Vari Standing Desk with a monitor and laptop setup
Working and schooling from home have become the new normal. However, creating a home office setup that is pleasant, comfortable, and productive can be a daunting task. Luckily, here at Ars, we have been working from home for years and have curated a list of gadgets and furniture to make your home office cozy and productive. Whether you already have the basics or need to start from scratch, we've got you covered.
A monitor (or two) goes a long way
Dell UltraSharp 49 U4919DW, Dell UltraSharp 34 U3419W
The Dell UltraSharp 49 is a massive monitor, while the UltraSharp 34 is its smaller counterpart. Both offer impressive specs and features. The UltraSharp 49 boasts a 5,120 x 1,440 resolution with a 60Hz refresh rate, while the UltraSharp 34 offers 3440 x 1440 resolution also at 60Hz.
What sets the 49-inch monitor apart is its 32:9 aspect ratio, which essentially combines two 27-inch QHD displays seamlessly into one. You can even split the monitor in half and display two separate computers side-by-side using Dell's Picture-by-Picture feature. The 34-inch monitor offers similar functionality in its 21:9 aspect ratio.
Both monitors provide excellent picture quality with accurate colors and crisp details. They also offer extensive customization options, making it easy to adapt to different lighting conditions and applications. Though primarily designed for work, they can also handle gaming, although the 60Hz refresh rate may not be ideal for hardcore gamers.
If you're a MacBook user, note that you may need a non-Intel discrete GPU to achieve the maximum resolution on the 49-inch monitor. However, both monitors deliver exceptional performance and usability.
Dell UltraSharp 49 U4919DW
Dell UltraSharp 27 U2720QM, Dell 27 4K UHD Monitor S2721QS
For those looking for a smaller option, the Dell UltraSharp 27 and the Dell 27 4K UHD Monitor are excellent choices. They offer the same performance and ease of use as their larger counterparts but in a more compact package. The U2720QM provides intuitive menus, crisp picture quality, and customizable color profiles. It supports DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, and USB-C with power delivery.
If USB-C capability and charging through the monitor are not essential to you but you prefer a monitor with a "picture-by-picture" mode, the Dell S2721QS is a great alternative. It offers similar features to the U2720QM but at a lower price point.
Dell UltraSharp 27 U2720QM
Cut the clutter and charge quickly with these USB-C fast chargers and cables
Nekteck 5-Port 111W USB-C Wall Charger, RAVPower RP-PC128, Anker PowerLine II and Nekteck USB-C Cable Series
USB-C has become the standard among electronic manufacturers, making it essential to have a reliable charging solution. The Nekteck 5-Port 111W USB-C Wall Charger is a robust option that offers USB-C and USB-A charging. Its 87W USB-C PD port can charge power-hungry laptops like the MacBook Pro and Dell XPS 15 at maximum speeds. It also features four USB-A ports for charging multiple devices simultaneously.
For a more mobile charging solution, the RAVPower RP-PC128 is a great choice. It includes two USB-C PD charging ports that can individually supply up to 90W. It is compact, versatile, and provides excellent value for money.
Nekteck 5-Port 111W USB-C Wall Charger
In addition to these recommendations, there are other fast chargers available, such as the Nekteck 72W 4-Port USB-C Wall Charger and Aukey's PA-B3 dual-port 65W charger. For USB-C cables, we recommend Anker's PowerLine II USB-C to Lightning cables for iOS devices and Nekteck's USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 cables for laptops, the Nintendo Switch, and Android devices.
With these charging solutions, you can declutter your workspace and ensure fast and efficient charging for all your devices.
Remember, creating a comfortable and productive home office is essential for remote work and schooling. By investing in the right gadgets and furniture, you can transform your space into a haven of productivity. So, say goodbye to the remote work blues and create a home office setup that inspires you to do your best work.
