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Everything You Need to Work From Home, According to People Who Do It Every Day

If you worked in an office before the pandemic, chances are you walked out one day in March 2020 hoping to return in a couple of weeks or, at the very worst, a couple of months. But now, almost 18 months later, you still may not have returned — and given how many companies are pivoting to a remote-first culture, you may not for a while longer (or, maybe, ever). Even though many of us have had time to adjust to working from home, the sheer unpredictability of the last year might have led you to wait before investing in things that can turn our largely comfort-focused homes into efficient professional workspaces. To help in that endeavor, we asked a bunch of professionals who regularly worked from home before COVID-19 and folks who have since put together proper workplaces in their homes about the things they used to do so effectively. Then we combed through our archives for other stuff that work-from-homers told us they use to get their jobs done each day.

A note that while working from home almost certainly requires a computer , wireless router , and modem , for this story, we focused on all the other things you may need, from essentials like desks, chairs, and monitors to less obvious things that our sources say help one stay productive day in and day out. Read on for 68 things that will not only make working from home more productive and enjoyable, but will crucially help to keep burnout at bay, too.

To start, the folks we spoke to say you’ll need a workspace (a.k.a. a dedicated desk or table). “Research like this 2017 Harvard study shows it’s better for your mental health to keep the spaces you sleep, relax, and work in separate,” says product manager Nehemiah Blackburn, who works for his New Hampshire–based tech company remotely from his New York City home five days a week. While “working from your bed and couch may seem convenient and even more comfortable,” finance associate Daniel Kim, whose day job often requires him to continue working once he gets home, admits that, “in the long run, it puts you in the wrong mental state to get meaningful work done.”

Three editors at the Verge told us they rely on this Jarvis standing desk at home. It comes in six sizes ( starting at 30x24 inches for $569) and can be adjusted to rise between 24.5-inches tall (for sitting) and 50-inches tall (for standing). Verge deputy editor Dan Seifert, who has owned his Jarvis desk for four years, describes it as “comfortable, stable, and spacious,” while Verge news editor Nick Statt adds that assembly is “far less cumbersome than I thought it would be.”

If you are interested in the ergonomic appeal of a standing desk without the price tag they often come with, Strategist contributor James Lynch has a surprising solution: a workbench . “A workbench may not sound like the perfect WFH solution, and yet it is now where I do all of my work,” says Lynch, who notes that the 52-inch-wide version of this one he bought has plenty of space for setting up a monitor and speakers, with real estate left over for other essentials. Made of solid wood, he says, “It’s durable, not at all like a lot of the other inexpensive desks I considered, which are made of plastic or particleboard — cheap materials with cheap veneers that bubble and peel the moment your coffee cup collects a single drop of moisture.” The desk is raised and lowered with a hand crank that Lynch calls “supremely easy” to use. “Although every reason I bought this desk is related to function, it also has an impressively handsome form,” he adds.

Elise Yeo-Donaldson, who works from home for a London–based educational-tech start-up, recommends this desk that she says is both affordable and quite user-friendly. “It’s originally an architecture table, but I use it for normal work with a laptop and notebook,” she says. “I didn’t expect how useful being able to change the angle of the desk would be, and the glass top is incredibly easy to clean.”

When Kim needed to get a desk he could work from home at, he told us he was “drawn more to design” than solely function, especially because he was going to have to look at it even when he wasn’t working. He landed on a simple desk from Muji that cost him $175 but is currently unavailable. An equally streamlined — and even-less-expensive — option would be this desk from our list of the top-reviewed home-office desks on Amazon, where buyers raved about its minimalist look, simple set-up, and surface area. One happy shopper praised its height in particular, noting that their “desk-chair arms fit underneath without getting stuck, so I can roll around freely.”

Susan Dominus, a staff writer for the New York Times Magazine, likes her Ikea desk so much that she owns two (which she has raved about on Twitter ). “At some point, I decided I really wanted to work in my nice sunny bedroom,” she told us, “and there’s this little corner where only a small desk would fit.” Dominus’s exact Ikea desk is currently unavailable, but it comes from the same Micke line as this desk — which, at just 10 inches wider than hers, is still compact enough to fit in most spaces and feels just as “clean, bright, and efficient” (the three words Dominus used to describe her own desk). With two drawers, this desk also has more storage than her one-drawer desk. For more cool-people-approved small desks, head here .

Jeremy Kirkland, host of the Blamo! podcast , was another who told us that he “didn’t understand the value and importance of having a good desk until I started working from home.” Describing himself as a “laptop road warrior” before the pandemic, and always “editing at coffee shops,” Kirkland says he “now realizes my productivity in those environments was 20 percent.” The desk that got him to 100 percent, he says, is this solid-wood design from Artifox. It costs more than the others on this list, but Kirkland says the price is justified by the quality and craftsmanship of the wood, as well as its just right size for a “somewhat close quarters” apartment. He also likes its many thoughtful modern design details, including a hidden area at the back for cable storage and extension cords, pegs for hanging your headphones, and felt hooks that prevent your cables falling to the floor when you unplug your laptop or iPhone. “It’s so modular, with so many setups to fit the way you work,” he adds.

If you’ll be using your home workspace to do more than fire off an email or two, our sources say you might also want a proper desk chair. When a reader wrote in to us about finding the best home-office chair , we spoke to a professional about it (Marc Schwartzberg, a three-decade veteran of the office-furniture industry and the owner of Office Furniture Heaven), who told us that you should think of your office chair like you would your  mattress . Specifically, it needs to be comfortable, as chances are you’re going to spend around eight hours in it every day.

This ergonomically-designed office chair comes recommended to us by Dr. Rudy Gehrman, the founder of wellness center Physio Logic. It has a supportive mesh construction, roller wheels, and the ability to adjust both the armrest and seat height. It’s also very reasonably-priced for a chair with back support, given that a different chair — Herman Miller’s Aeron chair, below — will set you back nearly $1,000.

If your home is going to be your primary office for years to come, you might consider investing in a chair that not only looks nice, but has been designed with long-term desk working in mind. The aforementioned Herman Miller Aeron Chair is the “the Ferrari of desk chairs ,” according to Chris Black, and versions of it (if not the original) can be found in a wide range of offices. It’s the chair that Boyd Steemson, the work-from-home CEO of TotalRock radio, has sat on five days a week for years. “This assemblage of poly-carbon, leather and chrome is perfectly contrived to keep its occupant poised and powerful,” says Steemson, adding that the chair feels like “a hammock you can sit in, ping forward, rock backward, and scoot effortlessly over the carpet on. It’s a triumph.” It has also been recommended to us by  chiropractors , who appreciate the chair’s adjustable lumbar support.

If you’re looking for a chair with a space-saving footprint that still offers some posture support, Dr. Adam Lamb of Lamb Chiropractic told us he personally sits on a stool when he works, because it because it helps him maintain good posture while improving core strength and balance. This stool comes recommended by c hiropractor Dr. Randi Jaffe , who says it “makes it easy to go from sitting to standing” thanks to its adjustable seat.

This kneeling chair (which can easily be rolled under a desk at the end of a workday) has been a Strategist favorite since writer Alice Gregory told us about it back in 2017. Worried about what sitting down all day was doing to her back, Gregory picked up this chair with a design that she says “forces you to engage your core and naturally keeps your spine upright.” After using it for awhile, she continues, “your back muscles strengthen and circulation improves.”

Maybe you don’t want to replace the chair you’ve been working in, but would instead just like to make it a bit more comfortable. For that, contributor Maureen O’Connor says this inexpensive ergonomic attachment is a great way to upgrade a chair that you already own. She explains that the attachable support borrows its design from the Aeron chair, telling us that: “Before Easy Posture, at the end of the day, I felt as though I was two inches shorter than when I started. But like a classic before-and-after, now I’m standing taller and feeling great.”

Another recommendation for upgrading a chair you already own, this gel cushion is what Strategist newsletter editor Mia Leimkuhler uses to make the seat of the dining chair she works from home in more supportive. According to her, the cushion (which comes from the brand that makes one of our favorite firm-but-springy mattresses ) makes it perfectly pleasant to sit “for eight hours in a chair that is not designed to be sat in for eight hours.”

Items to work on-the-go

While most of us spent 2020 sequestered to our homes, there are now more opportunities to work from other spaces, like a nearby coffee shop. For something that’ll turn any surface into more of a standing desk (whether it’s your coffee table or local coffee shop’s table), Strategist contributor Charlotte Klein recommends this converter. She says it “falls somewhere in between a traditional standing-desk converter and a laptop stand,” allowing her to work more ergonomically wherever she happens to be. The stand has five different  configurations that allow you to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day, which experts say is the best way to work. “As far as portability, the Moft, which weighs less than a pound (and claims to support as much as 22 pounds), is very easy to transport: When folded up, it’s the size of a magazine and half-an-inch thick,” adds Klein.

New York  Magazine senior art director and visuals lead Stevie Remsberg told us this nifty umbrella is one of the items she uses to create an outdoor office to take advantage of sunny days. It has a clamp to secure it to a chair and an adjustable shade that she uses to reduce glare on her screen. “It’s small but oblong-shaped, so it gets pretty good coverage if you angle it in the right way,” Remsberg says, adding that “no matter where you’re sitting, you can get it at the right angle to block the sun.”

Remsberg also bought this padded laptop tray, which she notes is way more compact than a table and can easily be brought onto a balcony or fire escape. (Or the couch.) “It works great,” she says. “The beanbag cushion on the bottom is comfortable, too.”

If you’re looking to work from a park or on a lawn, you’ll need a different sort of office chair. Remsberg swears by this “crazy comfortable” one that she says is even ergonomic. “It has substantial lumbar support, so my lower back is supported,” she told us. “It feels like the lumbar pillow I have on my office chair but it’s built into this folding chair.”

Once you’ve got your desk and chair figured out, several of our experts say you might consider getting a lamp . If, like Kim, you want office accessories that look less corporate and more like home décor, you could spring for the classic (but pricey) Anglepoise desk lamp . Or, you could go for this far more affordable Anglepoise–esque desk lamp that Strategist editor Alexis Swerdloff uses, which she says folks have mistaken for the real thing. (When we asked architects about the best desk lamps , one told us that he installed Forsa lamps at every desk in his office.)

Architect Peter Dumbadze has used this clamp lamp at his own desk “for years.” Beyond appreciating its “utilitarian style,” Dumbadze says that clipping a few of the inexpensive lamps around a workspace can create more balanced lighting. “I position the lamps such that I can bounce light off of the walls and ceiling,” he explains.

Another architect-recommended desk lamp, this is the one that New York City–based Scott Oliver told us he’s used while working at home since the days he was in grad school. “I bought a version of this halogen model 30-plus years ago,” he says, “and lo and behold, it is still around.” While it’s a bit more expensive, based on Oliver’s experience, it could very well last until you retire.

Tea and coffee makers

Because free office coffee isn’t a luxury work-from-homers can take advantage of, many of our sources say having an at-home coffee maker is essential to jolting themselves awake in the morning and throughout the day. Strategist contributor Bridget Arsenault , the London editor of Air Mail, who works remotely because her publication is based in New York City, told us she uses a fancy Le Creuset French press to start her morning, calling it her “go-to French press for everyday use,” but if you’re just looking for something that gets the job done, this less expensive option (that’s still fun to look at) comes from our list of the best French press coffee makers (for all budgets).

When it comes to brewing coffee at home, Jamie McCormick, the co-owner of East Village coffee shop Abraço , let us in on a little secret: You really don’t need more than a simple Mr. Coffee drip machine. “People make a big ‘to do’ over a lot of nothing” when it comes to brewing equipment, McCormick told us when we asked him and other baristas about the best coffee machines to use at home, adding that the Mr. Coffee is a great choice for any “amateur coffee roaster who wants to flatter their grounds.”

There are, of course, fancier options. Matt Lopez , an account supervisor at a strategic communications firm tells us this “fantastic, quick, quiet” — if more-expensive — option has a number of features the Mr. Coffee doesn’t, including a “vacuum-insulated carafe that keeps your coffee warm for hours without using an electric heat plate that risks burning the coffee.”

If you want an even easier way to make coffee, a Nespresso will serve you the press of two buttons. Film-and-television producer Steve Abbott ( Monty Python ,  A Fish Called Wanda ) — who has worked from a home office for the last three years — likes a top of the line De’Longhi  bean-to-cup machine , which he reports does “everything from grind your beans to foam your cappucino and steam your milk,” and says it hasn’t broken down in the more than seven years he’s owned it. Arsenault also has a fancier at-home coffee maker she uses when she doesn’t want to futz with her French press, and while hers is not bean-to-cup one like Abbott’s, it is a De’Longhi (for Nespresso) and just as convenient, she says. “I know these aren’t particularly environmentally sound,” she admits, “but I can’t function without coffee and this is so easy and efficient to use. It lives on my counter all year round.”

According to Leimkuhler, “it’s tempting to guzzle coffee after coffee when you work from home, but that all too easily leads to caffeine headaches and dehydration.” To battle the 3 p.m. slump, she instead makes herself a pot of tea with “this lovely infuser and whichever loose-leaf tea I’m feeling at the moment.” Leimkuhler adds that a personal pot of tea is a “nice little ritual” that feels like a self-care perk of working from home.

For those whose tea-making time is money and would prefer a faster way to brew, Strategist contributor David Schwartz told us about Breville’s “groundbreaking” Tea Maker, which does “something that almost all run-of-the-mill coffee makers do: It brews automatically, at any time of day, without you having to do anything but pour in the tea.”

Kitchen items

“If you’re used to working in an office every day, your routine likely includes stepping out for lunch or having it delivered, and making your own can be a big adjustment,” says Leimkuhler. She says this rice cooker (which is also a favorite of cool florist Elle Jaime and Brad Leone ) gets used in her home at least every other day. “In the morning when I make my coffee, I wash and prepare 2–3 cups of rice, then set it to cook. When the rice is done, the cooker keeps it warm all day, so when I’m ready for lunch (or dinner) I have perfectly cooked, hot rice ready to top with anything.” Leimkuhler adds that she purchased her cooker nine years ago, and it’s still going strong.

Another (far less expensive) gadget that makes mealtime less of a chore while working at home is this egg cooker. Jennifer Tsay, the CEO and co-founder of photography studio  Shoott , bought it early on in the pandemic to ensure she didn’t miss breakfast or lunch. The cooker, she says, is “a convenient, handy, and quick little appliance that makes eggs exactly the way you want: It’s perfect for quick breakfasts in a pinch, a much-needed protein-based afternoon snack, or to cook eggs to incorporate into salads or other dishes.”

Architect Samantha Josaphat and Luis Medina, who together lead architecture firm Studio 397 , told us their favorite home office piece is their water carbonator, which they’d recommend to anyone who wants to stay hydrated, but who gets bored of still water and hates the waste (and weight) of buying cans of seltzer. While they still use Sodastream gas containers with it, Josaphat and Medina say they prefer the Aarke’s design to Sodastream’s because it has “a lever as opposed to a button, which makes it more of an experience to use.” (And Strategist editor Maxine Builder also found it to be the most stylish-yet-effective seltzer-maker out there.)

Headphones and speakers

If your home is on a busy street — or filled with busy roommates — you’ll likely be after some headphones soon enough, say many of our people who work from home. For a relatively affordable (if not fully noise-cancelling) corded option, Arsenault recommends these basic in-ear headphones from Master & Dynamic, a brand we’ve written about before ( Black , Michael Strahan , and hotelier Marie Louise Scio are also fans.) “My boyfriend and I both work from home in a one-bedroom flat,” Arsenault told us. “If I need to watch something or if I am transcribing an interview, then I just pop in these headphones.”

For a truly noise-canceling pair of headphones, two folks we talked to — fashion photographer Jacqueline Harriet, who conducts her entire business from home, and Blackburn — recommend Apple’s AirPods Pro. Strategist contributor Sarah Wexler also praised these larger AirPods, which she says stay in place better than any wireless headphones she’s used before. According to Harriet, their Bluetooth connectivity gives them an added benefit while working from home: “I like them because you can dance and do your chores while making conference calls with clients.” (For more earbuds, be sure to check out the selection from various brands that we tested .)

