What are
/r/WFH's
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The most popular Products mentioned in /r/WFH:
The most popular Services mentioned in /r/WFH:
Barrier
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Krisp
Swagbucks
Todoist
GitLab
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The most popular Android Apps mentioned in /r/WFH:
The most popular reviews in /r/WFH:
I use this everyday, Jabra Evolve 75 Bluetooth Headset Bundle, Wall Charger, USB Dongle 7599-832-109-B, Pc, Mac, Compatible for Dragon, Softphones, Mobile, Tablet, Microsoft Certified, Skype, Cisco, Avaya https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B0716XCHCS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_SAWKWRCK7CWAMTMZS4Q1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
After having gone through a dozen others, this one is amazing.
I use a both computers on the same monitor and a USB input switcher for peripherals. This is the exact one I use but there are much better ones. My setup is messier than I would like because the input switcher needs to sit on top of the desk to be useful, but it's still pretty clean.
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Do your monitors only have one input? I run a PC and a Mac on the same two monitors simply by switching the input. The PC is on the display port input, Mac is on HDMI-1. I use the same keyboard and mouse with Synergy
https://symless.com/synergy
You can try Clockify Autotracker. It's a desktop app the lets you track all the apps & websites you've opened during a set time. Clockify is mainly a time tracking tool so at the end of the day it lets you add time entries & create a time log that you can share with your employer.
I don’t think a traditional KVM would help here, especially given that OP needs a triple monitor version which are very expensive.
I’d suggest a universal DisplayLink dock with triple monitor support and a USB switch (the Dell D3100 and D6000 both have support for 3 monitors). The USB cable from the dock is then plugged into the USB switch along with USB cables from each of the sources (PC & Laptop) which allows OP to toggle between them.
You can buy USB switches very cheap on Amazon. Here is the link to the DisplayLink website to search for docks with tripe monitor support: website
With all the research pointing to music reducing concentration, I've been looking for non-music background noise.
My go-to is https://mynoise.net/. It is a free background noise webpage and app, done by a guy that really understands sound recording. There are literally hundreds of options. My current favorite is Japanese Garden.
Easiest route is going to be software, VPN is only out if it routes all traffic through the VPN, if local traffic is not routed then I would go with https://symless.com/synergy
You maybe able to setup a static route as well that bypasses your VPN
After a lot of research, I ended up with Anker Q20 It has a proper microphone, positive feedback from my colleagues 😊
Well you could get a Bluetooth USB adapter (they are super tiny this is the one I have) and that opens you up to literally any Bluetooth headset in the world which is easier to find that one that does both that and dedicated USB. You could even use something like airpods or other Bluetooth earbuds. I have a set of anker earbuds I use with my pc all the time.
Ear buds are less likely to have a dedicated mute button but they will satisfy not looking like you’re in a conference call. I did find a Reddit post that said Jabra 75t Elite Active earbuds have a dedicated mute button so you might try them, they are about $150.
edit: here is that post https://www.reddit.com/r/headphones/comments/hwsafy/finally_true_wireless_earbuds_with_a_physical/
I bought two of these. I’m happy with them. I like the thin edge. Watch the price. They fluctuate +/- $60.
I also bought a dual mount for them which I’d recommend. I use them with my work MacBook Pro. I have them connected via a display port to usb C cable. I work in sales so I mostly am in email, sheets, slack, or Google Meet.
These were my first monitor purchases. I’d say that they are different than a laptop screen. Since your sitting much closer you tend to see everything. If your gaming or video editing I’d recommend a 4K monitor. I like the dual monitors. But I’m curious about a single wide display.
Look up laptop specs so you understand what they all mean.
I'm a cross legged sitter too, I recently bought this chair. So far I like it a lot. Lots of padding, no hard spots on the seat that dig into my legs when I'm sitting cross legged. One thing you might not like is that it's a little tall - your feet likely won't touch the ground sitting in this.
