The Best Desk Setup
By Linus Tan
Updated Jan 2024
Working from home is a dream, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Separating our professional and personal lives becomes increasingly difficult when we rarely leave home and our bed is just a few steps away. How can we stay inspired at our workstations when our surroundings scream "cozy"?
Here's our ultimate list of everything you need to work from home like a professional.
On our list
Desk Essentials
#1 Desk: Omnidesk Ascent
#2 Chair: ErgoTune Supreme Ergonomic Chair
#3 Monitor: Dell P3222QE
#4 Mouse: Logitech MX Master 3
#5 Keyboard: Logitech MX Keys Mini
#6 Webcam: Logitech StreamCam
#7 Speakers: Sonos One (Gen 2)
Desk Accessories
#8 Headphones: Bose QuietComfort 45
#9 Wireless Charger: Anker PowerWave Stand
#10 Writing Set: Neo Smartpen LAMY
Desk Enhancements
#11 Wall Enhancement: Nanoleaf Shapes
#13 Desk Pad: Satechi Eco-Leather Deskmate
#13 Laptop Stand: Grovemade Wood Laptop Stand
Desk Essentials
Hunched over your desks? Poor posture can have serious consequences on your health and overall well-being. Get yourself on the right path with these upgrades to help you straighten your spine as you work.
#1 Omnidesk Ascent
One thing we've learned from the pandemic is that while having the right PC or chair is important, nothing beats a proper desk. And by proper desk, we don't mean a dresser or the kitchen table. Investing in a good desk is not only helpful for work, but also for your health. When it comes to the best standing desks, one brand that comes to mind is Omnidesk.
The Omnidesk Ascent is designed to revolutionise the way you work. It features a faster motor, a new controller, and a companion app. The Ascent can support up to 130kg and boasts the market's largest elevation speed at 60mm/s, allowing for a quicker transition from sitting to standing. In addition to offering an array of colour options for the controller's backlight, the Ascent also features enlarged buttons for ease of use, ensuring that functionality is not compromised.
Once the controller is synced with the Omnidesk Life app, users gain greater flexibility to remotely adjust their desk's height and track time spent sitting or standing, among other features. The Ascent model also includes a magnetic cable tray that can be moved around to hide cables underneath the desk for improved cable management.
Aimed to help you sit less and move more, the Omnidesk Ascent standing desk is a way to counteract the negative impacts of sitting in a crouched position all day.
If you’re on the fence between the two most popular standing desks, see our the EverDesk vs Omnidesk comparison.
Omnidesk Ascent
Best Standing Desk
Featuring a faster motor and works with a companion app to adjust your desk's settings remotely.
#2 Best Office Chair: Ergotune Supreme V3 Ergonomic Chair
ErgoTune Supreme Ergonomic Chair
Sitting in a chair all day can be detrimental to your body. Reduce your risk of lower back pain and achieve higher levels of comfort with the ErgoTune Supreme.
The ErgoTune Supreme is made of a breathable Duraweave hybrid mesh that doesn't trap heat, providing a comfortable experience no matter how long you're confined to your chair. If you need a break from the screen, the Supreme headrest's height and tilt can be adjusted to relieve stress on your neck. Additionally, ErgoTune equipped the Supreme with an Auto-Tuning Lumbar Area Support, which means the chair is designed to follow the natural arc of your lower back, providing good support and helping you maintain good posture.
The ErgoTune Supreme chair offers strong back support and is made of breathable mesh fabric to give you comfort as you work. This chair helps boost productivity by enabling you to stay focused for longer periods of time.
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Ergotune Supreme V3 Ergonomic Chair
Best Office Chair
Enjoy all-day support for your arms and back.
#3 Best Desktop Monitor: Dell P3222QE
The Dell P3222QE is an excellent 4K monitor designed to cater to the needs of office workers. With its large screen size, this monitor is ideal for individuals who require more screen real estate. Additionally, the monitor boasts an always-on low blue light feature that is gentle on the eyes, making it perfect for individuals who spend long hours working on their computers.
One of the most impressive features of this monitor is its 99% sRGB colour space, which is a testament to its high-quality display. This feature makes it an excellent choice for individuals who work with photos or videos as it ensures that the colours displayed on the screen are accurate and vivid.
The monitor utilises IPS screen technology that ensures colour and contrast accuracy, coupled with the 32-inch size, which makes it easier to view details when working on high-resolution photos and videos. This feature is especially useful for individuals who require a high level of detail in their work.