For an over-ear noise-canceling option, Sony’s newly released WH-1000XM4 headphones are the next generation of what Strategist contributor David Pogue has called the “best wireless headphones he’s over owned.” One writer of this piece (Louis Cheslaw) tested the XM4s and found that the newer model, even if marginally, is better for working from home than its predecessor, thanks to features including a lift-to-pause technology and the ability to connect the headphones to two devices at once via Bluetooth. For more headphones (both noise-canceling and not) at a range of prices, here’s a list of the favorites we’ve tested over the years.

People who don’t wear headphones (they do exist) looking for a better way to listen (and talk) during video calls should consider this inexpensive plug-in headset that Strategist senior editor Anthony Rotunno uses on Zoom calls. The headset, he writes, “tethers me to more professional environments and makes me feel like the CEO of my new office of one.” While it can plug directly into any device with an old-school headphone jack, newer machines may require an adapter like this one to be compatible.

Sometimes our workers-from-home say they want whatever they’re listening to to come from a source a bit further from their ear drums. This speaker is what Sophia Kardonski, the co-founder of Miami’s Sobremesa dancing supper club (who runs her business from her home five days a week) uses during her workdays. “The battery life lasts forever,” she says, adding that it’s called the Revolve for a reason: “The sound really does revolve around the room, it’s like a portable surround sound system.” While Bose makes a top-of-the-line portable speaker, we’ve written about other well-regarded ones at varying price points here .

This less-expensive and more-colorful Bluetooth speaker is what writer Jia Tolentino relies on. In her words, the (fully waterproof) speaker hits the two most important qualities for a portable speaker: It “sounds great” and “syncs instantly.”

Computer and laptop accessories

If you’re planning to work from home on an Apple computer, writer Emma Grillo told us she bought this keyboard with a gift card she won for good performance at her first internship. “I work off of a really small laptop, and typing all day is so much easier on this portable keyboard, which is bigger and easier to use than my laptop,” she says.

The one issue with flat keyboards like Apple’s Magic Keyboard is that too much time typing at one can result in sore wrists at best and carpal tunnel (or more) at worst, according to physical therapist and board-certified athletic trainer Dr. Scott Weiss. “The wrong mouse-and-keyboard setup can wreak physical havoc on your hand, wrist, and forearm,” Weiss told our tech writer Jordan Bowman. Those looking for an ergonomic keyboard should consider this model that Verge editors told Bowman they love for its comfort-driven features, such as a supportive wrist pad and contoured design, without any of the add-ons that can quickly make ergonomic keyboards super expensive (like rechargeable batteries and backlit keys). According to this keyboard’s fans, it’s a functional option that “still looks and feels like a high-end professional product.”

When it comes to an ergonomic mouse, four experts Bowman talked to about the best wireless mouses recommended this one. Beyond being designed to comfortably fit the shape of your hand, the mouse’s customizable thumb wheel can be set to scroll left-to-right across your screen, which a video creator says is a “huge” help when moving through a film’s timeline.

If you, like Leimkuhler, find the feeling of using a mouse on a desk or table to be “a little like nails on a chalkboard,” you might want to consider picking up a mousepad. The one she uses is a (now sold out) Yayoi Kusama mousepad from the MoMA Design Store, which adds a pop of color to her desk while also protecting it. This still-available Roy Lichtenstein design that Leimkuhler pointed us to would have the same effect, she says.

To solve her bedroom’s (relatable) single-outlet problem, Kathy Li, the Strategist’s audience growth coordinator, bought a “ridiculously long” 15-foot extension cord. Now, she says her phone and other devices can happily charge on her desk while she works, even though the outlet remains “all the way on the other side” of her room.

“One of my biggest complaints about working from home is not having a full-sized monitor,” Blackburn told us. He says that this iPad stand helps simulate a monitor for him by raising his iPad to the level and angle of his laptop screen, so he can use it as a second screen for his laptop. He adds that this “sturdy, affordable” holder (which can also fit a phone) is great “if you just want to have YouTube on while you work.” Blackburn adds that newer iPads have built-in technology should you want to use them as a second display for your laptop screen instead of YouTube (and that the dual-display function can be added to older iPads using Duet Display. )

According to Strategist writer Jenna Milliner-Waddell, this inexpensive doodad allows you to use your phone as a second monitor of sorts. It holds a phone side-by-side with a laptop screen, “so when calls, texts, or email notifications come in, I can simply glance over to see what’s going on without breaking contact with my keyboard or computer screen, significantly improving the number of uninterrupted hours I work a day.”

If you’re looking for a proper monitor, Lynch has high praise for this one, which he says basically changed everything about his work-from-home life . “Having room for two documents side by side on my screen, rather than having to flip back and forth between them, made me work so much faster,” he says, noting how handy monitors can be for those who try to keep dozens of windows open on a tiny laptop screen. Lynch adds that the monitor’s stand can be raised, lowered, and tilted across four different planes to create the perfect display setup.

“I love this thing,” Strategist senior writer Liza Corsillo says of this flexible phone holder, which she has called her best WFH-related purchase. Since buying it, Corsillo told us she’s used it “for yoga, to watch TV in the bath, to talk to friends while baking, and to take photographs for articles.” Her partner, she adds, has even borrowed it for his own remote work as a teacher.

Kardonski told us that she tends to work most often from her couch, with her computer on her lap. She says after being “sketched out by my laptop sitting on my ovaries for hours, and feeling like it’s zapping my insides” she bought this DefenderPad shield, which slides right under the laptop and uses EMF shielding technology to combat radiation. It might cost a lot for a tech accessory, she says, “but considering a laptop case can easily be over $60, the portability and peace of mind this pad gives me is definitely worth it.”

Sarah Weingust, the founder and CEO of travel company HostelPass (who from her home runs a business with employees all over the world), says this small stand that “sticks onto the bottom of your laptop” is helpful for two reasons. “I find it helps most with my posture and comfort, but also can be really helpful to keep my computer cool if I’m running a lot of programs,” she told us. “It props up my laptop and doesn’t cover the fan, making it easier for air to flow and keeping my computer from getting overheated.” Weingust adds that, for such a small stand, it doesn’t move even if she’s “typing up a storm” and that it has three levels to choose from, including an option to lie flat as if it wasn’t there. If you’re looking for other ways to keep your electronics fresh and high-performing, check out our expert-recommended guide to everything you need to clean tech products.

Strategist contributor Liz Carey — a television writer who works a lot from home — praised this affordable, adjustable table as an essential piece of gear, saying it helps her to maintain a better posture when she spends hours working from the desk in her bedroom. “The tabletop can be tilted, and you adjust its height via two buttons on either of its legs,” she writes. “If I put it on top of the regular desk I work from in my bedroom, the setup affords me enough height that you could call it a makeshift standing desk.” It also allows her to work from her bed (which more than one of our sources say they will do from time to time). “Perched on my mattress , the table stands tall enough that I can extend my legs beneath it or sit cross-legged.”

For a sleeker-looking stand that could support a laptop or monitor (though probably not in bed), communications strategist Amy Lebowitz told us she ingeniously repurposed this kitchen storage rack (designed by Strategist favorite brand Yamazaki Home) to instead “prop up my second monitor at eye level without taking up a bunch of space on my desk.” She describes it as a “great design” that allows her to store things underneath her monitor — something you just can’t do with a stack of books.

Maybe after a year of barking at a screen or into your headphones’ microphone, you’re realizing you need a better way to be heard during all those Zoom meetings. If so, two different professionals told us this USB microphone is the best thing they got for working from home . Strategist contributor Laura Fenton , the author of  The Little Book of Living Small , says she bought hers after “one too many tinny-sounding interviews,” promising that the device is “easy enough for a non-techie person like myself to use.” Jon Lincoln, the founder of online retailer  goimagine , also bought the mic and told us “it has worked great as an inexpensive solution to make sure everyone is heard clearly during our virtual meetings.”

If working from home means you’re also working on a personal computer, you might want to invest in a back-up program, according to Eric Lawton, a freelance designer who works from home five days a week. “Don’t learn the hard way like I did and procrastinate about backing up your files,” he told us, adding that Blackblaze software provides a simple way to get unlimited storage for your computer, as well as any external hard drives attached to it. “It’s a must have for any freelancer whose files are their livelihood.”

Lawton also told us he likes to use this desk protector underneath his laptop and workbooks. “Essentially, it’s just a really comfortable place to rest your wrists and arms,” he told us. For more lap desks to consider, we’ve listed the best-reviewed ones on Amazon here .

Comfort-driven accessories

While you should probably change out of your pajamas, the folks we spoke to say that a proven work-from-home benefit is being able to add a dash more comfort to your work environment. Just as you might use one to warm you up in a chilly office, a blanket can be a nice accessory to keep you cozy while working at home, too, according to Arsenault (“If I’m working at the kitchen table, I wrap myself in a blanket.”). Her go-to is a luxe merino-and-cashmere blanket , but if you’re looking for something more affordable that simply looks nice and will keep you comfy, this faux fur throw from our list of interior-designer-recommended blankets should do the trick. According to the designer who recommended it, it’s “inexpensive, easy to maintain, has a great look, and is ultra-soft.”

These weren’t marketing manager Summer Langton’s first pair of blue-light-blocking glasses , but she tells us they were the first that worked. “They have a slight warm yellow tint to them,” she explains, “which really helps me with eye fatigue. I fully notice the difference at night if I’ve worn these all day vs. if I haven’t.”

Hannah Richtman, the owner of Brooklyn vintage store The Break , says this aesthetically pleasing humidifier is the first thing that comes to mind as a work from home essential. “It’s changed the way I wake up in the morning (sore-throat free) and actually looks nice in my home,” she says, adding that the humidifier has also stopped her from having to remind herself that “you don’t have COVID, the air in your apartment is just dry.”

While you don’t need to put on dress shoes if you’re working from home, a pair of slippers is crucial for keeping your feet warm and clean, according to Lawton ( and Black ). “It’s hard finding house slippers that are comfortable, well-designed, and not covered in fur,” Lawton says. But he swears that these loungers from Allbirds are all three. They “fit the bill perfectly — so much so that my girlfriend and I have matching pairs,” he adds. For a more (non-fur-covered) footwear you can wear inside and on the occasional errand, check out our cool-person-approved list of slides for men and women.

Perhaps, like Fast Company associate editor Yasmin Gagne , you too have been able to take advantage of the “five-minute midday shower” that she often treats herself to while working from home. On days when she showers and doesn’t have to show face at any Zoom meetings afterwards, Gagne told us she’ll wear “this weird towel/turban at my desk,” adding that it makes her “hair dries faster” and “doesn’t get my shirt all wet.”

To soothe tech neck from staring at her computer screen all day, Strategist writer Chloe Anello invested in this acupressure mat and pillow. “I put it on my couch and lay on it while I answer emails,” she says. “Going through my inbox is much less stressful when doing it from an acupressure mat.”

If you don’t currently have the funds to invest in a new ergonomic chair or desk, Apothékary  founder Shizu Okusa suggests using this affordable posture corrector. Her mother bought one for each member of her family when they were all working at less-than-ideal ergonomic setups at home. “This strap holds your shoulders back for you, which ultimately makes it difficult to sit with a curved spine, and over time your muscles are conditioned to support better posture (even if you’re not wearing the strap),” she says.

“In the same way  certain upper-back braces  use tension to pull your shoulders back to encourage better posture, the S’portBacker uses tension to tilt your pelvis slightly forward and prop you up to encourage better posture while seated,” explains Klein, who uses this when working on low-back chairs or stools. “I have a hard time maintaining an upright posture in a chair without a back; no matter how hard I try to keep my core engaged, I typically (subconsciously) end up slouching and rounding my shoulders or overarching in a way that gives me lower-back aches,” she says. “But the S’portBacker makes it easier to keep my core activated (without overcompensating in my back).”

Last year, our beauty writer Rio Viera-Newton invested in this tinier version of the massage tool beloved by athletes as a way to soothe muscles (and stress) from WFH. Skeptical of its size — “it’s only a touch bigger than my hand and a lot lighter than my MacBook Air” — she was blown away by its power. “At three different speeds, it vigorously vibrates to loosen up muscles while the attachment ball thrusts up and down, massaging deep into those sore spots.” It has another fan in Lumen co-founder Merav Mor, who also bought the Theragun Mini after she started working from home during the pandemic. “I use my Theragun to give myself a soothing shoulder massage between meetings or to just relieve sore muscles,” she says.

Things to keep you focused

If your brain is understandably struggling to switch between work and rest modes without the change of scenery, Richtman recommends these focus-enhancing supplements from the Nue Co. (a brand we’ve written about before ), which she says have helped her feel more “control over my health and well-being.” Since she’s started taking them, Richtman says she’s “repainted my entire apartment, learned how to groom my dog, and felt much more aligned with my daily to-do list.”

When she’s approaching an afternoon slump, Gagne says that putting a dropper’s worth of this ( less-expensive ) liquid supplement in a glass of water “actually works.” She adds: “It tastes like dirt, but placebo effect or not, I feel like I can focus better afterwards.”

Julianne Fraser, the founder and CEO of digital-marketing agency  Dialogue New York , says her biggest challenge with working from home was finding ways to set boundaries between home and work life. Then she discovered the Instagram-famous Loftie alarm clock. “It has greatly improved my sleep quality,” Fraser says, because in addition to working as a wake-up alarm (allowing her to leave her phone outside of her bedroom), the clock is also a night-light and speaker that can play music, sound baths, guided meditations, and breath-work sessions. “I fall asleep to the sound baths and use the breath-work and meditation features instead of scrolling through my Instagram feed.”

“It’s the straw,” Langton says, that elevates this water bottle from just another vessel for keeping hydrated into a true WFH-essential. “I love that I can drink hands-free while I’m typing,” she explains, adding that she likes using a clear bottle (versus the opaque Hydroflasks and Yetis) because she can “see how much water I have left.” Her love for the Eddy+ was confirmed, Langton adds, when she relocated to her family’s house earlier this year, forgot to bring it with her, and ended up ordering another immediately. (We’ve also described it as one of the best water bottles that you can buy on Amazon.)

Grillo told us that she turns this lava lamp on whenever she sits down to work. “It sounds kind of ridiculous, but it always makes me smile to look at,” she says. “Freelancing and working from home can be really stressful, so it’s nice to just zone out to my lava lamp for a few minutes, and remind myself how lucky I am to get to do what I do.” As for how it works, Grillo says it usually takes the lava lamp about 20 minutes after you turn it on to really get going, which she uses as a timer. “By the time the insides are bouncing around, I aim to be pretty deep into my work and no longer doing clerical emails and invoices.”

Grillo adds that she always keeps a “chunk” of purple amethyst crystal on her desk, because as well as being aesthetically pleasing, a former meditation professor told her it prevents harmful rays from electronics. “I even brought a chunk with me every day to an internship when I was 21, which I think thoroughly freaked out my boss,” she adds.

Strategist editor Maxine Builder wrote about how this satisfying block color timer is the “only thing that helps her avoid Twitter,” claiming that it helps her work for two hours straight without feeling burned out. Just flip the cube to display the time you’d like to count down from and the timer will begin, allowing you to give yourself a guilt-free break on social media between timed chunks of work.

“Taking breaks is necessary” when working from home, Black wrote when a reader asked him for things that could make an office of one more enjoyable. He added that it helps to “walk around the block, or do something physical to keep the blood flowing.” If you can’t walk around the block, Black recommends these handles you can use to get a few push-ups in (and perfect your technique) at home. As he puts it: “You don’t get pecs from writing emails!”

With additional reporting by Dominique Pariso.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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Today’s Top Clicked

131 Legit Companies that Hire Home Workers in 2023

If you dream of working from home, this detailed round-up of 131 companies that hire home workers is a great place to start looking for opportunities.

An accurate and up-to-date list of work from home companies is surprisingly hard to find online; While there are plenty of lists out there, most of the ones we looked at included incorrect information, dead links and scammy opportunities.

We set out to create something better. We did the same compiling the latest home working statistics, which you can check out here .

If you’re in a hurry and want some of the searching work done for you, take a look at FlexJobs .  We have a full review of that here. Another alternative is Virtual Vocations ( see review ).

