Time is precious, so make the most of it with the right tech by your side. These productivity tools are real game-changers, helping you work smarter, not harder, to achieve that goal of maximum efficiency.

A Second Computer Screen

Dual computer monitors can help you boost your productivity by allowing you to multitask more effectively.

Setting up dual computer monitors is the ultimate productivity hack. Multitasking becomes a breeze when you can quickly glance between two screens, plus you’ll be less likely to lose your place or become distracted trying to click through scores of browser tabs. The benefits of a dual-display setup increase dramatically if you’re doing data entry or monitoring communications feeds, such as conference calls, emails and chat messages. If you’re an editor or designer, then two displays could be especially beneficial. Working on your primary task on one screen while having the reference material on a second can greatly increase productivity and the accuracy of your work.

What to Try

Wireless Headphones

Headphones are fast becoming the MVP of work productivity tools. They’re ideal for making hands-free phone calls, allowing you to tackle two or more tasks at a time. Choose a noise-cancelling pair and you can block out background noise and keep yourself fully focused on your work. Some headphones, like these JBL Live 670s, will help when you need to answer calls or jump into an online meeting. Research shows listening to music at work can boost productivity, helping employees feel happier, less stressed and more motivated.

What to Try

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A Voice Assistant Speaker

An assortment of voice assistant speakers to help improve productivity, shown on various brightly coloured backgrounds.

Welcome to the future office, where you don’t need a PA to help you organise your life. Instead, outsource everything to a handy desktop device and free up your work time for more important tasks. The Amazon Echo Show can be used to make video calls, send messages, set reminders, play music, display photos and control smart features such as lights and appliances, all at the command of your voice. The Nest smart speaker gives you similar features, such as access to the Google virtual assistant and control of your smart home, and lets you check in what’s going on at home when you’re not there, with the built-in Nest Cam.

What to Try

A Docking Station

Save time with this nifty device that allows you to connect your computer to all of the essentials, ensuring you can efficiently switch between tasks. A docking station allows you to have your dual monitors, keyboard, mouse and other accessories, such as printers and scanners, connected all the time at your home office. You simply need to plug one connection into your laptop to have all these devices hooked up and ready to go.

What to Try

A Clever Mouse

An assortment of ergonomic mice to help improve productivity, shown on various brightly coloured backgrounds.


Work smarter and faster by swapping your regular computer mouse for a swanky new model that’s bursting with special features. Aim for one that is ergonomically designed to be comfortable and easy to use, like the wireless Logitech Lift Vertical Ergonomic Mouse. It’s rechargeable, doing away with wires and batteries, and has a wheel for comfortable scrolling. 

Generally speaking, a good gaming mouse will improve your productivity – most have multiple wheels and buttons and are designed to be used over long periods of time. Goodbye hand cramps. The Verbatim Silent Ergonomic Wireless Mouse also has a wide range of features and wallet-friendly price.

What to Try

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A Solid State Drive

Also known as SSDs, solid state drives are amped-up file storage devices. Unlike a regular hard drive, they’re durable, super fast and more energy efficient. During a work day, use an SSD to instantly load programs and stretch your network capacity. The Samsung T7 Portable Drive is ideal for backing up files, with a speedy transfer rate and a sturdy aluminium case. Another good option is this Toshiba one – its compact design is perfect for taking your documents with you so you can work on the go. 

What to Try

A Label Printer

The DYMO LabelWriter 5XL printing a shipping label on a sleek office desk, with clear text on the label and a well-lit workspace in the background.

Depending on your line of work, a label printer could be very useful. If you send out lots of letters and parcels, then printing out the address labels could save you time. Other uses include making name tags for conferences and special events and printing off product ingredient labels and info labels for assets. The DYMO LabelWriter 5XL is your best bet for producing warehouse labels, shipping tags, barcode stickers and more.

What to Try

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A Wireless Router

Fast and reliable internet connectivity is essential for seamless work, keeping your files and data at your fingertips without interruptions. Having a good quality wireless router will allow you to move around and work in different areas of the home while maintaining productivity. The aerials on this TP-Link router ensure your home has better coverage and more stable internet connectivity. Netgear is another reputable brand – its Nighthawk router features ultra-fast Wi-FI and is recommended for homes and businesses with up to 40 connected devices.

What to Try

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This article was originally published in January 2021 and has been updated.