The monitor has a sleek design, with three slim bezels that give it a modern and sophisticated look. Additionally, the weighted stand ensures that the monitor remains stable and secure on your desk, even when it's tilted or swivelled. The monitor's excellent ergonomics allow for height adjustment, tilt, pivot, and swivel, which ensures that users can achieve the perfect viewing angle for their needs.
However, with a price tag of almost S$860, the Dell P3222QE may not be ideal for individuals who are new to the monitor game or those working on a tight budget. Despite the cost, the Dell P3222QE is an excellent tool for productivity, especially if you spend long hours behind your screen.
#4 Best Wireless Mouse: Logitech MX Master 3
When working with a computer, the repetitive action of clicking the mouse can lead to physical discomfort and even injury. It is important to find a solution that not only prevents these issues but also enhances productivity. This is where the Logitech MX Master 3 comes in handy. The ergonomic design of the mouse is crafted to provide comfort and support throughout the day. With a palm rest, thumb wing, and rubberised grips, users can work for hours without experiencing any discomfort.
The Logitech MX Master 3 has eight buttons, all within easy reach, and can perform a wide range of functions. The precision scrolling button and macro buttons make it easy to navigate through documents and perform various tasks. The electromagnetic scroll wheel adjusts automatically and can scroll up to 1000 lines per second, making it fast and efficient.
One of the most notable features of the Logitech MX Master 3 is its ability to work on any surface, including glass. This makes it a versatile choice for users who may not always have access to a traditional mouse pad. Additionally, its wireless functionality allows for greater flexibility and freedom of movement.
In conclusion, the Logitech MX Master 3 is a highly recommended choice for anyone looking for a comfortable, efficient, and versatile mouse. By reducing physical discomfort, enhancing productivity, and providing a range of features, this mouse is sure to meet the needs of any professional or casual user.
Logitech MX Master 3
Best Wireless Mouse
Work with infinite potential and instant precision.
#5 Best Wireless Keyboard: Logitech MX Keys Mini
The Logitech MX Keys Mini is a truly impressive keyboard that boasts a compact and ergonomic design, while still delivering a smooth and precise typing experience. One of the standout features is the Smarter Fn Keys which allow for quick and easy access to emojis, microphone muting, and speech-to-text, making your work more efficient and effortless.
In addition to its impressive functionality, the Logitech MX Keys Mini can also connect up to three devices simultaneously via Bluetooth Low Energy, making it extremely versatile and convenient. Whether you're using a Mac, Windows, or Chrome operating system, this keyboard will work seamlessly with all of them.
Another feature that sets the Logitech MX Keys Mini apart from other keyboards is its smart illumination, which conserves power and extends battery life. This ensures that you can use the keyboard for extended periods of time without having to worry about running out of battery. Plus, with a rechargeable battery, it can last up to an impressive 10 days on a single charge, or up to 5 months if the backlit feature is turned off.
Overall, the Logitech MX Keys Mini is a fantastic keyboard that combines sleek design, superior functionality, and long-lasting battery life, making it the perfect choice for anyone looking to upgrade their typing experience.
Logitech MX Keys Mini
Best Wireless Keyboard
Made for multi-tasking, the MX Keys Mini is compatible with up to three devices.
#6 Best Webcam: Logitech StreamCam
The Logitech StreamCam is an excellent piece of hardware to have in your videoconferencing, streaming, or content creation arsenal. With its superior 1080p/60fps resolution, you'll have the ability to stream high-quality video with ease, while its 78-degree field of view ensures that you won't miss a thing. Not only that, but the StreamCam boasts compatibility with a wide range of software and platforms, making it a versatile tool for those in need of flexibility.
If you're looking for a webcam that is easy to set up and use, then the StreamCam is definitely the way to go. It comes equipped with a tripod, a monitor mount, and a five-foot-long USB-C 3.1 cable, so you'll have everything you need to get started right out of the box. And if you're worried about the camera moving around too much, don't be - the StreamCam comes with AI facial tracking and image stabilisation, which work together to keep the camera steady and focused on your face.
Overall, the Logitech StreamCam is a must-have tool for anyone looking to take their streaming game to the next level. With its superior features and ease of use, you won't be disappointed with this purchase.
Logitech StreamCam
Best Webcam
Dual mic-stereo audio and crisp HD video ensures consistency during calls.
#7 Best Smart Home Speaker: Sonos One (Gen 2)
The Sonos One (Gen 2) is an exceptional smart speaker that offers a wide range of features and capabilities. Its compact size belies its impressive audio capabilities, which are powered by advanced Class-D digital amplifiers. With both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant built-in, you can interact with the speaker using voice commands to play music, check the news, set alarms, get answers to your questions, and more.