Tips for Finding Home Jobs

Tech firms hiring home workers, work from home jobs in call center / customer service, healthcare companies that hire home workers, travel companies that hire home workers, work from home jobs in education, secretarial home working jobs, writing, translation and transcription jobs, work from home jobs in finance, remote work in the not for profit sector, miscellaneous companies that hire home workers, important points.

On this list you’ll find lots of legitimate work from home jobs hiring now. It’s a long list so we’ve divided them into categories to make it easier to search. divided into categories.

Plenty of the companies listed here have work from home positions so are ideal for people who want the flexibility of working from home with the security of a conventional job . There are also some opportunities that could work for freelancers, or as part of a portfolio career. 

While some jobs are US-only (reflecting While some remote jobs hiring are US-only (reflecting HomeWorkingClub’s largest audience), we’ve done our best to include lots of global opportunities for work from home jobs hiring now.

For every company, we’ve provided a link to where they usually mention their home-based job opportunities. Please note that things do change and remote work from home jobs come and go, so it’s often worth checking back at a later date if you don’t find anything from a specific company when you look.

It’s also worth searching remote job boards for phrases like “remote,” “home based” and “home working,” as this can often uncover jobs that are hiring that could be hidden in plain sight.

It’s essential to do your own due diligence on any company you apply to as scams are out there. We’ve done our best to only include legit companies on this list but you should still do your own research. You can find some information on avoiding scams here .

Many companies have mixed reports from ex staff-members if you look at reviews on Glassdoor and similar websites. As with any online reviews, it’s best to look at the balance of opinions and then form your own! If you strongly feel a company shouldn’t be on this list, please feel free to contact us. 

Let’s get straight to the list!

Many of the companies that hire home workers are looking for techies. A tech firm is obviously going to be looking for the cream of the crop when it comes to tech hires but it is important to remember that these firms also need copywriters, managers, acoountants, and customer service reps. It’s also worth noting that tech firms are some of the best work from home companies because of their innovative, forward-thinking cultures.

A website and content creation platform based in Seattle, but with jobs hiring work from home people all over the world.

Remote employees get the same benefits as any other employees, with a 401k and insurance. 10up offers a wide range of job roles including those for developers, project managers and strategists.

Where: Global, US.

Aimed at company HR leaders, 15Five is a human-centred performance management platform. Its products include tools for management training, employee feedback surveys, performance reviews and more.  

The company has a diverse, hybrid culture that supports remote-first workplaces and office hubs. They encourage annual get-togethers for their team and offer health, retirement and vacation benefits. 

15Five often has jobs that are hiring in their Design, Engineering, People and Culture and Sales departments. 

Where: Global.

This American company’s products are known across the globe. Part of the reason for this is reflected in the fact that they have three times as many remote sales positions as they do tech job openings. Still, if you are looking to work with a tech company you will find some good opportunities for work from home positions here.

AdviseTech Inc

This IT support firm is based in Pasadena, California. They advertise both for tech roles and for part time telemarketers to work just two to six hours per week. They specifically suggest that the latter job is suitable for retired people or college students. (If you are a college student, you’ll find more job options here ).

Where: US only.

Aha! is a SaaS (Software as a Service) that describes itself as the world’s #1 roadmap software, which aims to help people build lovable products and be happy doing it. 

They’re self-funded and entirely remote. Aha! employs people in the Customer Success, Engineering, Marketing, People and Product Success categories. 

The company includes some exciting benefits for its employees, including well-being, education, generous salaries, and profit-sharing.

Where: North and South America, the UK, Ireland, South Africa and Australia.

The well-known online retailer hires home based virtual employees in a huge variety of roles including web services, HR and sales. There are jobs at all levels including senior management roles. When we looked, most roles were in the US and UK, with several in Italy.

Positions available depend on your experience and skills. Some positions are seasonal roles and come up during the company’s busier periods only. So, if you’re looking for jobs that are hiring now, then Amazon is a good place to start.

You can find more on Amazon’s remote working practices on FlexJobs , or in our article on Amazon work from home jobs .

Apple employ students ( more online jobs for students here ) but there are positions available for others too as part of the “At Home Advisor” program. You need at least 2 years’ experience of technical troubleshooting – this can be either by phone or face to face.

You need an excellent knowledge of all Apple products, and must agree to work at least 20 hours per week.

You’ll find more information on Apple’s work from home jobs here. 

Arkency is a consulting agency that hires quality coders who know the importance of testing until it’s perfect and can also communicate effectively with customers and the company team. 

The agency works on the three pillars of Anarchy, Async and Remote, which means:

• Flexible working hours
• Working from anywhere
• Communication is not instant – but it is effective 

If you’re a coder, the first step to working with Arkency is to contact their recruitment team and pitch your case.

Atlassian uses technology to empower team work and is perhaps better known for its products such as Trello. Although this company has fewer remote jobs hiring than you might expect given that its products help support remote teams, it is still worth a look.

This Identity-as-a-Service company secures and authenticates millions of logins on a daily basis. 

This safety-focused company has plenty of jobs hiring from home although, ironically, at the time of writing there were none for IT. 

You may not be familiar with Automattic, but there is a good chance you’ve heard of WordPress.com and Tumblr, the two most famous brands in its portfolio.

Although the company is  looking for people to fill a wide range of vacancies, everybody spends their first couple of weeks working on support for WordPress. This is designed to give the whole company a feel for the main product. All employees continue to spend a further two weeks per year doing this.

Where: Global, Fully Remote.

Project management tool Basecamp may well be familiar to anyone who has worked on tech projects over the last few years.

Based in Chicago but committed to a “remote first” hiring strategy, jobs for homeworkers at Basecamp come with attractive benefits packages. While this company has plenty of different jobs, openings do seem to fill rather quickly. But don’t worry. If there are no at home jobs hiring now you can sign up to be notified about future job openings.

BestSelf is a small, 100% remote lifestyle brand that sells products designed to help people dream big and achieve more while still enjoying the process. Products include Journals and Planners, Discovery Decks and Action Pads (e.g. habit roadmap.) 

Being a small company, they don’t always have work from home positions available. But if you want to work in an innovative, diverse and global team, then it’s worth keeping an eye on their careers page.

BuddyBoss is a platform that integrates with WordPress websites to allow businesses to create and host courses, memberships, intranets, eLearning and online communities.

With 70+ multicultural workers in 10 different countries and time zones, BuddyBoss is advertising jobs on their tech, marketing, and customer service teams at the time of writing.

If you are looking for cutting edge tech work from home then this might just be the company for you. CleverTech avoids normal, off-the-shelf solutions in their products and also in the way they work. Since they don’t enforce a work location, hours or even timesheets they are one of the ideal companies hiring work from home techies.

If this sound like the right fit for you they have plenty of opportunities for engineers and developers.

CrowdStrike

Cybersecurity is increasingly important as more and more people work from their homes. It is hardly surprising therefore that this leading cybersecurity firm has hundreds of remote job openings. Intelligence, IT, and engineering options aren’t the only ones though. Even tech firms need sales, HR, and professional development staff.

DataStax offers data management products and cloud services. While it does not have as many remote work from home jobs as some other tech companies, DataStax does have some nice perks for its employees, especially those in the US.

At the time of writing most job openings were for technical support interns and account executives.

Where: US, Canada, UK, France, Germany.

Doist aims to be a company and culture that transcends boundaries and provides solutions for long term success and happiness. Their products include Todoist and Twist, which are both productivity apps. 

Employment categories include Business Development, Design, Engineering, Translations, Customer Support, Marketing, Finance, People Operations and Product. The company isn’t always hiring, but they provide a chance for prospective employees to sign up for future job opening updates.

Help Scout offers companies a complete customer support package including live chat, email and help centre. It’s been remote-first for ten years and has team members in 80+ cities worldwide. 

You’ll get plenty of benefits if you land a job at Help Scout. These include stock options, flexible time off, international travel to their semi-annual retreats, health and retirement and a competitive salary that’s optimised for fairness. 

The company currently has a seven-step hiring process that includes video and logistic chats, a take-home project and references.

At the time of writing, open roles included Mid-Market Account Executive, Brand Designer, Product Support Analyst, Senior Java Engineer, Product Designer, and more.

Dell hires remote workers globally in all kinds of job roles. There’s a vast range of opportunities available at all levels. So, if you’re looking for work from home jobs, hiring immediately, Dell could be a good place to start.

Roles include technical support and system architect positions, and non technical jobs for sales reps and account managers. Strong experience is required and the ability to speak more than one language is beneficial for some roles.

Elevate Labs

Elevate is an extremely popular brain training app, previously one of Apple’s “apps of the year.”

The company is based in San Francisco, but has remote roles for Engineers, Data Analysts and Spanish proof readers

Where: North and South America.

This tech company is fully remote so all its job openings are apt for home workers, but they are rather demanding in terms of hiring the best. They claim that their stronger applicants have 5 years of experience so this is definitely not for newbies.

If you do have the necessary experience to compete against other applicants then there are quite a range of opportunities available.

Another name familiar to software developers. Unsurprisingly the company seeks designers, engineers and UX specialists.

There are also roles in the wider company in sales, legal and finance. This is a remote-first company, and everyone works “asynchronously”, during the hours that suit them best.

KLIM Technologies

KLIM is a small, but rapidly growing, consumer electronics company. Despite its size, it is committed to fully remote work and is willing to hire the best workers no matter where they are located.

In addition to hiring home workers for regular full-time positions, KLIM offers paid internships allowing you to gain more experience in a particular field. So, you might be interested if you’re searching for “at home jobs near me,” and want to gain experience in the consumer electronics field.

This telecoms company employs home workers in the US for both technical customer support and sales team roles. Some of the jobs are hard to find, so use the words “works from home” in your job search, and consider signing up to email alerts so you know when they become available.

MailerLite is one of the fastest-growing email newsletter companies around. Right from the start, they embraced the remote culture. Currently, they have half their team working at their headquarters in Vilnius and the other half working from home around the world. Their benefits include a budget for home-office setup, vacation and company-paid retreats. 

While they don’t always have jobs available, MailerLite encourages prospective team members to apply for future opportunities. However, don’t send them a standard CV if you want to stand a chance. Instead, MailerLite asks you to sign up for a free account and send them a newsletter. (You’ll find full details on their jobs application page .)

Memberful is an e-commerce app that offers users everything they need to run a membership program. 

Everyone at Memberful is free to live and work wherever they choose. The company says its internal process is built around remote communication, deep work and treating others as you’d like to be treated.

What started out as company focused on PC gaming is now using computing expertise to impact areas as disparate as healthcare and blockbuster movies. It promises challenging opportunities to impact multiple industries.

If you think you have the talent and expertise to rise to the challenge then you will find a large number of work from home opportunities in engineering and other fields.

On the Go Systems

On the Go Systems is a software company that welcomes home workers from all over the world into its workforce. Its products include WPML – a translation plugin for multi-language sites, and Toolset, a suite of plugins, which allow website developers to build functionality in a modular way. 

Jobs at On the Go Systems include developers, software engineers, and WordPress Technical Supporters. They expect several years of experience, commitment, excellent English and outstanding problem-solving skills from their employees.

Pinterest is a visual search engine where users create boards where they Pin and share images and ideas on a vast range of topics. Used by individuals and businesses to share ideas and promote their work.

The company has remote jobs and contract roles in most of their departments including engineering, admin, IT, marketing, sales, design, recruiting, measurements and insights and more. 

Their careers page says they offer flexible vacation times, comprehensive health benefits, retirement plans, personal and professional development resources, discounts and perks.

Where: Global

This award-winning technology firm may have more than 100 offices but they are also serious about providing remote options. They have hundreds of remote opportunities scattered across the globe.

In order to keep Red Hatters happy and productive, the company offers  flexible scheduling, opportunities for career growth, health and well-being initiatives, and even associate recognition programs.

“The Front Page of The Internet” is based in San Francisco but does offer remote roles. While some departments seem to have limited remote roles, the company does seem to hire plenty of homeworkers for engineering, finance, marketing, legal, and HR.

SalesForce specializes in customer relationship management and has been on Fortune’s 100 Best Companies several times. Despite having over 130 offices scattered across the globe, the company was hiring for over 1,200 remote positions at the time of writing, making it a viable choice if you’re looking for online jobs hiring now.

While the bulk of the remote positions involved sales, there are plenty of openings in engineering, recruiting and project management. The company also has remote positions for interns.

As the market leader in enterprise application software SAP has a lot of great opportunities for those looking for tech jobs. You will have to do some searching to find the work from home roles but it is worth it to find a job at a top company which offers competitive salaries and plenty of perks.

Shutterstock

Perhaps a site you’ve become familiar with when searching for pictures, Shutterstock sometimes employs freelancers to review and edit images. You can manage your own working hours but may be expected to include weekend working time. These and a few full-time opportunities are available worldwide.

Shutterstock is also worth a look for selling photos if you’re a skilled photographer. Read this article for more information. 

Slack is another company that has benefitted from the increase in remote work. They offer a variety of work options to their employees including working from home a few days a week and fully remote positions.

A lot of the opportunities are in design and engineering but Slack seems to have remote work from home jobs available in all their departments.

Support.com

This company provides basic computer support and troubleshooting services. The majority of roles are explaining technical instructions to inexperienced computer users, so a high level of empathy is required, along with strong verbal communication skills.

Like many other companies, Support.com has decided to embrace remote work and so many new opportunities for home workers are now available.

Where: US, Mexico, India, and the Phillipines.

This 100% remote working company sells a solution that helps US businesses manage sales tax. The company advertises positions in various departments ranging from marketing to programming and development.

TaxJar is a progressive “remote first” firm, and allows workers to work from anywhere with a suitable WiFi connection.

Toggl is a time tracking and reporting service accessible over web, mobile and desktop applications. As well as openings for developers and designers, there are also editorial roles here, as well as social media marketing jobs. Based in Tallinn, Estonia, Toggl recruits remote workers all over the world.

Twitter is an online social networking site increasingly used by businesses and thought leaders around the world to communicate their ideas and promote their services. Tweets are short messages (max 280 characters) which makes them easy to scan and consume, but hard to write well.  

Twitter hires “Tweeps” in Remote, in-office and combined positions. They offer the usual benefits plus productivity allowances (to cover pens, printers etc) and provide laptops and ergonomic keyboards.

Examples of remote jobs at the time of writing include Machine Learning Engineers, Software engineers, Product managers, Designers, Backend Engineers, Business Development and more.

An API and service management platform with clients all over the world, Tyk has offices in London, Atlanta and Singapore.

With a remote first policy, Tyk offers flexible working hours, unlimited holiday and a dynamic, supportive culture.

Focused on helping organizations deliver better digital experiences to their customers, this subsidiary of Dell has received numerous awards for its employment practices. 

One of the interesting aspects of working here is that they have job rotation programs to help reignite and broaden your work experience.

If you tend to think holistically and are up for a challenge then this could be the place for you.

WP Buffs, as the name suggests, specializes in solving a variety of WordPress issues. Although it is a fairly small company it has a number of roles which are open to anyone with the right attitude and experience, regardless of location.

A company that creates workflow and automation software, Zapier is fully remote and global in its hiring outlook.

The company offers technical and business support roles. There’s a competitive benefits package and a genuine remote first culture.

Zoom meetings have become a ubiquitous part of working from home for most people. But what if you actually worked for Zoom? Zoom hires home workers for positions as varied as engineering, security, finance, customer service, and sales.

Where: US, UK, India, Singapore, Netherlands, Germany, and France.

NOTE : With many people looking for remote opportunities, jobs that are hiring at call centers with well-known companies are being snapped up quickly. It’s important to check back frequently as these are companies that normally recruit home workers regularly.

This UK breakdown company employs remote workers. With phone lines open 24/7 teleworking opportunities arise frequently. You are expected to attend a 12-week training programme before starting to work from home.

You need a designated work space and an excellent broadband connection.

While you work independently, you have a monthly one-to-one session with a manager and can ask for support if necessary 24 hours a day. The company provides all the equipment you need including a computer.

Where: UK only.

Asurion is a leading provider of device insurance and warranty services for cellphones, consumer electronics and home appliances. The company takes on remote workers in several customer services positions.

Many of these opportunities are for bilingual workers who speak English and French. You will need excellent communication skills and at least one year’s customer services experience.