A chair that I'm really interested in because I like to sit cross legged is the Sukhasana. It's at least double your stipend though. Only reason I haven't bought it is how expensive it is.
I can't tell if you're complimenting me, like it kicks ass and you dig it, or if you're saying my setup is ass and it sucks. Either way thanks for the input, hahaha.
The webcam is a Logitech C615. The image quality is ok, I like it for it's portability, it can fold up and be transported easily.
Got the desk (table top) and the legs from Ikea, thanks to covid the shipping cost me more than the legs and table top combined. Got the spectre 32" ultrawide on sale on Amazon during black Friday. Went with this chair but I couldn't get it in the photo without showing the mess of cables underneath the desk. Highly recommend the chair, much better than I had hoped it would be.
Not for everyone but it's helped my back a lot. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06Y1NXCBN/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_okRNrbpyUofkV
Upgraded the casters as well https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WRDSY6X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_8nAFnCG24YksI
Love it! Way more easy and relaxing on the eyes. For the cables and wires I suggest this from Amazon. They have black and white and different sizes as well. Customer reviews have before and after photos that are pretty neat.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07FW3GTXB/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awdb_imm_8DT1AQR076YCGGZVXT89
This is the best there is. This version gives adjustable temperature so you can have your daylight at 5000k. Other cheaper versions don’t let you adjust temperature and keep them warm at around 2700k
Brightech Sky Flux - The Very Bright LED Torchiere Floor Lamp, for Your Living Room & Office - Halogen Lamp Alternative with 3 Light Options Incl. Daylight - Dimmable Modern Uplight- Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06WCZWNR3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_2BE9VKHZ4VBBY82GSTFW
I've been asked on this sub how to signal to others in the house that I am on a call and I tried to describe these lights. Now they are back for sale and I wanted to share. They are USB powered and I used this switch to control them.
Thanks for your time and help! I’m almost tempted to return the two devices and purchase Logitech Ergo K860 Wireless Ergonomic Keyboard with Wrist Rest - Split that instead. The Apple Magic Mouse arrives tomorrow so I’ll play with that meanwhile before I make up my mind.
My company supplied wired headphones. They became extremely uncomfortable during Zoom hostage situations. I get these as a replacement. I am very happy with them!
JLab Go Work Wireless Headsets... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09674F2X6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I have this one (34" curved). Relatively inexpensive for an UW, works like a champ.
I have always been a 2 monitors + laptop person (like, for the last 17 years), but my current position requires me working with wide spreadsheets and many applications at once, often while being on Zoom/Teams. Moving to an ultrawide was a real gamechanger for me. I love the flexibility of moving things exactly where I want them without being bisected by the monitor edges.
https://www.amazon.com/Office-Non-Slip-Protector-Keybo
ard-90×30cm/dp/B099WL3JBQ/ref=sr_1_6?crid=2DAJPBX1SYFRQ&keywords=felt%2Bmouse%2Bpad&qid=1669863369&s=electronics&sprefix=felt%2B%2Celectronics%2C153&sr=1-6&th=1Retractable Carabiner Badge
I've had this Flexispot one over a year, works great! I like the dual level but you can also have just a flat top. There are other models they sell as well.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08TH8N9GQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
KNOWSQT Wireless Keyboard and... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XB5SPRX?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I love my keyboard it's super clicky lol. Plus I have longer nails so they don't get stuck thanks to the larger keys
Under Desk Treadmill DAEYEGIM... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09NN62S38?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I use it with my Deskhaus Apex Pro. If you’re going to use a treadmill with a standing desk, you need to make sure the desk is very stable and solid. I’ve found I had to catch myself sometimes if I’m walking at a faster pace and misstep.
yeah thats a bummer could always get an adapter, saves you from carrying a whole cable with you all the time, alos they have great batery life so their is that.
https://www.amazon.com.au/Adapter-Convert-Connector-Support-Compatible/dp/B07GH5KJH2
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Also I heard setting meetings with yourself in Teams works but I don't have Teams to test. My friend told me this haha.
