What is the Best Work-From-Home Setup for 2026?

TL;DR: The best work-from-home setup is one that creates a comfortable and productive environment. Experts recommend creating a personalized and quiet space with natural light and equipping it with ergonomic furniture and essentials like a monitor and keyboard. Additionally, certain productivity tools can help organize tasks and manage time effectively. By thoughtfully designing your space and supplying it with the right tools, you can ensure a positive and sustainable work-from-home experience.

By Ben Barzilai

Since the COVID-19 Pandemic, more and more companies have found ways to let employees work from home. While working remotely saves people a daily commute, it isn’t always easy to do so efficiently and comfortably. Creating a productive at-home setup is thus essential.

Before working from home, ask yourself what you need to create a home office conducive to productivity and comfort. Where should the office be and what do you want it to look like? What equipment or furniture is needed? Which tools will help with task management and communication?

Answering these questions will ensure a positive work-from-home experience.

1. How To Find and Personalize Your Work-From-Home Space

Fight the temptation to work from the same couch used for end-of-day relaxation. Villa Devi Soothar, a software engineer for Amazon Web Services, found that it’s best to choose a workspace separate from everyday home life.

“No more working from the couch, living area, or bed,” Soother said on LinkedIn. “Having a defined workspace made all the difference: when I’m there, I’m working; when I step out, I’m out.”

So, designate a workspace to start creating a quality work-from-home space.

In her LinkedIn Learning course, small business expert Melinda Emerson recommended finding a quiet room with plenty of natural light. Find a space that is removed from the noises and distractions of everyday life without isolating yourself from sunlight and temperature control. Make sure the area has strong Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets.

Next, personalize the new workspace. Daniel Ian Smith, an interior designer, recommends decorating the workspace with art.

“When you’re not staring at a screen, you should be looking at something inspiring,” Smith told Forbes. “I love expansive landscape photography for this, especially if there’s not a large window with a view.”

According to Emerson, other touches like flowers or scent diffusers can add color and aroma to a home office. That helps promote comfort and focus.

2. How To Identify the Right Equipment for Your Home Office

Emerson recommends investing in an ergonomic chair. They can be expensive, but if you plan on working from home long-term, they can help reduce back pain from long periods of sitting. Items like a footrest and adjustable desk can also help reduce strain.

Jasmine Marcus, a physical therapist, found that laptops are much harder on the body because employees are likely to hunch over them. For this reason, consider a separate keyboard and monitor. Experts like Emerson recommend a reasonably-sized monitor that’s easy on the eyes, preferably at least 28 inches.

Other equipment worth investing in includes:

• An ergonomic mouse and keyboard
• Noise-cancelling headphones
• A color printer and scanner

3. What Tools and Software Should You Have Handy 

Identify and download the necessary software for your specific job. Also consider organizational tools to help you stay on track.

For example, Emerson recommends using a reminder app to keep track of your to-do list. She also suggests finding a storage app so you can access files regardless of where you are in the world.

Other tools Emerson recommends include:

• An app for scheduling appointments with clients and colleagues.
• Software that allows you to complete and sign necessary documents online. 
• A time-management app to keep yourself efficient and productive. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Creating a Work-From-Home Setup

• How do I choose the best location for my home workspace? Opt for a quiet, low-traffic area with natural light. Ideally, choose a separate room or corner that’s easy to access and can support your setup’s electronic and Wi-Fi needs.
• What furniture should I invest in for remote work? Key items include an adjustable chair with lumbar support and a desk at the right height. Accessories like footrests, monitor stands and external keyboards/mice also help prevent strain. 
• Which technology is essential for an efficient home office? A reliable internet connection and a full-sized monitor are key. Additional tools like noise-reducing headphones and time-management apps may also prove helpful.