Remote working isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a lifestyle. And while rolling out of bed and cracking open your laptop might feel convenient, it’s not the best thing for your productivity (or your posture). Working from a coffee shop might sound cool, but between background noise, weak Wi-Fi, and limited power sources, it’s not exactly sustainable for long hours. The truth is, if you want to thrive, you need a proper home office setup—even if it’s tucked into a corner of your living room or squeezed into a small apartment.

Here’s what you need to make remote work… well, actually work.

A Computer That Can Keep Up

If your computer sounds like it’s preparing for liftoff every time you open a new window, it’s overdue for an upgrade. Whether you choose a MacBook Air, a Dell XPS 13, or a dual-monitor desktop beast, your computer should keep pace with you—not freeze mid-task.

Running out of USB ports? That’s where a docking station saves the day. It’s a great way to connect external hard drives, webcams, and other essential tools without playing musical chairs with your accessories.

Pro Tip: Pair your laptop with an external monitor and maybe a laptop stand. It’s not just a good idea—it’s a work-from-home essential. Bigger screens reduce eye strain, help maintain good posture, and make long hours much more manageable.

An Ergonomic Chair & Standing Desk

Your dining chair might get the job done for a short time, but after a long time in front of your screen, your back will beg to differ. An ergonomic chair is the best thing you can buy for your health and comfort—it prevents back pain, encourages good posture, and makes virtual meetings less of a fidget fest.

Want extra flexibility? A standing desk is a smart addition. Being able to switch positions throughout your work hours keeps your energy up and helps you stay focused.

Good Lighting & Natural Light

Good lighting can transform your office space from “dull cave” to “inviting workplace.” Whenever possible, set up near natural light—it boosts your mood and reduces eye strain. If you don’t have that option in your small space, a desk lamp with adjustable brightness and a warm color scheme is the next best thing.

A Quality Webcam & Microphone

Let’s face it—remote workers spend a lot of time on video calls. If your webcam is blurry or your microphone makes you sound like you’re trapped in a tunnel, your team members are going to notice. A reliable webcam and mic setup ensures you look sharp and sound clear in virtual meetings, saving everyone from the dreaded “Sorry, can you repeat that?” interruptions.

Reliable Internet & Power Sources

Nothing derails productivity faster than your Wi-Fi dropping in the middle of video conferencing with your boss. Reliable, high-speed internet is non-negotiable for remote workers. A mesh system can wipe out dead zones, and if you really want stability, plug directly into your router with an Ethernet cable.

Equally important: power sources. Between laptops, external monitors, and phone chargers, outlets fill up fast. Surge protectors and extension hubs are essential tools to keep everything powered without scrambling for open plugs.

External Keyboard & Mouse

Typing for long hours on a cramped laptop keyboard is basically an open invitation for wrist pain. A full-sized external keyboard and a mouse are small upgrades that make a big difference. Combine them with a good desk and laptop stand for a professional, ergonomic home office setup.

Storage & Backup Solutions

Accidentally deleting a project after working on it for a long time? Nightmare fuel. External hard drives plus cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.) are your safety net. Using both ensures you always have a backup… and a backup for your backup.

Tech Cleaning Supplies

Let’s be real: your keyboard probably has more crumbs than your water bottle lid, and your screen is blurrier from smudges than from poor resolution. Screen wipes, microfiber cloths, and keyboard brushes are essential tools for keeping your devices clean, functional, and lasting longer. It’s the best thing you can do for your tech investment with minimal effort.

Cable Management

Nothing kills focus like a spaghetti pile of cords across your living room floor. Velcro ties, cable clips, and cord sleeves are a great way to clean up the chaos. Even if you’re hiding wires behind your desk, a tidy workspace makes your office space feel bigger and more organized.

Organization Tools

A to-do list might seem basic, but it’s one of the best things for staying on track. Remote working blurs the line between personal and professional time, and a written list or digital task manager helps you structure your work hours. Pair it with a color scheme you love, and your home office will feel more intentional and inspiring.

Set Yourself Up for Success

Remote working doesn’t have to mean awkward virtual meetings, endless back pain, or battling background noise. With the right essential tools—good lighting, an ergonomic chair, a reliable power source, and storage solutions—you can transform any small apartment or living room corner into a productivity powerhouse.

So whether you’re a hybrid work pro splitting time between the office and home, or you’ve been fully remote for a long time, investing in your office space is always a good idea. And when you’re ready to upgrade, 12th Man Technology has everything from standing desks to external hard drives to help remote workers and their team members stay productive, comfortable, and connected.