If you’re trying to think of the perfect gift for someone on your list this year, ask yourself a question: Do they work from home?
Due to the pandemic, many companies were forced to send their staff home to do their work. A lot of those companies still allow employees to work remotely for at least a day or two each week. If someone on your shopping list needs a home office upgrade, Christmas is a great time to find a great deal on home-office products.
Viewsonic monitor
Sitting at a desk all day isn’t good for your back or health. One solution is a desk that allows you to sit or stand. FlexiSpot adjustable standup desks go from sitting to standing height in a matter of seconds with the press of a button. The desks come in various sizes and colors. They’re sturdy too. All have a USB charging port built into the desktop.
They might need a high-quality web camera for video meetings. Logitech makes high-quality cameras that are easy to use.
The AnkerWork video bar is new and has a 2K high-def camera with 4 built-in microphones, speakers, and a light to improve their appearance. The 4-in-one video bar also de-clutters their desk by using only one cable.
If it’s been a while since they upgraded their computer monitor, they’ll find a thinner, bigger screen to be a big help. Viewsonic loaned me a 34-inch ultra-wide curved monitor with a built-in blue light filter to be easy on the eyes and HDR 10 support for watching videos. It’s stunning. It has speakers and can connect to multiple computers and laptops.
Nose headphones
Bluetooth noise-canceling headphones eliminate distractions in the home office. Top of the are the Bose QuietComfort headphones that block out noise, even while traveling on an airplane. They cost $379.
For less expensive headphones, there’s the Anker Life Q35 for about $100. Both sets are comfortable for hours and have microphones so they can take phone calls.
A wireless keyboard and mouse de-clutters the desk of at least two cords. Logitech keyboards have a slot for a smartphone to sit and multi-use inputs to connect a computer, a phone, a tablet, or another laptop with the press of a button.
My favorite low-tech gift this year is the Quartet dry-erase board. It’s slightly larger than the keyboard and includes a dry-erase marker. Take notes in a Zoom meeting, jot down phone numbers, and then erase them when you no longer need them. I picked one up for around $30 and found them in stores and online.
If they wish for their own dedicated workspace at home, these gadgets eliminate any excuse for not being able to concentrate.