Hours are negotiable but can include evening and weekend working.

Where: US and Canada.

As well providing sales and CRM solutions for clients, Close also recruits its own sales people, alongside  development and engineering staff. All of the workforce is able to work remotely.

If you are in the US there is an excellent medical policy and 401K, as well as sabbaticals after five years.

This business process services company, an offshoot of Xerox, offers a range of opportunities in data handling and customer care.

To find their remote roles, a good start is to search for “work from home.” These jobs mainly involve answering incoming calls. You must have a proven record for problem solving and the ability to multitask.

Direct Interactions

This company employs remote workers across most areas of the US. However, note that you can work here as an employee or an independent agent. Contractors don’t qualify for insurance and benefits.

Most jobs involve making and receiving customer calls from your home. Direct Interactions looks for workers with good communication skills and a strong work ethic who can work quickly to troubleshoot and resolve problems.

Most jobs are part time and the pay is around $10-12 per hour. You must be over 18 and have a High School Diploma.

Where: US – most states.

Enterprise Car Hire

Enterprise employs virtual call center reservation agents, taking incoming calls for customer enquiries and reservations. The jobs cover long hours so could likely fit around other commitments.

Some jobs are likely to require you to assist with requests for breakdown assistance. Applicants are required to provide their own equipment and there are restrictions on what is accepted in terms of tech and connectivity.

You can expect an hourly rate of around $13, and there are commissions and bonuses for sales agents.

Where: Many US states, Canada, UK, Germany, Ireland, France and Spain.

Most people are familiar with HSN, or the Home Shopping Network as it was formerly known. Well, all those customers buying from them need support. This means that HSN hires a lot of work at home customer order specialists.

If you are willing to work shifts then you should easily be able to find a position. Pay starts at $12.85 per hour and thereare automatic increases every 6 months.

Liveops offers numerous options for home-based virtual call center agents. There are openings in a number of areas including insurance, health care and tech support.

You will need a quiet work area, a wired phone and fast internet. You must be a legal US citizen and are required to undergo a background and credit check. You can schedule your hours around other commitments.

LiveWorld employs agents working in a range of customer services positions. These are not telephone positions – they are primarily online chat-based. The company provides services in a number of languages. You are required to take language tests and provide writing samples.

You must be a fluent English speaker with experience in online moderation, as well as call centre experience. A college degree is preferred. You need high-speed internet access and a strong knowledge of social media platforms.

There are also some remote engineering positions available to those in the US.

KellyConnect

KellyConnect hires home workers to provide customer service over the phone and via online tools. Although the work might not seem to be very different from other customer service jobs it is worth noting that KellyConnect frequently appears on lists of the top companies with work from home positions.

The company even pays you for your training at a not too shabby rate of $13.50.

Sitel Group

Sitel’s customer service jobs involve dealing with calls relating to a wide range of sectors including health care, communications and tech support. Tasks include managing billing inquiries, dealing with customer accounts and processing orders.

You will need previous customer services and sales experience, and excellent verbal and listening skills. This work can be fast-paced.

Full and part-time employment is available, and you receive full training at home. There are also some remote management positions available in the US.

Where: Primarily US.

Not all customer experience companies that are hiring right now are expressly looking for customer service roles.

There are plenty of tech and recruitments jobs on offer and the support roles often have interesting twists, such as ESPN Fantasy Sports Support Specialist.

TTEC is another global company that works to improve the interactions customers have with major brands. Among the current 347 work from home job listings there are a wide array of opportunities aside from Customer Service Representative.

This residential moving and self-storage company hires remote workers in various customer service and sales roles, in departments such as reservations and roadside assistance. You need to complete a training course on site before you start working at home.

You will need a quiet work space, fast internet connection and strong knowledge of the Windows operating systems.

Experience is preferred but not always essential. Many roles are part time and involve unsocial hours. We noticed some seasonal opportunities for jobs hiring from home too.

Working Solutions

Working Solutions was one of the first virtual workforce companies in history. They have thousands of independent agents from a vast array of backgrounds, and a diverse range of clients who outsource work to them.

You must take an assessment when you apply, which includes written and verbal questions and an aptitude test. You can schedule your own hours to work around other commitments. Full and part time roles are available.

The majority of healthcare companies that hire home workers are only looking for staff within the country in which they operate. So, if you do not find anything in the list below, we suggest you check the websites of the largest healthcare companies in your country.

Anthem employs over 35,000 professionals across the US. The company offers medical and health roles, as you would expect, but also has many openings in sales, business support, data analysis, and customer service.

You should search for “remote” jobs on the site in order to find those for which they hire home workers.

This leading health care benefits company employs remote workers in a number of roles. Medical advisors must hold the appropriate qualifications and have clinical experience. Jobs are available at all levels and include senior management positions.

Training takes place at company offices. Some roles, despite being home based, require applicants to live within a certain distance of a specific office.

There are additional benefits available alongside basic salary, dependent on the role applied for.

Dict8 is a leading provider of UK-based medical transcription and digital dictation services. Their systems are used by a large number of healthcare trusts, GP surgeries, private practices and other health-based organisations around the UK.

Dict8 employs transcribers with significant experience of working as full-time medical audio secretaries within the NHS. You will require a reference from either a consultant or previous line manager.

You are paid per line of transcription on a monthly basis.

This medical transcription company hires contractors with at least two years previous experience in a hospital or clinical environment (hence us listing this opportunity under healthcare, rather than transcription!)

Hours are flexible, and full and part-time roles are available. On application you must complete an online qualification form and provide your current resume . You will also have to take typing and medical terminology tests.

There is 24-hour support available and all the software you need is provided.

HealthCatalyst

HealthCatalyst aims to transform healthcare through data.

Some experience of working in the health sector is useful, but by no means necessary for all roles. A significant number of the remote openings are for analytics engineers.

The company has received a lot of attention recently for its emphasis on work-life balance, corporate culture, and the benefits it offers employees.

Around 47% of the workforce of this Kentucky based healthcare company work remotely. The career areas include clinical jobs, customer care, tech and analytics, and corporate positions. This means that there are plenty of opportunities even if you do not have much experience in the health sector.

The company even has a number of programs for undergraduate and graduate students.

iMedX work in the sector of health information and clinical documentation in the US. The company offers flexible part-time, full-time and weekend working patterns. Their remote working opportunities allow for virtual attendance at meetings too, so no trips to offices are required.

At the time of writing the work from home jobs hiring now are coding related but we’ve seen medical language specialists and registrar positions come up recently too.

Where: US Only.

Parexel offers biopharmaceutical services to clients in more than 100 countries. The majority of home based roles are therefore in research, science, medical and health fields.

If you have experience in these fields then Parexel is a good place to start your search for a work from home opportunity. The company looks for ingenuity and technical expertise and there are lots of roles available. While the majority are in the US there’s no shortage of opportunities in other countries, as this is one of the few health ‘work from home’ companies that are hiring around the world.

United Health Group

In this world-leading health and wellbeing company, over 25% of the workforce work from home. The company looks for driven employees with excellent time management skills who are able to prioritize tasks and work to strict deadlines.

Interested parties usually take part in a recruitment chat as the first stage of the process before applying. You will need excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Proven experience is required, along with at least a bachelor’s degree.

Where: Global but the majority of telecommuting opportunities are in the US.

Backpacker Travel

Backpacker Travel is a website and community that focuses on helping adventurous travellers find ways to journey to far-flung places worldwide. 

The remote-first site offers backpackers and travellers the chance to write and work while they travel. Most positions are flexible and freelance and so don’t share employee benefits. 

Their positions include a variety of roles, from sales and marketing to editorial and research. You’ll need to be fluent in English and have access to a computer and a high-speed internet connection. 

One of the largest cruise specialist companies in the world, this company offers home working opportunities for salespeople, support agents and customer service agents.

The company looks specifically for people with existing cruise industry experience. A second language is an advantage. Pays a basic salary plus commission. Applicants must complete a back-ground check.

Note that these jobs specifically mention selling insurance, so appear to lean more towards sales than customer service. They have jobs that are hiring now for Cruise Sales Agents

Where: US but some states are excluded.

Dollar Flight Club

This  “travel hacking” company has a remote team, based all over the world, that finds cheap flights for its members.

Ideal for those who are looking for good travel benefits along with remote working.

Hertz often recruits for home-based positions. We’ve seen roles for sales reps and reservation agents in the past, but at the time of writing a search yielded some supervisory and management roles as well.

Hertz is a huge company, so it’s well worth checking their listings regularly.

Where: US, Canada, UK.

Hilton Hotels

This worldwide hotel chain hires home-workers as reservation agents and customer care co-ordinators. You need previous sales experience and at least a high school diploma. Jobs are available in a number of US states.

The job and associated training is all done remotely. Salary and other incentives are the same as for onsite employees. Most of the equipment you need is provided, though you will need a landline and a quiet workspace.

Although there were no homeworking openings available at the time of writing, the Hilton Reservations and Customer Care Work From Home program is a clear indication of their dedication to hiring home workers during normal times.

Where: US – some states only.

This airline offers remote working opportunities for customer support. You need to attend training on-site at a base in Utah or Orlando before beginning to work from home.

You need to have at least two years’ experience of customer service. Pay is at entry level but there are additional bonuses and travel discounts on offer too.

Where: US (must be able to travel for training).

Thanks to COVID restrictions forcing education to go remote this is an area that is booming. The number of  legitimate work from home jobs hiring now seems to grow constantly. We have included some top picks in this list but you will quickly find that a little digging unveils plenty more opportunities.

The growth of online learning has seen Articulate go from strength to strength, allowing people to create their own courses and offering a huge array of subjects to people all over the world.

There are plenty of remote work from home jobs available including areas such as sales, product, design and software. 

Where: US, UK and the Philippines.

Connections Academy

This virtual education company hires education professionals in both teaching and non-teaching roles. They are particularly keen to hire those with specialist skills in specific subjects, as well as counsellors and administrators.

You should search for “home-based” jobs. Requirements for teaching can vary from state to state and you may require specific additional qualifications or licenses.

Where: US – certain states only.

This huge education training services provider offers opportunities for teachers and instructors, and also sometimes advertises remote jobs in marketing and customer services.

Strong written and oral communication skills are required for all positions. You will need at least a bachelor’s degree and to have a proven track record of working to deadlines.

For a more detailed profile of Kaplan, click here .

Mango Languages

Mango is a Language Learning app that mixes listening, speaking, reading and writing activities to help people learn more than 70 languages. 

They offer jobs for both company employees and contractors to keep the app working smoothly. These include language content writers, product development, and marketing roles.

Stride, until recently known as K12, offers teaching opportunities via a digital learning platform. It supports over one million home-educated students.

Stride often has vacancies both for teaching staff and support workers. Teaching staff must have the relevant teacher certification (often state-specific), at least three years’ experience, and strong written and verbal communication skills.

Study.com  

Study.com’s mission is to make education accessible and affordable to millions of global students, because information is the “ultimate equalizer and… the key to upward mobility.” 

In 2021, Study.com was ranked 10th on the Virtual Vocations’ Top 25 Best Partners for Remote Work list and offers flexible hours, reliable payments twice a month, and support from its in-house team. 

Study.com regularly hires teachers, tutors, writers, reviewers and editors and offers a mix of remote and freelance contract work for experts in many education areas including accounting, writing, business, science, math, literature and more.

Teaching roles require a related bachelor’s degree (or higher) and teaching experience. Writers, reviewers and editors – require a degree or equivalent work experience and you should be able to demonstrate your skills and experience in writing or working with online content.

This leading international learning company based in London offers opportunities throughout the world in a wide range of educational services. They offer flexible working in a wide range of educational fields and several jobs are entirely or mostly home-based. Many roles require a degree and classroom experience.

Aside from the educational positions you can also find remote work in fields such as sales, customer service, and engineering.

Where: Global but the bulk of the home working positions are in the US.

Rosetta Stone

This educational software and online education company hires native speakers to facilitate language classes for students of all levels. You must have internet access from your home PC, and be available to work at least 10 hours per week.

Hours are flexible and may include evenings and weekends. You can expect to earn around $15 per hour.

Created to provide expert assistance to students in colleges, universities and K-12 schools, Tutor.com offers the opportunity to work from home by tutoring in one of the more than 200 academic subjects and test preparation areas they provide.

This might seem like a simple job to apply for but the company is very serious about the quality of its tutors and so only 1.5% of all applicants make it through the rigorous testing process to become qualified as tutors.

This English language-learning services company offers ESL services to children in China, providing a high-quality English education for children up to eight years of age. The company hires online ESL teachers that can work remotely from anywhere.

Working hours are flexible and hourly rates are from $14-22. You need at least a Bachelors’ Degree, and application is through the VIKID website. We have a full review of VIPKid here .

Note that unlike some companies that hire home workers on this list, VIPKid doesn’t employ staff directly – teachers work for them on a freelance basis. There are more freelance teaching opportunities here. 

Secretarial staff are a necessity at almost every company but the companies that hire home workers primarily for secretarial work are usually selling their services to other companies. This can make the work both more interesting and more complicated. However, it’s worth noting that most of the work from home companies hiring secretaries only work in North America.

This US company offers working from home opportunities for virtual assistants, bookkeepers, and social media strategists. Note that many of these are contractor positions so you would be working for yourself and responsible for your own benefits and insurance.

Pay is on the lower end of the scale but the company does receive very high reviews for its corporate culture.

This remote staffing company offers flexible, long-term positions as executive assistants, marketing and social media specialists, or legal assistants. What makes Boldly different is that they hire home workers in the US as a W2 employee rather than as a freelance contractor. The pay is also pretty good at around $20 per hour.

Where: US (23 states) and UK.

Profit Factory

This company helps business owners grow their businesses by helping them to break free from some of the day to day responsibilities. It also provides educational and consulting services.

The main job opportunity here is as a virtual assistant.

Where: North America.

This digital marketing and customer service outsourcer offers opportunities in phone support, email, web chat, social media and other digital channels. SYKES offers opportunities for remote work in over 40 US states, as well as in Canada.

Positions are available in customer services, as team leaders and in support roles. Previous experience is always an advantage. There are also specific opportunities for bilingual applicants.

As is the case with secretarial work, companies that hire home workers primarily for writing, translation or transcription work are most likely offering said services to other businesses.

Allegis Transcription

Allegis offers a range of transcription services to small and medium sized businesses. You must be experienced and able to produce high quality accurate transcripts. These positions are for people working on a freelance basis, and you can choose jobs most suited to your knowledge and abilities.

You need your own computer and a reliable high-speed internet connection. Training is provided. You will need to show you have excellent spelling, grammar and punctuation skill, and the ability to type at 75 words per minute.

For more information on getting into online transcription, read our detailed guide here. 

BKA Content  

BKA Content offers content writing services to businesses that need blog, marketing and other content regularly or as one-off jobs. 

The company often has writing positions for US-based internet article writers who can provide high-quality, original content. They ask for honest, dependable writers with an excellent grasp of English at a college level, who can write at least 3000 words per week. Choose your assignments from the available options, set your schedule and get paid per article.

Where: US only

Cactus is a global medical communications company. Their philosophy is that their remote workers are as important as their office-based ones. Cactus has opportunities for skilled writers and editors in a variety of academic fields.

Full-time home-based working hours are available. Full training is provided. You will need a bachelor’s degree, excellent written English skills and a good understanding of MS Word and Excel.

As we discuss in our beginner’s guides to writing , full time writing work is hard to find, so this is an interesting opportunity.

If you’re not familiar with FlexJobs, we have a huge review of the company here . However, that focuses on how to find jobs using the platform rather than working directly for the company.

FlexJobs is fully remote, but jobs are primarily in the United States, with some requiring you to be in a particular state which is great if you’re in the US and  looking for “at home jobs near me.” 

There are roles to suit a variety of skills, including career coaches and job description writers. You will also find plenty of technical and marketing jobs.

Grow and Convert

Grow and Convert is a content marketing agency and consultancy, hiring content writers and analysts on a remote, contract basis.

Though most of their clients are US based the jobs are fully remote and contract based. The Business Writer role is paid on a fixed-price-per-article basis.

