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Sep 26, 2023

Curated Essentials: WFH Setup

Given a remote office well-being subsidy, I set out to build my ideal home office setup. I’ve compiled my research here and added considerations if you want to build your own. (with help from Griffin Solimini!)

Note: Items are linked using Amazon Affiliate program.

Current snapshot (2025):

Design Constraints

  • I have a 48x24 inch standing desk → didn’t want too large monitor as I’m fairly close to it
  • Wanted one monitor and accessories to switch between my personal Macbook and work PC, both of which I wanted closed on my desk for maximum space
  • I assume I won’t be on video calls often as this setup does not include a camera, so I will have to open my work laptop to join those
  • One-cord setup aka I have one wire from the wall to the monitor, and the USB-C cable from the monitor to the laptop which charges it while I use it

Inspiration

Outcome

Hybrid Workplace Subsidy ($500)

Monitor

  • $300 LG Ultrafine 27” IPS 4K screen with USB-C 60W power delivery 

    Considerations:

    • You may want a larger screen (32” or ultrawide 34”+). As you start getting into ultra-wide territory, you’ll definitely it to be curved
    • If you want to have a minimal, one-cord setup, get a monitor with power delivery through USB-C (60W minimum should be enough to charge your laptop while you’re using it, more if you plan to use it for gaming/high battery tasks)

Dual laptop stand

Mouse

Keyboard

Mechanical Keyboard Options (PC-compatible): I think anywhere from the TKL to 60% is the sweet spot, but the smaller you go the more vibey it’ll be.

Optional Accessories

I didn’t purchase these but you are welcome to.

Monitor Arm: Standard monitor arms can take ~10 inches of space. If you want more desk space, get a monitor arm.

  • ~$35 VIVO is the standard and offers straight or bendy options.

Monitor Light Bar: If you want a minimalist lamp while you do work to illuminate the desk

Monitor Camera: If you get a light bar, make sure it is compatible with a monitor camera

KVM Switch: To be the most cost effective (save ~100 likely), I would switch your monitor input manually, and use a KVM for USB. It seems switching monitors with a KVM box is glitchy unless you spend on a really nice one. Switching USB is trivial. This box is ugly, but you might be able to hide it discreetly under your desk somehow.

Phone Accessories Subsidy ($250)

Headphones

  • $420 Airpods Max (Refurbished)

    Cheaper, alternative headphones:

    • Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless $329
      • Wireless only
      • Noise cancellation
      • Foldable
      • Includes mic
      • Much lighter in weight than the Airpods Max
    • beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X Closed-Back $269
      • Known for using a “V-shaped” curve (heavy on bass and treble) and this can be weird if you’re sensitive. My sister and her boyfriend both use Beyerdynamic and love them though.
      • Wired, detachable cable
    • Sennheiser HD Open Back $119
      • Leaks sound due to open back, only for at-home/personal use
      • Would not recommend open back unless you really know what you’re getting into. They sound really good, but sound bleed is just weird. If you’re planning on using them for work calls, they can give feedback into the call you’re in from the mic picking up the sound escaping from the cups.
      • Wired, detachable cable