Is the thought of looking into home office products daunting? Well, that’s because there are so many options to choose from! In addition, you don’t want to buy all this stuff – for you to then realize it’s not at all what you need for your lifestyle. It’s a scary thought of wasting money on gadgets you will never use.
Recently, my friends have asked my advice on what they should purchase for their home office. This list is for those who want to start getting their home office set up, but would like some sort of direction. I love these home office products and I know you will too.
Let me know your thoughts if you have one of these home office products. Or, if you have found something better, please share!
A Quick List
- Computer / Laptop
- Monitor
- PRINTER
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- storage
- Accessories
Computers
Computers are tricky. Mainly, because there are totally different operating systems between the two major competitors in the tech market – MAC and PC. I personally favor the PC because I grew up with one and know how to navigate the ins-and-outs with ease. However, I do have an iMac and Macbook Pro to which I have experience using for about 10 years.
PC vs MAC
PC computers are perfect for a home office in which you are consistently using Microsoft Office Programs (word, excel, PowerPoint, etc). Further, you can find files and images with little confusion if you can organize your folders. I find PC to be easy overall. For example, I can navigate through my files because they are all in one place, and I easily change my window view settings.
In my opinion, the Mac computer is great to flourish your creativity. For instance, you would use it to edit videos using iMovie. Or, download the iTunes app you would probably see on your iPhone to edit photos or graphics. The Mac can also pair with your iPhone so if you receive a call or a text message, it will appear on your computer screen.
With that said, I would highly recommend a PC for those who just need a computer for everyday use. Especially, since PC already includes Microsoft Office programs. Yes, you can still get your iPhone photos onto a PC computer. You just need to download iTunes for windows.
This mini computer is great for extra small spaces and your everyday computer needs. As well as at low cost.
This is the desktop computer I use for my home office. It is compact, fast, high quality. Look for i5+ and over 8Gb.
This is the iMac I use. It is really big and expensive compared to the other two options. But, you can purchase it refurbished.
Laptops
Now, the next hard question – a laptop or desktop? Honestly, this decision deeply depends on whether you mostly work from home or while you travel.
Certainly, you can purchase both a computer and a laptop and sync your files so you never miss a beat! That is the route I take and it works seamlessly using Microsoft Office 365.
I have laptops and desktops for both PC and Mac. I mainly use my Macs to download photos and work on videos since iMovie is already included when you purchase an Apple computer.
A great laptop for the price! You will want to purchase a memory card to ensure you have enough storage. I would say this is great for a beginner.
This is the laptop I use on the road. It’s great while traveling because it’s slim, lightweight. I love using this touchscreen laptop and it’s high functionality.
I use a Macbook Pro, but the other (and cheaper) option is a Macbook Air. Do your research to see which is best for you. Again, you can buy one refurbished.
Monitors
Monitors (or screens) come in many different shapes and sizes. The specs are mainly just based on how you want the monitor to look and feel. The higher quality monitors will have a crisp display and be true-to-color. Whereas, you will notice a thicker frame and bulky feel to the cheaper models. Since an iMac is a computer & monitor all-in-one, I won’t include it on this list.
I would say a 20 – 24-inch monitor screen is the standard for office computers. Acer is a great brand too.
Ok, for a desktop computer this is a huge screen! If that’s what you want, I say go for it! I love having large screens!
Have a TV with an HDMI port? Then, you can use that! You need a computer, a wireless keyboard, and a mouse!
Printers
Like everything else, when it comes to purchasing a printer you want to know what you will be using it for. As with the keyboard and mouse, I will only be posting the wireless printer options that can connect to your computer via wifi or Bluetooth. Some can even print using the Alexa app! Most printers come with a step-by-step guide on how to connect it to your home internet.
Second, there are printers that have just the basics of printing your documents, then you can look into printers that scan, copy, and fax. Because most people don’t use physical fax, and you need to order a dedicated phone number – I would say 90% it won’t be a make or break if you don’t have that feature in your printer.
Inkjet Printers VS Laser Printers
Inkjet printers are better at printing photos and documents that need color. For example, do you intend to print lots of pictures or use your printer for projects? Then, you will probably buy an inkjet printer with high-quality image print.
Laser printers are useful for printing a large number of documents. For instance, if you have a family that uses the printer all the time? You will want to look into a laser printer, which uses toner – not ink. They are more expensive than the inkjet printers but will last through more prints.
This is the printer I own. I use it for projects like printing on envelopes, etc. with various page sizes. The print quality is great too.
Here is the printer for photos. You will want to buy photo paper for this. You can print images directly from your phone with an app.
We use this printer at work. It prints fast! It only prints in black and white, but you can choose a color laser printer.
