Hi there, Geek Fans! How many of you are currently hybrid working? That is, some of your time is in the office, some of it is at the home office. This month we’ve put together a list of the best tech that you need to make hybrid working as seamless as possible.
Hybrid working is what many of us have moved to over the past couple of years. It’s where you neither work in the office full time, nor at home full time. Instead, you do some days at home and some at work. But to work at home, you need the right tools that you would have access to in the office. Here’s some of the best technology you need for your hybrid working setup.
A printer
Every home office worker requires a reliable printer. A smaller desktop model will likely be plenty for most workers. Look for something that will fit into the space and be quick and easy to use whenever you need it.
The Canon PIXMA TS5160 is always a good entry-level choice. This model can scan, copy, and print, it’s wireless for less hassle, and it can print on both sides of the paper at once.
For something a little more sophisticated, we like the BROTHER MFC L3770CDW. This colour laser printer is fast and ideal for large print runs. It scans two-sided documents in one go, connects wirelessly, and uses high-yield toner cartridges for a lower price per print.
Both of these printer models are Geek Approved and may be available through our Greek Approved program. Email info@geeksonwheels.co.nz to view our current product catalogue.
A standing desk
A standing desk is an excellent investment for the home office. It can help to get you up out of your seat and standing for more hours of the day. Even if you only use it for an hour or two per day, it can greatly reduce the amount of time you spend sitting each week.
Office Max offers a good range of affordable standing desks in NZ, including the sleek Klever Electric Height Adjustable Desk.
A VPN
Anyone working from home needs to take steps to ensure their security, and that includes investing in a VPN.
A VPN – a virtual private network – basically masks your internet address (IP address) so no one can trace you online. It also lets you establish secure connections for greater security.
We’d recommend the award-winning SurfShark and top security Malwarebytes as trusted VPN providers.
A mouse and keyboard combo
If you’re spending all day typing and surfing through files and web pages, you need a good ergonomic setup to avoid damaging your wrists over time.
Even if you have a laptop with a keyboard and a trackpad, an ergonomic keyboard and mouse can help give you a safer setup – especially if you raise your laptop to eye height (where it should be).
You’ll find ergonomic keyboards and mice at retailers all over New Zealand. An affordable, practical option is the Microsoft Wired Ergonomic Keyboard and matching mouse.
Or, you can enter our Geeks on Wheels April giveaway. We’re giving away an incredible Logitech MK850 Performance Wireless Keyboard & Mouse combo which allows you to pair with up to 3 devices with Bluetooth and Wireless. Be sure to enter now for your chance at winning!
An external monitor
An external monitor is an extra screen that you set up next to your existing one.
This can be especially useful if you’re working with a laptop, as most laptops do not offer the same screen sizes as desktop monitors. It can save you from clicking between tabs constantly, especially if you often work with reference materials in one tab and work in another.
You’ll find a wide range available through our Geek Approved program, such as the AOC C27G3 27’’ curved monitor. This is curved 27-inch monitor that will give you ample extra working space in your home office.
A dock
A dock will ensure you have enough plugs and ports for all of your home office gadgets.
The Microsoft Surface Dock V1, for example, includes four high-speed USB ports, an audio output, two high-definition video ports, and a Gigabit Ethernet port. You can find it at PB Tech.
Keep your tech secure
With your home office set up, it’s time to ensure its security.
Take a look at the Geek+ package for business, which will help you to secure your devices, be on hand for technical questions, and provide an annual health and security check.
And if you’re interested in our current selection of hybrid working products such as printers, monitors, and more, call 0800424335 or email info@geeksonwheels.co.nz. Contact us today to learn more.