4 Work From Home Desk Essentials for 2021

This past year I’ve totally revamped my workspace and desk setup for maximum productivity and style. I’m the type of person who usually has a relatively messy desk. To me, it’s organized, but from the outside looking in, I could see why you may think otherwise.

This year, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking and planning out my desk setup, as well as becoming super organized and cognizant of how my surroundings impact my craft. Which is difficult for me since I’m not OCD about anything.

I went from stacks of paper, empty cups and bottles, and unnecessary items that found a home on my desk (like McDonald’s coffee sticker cards), to a brand new, beautiful walnut grain, industrial modern style, with a place for every item that makes my day as productive as possible.

Clean, sophisticated, and organized. Every item has a purpose. I even created a rule for myself that I’m not allowed to leave any empty cups and bottles on my desk. So, when I arrive here in the morning, the desk is ready to go.

This was a slow build though. I didn't drop a few grand in one shot, but it was rather a slow accumulation over months at a time. I'd like to share a few items that make my workday more streamlined, efficient, and effective.

Here are my recommendations for work from home desk essentials that you will benefit from using daily.

 

 

Monitor Desk Light – By BenQ

I find myself burning the midnight oil most days. Working at night seems to be the norm for many business owners, realtors, and colleagues that I speak with. If you find yourself at your desk after the sun goes down, this desk light works beautifully.

It’s called the ScreenBar. Perched atop your monitor, it illuminates your desk perfectly without casting a glare on your screen, nor shining into your eyes. It really is a low profile, minimalistic light source that doesn’t take up any extra space on your desk or floor.

You may use the touch controls to adjust the brightness, colour temperature, and turn it on and off. Additionally, it is USB powered so it does not take up a plug slot on your wall. As a personal preference, the branding is subtle and not very noticeable, which I love.

Here’s what my desk looks like when there are no lights on in the room. You can see the glow my computer rig, but that’s about it.

 

 

And this is the BenQ Screenbar on without any other lights on in my room. It beautifully focuses light on my desk so that I can focus on what I am doing at night. The photo doesn’t even do it justice, I don’t need any other light on in my room.

 

 

I have the “Cadillac” of screen bars by BenQ. It goes for around $150 CAD, but it’s truly worth it.

You can find the one I have on Amazon here:

Amazon Canada: https://amzn.to/3k6z80a

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2XLod4F

 

Alternatively, I’ve heard there is a less expensive “knock-off” version that works just as well (so I’ve heard), however I do not own this one. Either way, you can check it out here with the lower price tag:

Amazon Canada: https://amzn.to/3ARon96

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/2UHvYaN

 

 

External High Quality Microphone – By Blue

Using your laptop / webcam mic may work just fine. Perhaps I’m a bit of an audio guy, but when I’m in a lot of Zoom meetings throughout the day, I want my voice to come through clear and crisp. It adds an extra layer of professionalism, especially when your message is being communicated clearly.

It’s called the Blue Yeti (Blackout Edition). It’s a dynamic mic, meaning it won’t pick up your air conditioner or any background noise that a condenser mic would if your space isn’t studio-ready.

Also, it looks really good on your desk. I have the blackout version that goes really well on my walnut desk, but they have a few different colours so you can choose your preference. The price tag is about $179 CAD, but well worth it in my opinion. It also connects via USB.

Amazon Canada: https://amzn.to/3suApCm

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3zbake4

 

 

 

Wireless Phone Charger – By Anker

My phone goes through power like crazy throughout the day. Between calls, texts, emails, checking my stocks and crypto, and maybe the occasional social media app, it gets drained fairly quickly.

Enter the wireless charger. I like this one by Anker because it’s a very minimalistic design, and very subtle on my desk. Instead of resting my phone beside me on my desk, I just put it on the circle, and it charges. No more plugging in my phone across the room like I usually did if needed.

Convenience is king here. It’s incredibly inexpensive for how great it is. It’s my first wireless charger ever, and I don’t think I can go back to wires after this. Lastly, it turns on and off based on whether your phone is resting on it, so it doesn’t waste any power, even though it is plugged in.

Amazon Canada: https://amzn.to/3sMZzvQ

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3guZM28

 

 

 

Desk-Mounted Surge Protector Power Bar – By Tripp Lite

This is a silent hero that works in the background – literally. This power bar mounts to the back (or side) of your desk, keep wires off the ground below your desk while providing easily accessible power within arm’s reach.

My power bar provides 6 outlets and 2 USB ports. Items that live on your desk and require power, such as your phone and your BenQ ScreenBar, can be powered without taking up USB ports on your computer, or needing long cables that clutter your workspace.

The best part is it stays out of site. Take a look and see if this is a good fit on your desk:

Amazon Canada: https://amzn.to/3xVNRjF

Amazon US: https://amzn.to/3j92Y4V

 

I’m going to keep adding items to my desk and improving my setup as I go along. Keep an eye out for new updates and accessories that make your workday more efficient.

Leave a comment below if you found these items useful. I would love to hear your feedback. Thanks for taking the time to read and check out my Resources Area for my recommended apps for investing, banking, and productivity.