Summary
- Invest in a solid wireless mouse under $100.
- Select a reputable USB hub with seven ports for $20.
- Opt for 32-128GB USB memory sticks from trusted brands for under $20.
Working at home can get boring, so I like to go to coffee shops and parks to get some fresh air and a change of scenery. I often travel and carry my laptop and accessories in my backpack to write articles on the move.
On my travels, I’ve learned that it’s worth spending top dollar on certain laptop accessories, and it’s okay to buy cheap versions of others. These inexpensive gizmos work just as well as the premium versions, and I don’t stress if they get damaged or misplaced in transit. I don’t mind cheaping out on these laptop accessories, and neither should you.
1
Mice
Pointers for a great price
I work faster and more efficiently with a mouse than a trackpad and need one that’s durable and fits my hand. I also prefer gaming mice because of their extra buttons and precise tracking, which make scrolling and navigation easier. Many pricey productivity and gaming mice — like the Logitech MX Master and Razer Viper V3 Pro — cost over $100, but I don’t bother with them and get alternatives that can do the same thing for a fraction of the price.
Great wireless mice, like the Logitech G309 and Glorious Model O are available for well under $100 and deliver outstanding performance for most users. I’ve lost many wireless dongles on the road and sometimes prefer using wired models with a simple plug-and-play design that don’t require charging. These are even more affordable, with models like the Logitech G502 and Corsair Harpoon Pro available for under $50.
2
USB Hubs
Cost-effective connectivity
Modern laptops are miserly with their port selection, and I need a USB hub to connect my external drives and other devices when I’m on the go. I don’t mind spending money on a larger hub with a huge port selection for home use, but I settle for cheaper alternatives that are lighter and less bulky when I’m on the road.
I’ve been burned in the past after buying USB hubs with weak cables and low-speed ports. That’s why I stick to models from reputable brands, like Anker, Ugreen, and Acer, which I trust. There are still many options to choose from, and I’ve found several usable ones with seven ports for around $20.
For me, this is the sweet spot for a mobile USB hub, as it contains all the ports I require for daily use, like HDMI, USB-A, and SD card readers, without taking up much space.
3
Memory sticks
Storage at a steal
I usually treat USB memory sticks as disposable gadgets that I can use for data transfer in a pinch, or to create bootable drives for maintenance and software updates. They aren’t meant for critical backups or storing irreplaceable data, as I have other solutions for that.
I might use cheaper memory sticks, but I avoid unreliable generic sticks and prefer reputable brands.
That’s why I buy low to medium-sized memory sticks that have enough capacity for my requirements without paying extra for space I don’t need. I find the capacities between 32 and 128GB to be reliable for storing my files, and they’re typically available under $20. I might use cheaper memory sticks, but I avoid unreliable generic models and prefer reputable brands like Sandisk, Adata, or Kingston to avoid data loss or corruption.
4
Laptop stands
Portable and practical
My laptop stand brings my laptop to eye level, allowing me to work comfortably without craning my neck downwards. It must support a heavy 17.3-inch laptop while still being portable enough to fit into my laptop bag. I don’t mind bulkier laptop stands with flexible arm mounts or non-adjustable risers for home use, but they just don’t fit in my bag. Models with built-in fans are fantastic for cooling, but they tend to take up space and drain my battery because they’re USB-powered.
I prefer aluminum alternatives, which offer greater durability for around the same price.
Instead, I opt for cheap laptop stands that take up minimal space when folded, but offer excellent support and adjustability when unfolded. Some of these stands are made from silicone and ABS plastic, but I prefer aluminum alternatives, which offer greater durability for around the same price. These stands cost around $10 to $15 and work just as well as models that go for double their price.
5
Webcams
Make an impression in meetings
Modern low to mid-range laptops often have low-quality webcams to keep the price down. They offer low-resolution video quality that gets grainy and blurry in low-light conditions. Educators, streamers, and other content creators will benefit from investing in high-quality professional webcams. Everyday users wanting decent video quality for the odd meeting or video call will manage with lower-cost alternatives that get the job done.
Decent 1080p models, such as the Microsoft Modern Webcam, Logitech C920s, and Logitech Brio 300, are fairly affordable and include features like noise-canceling microphones and light correction for well under $100. Most of these have flexible hinged designs that fit most laptops and can be folded when not in use. They’ll work on most systems and are usually compatible with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and other platforms.