LanguageLine

This language services company provides a range of telephone services as well as document translation and remote video interpretation. Opportunities are available for remote staff in a range of interpreting and translation roles. The company provides services in over 200 languages and dialects.

Where: US, UK and Canada.

As one of the largest communications platforms, Lionsbridge is a company that hires homeworkers for lots of roles. The key thing here is to be clear on whether it is a contractor position or not.

Although it is perhaps best known for offering freelance translation work, the company also hires gamers, raters, annotators and testers. Or maybe you would prefer to be a corporate associate helping with the running of the company itself.

Responsive Translation Services

This company specialises in medical and legal translation. There are also opportunities to work in real-time interpretation. Headquarters are in the US, but they also have overseas offices in Europe and South America.

Many positions are home based. A variety of positions in sales and management were available also, when we looked. You will need previous experience and good technical ability too.

Where: US ,South America and Europe.

This company has multiple opportunities on offer. There’s work in transcription – both video and audio , video captioning and document translation. The company takes people on on a contract basis, with successful applicants working freelance from home.

Rev has been estabished for nine years and has a global reputation. There are many leading brands among its customers . You will need your own computer and fast internet connection, and can tailor your hours to suit your situation.

Rev is still accepting applications but there could be a waitlist due to the number of freelancers applying.

This online transcription company works with over 65,000 legal, government, law enforcement and private sector clients. They employ independent typists on a freelance basis. They are actively looking for transcriptionists with Legal, General or Spanish transcription experience.

You need a typing speed of at least 60wpm. You must have at least a year of transcription and word processing experience in an office environment, and must also have specific experience of the creation of formal letters, memos and reports.

Open to fluent English speakers only.

Where: US (except California) and Canada.

It might surprise you to learn that positions in financial companies that hire home workers are not always limited to just one country. Then again, not all financial companies are focused on accounting and taxes.

AccountingDepartment.com

This Company provides opportunities for remote workers to provide accounting and book keeping assistance. You will need previous experience. Applicants are required to undergo book keeping tests and the success rate for applicants is only one in four.

You need to provide your own computer and phone line. You will also need a quiet working space as much of the work is on the phone.

AccountingDepartment.com has a notably positive Glassdoor rating from previous workers.

American Express

This leading financial services company has a wide variety of remote jobs hiring at any one time. The roles can range from customer service roles up to senior IT department positions. American Express works 24/7 so there are sometimes opportunities for those needing to work unsocial hours.

FlexJobs has an information page on the American Express home working jobs here.

Citizens Bank

It may be one of the oldest financial institutions in the US but Citizens Bank has definitely kept up with the times. It has won multiple employer awards and has an impressive number of work from home opportunities. Most are positions related to finance and mortgages but there are several admin and IT roles available as well.

JP Morgan Chase

This global financial services company offers plenty of opportunities for remote workers. There are typically remote roles on offer in various departments including account management, sales, marketing and IT.

Applicants must have experience in their chosen field and a relevant bachelor’s degree. Due to a large number of jobs available, finding suitable home-based roles on the website can take some effort.

This company is looking to hire financial nerds to help people make financial decisions with confidence.

This somewhat unusual financial company has offices in San Francisco, New York and the UK but are now offering the majority of jobs as fully remote from anywhere in the US.

A $20bn electronic payment startup, headquartered in San Francisco, California, Stripe has been a big success story in recent years. Stripe’s product supports payments from small websites, right up to the likes of household names like Lyft.

Although Stripe is a global company it currently only hires home workers in the US. All jobs offer health insurance, parental leave and stock options.

Supporting Strategies

This company hires home workers on a part-time and full-time basis in order to provide outsourced bookkeeping and back-office support to a wide variety of industries.

You will need a bachelor’s degree and five or more years of bookkeeping/accounting experience to become a Financial Operations Associate but the company does provide equipment, training and support.

Xapo is a digital Bitcoin-friendly bank that exists to help its customers protect their wealth from economic and political instability and crises. The bank is a platform that bridges the gap between traditional financial institutions and the digital currencies of the future.

The bank is committed to working hard, thinking globally and inspiring its people to learn and grow. It offers positions in Data, Design, Engineering, Finance, Product and the Xapo Talent Community. 

YNAB (YouNeedABudget)

YNAB is a fully remote company offering budgeting software for individuals and companies. The workforce is global, but US-based staff gain W2 employee status. Elsewhere, you work as a contractor, but the YNAB site insists that all staff are treated the same regardless of location.

Where: Global, Remote

Many people have the misconception that a Not for Profit cannot pay well – that is not the case. These companies usually place values above money and one of the things that they value are their employees. That makes not-for-profits some of the best work from home companies around, so don’t hesitate to check them out.

350 is a global climate pressure group, primarily involved in lobbying and campaigning.

Great for those with a passion for conservation and climate issues, 350 specifically looks for remote workers with experience in campaigning and fundraising.

Civic Actions

Civic Actions works with a variety of governmental organisations, helping them move more of their services to digital alternatives.

The team is primarily remote, with some roles limited to physical locations, and offers good benefits.

Ghost is a company that is focused on creating free open-source software to support sustainable journalism. This fully remote company hires workers for content writing and design as well as the more obvious engineering, product, and marketing roles.

Not all the companies that hire home workers fit into neat little categories – which is a good thing. People and jobs come in all shapes and sizes and that is what makes the world an interesting place. If you have a particular passion it can be worthwhile having a hunt to see if you can find work in that field. In the meantime, here are the best of the rest when it comes to finding companies hiring work from home contractors and remote employees.

24 Seven Talent

Established in 2000, 24 Seven Talent is a global recruitment company. It recruits workers for firms around the world but also offers remote and freelance contract jobs within its own company. 

The female-founded company promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace, offering competitive benefits and perks to its employees.

A quick search at the time of writing turned up a diverse range of remote and freelance jobs advertised (mainly in the US), including: Project Invoice Coordinator, Digital Designer, Inventory Admin, Production artist, and even a Broadcast Producer (though I’m guessing that’s a job that would get you out and about.)

ABC Fitness Solutions

This company provides software solutions to the fitness industry in order to help fitness clubs and professionals put their clients first.

As you might expect, the company hires home workers for tech, sales, and customer service roles.

This popular music platform helps artists get their music to new audiences, for a small fee of course.

Bandcamp is a fully remote company but if you would rather get out of your home they will pay for co-working spaces. The only requirement is that you have a strong wi-fi connection and can overlap with the GMT-7 time zone for four hours a day. Job openings tend to get filled pretty quickly and some positions are only open for inside hires so, if this interests you, make sure to keep an eye on their jobs page.

BuzzFeed  

BuzzFeed Inc, is a digital media company that sends up-to-the-minute video, audio and written content about food, news, pop culture and more to millions around the world. Their brands include BuzzFeed, Complex Networks and HuffPost.

The company promotes diversity, inclusion and authenticity in their workplace and offer benefits for health, 401K plans, paid holidays and opportunities for career development. BuzzFeed offers a mix of location specific and remote jobs in Admin, Business, Writing and Technology. If you’re interested in working for BuzzFeed but the right job isn’t there when you look, keep in touch with them by joining their Talent Community .

Providing online legal services to startups, Clerky has a variety of fully remote and co-located roles.

Aside from offering flexible hours and health insurance, the company is committed to the ongoing education of its employees.

Billing (sorry) itself as “the search engine that doesn’t track you” DuckDuckGo is an international company that offers a variety of remote jobs.

The majority of remote jobs available are naturally in engineering, product, and development roles. Unlike most companies, it was nice to see that most openings were worldwide remote rather than specific to a particular region.

Most of our readers are probably more familiar with GoDaddy from checking them out as a possible hosting service when starting a blog but they also hire a lot of home workers.

In fact, they had 86 job openings for home workers in multiple fields and in locations all over the globe at the time of writing.

If you have a knowledge of moderating forums and managing online communities, and a love of social media, this is a freelance business opportunity that could be of interest. You can choose hours and projects that suit you and your lifestyle. Some jobs are evening/night work.

You will need fast internet and a quiet workspace.

Nielson provides companies with information on what people listen to and watch in order to help them understand their audience. So it is hardly surprising to find that the company hires a lot of remote research interviewers.

There are plenty of opportunities if you live in the US and Nielson has now added a lot more global opportunities although some of these are listed as being remote only on a temporary basis. So, make sure to read the job post carefully to ensure that it really is a long-term home working position.

This well-known global company is a leading player in healthcare, electronics, and various other sectors. Philips employs over 100,000 staff across the globe, and these include numerous remote staff in many countries.

You need a bachelor’s degree for some positions and medical experience is a particular advantage for some roles. Local language skills are usually a must.

There are many jobs available on the website, which can be overwhelming, but searches for “home based” and “remote” usually yield results.

Shopify is a platform that enables independent business owners to start and scale their markets online. They have over 7000 employees who build the tools that help businesses make over 200 billion in sales in 175 countries. 

The company has an intensive hiring process which aims to find the very best work-anywhere people. After submitting your application, you’ll get an initial call. You will also need to do some technical exercises (depending on the role.) You progress to Life Story, a one-hour conversational interview with a professional recruiter if those go well. Finally, you meet some of your future co-workers, who will then give feedback on how they feel you’ll fit into their team. 

Shopify offers a wide variety of potential jobs. Its teams include everything from Business and Development to Financial, Legal, Engineering, UX, Customer Support and more. 

Splice is another company which is likely to appeal to music lovers. It has positioned itself at the leading edge of the digital revolution in the music industry and offers full-time positions and internships.

Although a significant number of job openings are for its office in New York, Splice does offer many remote positions, especially in engineering.

Love fashion? Stitch Fix is looking to revolutionize the retail shopping experience by helping men and women find clothing that fits their tastes and lifestyle.

As you would expect, there are oportunities to work as stylists but this company actually has loads of job postings for remote work in other fields as well.

Where: US and UK.

Twilio is a PaaS company focused on communication. If you are passionate about helping people connect and are technically inclined then this could be a great fit.

The company is proud of its flexible work environment and is currently offering several fully remote positions.

Upwork is a freelancer work marketplace that helps match freelancers from all over the world with the people who need their skills. 

(You can find many articles about Upwork on our site as we feel it’s an excellent place for many new freelancers to begin their new careers.) 

But, as well as finding jobs on Upwork, the company also employs many remote workers to run its business. Teams include Design and UX, Analytics, Engineering, Finance and Accounting, HR, IT, Legal, Marketing and more. 

Upwork’s hiring process includes an easy-to-complete application form, review, and interviews. After that, the recruiter decides and, potentially, offers you either an Open Corp position or a Contract Role.

Voxne st / Spreaker

Voxnest connects podcast producers and advertisers.

Though fully remote, and offering yearly meet-ups, roles seem to be European time zone only, and include support roles and other customer focussed jobs.

Where: European time zone.

This unique company takes on independent 1099 contractors close to retirement age, giving them the opportunity to continue their working lives remotely. WAHVE places such people with firms looking for knowledgable and experienced workers.

It’s great for people who wish to extend their working lives but without the daily commute. WAHVE specialises in roles within the accounting, human resources and insurance sectors.

Household-name Xerox has over 8000 employees working from home, providing a range of services including customer care, tech support, quality control and programming. Some specific opportunities are available for bilingual applicants.

Required experience and qualifications vary, but excellent computer skills are always essential. Xerox’s job search functionality is rather clunky, so uncovering the remote roles can take some work!

Find out what FlexJobs has to say about the telecommuting jobs at Xerox here .

• We’ve made a big effort to ensure that all the information in this guide is accurate. However, we obviously have no control over the companies listed here, or their websites and recruitment plans. As such, please feel free to contact us if any of the opportunities listed here are no longer current when you check them out. We intend to keep the guide regularly updated.
• If your company is looking to recruit home workers and you would like to be added to the list, please contact us about that too.  Similarly, if your company is already listed here and you feel the details are inaccurate, please put us straight!
• This list is intended as helpful information. A mention of a company doesn’t represent a recommendation to work for it. Always do your own research.
• We’re always delighted to hear of people’s experiences of working for any of these companies that hire home workers. Feel free to discuss them in the comments. 
• For help getting your resumé and LinkedIn up to scratch, check out this software .

Still want more online jobs? Check out this EPIC article! Or go to our mammoth review of Upwork vs. Fiverr and Freelancer vs. PeoplePerHour to learn more about these popular freelancing job platforms.

A mother of four and a grandmother to five more, it’s little surprise home working opportunities are often on Rosalyn’s agenda. Here she reviews opportunities and interviews people with their own successful ventures. She’s also the founder’s sister, but it doesn’t earn her any special privileges!

23 thoughts on “131 Legit Companies that Hire Home Workers in 2023”

Thanks for the article! Trying to figure out the best way to find jobs for typing manuscripts, scans or other materials into word/excel, etc. Can’t use Upwork (long story) – are there specific resources to find those kinds of at home jobs?

Thanks in advance.

To be honest, I think there are far fewer of those jobs out there than people might expect as a lot of that work can be done with technology nowadays.

I’d suggest reading these two articles:

– Online Typing Jobs – Data Entry

If you can’t use Upwork, Freelancer and PeoplePerHour are alternatives worth checking out.

Best wishes,

Hi ben, Can You help with any Company interested in an gold buying agent based in png to buy alluvial gold for them.

I’m afraid that’s not something I know ANYTHING about!

I’ve been following you for awhile an firstly, I’d like to congratulate you on your site. You’re growing and doing a fabulous job.

My question is about companies scanning your computer to see if it has the right stuff. I applied to TTEC and I started a scan and it made me so nervous, I stopped it midway. It seemed like they might be doing more than just checking my hardware. I realized that I had given them total remote access to my hard drive.

Can you give me/us some guidance on that?

Thank you so much!

Thank you for your kind comment Janice 🙂

I think you’re wise to be cautious. I’m not personally familiar with TTEC or this scanning process…However, they appear like an established and legitimate company and so long as it’s clear what they’re looking for and what the process is about, I think it’s probably OK.

All the best Ben

I’m too am looking for work from home opportunities as I hate going to a brick and mortar establishment due to my anxieties and paranoias of people. I am very good at customer service and giving direction.

I also had them do a scan to see if my computer had what it took to work for them. Unfortunately, it did not. Since the scan I have seen no difference in performance nor have I seen anything that makes me think they have infiltrated my PC.

I want to write…..I can write and have been turning out restaurant reviews, once a month, on restaurants in my geographical area for six years for our local online newspaper. Fashion is another area of my expertise. I have been a Fashion Sales Consultant for many years.

If you use the search box and type “writing” there are lots of relevant articles on the site 🙂

i am residing in UAE is there any part time job which i can apply

The companies here shown as “global” would be a place to start…

i am looking for part time job and ready to work from home .

please do let me know if there is any kind of jobs available it will be great help for me and my family.

at present i am handling logistics and can work all the relevant office work documentation or drafting , email follow up customer service related matters.

very much looking forward for your guidance

Suggest starting by researching the companies on the list. This article (link) should help you too.

Thank you so much for this information, it’s very much needed!!

Happy to help!

Hello Ben, I am wondering if there are any work from home data entry jobs available? Most of the jobs I see are all call center related (incoming/outgoing/troubleshoot).

They’re not as common as people think they are, and many such jobs end up on microworking platforms like Clickworker (link) and Mechanical Turk (link) . This article (link) will help you find what’s out there.

Hey Ben Good Day! Do you know if there are truly legit copy and paste jobs out there??? ones with no fees and stuff….

Well, not really , the closest thing to that is the kind of repetitive work you find on microworking sites such as ClickWorker (link) and Mechanical Turk (link) .

Under the “SYKES” heading, the company name is spelled “SKYES”.

Not any more – well spotted – thanks.

Just a quick note that your Philips headline is misspelled.

Corrected – thanks for letting me know.

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43 Companies That Embrace Working From Home

These companies allow their employees the flexibility to work from home.

Remote work is the new norm for many companies. With plenty of communication and collaboration tools available and a variety of options for structuring the workday, many employers are setting a new standard for job flexibility. Here are some companies that let their employees work from home.

Companies That Work From Home

New era adr, zone & co.