One of the standout features of the Sonos One (Gen 2) is its ability to reproduce the full range of sound from recordings. This is made possible by its support for Hi-Res Audio with the new Sonos S2 application. In addition, the S2 application also includes multi-room support, which allows you to group different speakers around your house into "room groups" and make voice commands.
In conclusion, the Sonos One (Gen 2) is an outstanding choice for anyone who wants a smart speaker with excellent audio capabilities, versatile features, and affordability. Whether you're a music lover, news junkie, or just someone who likes to be hands-free, the Sonos One (Gen 2) is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Sonos One (Gen 2)
Best Smart Home Speaker
Be immersed with a sound that sweetly balances clarity and depth while looking sleek on your desk.
#2 Desk Accessories
Desk accessories not only add a little more oomph to your experience through the cool tech you feature but also add bit of flair to your space.
#8 Best Headphones: Bose QuietComfort 45
Office headphones ensure that you can be heard loud and clear in busy environments. It's a bonus that they make you look smart and professional when you wear them. The Bose QuietComfort 45 is one of the most comfortable headphones available.
The QuietComfort 45 has plush earpads and a cushioned headband, making it possible to wear them for hours without feeling uncomfortable pressure on the top of your head. It also features a new Aware mode, which allows you to hear the outside world when enabled. The Bose QuietComfort 45 significantly reduces background chatter and in-room TV audio when it comes to noise cancellation. The addition of microphones in better placements means you get better noise reduction when you're on calls.
The Bose QuietComfort 45 is the best headset for working due to its exceptional comfort and superior noise reduction.
Bose QuietComfort 45
Best Headphones
A combination of quality headphones and noise cancelling performance built for all-day listening.
#9 Best Wireless Charger: Anker PowerWave Stand
The Anker PowerWave Stand is a budget-friendly wireless charger that is compatible with all Qi-enabled devices. It can charge your devices at a speed of up to 10W, with 10W output for Samsung Galaxy and 5W for iPhone and other phones or wireless earbuds.
While it is slower compared to 15W options in the market, it allows charging in both portrait and landscape orientations, making it convenient for video calls and watching videos. The charger can also charge devices with cases on as long as it doesn't exceed 5mm in thickness. Plus, it comes with a MultiProtect safety system that ensures your device is protected from foreign objects, short circuits, and high temperatures.
Overall, the Anker PowerWave Stand is a great option for those who want a wireless charger that is also a phone stand.
Anker PowerWave Stand
Best Wireless Charger
Watch videos in landscape or portrait as you charge.
#10 Best Smart Pen: Neo Smartpen LAMY
For many, the feeling of pen and paper is irreplaceable. However, the convenience of digital notes cannot be denied. This is where the Neo Smartpen LAMY comes in.
What sets the Neo Smartpen LAMY apart is its ability to automatically transcribe your notes. Simply write on the N Notebook, which contains specially treated Ncode paper, and the Neo Smartpen LAMY will pick up on your writing and transcribe it to the Neo Notes app without any extra effort on your part. The app even has a feature to translate your notes into other languages.
Within the app, you can enhance your digital notes by changing the colour and thickness of your writing. Additionally, the Neo Smartpen LAMY facilitates easy search for information. Simply search for a keyword, and it will lead you to the exact page.
The Neo Smartpen LAMY looks like a regular ballpoint pen, but offers a hybrid of traditional pen and paper with digital functionality.
Neo Smartpen LAMY
Best Smart Pen
Digitises your handwriting for easy saving and sharing
#3 Desk Enhancements
Aside from basic functional purposes, ambient lighting enhances the aesthetic appeal of any living space. Whether you prefer softer mood lighting or a more intense futuristic look, these RGB lighting choices have you covered.
#11 Best Smart Lights: Nanoleaf Shapes
The Nanoleaf Shapes seamlessly combines form and function into a stunning package that is sure to impress your guests. With shapes ranging from traditional hexagons to recently added triangles and mini-triangles, these smart lights are perfect for wall decor.
The Nanoleaf Shapes Smarter Kit includes nine flat panels that can be arranged in any configuration you choose. With over 16 million colours available, you can customise your smart lights to suit your preferences. In addition to standard light customisation, the Nanoleaf Shapes offer Rhythm Scenes that synchronise with your music to create a party atmosphere in your home.
The Nanoleaf Shapes offer customisable panels that can jumpstart your creative design journey.
Nanoleaf Shapes
Best Smart Lights
Enhance your work from home setup with unique layouts and custom RGB colour palettes.
#12 Best Desk Pad: Satechi Eco-Leather Deskmate
Desk mats are an essential addition to your workstation setup, whether you want to add contrast to your space or protect the desk surface from scratches and stains. The Satechi Eco-Leather Deskmate has received praise from many reviewers for its fantastic appearance and guaranteed quality.
