In the virtual-work era, professionals are always on the hunt for the most efficient work setup—and work-from-home tech is the best way to get there. Whether you need to optimize your video-call arrangement or have to do some swift printing, here are 11 work-from-home essentials to help you succeed in the virtual work world.
Microsoft LifeCam Cinema Webcam
Expect steady video-conferencing calls with this handy webcam. The Microsoft LifeCam Cinema Webcam streams in 720p and features a microphone with noise-canceling technology to ensure your voice is easily audible. The Cinema Webcam also uses face-tracking, autofocus, and TrueColor to provide a sharp, vivid picture.
Google Nest Learning Thermostat
The third-generation Google Nest Learning Thermostat lowers energy costs by creating a personalized schedule based on user habits. The Google Thermostat will adjust to an optimal temperature throughout the day, or users can manually “follow the leaf” on the screen to save money. This smart thermostat comes with a bright, seven-inch screen and Google Assistant built-in.
Microsoft 365 Personal
This one-year subscription of the Microsoft 365 Personal operating system works with both PC and Mac. Users have access to popular applications like Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Microsoft 365 also gives users 1TB of cloud storage and advanced security to protect important files.
Wacom One
The Wacom One is a digital pen display that mimics the feel of writing on paper with a pencil. The 13.3-inch HD screen is perfect for writing, sketching, drawing, or simply signing. The pen display can be easily connected to PCs or Macs, and works with popular creative software like Adobe Photoshop and Fresco.
8TB Seagate Expansion Desktop External HD
The Seagate Expansion Desktop is a quick and easy solution to file storage which makes it a must-have work from home tech essential. The external hard drive takes only moments to set up and uses USB 3.0 connectivity for faster file transfer. At 8TBs, the Seagate HD can also hold an impressively hefty amount of large photos, 4K footage, and music.
HP Neverstop Laser Printer
The HP Neverstop is a monochrome laser printer that can print 21 pages per minute. It comes with enough toner to print up to 5,000 pages right out of the box and holds 150 sheets in the tray. Users can also print wirelessly with the free HP Smart app.
H&A AC50 Dynamic Microphone
The H&A AC50 microphone is designed with a cardioid pickup pattern to eliminate unwanted ambient noise, plus an internal pop filter to clean up those plosives. The dynamic microphone has a 20Hz to 20,000Hz frequency response to capture the full range of sounds and features a low-cut filter to handle any deep rumbling. The budget-friendly and powerful AC50 is a steal for podcasting and streaming.
EPSON WorkForce ES-50 Scanner
The EPSON WorkForce ES-50 scanner is small, lightweight, and USB-powered so it can be taken almost anywhere. It quickly scans documents in less than six seconds, including small items like cards and receipts. It also comes with EPSON ScanSmart software for reviewing and organizing scans on any computer.
2TB WD My Passport External Hard Drive
The WD My Passport is a sleek, portable external hard drive ideal for file management both on-the-go and in the office. Users can schedule regular backups to ensure new files are added, and the 3.2 USB connectivity is blazing fast. All 2TB of data is encrypted and password protected.
Logitech MK270 Wireless Combo
Logitech’s MK270 Wireless Combo comes with a keyboard and mouse. Both items use one nano receiver for plug-and-play functionality—no software installation necessary. The keyboard has spill-resistant and quiet keys, and the contoured mouse uses a laser for accurate tracking.
Logitech Z207 Bluetooth Computer Speakers
The Logitech Z207 speakers produce rich sound fitting for playing games, listening to music, or watching movies. Users are able to connect two different devices via Bluetooth and an additional device via 3.5mm, for three simultaneous devices. Logitech’s Easy-Switch technology makes switching between devices seamless.
Feature image via Canva