Bullhorn is a software company that makes cloud-based products for recruiting agencies and the staffing industry. Its platform features an applicant tracking system with predictive intelligence and recruiting management software that automates processes like following up with leads. Bullhorn supports employee choice in terms of where to work. The company says more than 30 percent of its staff work from outside the U.S. 

Lily AI makes AI-powered software products for e-commerce. Using colloquial search terms — what the customer wants, stated in their own words — the software provides targeted product recommendations to function like a personal shopper. If a customer searches for, say, “wedding guest dress sweet floral modern” they will be served with a selection of items that fits that exact description. Lily AI is a fully remote company and provides an office setup stipend to all new employees. It also offers a monthly delivered team lunch and team-building activities.

Lob   operates a digital platform for managing and automating direct physical mail marketing. When clients onboard, they load their content and contacts into the dashboard, choose preferences like frequency and printing quality. After that, Lob.com sends their materials out in an automated sequence through the USPS. Remote work is part of the company’s culture, with stipends for internet and phone bills as well as home office setup stipends. The company also offers monthly co-working space allowances for remote employees who prefer an office environment. 

Human Interest

Human Interest is a financial technology firm that supplies small and medium-sized businesses with affordable 401(k) retirement savings plans for their employees. The company is backed by funding from BlackRock, TPG and other top investors. It curates a culture of choice, offering team members the option to work from the company’s Bay Area headquarters, from home or in a hybrid model.

Rula is a telehealth company that offers behavioral health services including therapy and psychiatry. It works with insurance companies to access available coverage for clients and has clinicians who specialize in couples, families, children and individuals. The company is fully remote, with employees working from all corners of the United States.

Convention Data Services

Convention Data Services provides data to professionals in the convention industry, including show managers for exhibitions and association, B2B and B2C trade shows. Offering digital event registration, lead management and business intelligence to inform operations decisions for these large professional events, the company serves as a one-stop-shop for all things data in the convention world. Company policy allows most staff to work from anywhere in the U.S., with opportunities for networking and connecting with colleagues on-site at trade shows. 

CNA is an insurance company that offers a full range of commercial insurance products, from standard to niche. It serves clients in the professional services, real estate, technology, manufacturing, life sciences, healthcare, financial services and construction industries, providing industry-specialized products like life sciences work hazard coverage. The company’s work site policy is hybrid, allowing team members the option of working from home, in the field or in a company office, depending on their desires and the demands of their role.

Cohere Health

Cohere Health ’s AI-powered platform integrates real-time analytics and clinical intelligence to significantly lower prior authorization denial rates for health plans and providers. Serving multiple health plans, Cohere processes millions of prior authorizations annually. Cohere says its employees work in 47 different states. The company regularly hosts retreats at its office in Boston’s North End. 

ForeFlight makes flight planning software for use by airlines, pilots and flight crews. The ForeFlight app includes features like runway analysis, flight dispatch, fuel monitoring and flight data analysis, so that pilots can access real-time updates about critical elements of their flight conditions. The company hires remotely across 34 U.S. states and maintains offices for optional use in Austin, Houston and Portland, Maine.

Accelerated Digital Media

Accelerated Digital Media provides strategy and services in search engine marketing and paid social across channels to healthcare and e-commerce clients. The team has many successful campaigns under its belt, including those for children’s retail company Monica + Andy and for Talkspace, which it guided from startup status to its current industry dominance. The company’s policies have shifted in recent years, and it now supports fully remote work, with sponsored happy hours for group cohesion.

Related Reading Companies That Let You Work From Anywhere

Skillsoft , one of the world’s largest edtech companies, provides cloud-based corporate learning solutions. It offers interactive courses in business, leadership, compliance and emerging technologies to upskill working professionals worldwide. Skillsoft has locations all around the world including Sydney , Hyderabad and Boston . The vast majority of the company’s global jobs include remote flexibility as it remains committed to enabling virtual learning around the world.

Scratch Financial

Scratch Financial is a fintech company operating in the healthcare space, collaborating with medical practices of all sizes. Its care-now, pay-later model aims to make affording medical care more accessible. As a remote-first company, Scratch Financial aims to give its employees the flexibility they need to achieve a sustainable work-life balance . It also offers a hybrid option and commuter benefits for those who prefer some in-office time.

Whatnot runs a livestream shopping platform where buyers and sellers can connect live online to trade everything from designer handbags and collectible sneakers to trading cards and thrift clothes. Using live video to facilitate sales, the platform’s secondary function is as a social network for collectors. Whatnot is a remote-first company and offers employees budgets to set up their home offices.

First Entertainment Credit Union

First Entertainment Credit Union is a financial services company based in California. It describes itself as a financial ally of entertainment creators in California and manages over $2 billion in assets. The company embraces a work-from-home philosophy through its hybrid work model . It also provides a technology stipend to make sure employees have everything they need to make their home office as efficient as their shared work space.

Healthtech company Alma aims to make mental healthcare more accessible and affordable. It works directly with providers to give them the tools they need to help them run their business and grow their practices sustainably. The company has a fully remote workforce. 

Enigma ’s technology gives its business clients access to critical insights about the financial health and behavior of private businesses they’re considering engaging. The company offers a fully remote work policy, with space available for collaboration and community at on-site offices in New York and Los Angeles. To build team cohesion, Enigma hosts in-person events throughout the year.

EDB makes database management software that is open-source and multi-modal, based on the PostgreSQL database. EDB’s services scale Postgres to an enterprise workload, avoiding productivity disruptions and increasing the availability of web-based applications. The company operates completely remote, with a global workforce that enjoys the flexibility to work from any location they choose.

Thumbtack makes a digital platform that homeowners can use to search, contact, hire and rate local companies and individuals for performing services like carpentry, plumbing, electrical and painting. Its solution allows small businesses to quickly access a motivated customer base. Thumbtack describes its work model as “virtual-first,” which means the company enables remote collaboration while still creating opportunities for employees to build in-person connections.

Arity is a data analytics company providing solutions to customers across the transportation industry. For example, its driver insights can be used to inform auto insurance marketing or public sector infrastructure projects. The company operates under a fully remote work model, and its employees have the flexibility to do their jobs from anywhere in the continental United States.

Healthtech company Evidation ’s mobile app connects users with insights and rewards meant to promote healthy behaviors. Users can also opt to participate in research that allows Evidation to inform the way various medical issues are understood, diagnosed and treated. Although Evidation maintains a San Mateo, California, office where employees are welcome to get work done or pop in to meet up with their peers, team members can also choose to work remotely. The company offers virtual meet-ups and flexible hours to support its distributed workforce.

Agile Six leverages its expertise in areas like product development, digital transformation and qualitative and quantitative research to work with government agencies on building and implementing custom tech solutions to enhance their operations. The company is fully remote, providing employees with a yearly $1,000 stipend and other reimbursements to support their remote work arrangements.

Samsara ’s IoT platform for vehicles and machinery comes with features to enhance safety and efficiency for industries such as logistics, construction, transportation and manufacturing. The company offers its team members flexible work terms that accommodate fully remote work as well as hybrid work, allowing the employee to choose how often they want to be in the office.

Sandbox VR  provides  virtual reality  entertainment experiences and describes itself as “full-body VR.” The company caters to groups who want to dive head-first into the same immersive virtual reality experience at one of the company’s many retail locations. With a fully distributed workforce and a remote work program, Sandbox VR strives to foster a collaborative environment for all of its employees, wherever they work. 

Chainlink Labs ’ work-from-anywhere policy allows this remote-first Web3 services platform to hire talent from around the world. The company maintains a headquarters in San Francisco while offering a home office stipend and hardware allowance so its fully distributed workforce can build their ideal work-from-home space.   

Flatfile gives developers a platform for file-based data import that’s customizable, equipped with AI-powered capabilities and supports a variety of file types. The company is fully remote, providing employees with resources like Wi-Fi and cellphone stipends to ensure they have what they need to perform their jobs. For employees who have a space they plan to use as a dedicated Flatfile office, the company offers a $10,000 budget and access to an interior designer to get them set up.

Upside is a retail software company that runs an app that grants cashback rewards and discounts to consumers in a wide variety of brick-and-mortar businesses, from grocery stores and gas stations to big box stores and fast food restaurants. It maintains a headquarters in Washington, D.C. and offices in Austin, Chicago and New York, but the company’s remote work program supports many positions in working from home. 

Eventus makes software for financial institutions that solves regulatory challenges in the financial sector. For example, it uses AI to monitor for market manipulations like “wash trading,” which occurs when the same trader buys and sells a security to create the illusion of market activity. The company is fully remote, with many of its employees working from home. 

PickTrace , which makes software for industrial-scale farmers to use in managing their workforce, productivity and crop harvests, is a fully remote company. Headquartered from a small office in Glendale, California, that’s available to any employees who want to work together or hold live meetings, team members enjoy flexible start and end times from the location of their choice as well as a home office stipend. 

Oak9 makes a SaaS cybersecurity platform for web developers, which allows them to build security measures and protocols into code as they write it. The company practices “security as code,” which means that security checks, tests and gates are integrated into the tools and processes that make up the code. Oak9 is a hybrid workplace and offers employees the option to work from home or to come into the company’s Chicago office.

RTB House uses deep learning technology to help its clients optimize their online ad campaigns and better connect with and engage customers. The company has more than 1,000 employees operating across 30-plus global offices. RTB House offers its team members in-office and remote work options.

CompanyCam ’s construction industry media sharing app allows roofers, electricians and other field-based contractor teams to send photos and videos documenting progress and quality to their home offices. The company supports employees working from home with flexible work hours that allow folks in various time zones to work asynchronously. CompanyCam also gives remote employees a maximum $700 to put toward their home office setup.

Altium makes software tools for electronic design, which allow engineers to print circuit boards to power electronic devices. It offers multiple tiers of software, including the free CircuitMaker printed circuit board design program, which is open source and designed for makers and non-profits, and Altium Designer, made for professional engineers. The company has a hybrid work culture and supports team members in performing their job duties from wherever they are most comfortable.

Cie works with entrepreneurs, venture capitalists and executives to develop, launch and grow new business ventures. It operates a venture studio, which incubates ideas from partners and helps launch them into products or businesses. Cie's in-house projects include Cie Games, a car-racing mobile games studio, and Asap Tire, which uses an app to bring new tires to consumers on-site rather than requiring them to drop their vehicle off for service. Cie employees have the option of working out of the company’s California headquarters or performing their work from home.

Gembah ’s product design and manufacturing platform gives creators a space to research, design, produce and distribute their products. Serving everyone from micro-brands and entrepreneurs to large e-commerce companies, the Gembah service is scalable and comprehensive. More than half of Gembah’s team works remotely, and even those who choose to work from the Austin headquarters are free to set their own on-site hours. 

Stem Disintermedia

Stem Disintermedia offers a payment system for musical artists and their teams, handling royalties, distribution and payment processing. Company culture at Stem encourages team members to work from where they are most comfortable, offering offices in New York and Los Angeles along with the option to work from home.

Yieldmo is an adtech company that operates an in-house exchange for ad content, using machine learning to pair specific advertisers with the content that will best serve their needs and help hit their KPIs. The company culture is all about working from home, with the option to work from Yieldmo’s New York office or remotely. Yieldmo also provides a home office stipend to support all full-time employees who work remotely.

New Era ADR is an alternative dispute resolution platform that helps clients resolve legal issues like copyright and intellectual property claims. Staffed by tech industry insiders, engineers and former litigators and general counsels, the team is expert in avoiding time consuming and costly litigation. The company is fully remote, with team members working across the country.

Zone & Co offers enterprise resource planning for financial management. It works with businesses in growth stages using the NetSuite CRM and offers a portfolio of apps to streamline everything from billing and payments to approvals and reporting. The company culture goes one step beyond being nominally remote — founded as a remote company, it is proudly “remote at our core” and has been operating remotely since its founding, with team members working around the globe.

Swiftly makes tech solutions and tools that serve retail companies, like pickup and delivery service, loyalty programs and targeted recommendations. As a fully remote company, Swiftly employees never have to go to either of the company’s physical offices, with its operations spread across the United States.

Read More The 3 Biggest Struggles of the Remote Worker — and How to Fix Them

Airbnb is a web and mobile platform that allows owners to list their properties as short-term rentals and allows travelers to find a place to stay at destinations worldwide. The company launched its Live and Work Anywhere initiative for employees in 2022. It’s given the majority of Airbnb’s workers the flexibility to decide whether they want to work from home or the office.

Dropbox offers its users file storage and sharing solutions. The virtual first company uses “non-linear workdays” to let employees plan their schedules for optimal productivity . This strategy includes set collaboration hours to ensure there’s still overlap among employees working in different time zones.

Square builds hardware and software that enables businesses of all sizes to accept payments and manage inventory, payroll and other critical elements of their operations. Square has more than a dozen office locations across the globe, but the company also offers many jobs that can be worked remotely. 

Further Reading 52 Virtual Team Building Activities for Remote and Hybrid Companies

HubSpot ’s customer relationship management platform is equipped with a variety of capabilities to reach and engage customers and make it easier for employees to collaborate. The company operates on a hybrid work model  in which employees can operate out of one of HubSpot’s 14 global offices or they can work in a completely remote fashion. Employees can also mix the two options.

Sara B.T. Thiel contributed reporting to this story.

Recent Company Culture Articles

The 30 Genius Products That Will Make Working From Home Easier

Working from home has its perks, but if you're new to WFH life , you might find that it takes some time to get into a productive groove. There can be so many distractions (like your TV, pet, kids, bed). You could be itching to do all the housework you've been putting off instead of completing that work project. And the general temptation of slacking off is very much real when you don't have co-workers or your boss around you. WFH vets have mastered all of this, but it takes some discipline and practice.

We've highlighted what you can do to  stay productive and tips for  setting a routine that you can stick to, but another factor that you should think of when you're trying to navigate WFH life is your actual workspace. You'll want to set up your spot for success so you can get your work done. To help, we've rounded up some tools, gadgets, and products that could help.

Organization

1. calendar.

Sure, you might have a calendar app on your phone and laptop, but sometimes it helps to actually have a physical one to look at to keep track of your schedule and to-do list. Plus, the act of crossing things off your list is just so much more rewarding when it's done on paper.

Again, you have a clock on your phone and laptop, but an actual clock is nice to have on hand, too. If you remember to look up at the time occasionally, it's a good reminder to take a stretch break or stand up, which is so important when you're working from home. When you're in the groove with no distractions from co-workers, it can be so easy to sit for hours on end, staring at your computer.

3. Pen and Pencil Holder

Not only will a nice pencil cup add some interest to your workspace, but it will keep your surface clear of pens, pencils, scissors, highlighters, and more. A decluttered workspace might help your productivity.

4. File Organizers

If you're dealing with a lot of paperwork and important files, you want to make sure you have an organization system so you can easily find everything.

5. Cord Organizer

You're probably working with a lot of tech gadgets, so most likely you've got a lot of cords. Untangle and keep them under control with these clips that you can stick to surfaces, like your desk or floor.

Having a dedicated workspace is important, but you might not have a desk at home or can't use your dining table to do work. This desk is compact, comes with wheels to move it around easily, and is adjustable so you can use it as a standing or sitting desk.

7. Supportive Chair

You're going to be sitting for long periods of time, so you'll want to make sure that you have a working chair that supports your back. This one from West Elm is simple and chic and comes in different colors to go with your current décor at home.

8. Chair Support

For extra back support, you can add a lumbar pillow to your desk chair. It will help you sit up a little straight during the workday.

9. Ergonomic Wrist Pad

Comfort is key when you're working, whether you're in an office or at home. A wrist rest can help reduce fatigue and any pain from working at the computer for a long time.

10. Footrest

Another gadget that can add some comfort to your workspace, this footrest can be adjusted at different angles and has a pebbled surface so you can give yourself a quick foot massage by rubbing your feet over it. It's supposed to help your overall posture by making sure your feet are placed correctly.

11. Desk Pad

Keep everything streamlined and protect your surface from any spills with a desk pad. This one is easy to clean—just wipe it down with a wet cloth.

12. Extra Monitor

An extra monitor can really help with your productivity, especially if your computer desktop normally has a ton of tabs open. Plus, it can be tough to stare at a small laptop screen for hours a day.