Thank you! Its the beaded wrist rest from staples. And youre rightk its super comfy, This is my second one so far, I absolutely love it. I also use the carpio wrist rest for the mouse. I was using the mouse sized beaded wrist rest before which was also great but wanted to try out the carpio. I love that as well.
My company holds you Zoom hostage and they supplied uncomfortable, wired headphones. I found a pair of J- Lab wireless headphones on Amazon. They are pillow soft and cancel out the landscapers (who seem to only work when I have a meeting).
JLab Go Work Wireless Headsets... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09674F2X6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I'm looking for the same thing for the exact same reason. Let me know if you find anything.
These are the best options I've found so far.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HTG504S/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_MS3CAGKZQ4ZPRKW2JRJZ_0
I got the fezibo standup desk. The desk was $200 and the treadmill $200. By snippits I meant like screenshots. Idk why I call them that 🤷🏻♀️
BANTI Adjustable Height Standing... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09H7P6CX7?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
My company's supplied wired headphones that were very uncomfortable during Zoom hostage situations. In August, I got a pair of J-Lab bluetooth headphones. They are comfortable on extended wear, they cancel noise from the gardeners outside and the TV in the room and the mute button is on the headphones.
JLab Go Work Wireless Headsets... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09674F2X6?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Using this one for 5months. No issues so far and has really has helped with wrist pain from the standard mouse I was using.
DeLUX Ergonomic Wireless Mouse... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07G5BH3D4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
if they allow use of usb audio then this could be an answer. https://www.amazon.com/Avantree-Bluetooth-Computer-Wireless-Headphones/dp/B088LNPXNN
the bluetooth radio isn't controlled by the computer, but by the dongle itself, so you connect your headset to the dongle and the dongle acts as a usb audio device. it should work
You might get one of these that sits on top of a regular desk. I had one for a while and it never stopped working.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B071JWCV9L/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I use the Plantronics Blackwire 5220 headset and I love it. On the laptop it connects via USB port. But you can disconnect the headset from the USB adapter and use it with a 3.5mm jack, but it is not as feature rich. Not sure how it will work with the current iPhone. I have two of these, one stays connected to my WFH setup and the other is in my work bag for days I go into the office.
The part I like about it is that it sends a bit of your voice back into your ear when you are talking so that you don't try to talk to loud. The headset is quite light and the audio quality is amazing for voice.
The microphone seems to only pick up my voice and not any other noises in the room. If the microphone is pulled up on the side of my head instead of in front of my mouth then no one can hear me.
For the bluetooth version of this you may want to check out the Plantronics Voyager line. It would be at the top of your budget.
It's been holding up well and it's easy enough for me to move and lean against a wall so it's out of the way when not in use.
A VPN service like NordVPN if your job doesn't have a VPN you can use. Check with your job, though. Depending on their IT setup they may have a remote access VPN that would encrypt all your communication before it even gets to the hotel wifi and tunnel it back to their network to go out to the internet (assuming it's fully tunneled). That may add a little latency, but if you're not doing onions calls from the hotel wifi it likely won't be a problem.
Source: I'm a network engineer
I remember it being cheaper. Nevertheless, the only time I've had trouble is when I've forgot to turn it on so I'd highly recommend.
I have this anti fatigue nat. Works really well.
Lunar Anti Fatigue Standing Desk Mat with 3D Balance Bar & Massager Balls Help You Relieve Fatigue and Stress,Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09LSKB6NM/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_9CH6ZZ4PSY55X4QYG38A?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I got one of these standing mats and THEY HELP SO MUCH https://www.amazon.com/KitchenClouds-Kitchen-Cushioned-Waterproof-Standing/dp/B09CYDRFWQ/ref=sr_1_5?crid=WOCQ82NA9VPN&keywords=standing%2Bmat&qid=1653584328&sprefix=standing%2Bmat%2Caps%2C206&sr=8-5&th=1
I also ended up getting a small lamb-skin-esque rug for on top because my bare feet would get sweaty standing on top of the plastic, and it feels luxurious, especially in winter
I will probably end up getting something like this 3 monitor KVM switch:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B089NNJ6DP/
It's pricey, but might be the easiest/cleanest solution.
