Essential Items For Every Work Desk

Working from home has its benefits, but at the end of the day, you’re still sitting at a desk and staring at a computer screen. The only difference with WFH is that you’re saving time with the commute. How effective you are at working from your desk, will determine the productivity rate each day. The following are example of essential items that could help you efficiently roll through your daily tasks:

Noise cancelling earphones/headphones
It doesn’t matter if you’re a music person or someone who prefers to work in complete silence. A pair of noise-cancelling earphones/headphones block ambient sounds from reaching your ears. You’re completely isolated from the rest of the world.

This means the renovation work taking place next door, chatty colleagues/family members sitting nearby or the constant vibrations of their phones, won’t pose much of a distraction for you. If music helps you be more productive, then follow your heart. But if you prefer solitude, a pair of ANC earbuds will make the world around you disappear.

Notable Products: Sony WH-1000XM4, Sony WF-SP800N, Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro

A Wireless Keyboard
It’s important to have a keyboard that fits your style of working. Wired keyboards not only add to the clutter, but prevent you from positioning them at an ideal place. An elegantly thin wireless keyboard doesn’t take up much space on your desk. And because it’s untethered, you could even have it on your lap and still get things done.

I would advise against choosing cheaper ones from less known brands. The reason why Logitech keyboards cost more than the competition, is because they are generally better at their job. They are also power-efficient and are able to run for months without requiring a battery change.

Now, you could pick up a keyboard+mouse combo, but I would advise against it for reasons that are forthcoming. Get a good wireless keyboard, preferably one that has Bluetooth and dual mode functionality. This negates the need for an annoying dongle, and dual mode allows you to toggle connectivity between your computer and phone.

Related Article: Samsung Smart Keyboard Trio 500

Wireless, Rechargeable Mouse
I cannot overstate the word rechargeable. Skeptics might disagree with me here, but having a good rechargeable, wireless mouse will save you from a ton of stress. Mice that require removable batteries fail at the most inopportune moments (i.e. presentations). Usually, there won’t be a spare battery on hand.

Rechargeable mice run out of power too. But when that happens, you can use the provided USB cable to plug into your PC. This way, the mouse remains operational, allowing you to get back to work while the battery is recharging. After having used one, I can’t see myself going back to a conventional wireless mouse.

Alcatroz AirMouse Duo 5X

Related Article: Alcatroz AirMouse Duo 5X Review

The mouse should also support dual mode functionality. Being able to pair it with your PC and smartphone will allow you to use both devices conveniently. Instead of having to reach for your phone every few minutes, a flick of the mouse will get you up to speed in a jiffy.

If you can find a keyboard + mouse combo that fits the bill, that would be great. But most combos offer lackluster performance. It’s best that you find a keyboard and mouse that suits your needs. This might be a more expensive route, but they are more satisfying to use.

Phone Stand
A phone stand works in tandem with a wireless, dual mode mouse for hands free communication. Unlocking the screen can be done with a single click. Then, instead of having to swipe across the screen, scrolling with the mouse wheel will prove infinitely more effective. This will prove especially useful when browsing news feeds or social media content.