KeyBoards
A laptop already has a built-in keyboard and mouse, so if your choice is a laptop you don’t need to purchase a keyboard. However, if you chose a computer, you will need a keyboard. There are thick keyboards where you really feel the click when typing. On the contrary, low profile keyboards offer short keys (which I personally enjoy more). Further, you also have the option to choose from full size (with the number pad included) or mini keyboards. The list of specs goes on from there.
In order to be fully transparent, I will mention there are wired keyboards (meaning the keyboard plugs into the computer). But, I strongly advise against these for a number of reasons. For that reason, I will only be listing wireless keyboards. Here are some options to choose from.
PC Keyboards
Keyboard work for both MAC and PC computers. I am separating them based on the way you, as the user will want to use and look at them. There are numerous options for the perfect keyboard in your home office.
This is the keyboard I use every day. I like the low profile keys (buttons). Also, it includes a rechargeable battery.
Same as the full size, without the pin pad of numbers, which makes this only 11 inches long compared to 17 inches for the full size.
These are small (9 inches long). It can pair with any bluetooth device. For instance, an ipad, Nexus, Galaxy Tab, etc.
Apple Keyboards
Your Mouse
Much like the keyboards, your mouse can come in all different shapes, sizes, colors, and textures. Again, I am not going to include any options that require a wire to connect with your computer. However, you will want to test your mouse with a battery in it to see if the weight is comfortable. Because if you are used to a wired mouse, this will seem heavy at first. With the same preface as the keyboard message, all wireless mice should work with both PC computers and Apple. With that said, let’s see some options.
Much like a mini keyboard, this is perfect to travel with. I don’t recommend for everyday use.
The standard mouse can be used by both, but this is specifically designed for left-handers.
Memory / External Hard Drives
Do you have a smartphone or kids, or do crazy activities? Well, I am willing to bet you have tons of videos and images! All of which you need to be stored somewhere. But, your computer is not the place to store all these memories. When you start to store pictures and videos on your actual computer, it can slow it down and make it intolerable to use. For this reason, a hard drive is so important. I recommend getting two hard drives and using one as a backup.
A quick guide to hard drive sizes – MB < GB < TB
Online Storage
Another option, listed below, would be online storage. For instance, Google Drive safely stores all your files and images into folders online. You can share specific files or folders with those you send a link to. The app is user friendly and there are plenty of training materials on how to use it. It is available on your phone, iPad, or any computer with the internet. The first 500Mb is free for Google Drive, but after that, you need to pay a monthly fee. I pay 1.99 for 1 TB of storage and in my opinion, it is completely worth it.
Google Photos is an online app I use that automatically saves photos and videos taken with your smartphone. You can then delete the photos or videos from your phone and know they are safely stored on your google photos app. Again, they are accessible on a computer or through the app on your smartphone without taking up storage.
1 TB is tons of storage, but 2 TB , will be more than enough if you aren’t storing lots of movies. I have this one and highly recommend.
Works for both Mac and PC. Lots YouTubers use this hard drive. You can save your whole life on this one and still have room for more!
Google Photos securely stores and updates your iPhone photos and videos online. Google Drive will save all your files.
Accessories
Now for the fun part! Accessories are tools that make your life easier as a user. They are not necessary to have in a home office, but they can make a huge impact. My accessories list is random, but I enjoy them all because they are simple and effective.
Want to have two screens using one computer? This cable is plug and play – Just plug it into the 2nd monitor and presto!
Show your computer screen on your tv. An HDMI cable will do it, but if your computer doesn’t have that port (like a mac), this is it.
I dont need to worry about eating at my desk. The keys wont get sticky because this silicone cover is easy to wipe clean.
This box houses my power strip and every cable disappears into it. Also, you can put your monitor on it for the height.
Computers don’t usually have speakers unless you have a Mac. Generally, computer speakers just plug right in.
My phone disappears on my desk, but with this stand, I can charge it and see any incoming calls or texts. Great for desks!
Laptop Accessories
Owning a Laptop will have its own types of accessories that will come in handy. Especially, when you are on the road. My favorites are listed below, and they are all in use while I work while I travel.
Depending on the size, get a laptop bag with at least one pocket for your charger. Keep everything in one place.
Turns one USB port into 4! Usually, laptops have limited USB ports. Now, you won’t need to worry about not having enough.
Have a camera or GoPro? Then, you might want this converter for your laptop if it doesn’t already have a memory card reader.
Final Thoughts
Well, that is my list of home office products you can look into to start setting up your space. Mind you, there are tons of options to choose from and I hope you find some value in this list. I encourage you to shop around before purchasing anything. First, be sure to choose a computer. For instance, if you choose a Mac or laptop, you will not need a monitor or computer speakers. Additionally, a laptop will not need a keyboard, but you can still purchase a mouse if you don’t enjoy using a trackpad. From there, you can go down the list and decide what your home office needs.
Did you find something you believe someone should have, and I did not include it in this list? Please share in the comments!