This will take care of switching the entire setup from one computer to the other.
And then for my "goof off" monitor, I could just RDP from the work laptop into my personal computer and keep it on one of my smaller monitors.
The downside being that when you RDP into a computer it screws up the DPI settings and stuff, but I guess I'll have to deal with it, I don't think there is any perfect solution here.
I splurged and bought this chair from Amazon and upgraded the wheels to rollerblade wheels. Only down side I can nitpick would be the arms aren't adjustable. I'm 6' and a husky guy, and this works great for me, even considering the static arm rests.
I'm WFH since 2020 and have 3 cats and 1 dog. Had the exact same train of though and bought this one: https://www.amazon.es/gp/product/B089NBZ3C7/
I caught a promotion so it was only 70€. You can later buy the filter for pets, it has a extra layer I think.
Pretty satisfied, it's quite silent on the lowest level and for even more silence it has the sleep mode.
I’ve struggled with this as well. check out this book about navigating digital body language
Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust and Connection, No Matter the Distance https://www.amazon.com/dp/1250246520/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_659FG82CRCDCVSH7H6S1
I got these - easy to use with Alexa or their app. Also came with a remote but I immediately lost that
32.8ft WiFi LED Strip Lights,VOLIVO Smart LED Light Strip Compatible with Alexa and Google Home,App&Remote&Voice Controlled Music Sync Color Changing RGB 5050 LED Lights for Bedroom Kitchen,Party,TV https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HS5K7VP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_EZVEMGZ3V401QFMPKMAG?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Monitor was delivered to me from my company, so not quite sure on that. But I LOVE how massive it is, and it has curvature in it too.
Treadmill is here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0895DRWVY/ref=cm\_sw\_r\_awdo\_93DMQ9QRBCDQ127Z1VXT?psc=1
>I can imagine is something similar to a chastity belt that locks my wrists in an ergonomic position
This is an interesting interpretation of this device that I use when things get bad.
There are many similar on the market, just search for a wrist splint or wrist brace, and make sure you get one with a metal stay down its length.
You will get an awful lot of wanking jokes if colleagues see it. Because of course you will.
Oh and note that I only use this when I'm having a flare-up. I don't use it day in, day out.
Other than that I can recommend a vertical mouse and mechanical keyboard - I have used all the Microsoft "Natural" style keyboards and while they helped a little, I personally found that good ol' fashioned clackity keyboards are nicer for my hands/wrists.
YMMV on that but I definitely do recommend er.. "Wrist chastity" now and again. Prevent that "Death Grip" 😇
Honestly, open back headphones would be my suggestion. They are passive, lightweight, and comfortable. You can still hear background noise and your music sounds great, just in a different way than closed back headphones (ie. normal headphones).
I have these and haven’t had a problem: Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009S332TQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_H8SWSMGC37NYMZFTEBPP
AfterShokz OpenComm Wireless Stereo Bone Conduction Bluetooth Headset with Noise-Canceling Boom Microphone for Office Home Business Trucker Drivers Commercial Use, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B091XZM6KK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_C0VD8WW44YJZMJ0GCM05?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Linksys WiFi Extender, WiFi 5 Range Booster, Dual-Band Booster, 1,000 Sq. ft Coverage, Speeds up to (AC750) 750Mbps - RE6300 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B015Z3OD22/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_i_X9670KYK9QYWCGTWV6W8?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
That's the one I use.
I bought this desk for the pandemic and it worked well for the 2 years I used it. I just recently upgraded to a VariDesk when I got a home office stipend.
