There’s nothing better than a well-organized and intentional space to get work done! Forget the regular office supplies – think outside the box with these home tools and accessories that help you be more productive and comfortable while working from home! From items designed to help you work better to simply fun knickknacks to decore, here are our favorite home office accessories of 2021.
For Productivity
Working remotely comes with its benefits and downsides. Many of us by now are used to team collaboration happening via screen shares instead of a quick walk. These items will help motivate you to stay on task, even without your boss looking over your shoulder.
Noise Cancelling Headphones
Whether you live alone, have roommates, or live with family, it can be challenging to fully focus. This is especially true if you’re constantly bombarded with unwanted noise. That’s where noise-canceling headphones come in to save the day. Noise-cancelling technology has really developed over the last few years and you can now get noise-canceling capability at a fraction of the cost. Ranging from $50 to $150, this list of best headphones will help you pick a quality but affordable pair.
Pomodoro Timer
If you haven’t already heard of the Pomodoro Technique, allow me to revitalize your productivity! Developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s, this time management technique uses a timer to break down work into 25 minute segments, separated by short breaks.
To actually put this technique to use, you need a timer. There are countless timers that you can use online, such as the original Pomodoro App or Pomofocus.io. But if you’re anything like me, nothing beats out a physical object!
This TickTime Digital Timer is a great way of putting the Pomodoro Technique to work without needing to be connected to the internet.
Agenda/Calendar
While it’s easy to just rely on technology to keep you organized, writing things down is great for your memory and productivity. Replace your dependence on Google Calendar or Outlook Calendar and get a quality paper agenda. If you’re looking to increase your productivity this year, a good agenda will help make that happen.
New York Magazine’s The Strategist has put a list together of the best planners/agendas for 2021 according to 24 productivity experts. It’s no surprise a good agenda or calendar tops the list when it comes to time management tools.
Wireless Phone Charger
This is one of my favorite home office gadgets. Charge your phone without constantly unplugging it from its charger. There are a few different options available on the market, just make sure you get a charger that works with your device.
For Video Calls
Working from home and video conferences go hand-in-hand nowadays. As most remote workers will tell you, many days are filled with back-to-back video conferences. Needless to say, if you’re upgrading your home office, it’s important to consider video conferences and what accessories can make them better. Here’s a list of work from home gadgets that will help perfect your video conference game.
Webcam
Integrated cameras tend to have low frame rates and not so great resolution. Change the way people see you on video calls by replacing your laptop’s camera with an external webcam.
There are a variety of different webcams available on the market today. This key features list gives you everything you need to know to make sure you get one that works for you.
Looking for the TL;DR on how to get a great webcam? Focus on frame rate and resolution. For frame rate, a good rule of thumb is don’t buy anything below 60 frames per second. For resolution, stay above 720p but don’t worry about shelling out for 4K unless you absolutely need it. Want an even simpler solution? Get a Logitech webcam from Webaround.
Webaround
I recommend everyone with a home office have a Webaround available for video conference calls. Since I started using one, I’ve never had to worry about what could be in the camera frame. I always have a clean and professional backdrop regardless of who video calls me or when.
Aside from creating a professional video conferencing environment, the Webaround is sensational for many people sharing a small space. My husband and children can freely walk through my apartment without video bombing in the background.
LumeCube
If you’re making sure you look your best on video calls, don’t forget your light! To make sure team members see you clearly, you need to properly illuminate your face. That’s where a LumeCube comes in handy!
For your Wellbeing
Whether we like it or not, we spend a lot of time huddled over screens. When thinking about accessories for your home office, think about your health first! You only live once, it’s important to take care of yourself. Here are a few of my recommended work from home accessories that will help you stay healthy.
Laptop Stand
A laptop stand is a wonderful home office accessory for a variety of reasons. Firstly, it can help dramatically improve your posture while looking at your computer. A laptop stand’s purpose is to bring your laptop to eye level, helping you avoid scrunching over or bringing down your neck to adjust for the height difference.
Another pro is that there are a wide variety of laptop stands available on the market, many incredibly affordable. In addition, you can DIY a laptop stand with a stack of books or other tall items, just make sure it’s sturdy since it will be holding precious technology.
Office Plant
It’s surprising how lively a room can feel when surrounded by houseplants. Adding a few plants to your home office can make it feel more dynamic. Plus, plants have shown to have therapeutic effects and to increase productivity!
If you’re new to plants, start slow and with something hardy. A beautiful variated pothos or colorful bromeliad is a great place to start. These plants have tons of variety in color and presentation, so they’ll add a lot of character to your space.
FluidStance Balance Board
The FluidStance Balance Board is a gamechanger when it comes to fitness in the office. This wicked cool design helps you stay fit while working. In contrast to an under desk treadmill, the Balance Board is space-conscious and honestly, it looks cool. While it is on the pricey side of office equipment, this accessory paired with a standing desk will help you stay fit, even when working long hours.
