Remote work is no longer a trend—it’s a lifestyle. But let’s be real, “working” from your bed with your laptop perched on a cushion might not be the most productive setup. If you’re serious about getting things done (or at least convincing your colleagues you are), it’s time to build a proper home office.
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 probably time for an upgrade. Whether you opt for a sleek MacBook Air, a trusty Dell XPS 13, or a powerful dual-monitor desktop setup, make sure your machine can handle your workload without freezing mid-task.
Pro Tip: Add an external monitor to your setup. Because squinting at a 13-inch screen all day isn’t just bad for your eyes—it’s bad for your sanity.
An Ergonomic Chair
You might think your dining chair is “good enough,” but after a few hours, your lower back will beg to differ. Invest in an ergonomic chair to keep yourself comfortable through long workdays without feeling like you need a chiropractor on speed dial. Even just a simple lumbar pillow can save both your posture and your mood.
A High-Quality Webcam & Microphone
Your coworkers don’t need to see you in HD, but they do need to be able to recognize you without pixelated blur. If your microphone sounds like you’re talking from the bottom of a well, that’s also a problem. A solid webcam and microphone will ensure your video calls look sharp and sound clear—so your boss doesn’t have to ask you to repeat yourself every two seconds.
Fast, Reliable Internet
A slow internet connection can kill your productivity faster than a surprise Monday morning meeting. Make sure your Wi-Fi can handle video calls, massive file downloads, and whatever else your job throws at you. Consider upgrading to a high-performance router or a mesh network to eliminate dead zones. Or, if you’re feeling nostalgic, plug directly into your router with an Ethernet cable—because, yes, that’s still an option.
An External Keyboard & Mouse
Your laptop’s tiny keyboard and touchpad aren’t designed for all-day use. Your wrists (and your typing speed) will thank you for investing in a full-sized keyboard and a real mouse. It’s an instant upgrade to your workspace that will help you get through long days without feeling cramped.
Storage & Backup Solutions
Accidentally deleting an entire project is a nightmare we all want to avoid. External hard drives and cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, etc.) are your lifeline. Use both, and you can’t go wrong. That way, if something crashes, you’ve got a backup… and a backup for your backup.
Tech Cleaning Supplies
I won’t bore you with the fact that your keyboard probably harbors more bacteria than your toilet seat (we’ve all heard that one before), but it’s true. Keep your devices in top shape with screen wipes, a keyboard cleaning kit, and a microfiber cloth. Your tech—and your workspace—will thank you. And no, your screen isn’t supposed to be that blurry.
Cable Management: Because Chaos Isn’t Productive
A desk covered in tangled cords? Not exactly the most inspiring view. Get some cable clips, cord organizers, or simple Velcro strips to keep everything looking clean and functional. Even if the chaos is hidden behind your desktop, it’s worth organizing. A tidy desk is a happy, productive desk.
Set Yourself Up for Success
A great home office isn’t just about fancy gadgets—it’s about making remote work actually work for you. If your setup needs an upgrade, stop by 12th Man Technology or check out our online store. We’ve got everything you need to turn your home office into a productivity powerhouse.