Stand Steady Joy Standing Desk https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077J8FHKR/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_K0NQ3JJ5QS1V1V5Y0P9P?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Would this work:
Plugable 12-in-1 USB C Docking Station Triple Monitor, Triple 4K Displays with 3X HDMI or 3X DisplayPort, Compatible with Mac, Windows, Thunderbolt 3 & 4, USB4, USB-C (60W PD, 6X USB Ports, Ethernet) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09NQQ1G1N/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_0ES93305EX4BRNTYAVTH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Run it all to the dock. Only one USB c cable needs to be swapped between devices.
Your choice of hdmi or display cables.
Yes, I used this one for a long time when I was using both a Mac and Win
I find the ps camera works really well and amazon actually has it on sale right now
TESmart HKS0801A30-UKBK: 8 Port HDMI KVM Switch 4K@60Hz 4:4:4 UHD 8 in 1 out Switcher with Standard USB 2.0, Switching via IR Remote Control&RS232/LAN Port&Auto-Scan, etc with Rackmount 4 ×5ft/1.5m KVM Cable
I have run a KVM, for over two years now. I have a ultrawide gaming monitor that I also use for work. Here is how I have it setup:
Work PC and gaming PC both have a USB connection to the KVM output side. Mouse (dongle), keyboard, speaker and camera are all connected to the input side, through their USB. Hitting the switch toggles all peripherals from one computer to the other.
The monitor has two display cables; one to the work docking station and one to the gaming PC. The speaker audio jack is connected to a splitter, which connects to the work docking station and gaming PC via two extension cables.
When I start work, I launch the work computer with my gaming PC off and everything works perfectly with the work computer. When I get off work, I turn off the work computer, turn on the gaming PC and toggle the KVM.
It probably sounds complicated, but in practice, it is very simple. Here is the KVM I use. Absolutely trouble free, after two years.
- Do the monitors have dual inputs on each, ie. 2x HDMI or 1 HDMI/1 DP for example? If so, just plug in your work computer to whichever monitor you want to use and then manually switch the input on the monitor.
- For the KB and mouse, use Bluetooth - but if you're a gamer you probably have corded peripherals. In that case, use a cheap USB switcher like this: https://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-Selector-Computers-Peripheral-One-Button/dp/B01MXXQKGM
Ive been facing some wrist pain issues after an accident & this pair is a blessing, I absolutely love the keyboard & the mouse both
Working from the couch is not ideal, but I get it. I'm a small apartment dweller too. Maybe something like this would work? https://amazon.com/dp/B093WTJ2ZH/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_glt_i_QDHMVYFKWY9FKVQQRPQQ?psc=1
Disclaimer: best policy is honesty many companies as surprisingly cool with short term travel. Also, if you are dealing with classified info, you can deal with seriously bad repercussions.
All that being said, if you are sure that your company would object a vpn is a good start. Although, I’ve worked for companies that monitored my IP address and would object if I worked from a cafe or the library unless I informed them in advance. (I no longer work for them for obvious reasons.)
So if you are technical, there is a program called sshuttle (https://github.com/sshuttle/sshuttle) that can route all of your laptops traffic through your home network.
It takes a bit to setup and you need a machine on your home network. It also cuts your network bandwidth considerably. However, it makes it harder for your it folks to spot since all your traffic should be coming from your home ip.
How it's currently happening in real life, you can have a look how GitLab is doing it: https://about.gitlab.com/handbook/total-rewards/compensation/#paying-local-rates
Tldr: they pay the local market rate, which takes into account different factors.
Automating very common tasks is a huge boon to efficiency. If you do something 100 times a day and it takes you five seconds, just taking a second off of that will save you half a day over the year.
One thing that's helped a lot is TextExpander. Instead of switching to Zoom, finding my personal meeting room, switching back to wherever I want to type, and pasting it in, I just type myzoom and it pops in there.
I also have Alfred set up so I can quickly google something or launch another app. So if I'm on a call and have a question it takes me less than a second to get more information. This makes me look really smart.
