What the Tech: Gifts for the office
Working from home sounds great until you realize you are spending hours at a kitchen table, staring at a screen that was outdated when Netflix still mailed DVDs. The good news is you do not need a full office remodel to make working from home more comfortable and productive. A few smart tech upgrades can make a real difference.
Start with the thing you stare at all day. Modern computer monitors are easier on the eyes thanks to better color, sharper resolution, and smoother refresh rates. If desk space is tight, a curved widescreen monitor can replace two smaller screens and still give you room to work side by side. Once you try one, going back feels like typing on a flip phone.
Next is the mouse. If you are still using the free one that came with your computer, your hand deserves better. Ergonomic mice are designed to fit the natural shape of your hand and reduce strain during long workdays. Many also include customizable buttons that save time on repetitive tasks. The Logitech MX Master series has become the go-to choice for home office workers for a reason. It is comfortable, precise, and built for people who actually work at their desks.
Lighting is another easy upgrade that changes the entire feel of a workspace. Smart floor lamps from Nanoleaf add adjustable lighting that can shift from bright and focused during the day to softer tones at night. They work with Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant and can even respond to music if you want your office to feel slightly less like… an office.
If replacing lamps is not in the budget, smart plugs are a simple alternative. Plug in an existing lamp, connect it to Alexa or Google, and suddenly your desk lighting responds to voice commands. Saying “turn on my lights” never gets old. Ever.
Desk clutter is the enemy of productivity, and charging cables are usually the worst offenders. Wireless charging stands clean things up instantly. They charge your phone while turning it into a desk clock or notification display, which is surprisingly useful during the workday.
One of my favorite desk gadgets is the Google Nest Hub. With Google Gemini built in, it works like a personal assistant that can manage schedules, answer questions, and control smart devices. It also doubles as a speaker and lets you watch live TV or streaming services like YouTube and Hulu during breaks.
Do not overlook cleaning either. A simple screen and keyboard cleaning spray makes a great small upgrade. Keeping dust, fingerprints, and crumbs off your gear makes everything feel newer and more pleasant to use. Plus, it is oddly satisfying.
And if your home is busy during the day, noise-canceling headphones can be a lifesaver. They are more comfortable than earbuds for long stretches and do a better job blocking out distractions, whether it is kids, pets, or that one neighbor who always chooses lawn day during meetings.
The best home office upgrades are not about flashy tech. They are about comfort, efficiency, and making work at home feel easier and more enjoyable. When your space works better, so do you.
