{
  "id": 4657356,
  "title": "I've tested dozens of items to perfect my work-from-home setup. These 13 make all the difference",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/31/ive-tested-dozens-of-items-to-perfect-my-work-from-home-setup-these",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-31T14:15:27.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Guardian Technology",
    "slug": "guardian-technology",
    "url": "https://www.theguardian.com/thefilter-us/2026/aug/31/best-work-from-home-office-setup-upgrades"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "To create an enjoyable home office, invest in essential upgrades that enhance productivity and comfort. Professional tech writer shares tried-and-true recommendations for improving a work-from-home setup.\n\nA dedicated workspace is crucial to separate work from personal life. The writer moved beyond a couch and discovered the significance of a separate office area.\n\nAfter years of testing various products, the following upgrades prove indispensable:\n\n1. Affordable speakers: Upgrade the laptop's built-in audio for a better listening experience.\n\n2. Adjustable stand: Prop an iPad to function as an additional monitor, increasing workspace and productivity.\n\n3. Wireless earbuds: Essential for clear audio during video calls and reducing distractions.\n\n4. Ergonomic chair: Invest in a comfortable chair to maintain good posture and prevent back pain.\n\n5. Monitor arms: Adjustable monitor stands improve screen positioning, reducing eye strain.\n\n6. Cable management: Organize cords to maintain a clean workspace and avoid tripping hazards.\n\n7. Task lighting: Proper illumination reduces eye strain and increases focus.\n\n8. Noise-canceling headphones: Minimize background noise and create a more focused environment.\n\n9. Room divider: Create a visual barrier between work and relaxation spaces.\n\n10. Adjustable desk: Opt for a desk with height-adjustable features to alternate between sitting and standing.\n\n11. Plant: Introduce a touch of nature to your workspace for a calming effect.\n\n12. Wall art: Personalize your workspace with inspiring artwork to boost motivation.\n\n13. White noise machine: Mask distracting noises and promote a more peaceful work environment.",
  "summary": "Build a home office you’ll actually enjoying working from with tried-and-true upgrades – from inexpensive speakers to a stand that can turn an iPad into a second monitor The best wireless earbuds in the US – tested Sign up for the Filter US newsletter, your weekly guide to buying fewer, better things If you work from home , even just a few days a week, you need more than a laptop perched on a…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}