Nice article! When my team and I started to work remotely, we struggled a lot because we didn't have a clear guideline, and we didn't trust each other somehow. But, once we were on the same page and had better software to maintain our productivity, we became much more productive than before! We just need trust, the right project management software, and a good internet connection lol.
Cheers!
I use this KVM for my peripherals : https://www.amazon.com/UGREEN-Selector-Computers-Peripheral-One-Button/dp/B01MXXQKGM/ref=sxin_15_ac_d_mf_br?ac_md=2-1-VUdSRUVO-ac_d_mf_br_br&crid=30CVUULB06PU&cv_ct_cx=kvm&keywords=kvm&pd_rd_i=B01MXXQKGM&pd_rd_r=3be06800-d022-4...
My monitors auto switch when a new device is turned on.
Second vote for the mouse jiggler! I just discovered this little gadget also: personal desktop blackboard. Helps me stay on top of dates and follow ups! Love it so far....
ANCHEER 2 in 1 Folding Treadmill, Portable Under Desk Treadmill for Home Gym Office, Electric Compact Running Walking Machine with App & Remote Control, LCD Display, No Assembly https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08PG5F43D/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_VRAHPPEJTYX9K4211AM6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1. Depending on how over 250lbs you are, I bought this one and I’m 280lbs and it works great if you want a very simple affordable one .
I just bought this one and it’s been working well. Simple, not too business, and I can carry my laptop, charger, and whatever else I need when I’m not home.
If you don’t want to commit to a whole chair, I have one of these balance discs and I love it
I have this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07MBQ19Z2/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title
I agree that it's not as good a workout as a treadmill (you are sitting after all), but my work requires a lot of mental focus, and I've found I just can't work and walk at the same time. Maybe I'm just dumb. I use it all the time as I'm sitting at my desk for 8+ hours every day. You won't get any sort of cardio unless you've got it at the highest resistance and are just going ham on it, which to me is too much exertion while trying to concentrate, but by the end of the day, my legs are a tiny bit sore and I'm tired, so it's doing something. I have it at a medium resistance.
I also have an actual treadmill bc I do need to get some cardio, and resistance bands.
That sounds like a legit setup and I appreciate the feedback.
However, I was thinking more along the lines of something I could use when working. Something like this:
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Under Desk Elliptical Machine Foot Pedal Exerciser Fully Assembled https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07MWV1JD7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_NX66T5BTVC42RN0BW2E7
FAMISKY Crank Adjustable Height Standing Desk, 48 x 24 Inches Manual Stand up Desk, Sit Stand Workstation for Home Office with Handle and Splice Board, Black Frame/Walnut Top https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HVFJ2BS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_2RFP36563S25WYS1PS7C?psc=1
I got this one and I like the crank option instead of the electric. I also really having hooks underneath for storage. This one has wheels so it’s easy to move around.
Been using this for a year. Love it! Search: flexispot standing desk.
Flexispot Standing Desk Electric Stand Up Desk with 48 x 24 Inches Whole-Piece Desktop Ergonomic Memory Controller Height Adjustable Desk(White Frame + 48" Grey Wood Grain Desktop) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MYNY871/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_9GWJZ0VD4WPHSSK5WPB5?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I had this question come up earlier this year from an obese user who was transitioning to remote work, and suggested this chair. She was very satisfied with it.
I got a footrest cushion for sitting at my desk. I have short legs and I find sitting at a desk for long so uncomfortable when my legs dangle! And sitting cross-legged in a chair I’m sure isn’t good for me lol
This one’s really nice and cheap
Thanks! This is indeed appealing. The link doesn't work on my end, are these the TOZO NC9?
I'll echo the BT earbud approach, they work well for me. I recently bought these for $49 and love them! They have a noise canceling feature which I didn't realize I needed until I had them. They really reduce outside distractions, and it can be turned off if you need to listen for the door or other noises. They connect faster than any other pair I've had and are comfortable.