Measuring 58.4 x 31 x 0.3 cm, the Deskmate mat is wide and versatile, functioning as a writing surface, mouse pad, desk protector, and more. Its smooth, elegant leather material has an advantage over other fabric-covered mats: it won't leave contact marks on the mat from keyboard legs. Furthermore, the water-resistant material ensures that your work area is well-protected from spills, making cleaning and dusting a breeze.
The Satechi Eco-Leather Deskmate is designed to add life to your living space. Crafted from good quality Polyurethane (PU) leather, it protects your desk in style.
Satechi Eco-Leather Deskmate
Best Desk Pad
Multi-purpose desk pad that complements a wide variety of office aesthetics.
#13 Best Laptop Stand: Grovemade Wood Laptop Stand
In addition to ergonomic chairs and standing desks, laptop stands are designed to improve the way you work by raising your screen to eye level. This helps reduce strain in your neck and back caused by a forced downward perspective. The Grovemade Wood Laptop Stand emphasises minimalism while helping to correct your posture.
Constructed entirely from wood except for its feet which are made from cork, the Grovemade Made Laptop Stand has won the hearts of many because it adds an a stylish aesthetic to your workspace, just pop in a mouse and it'll complete the dream work from home set up. We also appreciate other features like the stainless steel holder to secure your laptop and a retractable pocket to store your belongings.
The Grovemade Wood Laptop Stand not only looks appealing, but it also raises the keyboard, which alleviates pressure from our wrists. This is sure to be appreciated by many of us.
Grovemade Wood Laptop Stand
Best Laptop Stand
Brings comfort to your posture as you work long hours.
Compare Desk Setup Devices
Final Thoughts
Whether you work from home a few days a week or have a remote arrangement, a decent setup is essential. With the right gear and accessories, you'll be prepared to perform at your best while keeping your health in mind.
Swiftpoint ProPoint
Swiftpoint Propoint Wireless Ergonomic Mouse
Anyone who spends long hours engaging in wrist-intensive activities are familiar with these two dreaded words - carpal tunnel. Unfortunately, for those who have to use their computer mice for extended periods of time, the positioning of one's hand on a mouse opens up room for this condition, as well as other long-term damage. Thus, the Swiftpoint Propoint Wireless Ergonomic Mouse seeks to remedy this.
While perhaps not the most aesthetic of computer mice, the design of the Swiftpoint Propoint Wireless Ergonomic Mouse is deliberately engineered to minimise damage to your hands. Rather than a traditional claw grip, which places strain on your wrist, the Propoint adopts a grip that is more reminiscent of a pen grip, allowing for a more natural grip. At the same time, the Propoint is not excessively tall, preventing you from accidentally knocking it over as you engage in your activities.
What's unique about the Swiftpoint Propoint Wireless Ergonomic Mouse is its tilt gestures - by assigning gestures to specific actions, you can easily shuffle between tabs, or for those more acquainted with graphic design, you can move from section to section in a more efficient manner. Furthermore, the Swiftpoint Propoint Wireless Ergonomic Mouse also works as a presenter, allowing you to make use of a virtual laser pointer and even draw on your screen. As can be seen, no matter your profession, the Swiftpoint Propoint Wireless Ergonomic Mouse is sure to be a good fit for you.
Convinced? Shop the Swiftpoint Propoint Wireless Ergonomic Mouse here.
Brydge 10.2 Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard
Brydge 10.2 Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard
Wireless keyboards have skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, with many users opting to purchase said keyboards to pair with their tablets, or to allow for a better typing experience when used with their laptops. If you're someone similarly considering a wireless keyboard, you can't go wrong with the Brydge 10.2 Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard.
The greatest point of note about the Brydge 10.2 Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard would be its build quality. We've all has nasty experiences with flimsy keyboards, but the Brydge is not of them. Made of solid aluminium with metal hinges, you can be assured that your Brydge keyboard will be able to withstand a few hard knocks without too much concern.
Design-wise, the Brydge 10.2 Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard is very reminiscent of the keyboard of an Apple Macbook Pro, even down to how it types. Thus, for those who might not have the budget to buy a Macbook Pro, you may consider pairing one of your tablets with the Brydge 10.2 for a similar experience. The keyboard also has three backlight settings, which is useful should you have to carry it around with you to differently-lit places. Finally, the Brydge 10.2 Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard is estimated to last for 12 months with daily usage of 2 hours without backlight.
If this sounds like what you need, shop the Brydge 10.2 Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard here.
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