13. Wireless Mouse

That trackpad on your laptop won't cut it. Plus, a mouse will be a little easier on your hands, especially if you find that using the trackpad leads to hand cramps or fatigue.

14. Bluetooth Keyboard

Like the trackpad on your computer, you might find it difficult after a while to type on your laptop keyboard, so this is where a wireless one comes in handy.

15. Wi-Fi Booster

Spotty Wi-Fi can really mess with your productivity, and you wouldn't want to cut in and out when you're in virtual meetings. This system comes with a "beacon" that can extend and boost your Wi-Fi coverage in another room of your home.

16. Extension Cord

When you have a lot of gadgets and tech devices, a trusty power strip will ensure that it can support all of them safely. This one is great because it's affordable at under $20, and it has two USB ports.

17. Headphones

If you live with other people who are also working from home, headphones are a must. Noise-cancelling ones can help you focus on the task at hand.

18. Charging Station

If you're working with a lot of devices, a charging station will really come in handy. It will keep everything in place and really streamlines the charging process.

19. Ring Light

For days with endless Zoom meetings, a ring light is a total must-have. You'll look perfectly lit and professional.

Décor

Good lighting can improve your mood and is also important for your eyes. Bonus points if your desk lamp is as stylish as this one.

Studies show that  indoor plants can benefit the air quality of a space, and they might even boost your mood and productivity. So spruce up your desk with a small plant. A succulents and snake plants aren't too hard to care for.

22. Desk Décor

An interesting object might not exactly help your productivity, but it might make you happy. This tray also serves as a spot to corral items like keys, paper clips, or pushpins.

23. Artwork

Again, artwork is just another nice thing to look at and adds a little bit of character and personality to your workspace. Your environment can affect your mood, so make sure you're creating a workspace that makes you feel good.

A candle is a mix of décor and wellness. It makes a nice vignette, and if you choose the scent correctly, it can be both calming and inspiring. And isn't that what you need for a long, stressful day ahead?

25. Water Bottle

When I'm working at home, I find I don't drink as much water as I do when I'm at the office. I think it's because I take more breaks to walk to the water fountain in the office. A water bottle can help remind you to drink more throughout the day.

26. Blanket

While your space might not be as cold as the office air conditioner, it's still nice to keep a blanket on hand in case things get a bit chilly inside.

27. Stress Ball

You can relieve stress by getting up and taking a walk, drinking water, or stretching. Another trick is to use a stress ball to help yourself calm down or take a break.

28. Blue-Light Glasses

While more research needs to be done on the effectiveness of blue-light glasses, many people swear by them as a solution to combating eye strain. Personally, I think mine help with eye tiredness.

29. Diffuser

An alternative to a candle, you can also get in some aromatherapy with a diffuser. Essential oils like rosemary, peppermint, and grapefruit can help with concentration.

30. Face Mist

While at first glance you might not consider this beauty product a work-from-home essential, but a refreshing face mist can really help with that afternoon slump. Next up: 19 Tested, Real-Life Tips for Working From Home This article was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.

Sarah is lifestyle writer and editor with over 10 years of experience covering health and wellness, interior design, food, beauty, and tech. Born and raised in Los Angeles, she attended New York University and lived in New York for 12 years before returning to L.A. in 2019. In addition to her work on THE/THIRTY and Who What Wear, she held editor roles at Apartment Therapy , Real Simple , House Beautiful , Elle Decor , and The Bump (sister site of The Knot). She has a passion for health and wellness, but she especially loves writing about mental health. Her self-care routine consists of five things: a good workout, “me” time on the regular, an intriguing book/podcast/playlist to unwind after a long day, naps, and decorating her home.

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• Home office

The Best Home-Office Furniture and Supplies

By Ben Keough

Ben Keough is an editor covering cameras, working from home, powering, and hobbies. He also writes about coffee, beer, and food for Wirecutter.

Your home office should be a place where you feel comfortable doing your best work, day after day. Over the years, Wirecutter’s writers and editors—many of whom work from home—have spent more than 200 hours researching and testing equipment for a variety of workspaces, and we’ve collected our picks to give you a comprehensive guide to the best of the best.

The research

Ergonomic desks and chairs, other ergonomic accessories, document storage and disposal, display accessories, power management, writing supplies.

Standing desk

Uplift V2 Standing Desk

A first-rate, good-looking, customizable standing desk.

The Uplift V2 is the most customizable desk we’ve ever tested, and its wide height range works for people between 5-foot-4 and 7 feet.

Buying Options

The Uplift V2 Standing Desk offers the best mix of performance and features of the desks we’ve tested. Its controls are responsive, and it barely wobbles, even at tall heights.

It accommodates people of the average female and male seated and standing heights. But if you’re shorter than 5-foot-4, the desk likely wouldn’t work for you while sitting without a footrest. In that case, we recommend the Fully Jarvis Bamboo Standing Desk (or the laminate version ) with a three-stage low-range frame.

Uplift’s walnut laminate and bamboo desktops are attractive, and you can get them in an optional curved design if you prefer. In addition to those finishes, Uplift offers nearly 30 more finish options, four frame colors, three grommet colors, and three keypad colors to choose from, as well as multiple add-on accessories, so you can truly make this desk your own.

For more, read our guide to the best standing desks .

Standing desk converter

Ergo Desktop Kangaroo Pro Junior

The best standing desk converter.

Of the converters we’ve tried, this one is the most adjustable, which also makes it the most ergonomic choice. It’s also stable, and it takes up less space than competing converters.

The Ergo Desktop Kangaroo Pro Junior makes the fewest ergonomic compromises without being too annoying to use, and crucially, it has the ability to control the height of your monitor and the keyboard platform separately.

Thanks to the monitor mount, your display is more stable and takes up less room than it would in its own stand. And the work platform can accommodate a keyboard, a mouse, and other tools while still fitting on even the smallest of desks.

For more, read our guide to the best standing desk converters .

Standing desk mat

Ergodriven Topo

The best standing desk mat for your bored feet.

This mat’s varied terrain encourages movement, making standing less tedious and less achy. The Topo is also easy to move when you switch between standing and sitting.

You’ll need a comfortable place to stand while at your standing desk. The Ergodriven Topo’s contoured surface lets you choose from a lot of different ways to place your feet, and our testers found it more comfortable than other mats with topographic features.

However you stand, the Topo relieves pressure on your heels, legs, back, and shoulders. It’s also resistant to spills and punctures, and you can move it around with one foot instead of having to bend over to reposition it.

Several Wirecutter staffers have used this mat for years, and even desk mat skeptics have shared that they moved around more than they expected to on the Topo, which is where the real benefit of standing instead of sitting comes from.

For more, read our guide to the best standing desk mats .

Office chair

Steelcase Gesture

The best office chair.

This is one of the most adjustable chairs available—anyone can make the Gesture comfortable, regardless of their height or size—and it’s built to last.

The Steelcase Gesture is expensive—around $1,400 at the time of publication—but if you sit for long periods, the expense is well worth it for the support, adjustability, and comfort that will last over a decade.

The Gesture is one of our longest-lasting picks, having been recommended since 2015, and it’s one of the most comfortable, supportive, and durable office chairs we’ve ever tested. Everything from the back support to the quality fabric to the dependable adjustment knobs has stood the test of time.

The Gesture also comes in the widest range of fabrics and finishes of the office chairs we’ve tested, so you can customize its appearance for your workspace.

For more, read our guide to the best office chairs .

Lumbar support pillow

Everlasting Comfort Memory Foam Back Cushion

The best lumbar support pillow.

This is a firm, thick pillow that offers the best balance of support, comfort, and ease of use. It also has a lifetime replacement guarantee.

The Everlasting Comfort Memory Foam Back Cushion is made of thick foam that’s sturdy yet cushiony , and it has two adjustable, extendable straps that make the pillow easy to position so that it hits the right spot for your lower and middle back on most chairs.

Its easily removable cover and lifetime replacement guarantee are two other features that give it a notable edge over other pillows we’ve tested.

For more, read our guide to the best lumbar support pillows .

ComfiLife Foot Rest

The most comfortable and supportive footrest.

This footrest has a washable cover that’s easy to remove and feels great on bare feet, and the high-density foam offers firm yet cushy support. It can be used as a foot rocker and is height-adjustable.

If your feet don’t touch the floor when you’re sitting all the way back in your desk chair, you should consider getting a footrest. In our testing, the ComfiLife Foot Rest outshone all of its competitors with firm, all-day comfort thanks to its foam construction, which provides a plush surface and soft give.

For added movement, you can even flip it over for rocking. The base is detachable, so you can use it at either a 3.9-inch or 5.9-inch height, and it stays in place on hard and carpeted floors alike.

We also love that the cover is easily removable for tossing in the washing machine (just remember to use the gentle cycle).

For more, read our guide to the best under-desk footrests .

Ergonomic seat cushion

Purple Double Seat Cushion

A flexible cushion that keeps your bum cool.

The most-versatile cushion we tested, this has both firm and soft sides to suit personal preferences. It is supportive, breathes well, and fits on a variety of chairs.

For proper ergonomics when sitting at your desk, your legs should be at about a 90-degree angle to your hips. If your seat is too low and your knees are higher than 90 degrees, you should adjust your seat higher. If your chair doesn’t have that feature, then we recommend the Purple Double Seat Cushion .

This cushion propped us up with a cushy springiness unlike any other we tested, offering firm support without being stiff. You can flip the cushion, so it’ll feel good whether you prefer soft or hard seats, and it doesn’t run hot thanks to its unique gel honeycomb design.

Though you get a lot for your money, Purple’s Double Seat Cushion is pricey. For cheaper options, read our guide to the best ergonomic seat cushions .

Fireproof document safe

Honeywell 1114 Lightweight Fire and Waterproof Chest

The best fireproof document safe.

This safe is certified to withstand high-temperature fires for twice as long as the competition, but it weighs 42 pounds and has the footprint of a mini fridge.

The Honeywell 1114 Lightweight Fire and Waterproof Chest is independently verified by the safety organization Intertek to keep personal items safe during a fire for up to an hour—twice as long as the competition—in conditions as hot as 1,700 °F. Honeywell says the chest will keep floodwater out for 100 hours, too.

It’s large enough to hold both letter- and legal-size sheets of paper without you having to fold them. The additional protection makes the Honeywell 1114 noticeably larger and heavier than other safes of similar capacities—it weighs 42 pounds and takes up the same amount of floor space as a mini fridge.

For more, read our guide to the best fireproof document safes .

Paper shredder

Amazon Basics 8-Sheet High-Security Micro-Cut Shredder with Pullout Basket

The best home-office paper shredder.

This high-security shredder offers the best balance of ease of use, sheet capacity, and price. It can run jam-free for nearly 10 minutes without overheating.

The Amazon Basics 8-Sheet High-Security Micro-Cut Shredder with Pullout Basket is a little more expensive than other eight-sheet micro-cut shredders, but it’s worth the investment.

While its rivals jammed or emitted a burning smell after a few minutes of shredding, the Amazon Basics ran without trouble well past its five-minute run time.

Like other micro-cut shredders, this one chomps documents into tiny shreds measuring around 0.16 by 0.47 inches, making any sensitive paperwork all but impossible to reassemble. It can handle old plastic credit cards and data DVDs, too.

Though it’s slightly bigger than eight-sheet shredders with lift-up tops, it still fits under most desks, and the pullout bin and wheels are conveniences that make it easier to keep up a shredding habit.

For more, read our guide to the best paper shredders .

Desk lamps are a necessity for a productive workspace, and the best of them are highly adjustable in physical design and in their color temperature and brightness settings. But choosing the right lamp isn’t only about functionality, it’s also about aesthetics. That’s why we recommend four lamps with drastically different looks.

The Uplift LED Desk Lamp E7 with Clamp provides a modern, utilitarian look with an exceptionally long reach.

If you prefer a slightly more stylish but still minimalist glow, the Humanscale Nova LED lamp provides a soft and uniform light without any distracting glare, flickering, or harsh shadows—making it our favorite lamp for working in front of a computer.

The budget-priced IKEA Forså comes in a timeless architect design, and it’s one of the most physically adjustable lamps we tested, bested only by the Anglepoise 90 Mini Mini Desk Lamp , which is our top pick for anyone who has to make every bit of available surface space count.

For more, read our guide to the best desk lamps .

Monitor arm

Fully Jarvis Single Monitor Arm

The best monitor arm.

This sleek and sturdy monitor arm makes raising, lowering, and rotating a monitor easy, and it’s backed by a 15-year warranty.

An adjustable monitor arm is the best option to keep your monitor at an ergonomic height (with your eye level 2 to 3 inches below the top of your monitor) so that you can maintain proper posture and avoid slouching or craning your neck. The Fully Jarvis Monitor Arm is the best for most people who want to save space on their desks.

It accommodates a wide range of positions and angles to improve workstation ergonomics, and it’s adjustable, unobtrusive, and sturdy enough to support heavier monitors (up to 32 inches or 20 pounds). Fully covers it with a 15-year warranty, and it comes in three colors, too.

For more, read our guide to the best monitor arms .

Laptop stand

Rain Design iLevel2

The best laptop stand.

This stand is made of anodized aluminum, making it exceptionally sturdy and stylish. It’s also the easiest to adjust of all the models we’ve tested.

If you don’t have the budget or space for a monitor at your desk, the next best thing for your posture and health is a laptop stand—one that puts your eye level 2 to 3 inches below the top of your screen and keeps you from slouching. In our tests, the Rain Design iLevel 2 was the clear winner.

It held 11-inch to 15-inch laptops without issue, and its design is simple, straightforward, and stylish. We loved its adjustment mechanism, too: The platform simply tilts up or down when you slide a knob left or right.

For more, read our guide to the best laptop stands .

Surge protector

Tripp Lite Protect It 12-Outlet Surge Protector TLP1208TELTV

The best surge protector.

In testing, this surge protector stopped nearly all excess voltage from reaching its outlets, and it cuts off all power once the protection wears out. It has 12 AC outlets plus coax and phone ports.

Plugging valuable equipment like computers and monitors into a surge protector helps protect them during power outages. But they don’t last forever: Like a light bulb, surge protectors need to be replaced every few years when they burn out. After more than 100 hours of research and testing with an electrical engineer, we recommend the Tripp Lite Protect It 12-Outlet Surge Protector .

It offers enough space to satisfy most home-office needs, superior build quality compared with others we’ve tested, stellar surge-protection performance, and safety features.

It will actually stop working when its protection circuits wear out, too, as opposed to relying on an easily ignored indicator light. That way, you’ll know with certainty whether your expensive electronics are protected.

For more, read our guide to the best surge protectors .

Uninterruptible power supply

CyberPower CP900AVR

The best ups for a home network.

With five outlets on battery backup and 10 total, this UPS can keep your Wi-Fi running for up to four hours in a blackout and gives you more than enough time to save your work and shut down.

The CyberPower CP900AVR covers the basics for most people during common, short-term blackouts.

It provides enough power to keep a household modem and router running for four hours, so you can stay online while the power is off and get in touch with emergency services, follow news and weather changes, or just pass the time on your favorite websites.

It requires no setup and includes automatic voltage regulation—an important feature that some cheaper models lack. Five of its 10 outlets can be battery-powered, and its compact shape—about the size of a three-ring binder —and 6-foot cord make it easy to stow away.

For more, read our guide to the best uninterruptible power supply .

Uni-ball Jetstream RT

The best everyday ballpoint pen.

With its fast-drying ink, this is our go-to pen for everyday writing on any kind of paper.

If you need a pen to take notes during a teleconference or to hastily scribble down an idea, the one to grab is the Uni-ball Jetstream RT .

It’s widely available, and it creates one of the smoothest, quickest-drying lines you can find. It doesn’t bleed, it doesn't skip, it doesn’t feather. It dries indelibly—and so quickly that left-handed people can use it without worrying about smudging.

The Jetstream RT also requires little pressure to write with, so once you get a feel for how to use it, you can write incredibly fast since it pretty much glides over the page, especially if you write in cursive.

It’s available in sizes from 0.38 mm up to 1.0 mm, with a bunch of different bodies in different styles.

For more, read our guide to the best pens .

Mechanical pencil

Uni Kuru Toga Pipe Slide

The best mechanical pencil.