You could try a lavalier microphone. I like this one:
Saramonic Lavalier Mic with USB-A Connector for Computers with 6.56' (2m) Cable (SR-ULM10) https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B087CFY8K5/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_KC34S7BYYQWWFQ8N1BH6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
AfterShockz OpenCom
AfterShokz OpenComm Wireless Stereo Bone Conduction Bluetooth Headset with Noise-Canceling Boom Microphone for Office Home Business Trucker Drivers Commercial Use https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08DW2SJCQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4G6AJC5TA46845PYW7PJ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
If you want to offer work-from-home tools, my agency manages the affiliate programs for both Krisp.ai and Grammarly.com. Ping me and I will get you the sign up links :)
Already some great points mentioned here. But just to add on:
- Try to find time to do some workout in a day. It could be anything from following an online group like the insanity team or doing your favourite dance moves. If you're more of a guided workout person, Adidas Runtastic Premium is now free for 3 months.
- Have the right ergonomic setup to work. This could be a standing desk or a chair with good back support. If you're not used to a standing desk, that's absolutely fine because it takes getting used to. The tech industry has glamourised standing desk and for someone who isn't used to one, it could take a while. I've had friends complain that they get distracted and can't work while standing, so it's entirely a personal preference. But if you can get a chair with a good lumbar support, your back would thank you for that.
- I personally find it better to work in a bright space with lots of natural light. Getting some time in the sun is definitely helpful but if your work setup doesn't have that, you can make do with nice bright lighting.
- If you live with people or pets, and your job requires you to attend meetings and calls, I would recommend Krisp.AI to filter out background noise.
- Raise your monitor or laptop to eye level, if you can, so that you're not bending your neck for long hours. This means getting a stand for your laptop and an external keyboard+mouse.
I realize that a lot of people have been thrown into the deep end because of the situation right now, but if you're looking at this for the long term, I would highly recommend investing in your work station setup- good quality headphones, nice chair with arm and back support, good desk, decent camera and maybe even a microphone.
I have a PC desktop (dual boots Linux) and Mac Mini both plugged into (2) Ultra wide monitors.
The Mac is in HDMI-1, and the PC uses Display Port.
When I want to use the Mac I just toggle the input on the monitor(s) to HDMI-1.
When I want to use Linux I just reboot the PC into Linux.
At any given time I can use the monitors as Mac-Mac, PC-PC, Linux-Linux, Mac-PC, Mac-Linux.
I use Synergy to share a keyboard and trackball between all of it.
https://symless.com/synergy
Maybe that could work for you?
I use Barrier for setups like this. It can share a keyboard and mouse between separate machines, and includes a shared clipboard. It works across Windows, Mac, and Linux machines and is free and open source.
In this case Laptop 2 would be set up as the server, and Laptop 1 would be a client. Both would be running at the same time and you could just move your mouse to the edge of one screen and it would switch inputs to the other machine.
Toggle is one i've used in the past. You setup tasks ahead of time, its actually more for time tracking which seems to be more important to managers anyway. It's nice if you switch between tasks a lot.
We use Basecamp and TFS at work. Basecamp has a free version for personal use but its pretty limited.
Vivo makes good stuff, and has manual crank legs you can do with a desktop of your choice (Ikea, butcher block, home-made, whatever).
For desks 33" - 52" wide
I have a custom desktop I made myself from pine plyboard and poplar trim, so I got the smaller one. Been using it for over a year and it's worked great.
It was basically this from Best Buy.
I love drinking coffee, but iced makes consuming copious amounts of caffeine much easier.
You already have a keyboard but the Kinesis Freestyle is really worth it if you have any kind of wrist pain whatsoever. It seriously helps.
Could you use a sit/stand desk adapter? I also have a kneeling chair, which is really nice — it helps posture a lot more than you’d think it would.
