting.
The adjustable height of this chair makes it easy for me to find the perfect seating position. The added feature of flip-up armrests is not only convenient but also allows me to save space when I need to tuck the chair under my desk. However, it's worth mentioning that if you have sensitive skin, the armrests could cause discomfort when sitting for extended periods.
One downside to the FelixKing Ergonomic Office Chair is that it might not be suitable for larger individuals. If you're on the taller or broader side, you may want to consider other options to ensure you receive adequate support. Additionally, the chair only reclines up to 30 degrees, which may not be enough for some users seeking a higher range of motion.
Overall, the FelixKing Ergonomic Office Chair offers affordability, comfort, and decent features for remote workers who spend the majority of their day sitting. While it may have a few minor drawbacks, the chair's ergonomic design and space-saving features make it a valuable addition to any home office setup.
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is a solid choice for remote workers seeking a powerful and lightweight device with a sleek design.
Pros
Excellent multitasking capabilities with 12th Gen Intel Core
Vibrant 13.5" PixelSense touchscreen
Impressive battery life
Cons
Connectivity relies heavily on multi-port adapter
Limited storage capacity with a 256 GB SSD
Premium priced laptop
After using the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 for some time, I can appreciate its sleek design and lightweight build, which makes it incredibly portable. The 12th Gen Intel Core Processor ensures smooth multitasking, and the vibrant 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen enhances productivity. This laptop truly shines when performing everyday tasks and handling projects with multiple applications running simultaneously.
However, I noticed the limited number of ports requiring a multi-port adapter for better connectivity options. Though it may not be a significant issue, it can be cumbersome to carry an additional accessory. It might be a downside for some, considering the premium price of the laptop.
The 256 GB SSD storage might be a constraint for users requiring more storage capacity for large projects and files. That said, it is still sufficient for remote workers who mostly rely on cloud storage solutions like OneDrive and don't need to store a lot of data locally.
Overall, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is an excellent option for remote workers seeking a powerful, lightweight, and well-designed device. Its outstanding battery life ensures you can work for extended periods without needing a recharge. While it does command a premium price, its performance and reliability make it a wise investment for the discerning remote worker.
The NETGEAR Orbi is a fantastic option for remote workers looking to enhance their Wi-Fi coverage with reliable performance and easy setup.
Pros
Wide coverage up to 6,000 square feet with the ability to add satellites for further expansion
Seamless AX3000 Gigabit speed for streaming, gaming, and video conferencing
Advanced built-in security features including NETGEAR Armor and Smart Parental Controls
Cons
No option for separate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks
Limited guidance provided for specific ISP connections during setup
Performance might reduce after the warranty period
I recently upgraded my home network with the NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Tri-Band Mesh WiFi 6 System, and I couldn't be happier with the results. The setup process was straightforward, and the Orbi app made it easy to manage Wi-Fi settings, test internet speeds, and monitor data usage.
The coverage in my house has significantly improved, with no more dead spots or buffering issues. Even in my home office located in the basement, the connection remains consistent and fast. This has been especially beneficial during remote work, as I often rely on seamless video conferencing and fast data transfer speeds for my tasks.
What has also impressed me is the added security features this system provides. NETGEAR Armor keeps my connected devices protected from cyber threats, while Smart Parental Controls allow me to manage my children's internet usage and promote healthy habits. However, I was slightly disappointed that there were no options to create separate 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks.
While the system has been working great so far, I have come across reviews mentioning a drop in performance after the warranty period. Nevertheless, my experience with the NETGEAR Orbi has been fantastic, and I would recommend it to any remote worker in need of a robust and reliable Wi-Fi solution.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best gadgets for remote workers, it's essential to prioritize your needs and preferences. Here are some key factors to consider while making your choices:
Functionality and Features
As a remote worker, I know that quality features can make a huge difference in productivity and comfort. It's vital to look for products with features that cater to your work requirements. For instance, a noise-cancelling headset should have an excellent sound quality and efficient noise reduction. Similarly, a reliable wi-fi mesh system should ensure stable and seamless internet connectivity across various locations in your workspace.
Comfort and Ergonomics
My journey as a remote worker taught me the importance of investing in gadgets that ensure comfort and prevent potential health issues. A standing desk, an ergonomic keyboard and mouse, and a designer laptop desk can help maintain a healthy posture during prolonged use. Moreover, selecting a tumbler like the Yeti can keep your beverages at your preferred temperature throughout the day.
Compatibility and Connectivity
It's crucial to ensure that the gadgets you buy are compatible with your existing devices and setup. For example, consider investing in a multi-port adapter that supports your laptop or desktop's connections. Likewise, make sure that your ultra-widescreen monitor meets your computer's hardware requirements, such as the supported resolution and refresh rate.
I hope these simple tips help you make informed decisions when purchasing valuable gadgets for remote work. Remember, a little research and consideration will go a long way in enhancing your productivity and comfort.