I have a new ASUS 27 inch monitor, love ASUS. I mounted it and thhttps://www.amazon.com/Monitor-Adjustable-Mounts%EF%BC%8CSingle-Computer-Screens/dp/B07LFWPRG5/ref=zg_bs_23572104011_65?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=EE2CEWCZS92JRYPEWZFWe laptop on this :
I use this one:
https://www.amazon.com/Conference-Microphone-ZELIER-Omnidirectional-Indicator/dp/B08CB9MS5Z
It's a USB mic puck with a physical mute/unmute button with red and green LED indicator. No software needed. Can't beat it for $20.
Do you have a personal computer you can configure stuff on? If so you can use something like this and set up the shortcut on your personal computer and then it should just function as a normal keyboard when you plug it into your work computer.
If you're interested in DIY stuff and have some basic skills you can get a QMK programmable keyboard, search around for one that suits you, there are definitely some one key layouts floating around. I have a gherkin that I use as a macro board, it's a 30 key DIY kit that cost me ~$15-20 plus a bit of time to assemble but it was very easy and I have different layers for shortcuts based the programs I use most. The corner key is always mapped to a system wide mute, so it's always easy to find.
That's awesome to hear that I can help out with that, and extra thanks for the compliments! My setup started out super janky, but it's gotten to a better spot now. The two headphones thing: the right set is hooked up to my computer - mainly for gaming, the left one is just a bluetooth pair that's hooked up to my phone so I can listen when I'm working on something with my hands but want decent music.
I would definitely go with the dock you linked - cheaper and looks like it had more ports. Just make sure it passes through enough power to actually charge your laptop.
The desktop I actually built myself - it's poplar wood stained kind of dark, then polyurethaned and sanded to 220. Dimensions are 24 inches deep by 65 inches wide, although I wish I would have gone maybe 30 inches deep instead. It's sitting on top of a set of sit/stand desk legs that have worked out great for me so far (that's linked in my other post also).
For the portrait monitor - I work with a good bit of code for my work, but nothing too crazy, and having it vertical makes reading code amazing. Downside is that actually writing it and using the compiler isn't as great as I thought it would be due to low width real estate.
That light bar up top is just a generic one I found that I liked. It has different color temperatures (3) and brightness levels, plus it's super bright, definitely recommend it. :)
I use this TESmart brand KVM Switch, but version only has 1 monitor out, which is fine for me. But it handles keyboard, mouse, and USB devices switching from one computer to the other just fine.
This sounds a lot like my setup, and I think my solution will work for your setup, plus it's pretty cheap! I use this IOGear KVM Switch ($20) to switch my keyboard between work laptop and my PC. I have two mice, but it would work the exact same if I only had 1.
Caveat though, how many input ports do your monitors have? that setup only works for my situation because I have my laptop and PC both plugged into my monitors, and they just auto-detect when the source changes.
All I have to do to switch between work and PC is put my work laptop to sleep, wake up my PC, press the KVM switch, and grab the other mouse and I'm good to go. If you have one mouse, you would just have to press the KVM switch and you're set.
I'd say between that dock you linked, the KVM, and a few cords you'll be set!
Here's the Dell WD15 dock I use. It's overpriced in my opinion, but work gave it to me so I'll take it.
If you upgrade to 3 monitors, take a look at my other post and let me know what you think, I can help out with that wiring mess too haha
I'm in the exact situation as you are. I just bought this one and will get it Friday. I'll post when I get it all set up.
KVM Switch HDMI 2 Port Box,ABLEWE USB and HDMI Switch for 2 Computers Share Keyboard Mouse Printer and one HD Monitor,Support UHD 4K@60Hz,with 2 USB Cable and 2 HDMI Cable https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B08NVKHRRT/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_RTEFHEDZV77ABGE95V3G
Ergonomic office chair with foot rest
When I look at this chair, it addresses a lot of the points I mentioned in my previous comment
I find I'm most productive when I'm wearing these