Its rotating lead keeps the tip sharp as you write, making for the cleanest and most consistent writing. This version also has a pocket-safe retractable tip.

The Uni Kuru Toga Pipe Slide mechanical pencil sets itself apart thanks to a unique ratcheting internal mechanism, so each time you lift the pencil from the page, the lead rotates a tiny amount.

What does that mean? The sharpest point of your lead will always touch the paper, and you won’t constantly fidget to rotate the pencil in your hand. Because the point never gets blunt, your to-do list, diagrams, and mind map will look exactly as sharp when you finish the page as when you started it, and your lines will always have the same width.

It’s like writing with a ballpoint pen, but with all the flexibility of a pencil.

For more, read our guide to the best mechanical pencils .

Apica Premium C.D. Notebook (A5)

The best notebook.

This notebook is a pleasure to use thanks to its sturdy yet lightweight cardstock cover, excellent paper quality, and lie-flat design.

After interviewing experts, researching over 80 notebooks, and testing 24, we recommend the Apica Premium CD Notebook (A5) .

The smaller A5 size won’t take up too much room on your desk, and its lie-flat design means you can easily write on both sides of each sheet. The paper is thick and smooth (but not plasticky), and it works well with a variety of pens including inky fountain pens with little feathering and minimal ghosting.

For more, read our guide to the best notebooks .

Paper planner

Traveler’s Company Traveler’s Notebook

The most customizable planner.

You can fill this cross between a simple calendar and a beautiful journal with a range of inserts for any type of planning. It’s the most versatile planner we’ve found.

May be out of stock

Of all the planners we considered, the Traveler’s Company Traveler’s Notebook was the most popular with our testers.

The simple leather folio holds thin notebooks (secured with an elastic band), and you can invest in whatever notebook inserts fit your planning needs. It’s the only system we found that works for all types of planning.

This is the original Traveler’s Notebook, a style of planner often interchangeably called the Midori (the company’s name before 2015). You can find many other notebooks of this style inspired by the original (sometimes called fauxdoris), and some are great options if you like more colors and patterns.

For a variety of other styles we recommend, see our guide to the best paper planners .

This article was edited by Ben Keough and Erica Ogg.

Meet your guide

Ben Keough is the supervising editor for Wirecutter's working from home, powering, cameras, and hobbies and games coverage. He previously spent more than a decade writing about cameras, printers, and other office equipment for Wirecutter, Reviewed, USA Today, and Digital Camera HQ. After four years testing printers, he definitively confirmed that they all suck, but some suck less than others.

Mentioned above

• After testing more than 25 standing desks over nearly a decade, we recommend the Uplift V2 due to its customizability, wide height range, and stability. The Best Standing Desks  
• We built and worked on 17 standing desk converters, and we found that the Ergo Desktop Kangaroo Pro Junior remains the best way to stand at a stationary desk. The Best Standing Desk Converters  
• We’ve tested all of the most popular standing desk mats and found the Ergodriven Topo offered the best comfort and support while encouraging movement. The Best Standing Desk Mats  
• The impressively supportive, adjustable, and durable Steelcase Gesture is still our pick for the best office chair for most people, as it has been since 2015. The Best Office Chairs  
• If you slouch while sitting at your desk for long periods or suffer from back pain after a long workday, a lumbar support pillow can make all the difference. The Best Lumbar Support Pillow  
• We put our feet up for weeks to find the best footrests to help you improve the ergonomics at your desk—and make work more comfortable. The Best Under-Desk Footrests  

Further reading

How to Clean Your Office Chair

by Melanie Pinola

Your home-office chair is likely getting more use than ever before. Here are our most helpful tips on what you can do to keep it clean.

How to Move Your Home Office Outside—And Make the Most of It

Working outside, even for just a little while, can be great for your health. Here’s how to do it as comfortably and productively as possible.

How to Make Space for Kids to Be Creative at Home

by Jackie Reeve

With families spending more time at home, designating a special zone where kids can get creative (and messy) can be challenging—but rewarding.

The Best Supplies and Packing Advice for Making Moving Less Miserable

by Kit Dillon

Moving is a pain, but having the right gear can help. We’ve gathered the accessories, tools, and techniques to make it easier.

• Best Fountain Pens
• How to Smoke a Cigar
• Best nerf guns for adults
• The best Netflix movies
• Best Ernest Hemingway books

The Manual may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site.

The 10 Best Products for a Productive Work-From-Home Space

Even before the pandemic, people were trying to juggle work, life, and health. The difference now is it’s being done while working from home. In theory, doing your work at home can be a quiet, focused experience. However, spouses and kids around can be pretty distracting to your workflow. The office can be a way to tell your brain “let’s work,” but at home, distractions are everywhere.

Asus EyeCare VZ249HE Monitor

Iclever bk10 bluetooth keyboard, budget standing desk: flexispot electric standing desk, premium standing desk: floyd standing desk, revival miran hand-knotted shag rug, sony wh-1000xm4 headphones, google nest audio, circadian optics lampu, apple ipad air, label 180 the bungalow desk.

If these distractions are lessening your level of productivity, here are some work-from-home tips if you need a little help getting through this extended period in this new work setting. We’ve also gathered the best products for making work-at-home set-up easier. Some of these picks aren’t your typical items for an office but your home isn’t a typical office, is it? You might be able to set your own rules as you escape the office and work from home.

Related Reading

• Upgrading Your Home Office
• Best Podcasts for Work-From-Home Set-Up

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly desktop monitor, you’ll get it with the Asus EyeCare V249HE. This fairly inexpensive display has an ultra-slim and nearly frameless design. It also has a slim profile that doesn’t take up a huge chunk of space. You can even get more than one monitor to make your work-from-home setup the closest it can get to your actual office. The 23.8-inch HD resolution screen can give you a great panoramic view with multiple displays.

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Since you’re spending hours looking at a screen, this monitor has a blue light filter that protects your eyes from harmful blue light. This filter setting can be accessed through a hotkey. Tests have shown that this Asus display emits less blue light and doesn’t flicker. You’ll definitely get your money’s worth with this monitor that has wide viewing angles for any type of project.

Most professionals do their work on more than one device. It can be tedious to plug a keyboard from one device into another.

The best way to solve this problem that clutters your workspace is to opt for a Bluetooth keyboard. iClever provides an ergonomic and slim keyboard that is compatible with Mac, Windows, Android, and iOS devices. You can even pair the keyboard with up to three devices at the same time seamlessly. Yes, you can switch from typing on an iPad to your laptop without a hitch. On top of that, the keyboard is a full-size one with scissor-switch keys. Typing has never been this simple and easy.

Even though it’s compatible with a lot of devices, it does not compromise its battery life. This keyboard has low power consumption and a long-lasting battery. A two-hour charge can give you 90 hours worth of usage. No matter what you’re typing, this keyboard can keep up with it.

Face it, sitting for hours to no end while working isn’t healthy. Sure, you might seem productive at first but you’ll eventually feel restless. If this is the case for you, a standing desk will do wonders for your work-from-home setup.

Working on a standing desk will help improve your posture and reduce the chronic pain related to sitting all the time. Aside from that, standing desks can also strengthen your fitness abilities. You don’t even have to be standing all day since these desks are adjustable and of course, it’s also exhausting to stand during your whole shift.

One of the top picks for adjustable standing desks has got to be the Flexispot Electric Standing Desk. This desk is perfect for working from home not only has a spacious work area but it also doesn’t take up a lot of space. You’ll even be more surprised to know that this desk is only under $300. You don’t have to go over your budget just to get your own standing desk which keeps you active, productive, and healthy.

Standing desks are certainly one of the “must-have” work accessories – whether you’re office-based or home-based. They give you the flexibility to sit or stand (or crouch, too, we guess – if that’s your thing), allowing you to work in whatever position is most efficient. There are lots of standing desks on the market, with many of them having near-infinite vertical adjustability. On the surface, infinite adjustability sounds like a good thing. However, think of the two positions you would typically use. Sitting, or standing. These are two specific heights that are unique to your ergonomics. With an infinitely adjustable standing desk, it’s hard to achieve a consistent height for either sitting or standing every time you switch between them.

The aptly named Standing Desk from Floyd solves this issue by incorporating a fully programmable Jarvis frame. This means that you can easily program an ergonomic sitting height and an ergonomic standing height for yourself, and maybe do something similar for someone else in your household. When you’re ready to log onto your computer for the day, all you have to do is hit one of the programmed buttons and the desk will adjust to the programmed height. It’s easy and ergonomically optimized.

Additionally, this desk is available in two frame colors (black or white) and three finish options for the desktop itself (birch veneer, walnut veneer, gray “fog” laminate). You can easily match your new Floyd desk to the design aesthetic of your home.

Since you’re working from home, you have the stylistic freedom to decorate your space however you like. This goes for your walls and even for your floors. No longer do you have to deal with boring “corporate gray” carpet squares or black rubber standing pads. Add some color and pattern to your workspace with the Miran Hand-Knotted shag rug from Revival-Made.

Handmade in Bhadohi, India from wool sourced in New Zealand, the Miran is a premium rug that’ll look great and last for years and years. It’s tie-dyed in small batches with azo-free dyes for lasting colorfastness. Since these are woven by human hands, you can expect some slight variations in size and weave, which is cool because it means that your rug is truly one-of-a-kind.

Good headphones have become a staple of work these days. From endless zoom calls to trying to block out all the noise around the house, a solid pair of noise-canceling headphones are worth their weight in gold.

Sony set the standard in noise-canceling headphones with the WH-1000XM3 headphones and now they’re back with the WH-1000XM4 with even better noise cancellation and artificial intelligence.

The WH-1000XM4 uses the powerful QN1 chip inside to listen to outside noises to adjust what you’re hearing 700 times per second. It’s intelligent enough to sense what you’re doing and go into three modes. My favorite is complete isolation, just you and your music. Walking mode lets in all sounds so you’re aware of the cars and other people around you. A Waiting mode cuts out most sound but lets in announcement-type sounds so you can hear info about your flight or train.

The comfortable padding lets you wear these headphones all day and the battery does too. An incredible 30 hours of battery life can get you through the longest day working or traveling. Run out of juice right before an important meeting? Just 10 minutes of charging gets you 5 hours of battery life.

Artificial intelligence is slowly catching up to the visions we had years ago in the Jetsons with flying cars and vacuuming robots. We don’t quite have a robot receptionist we can chat with all day, but Google is getting close with their smart Nest devices.

The Google Nest Audio (previously Google Home) is their latest smart speaker that focuses on exceptional sound quality while still offering direct access to the surprisingly useful Google Assistant. After setting up the speaker with your phone and matching it to your voice, you can ask Google anything. “Hey Google, tell me what I’m doing today,” tells you what’s on your calendar. “Hey Google, call Jim,” sets up hands-free calling through Google Duo to anyone else set up with Duo. “Hey Google, crank it,” turns up the volume of your favorite Metallica song to volume 10. There are no officemates around. Why not?

With so many things to remember these days, you can use Google to remember. “Hey Google, remind me to start dinner at 4 p.m.” Let Google remember things so you can get back to your work and enjoying time with your family. “Hey Google, remember that I put the Christmas presents in the closet.”

And when it’s time to wind down at the end of the day, get it to set the lights and your favorite show on the TV. “Hey Google, set the lights to 50% and play Umbrella Academy on the TV.”

The Circadian Optics Lampu is a sleek light that can sit next to your bed, on the counter, or next to your computer. In just 15 to 30 minutes a day of the daylight-colored exposure makes your brain thinks it’s getting some bright sunshine, a perfect thing to wake you up during dark rainy days. They do recommend a double-check with the doctor before starting use, but who can’t use a little more sun in their life these days?

Many of us can remember times without computers. Now we’re surrounded by desktops, phones, tablets, and smart devices. A digital connection to the office is the key to most people working from home. With email, chat, Zoom , Teams, Slack, and every other place to digitally communicate, work can keep humming along with people at home, or halfway around the world.

Ten years ago, Apple released the first iPad and revolutionized (again) how we interact with our devices. This year Apple did it again releasing the fourth-generation iPad Air with more power and features than an expensive desktop computer.

With the A14 Bionic chip and a 10.9-inch display, you can edit videos or photos, make music, paint, draw, play games, and watch movies. Pair the Air with the Magic Keyboard with a full keyboard and trackpad and you have a full laptop with a touchscreen. The only difference is this ‘laptop’ can do more than most actual laptops. Add in the Apple Pencil that can draw and turn handwriting directly into the text.

For those concerned with what all our tech is doing to the planet, you don’t have to feel guilty buying something from Apple’s line of products. You’ll get a device that’s going to last longer than most and won’t end up in the landfill. The iPad Air in particular is made from 100% recycled aluminum in the enclosure. The solder connections inside are 100% recycled tin. The speakers are made from 100% recycled rare earth elements. The wood fiber packaging is recycled or from responsibly managed forests.

Ten years ago the first iPad was released and in another 10 Apple will be 100% carbon neutral. You can have the most powerful tech devices and save the planet too.

If you’re a high-maintenance man who wants the best WFH office setup possible, you might want to have a customized desk. Say good riddance to a basic desk that leaves you unsatisfied every time you have to work on it. Label 180 takes desk customization a level further with its array of options that you can choose from. Do you want a desk with a Koi-inspired design? They can make it happen. Perhaps a longer rectangular desk is what you need? It’s possible. You can pick from 12 custom desk sizes and six different leg options.

The bungalow desk has customizable upholstery options such as fabric or leather. It also comes with a glass blotter to add a classy look to the desk. Give your workspace some added flair without compromising functionality with this desk. You’ll be more than satisfied with the result since it’s a workspace you took part in creating.

Want to give your work-from-home setup a total upgrade? Check out these best luxury home-office products , and you might find something that suits your workspace.

Editors' Recommendations

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Looks as though it's getting closer to blanket season, are you ready? Picture this: You have your favorite lounge pants, a cozy couch, your favorite chair, or maybe you're hanging on to summer and you're sitting beachside. You'll need that extra layer of warmth and inviting softness. As the temperatures start to drop, it's time to grab your favorite throw, quilt, or knit. No, that doesn't mean you pull the comforter off your bed because then you'll just have to remake the bed!

Blankets have really evolved over the last few years. Take the weighted blanket, for example, people love them and they're great for calming and you can order them in different weights. Then there is the Big Blanket. It's oversized so that you can sit on the couch -- or anywhere for that matter -- and you won't be fighting over the covers so to speak. Best Overall: Schoolhouse Cotton Pinstripe Throw

Undoubtedly, commuting has completely changed. It’s always been hell -- and it still is -- but a whole new layer was seemingly added because of the pandemic. I work entirely from home, and I dread the commute from my bed to my desk every morning. Regardless, a great podcast on a long or short commute can make it worthwhile.  

Some people want a podcast to wake them up. Some want to listen to work-at-home podcasts. Some just need the best fiction podcasts to take them away, not only from the commute but from the oncoming workday. These are some of our favorites that are sure to make your commute more bearable and, dare we say, enjoyable. 

At some point in time, working from home began to feel a lot like just working. Coming to this realization is a big-time bummer in many, many different ways, but working in the comfort of your own home does offer some time for personal growth and solitude. Still, oftentimes, WFH can feel like there are so, so many hours in a day, and you have to figure out how to spend the time wisely.

Music is often helpful, and television is certainly too distracting, but sometimes the best thing to help accelerate your workday and focus is listening to a new podcasts. Here are some of our favorite podcasts that cover everything from motivation, to new information, and even sometimes the best kind of distraction. 

Amazon Work From Home Jobs

Amazon work from home jobs.

29 Best Hand Tool Brands For Pros & Hobbyists

• By Tom Caspar
• Updated : September 29, 2023

When it comes to hand tools, quality is key. Choosing the best tools for the job is essential for completing any job safely and with the best possible results.

We’ve rounded up the best hand tool brands you can trust to get the job done. From professional-grade picks to handy DIYer sets, these brands have what it takes to make any task a breeze.

Let’s look at the top hand tool brands to consider for your next project.

29 Best Hand Tool Brands

• Channellock
• Stanley Black & Decker
• Wright Tools Co.
• Kraft Tool Co.
• Big Gator Tools
• Chapman Tools
• Loggerhead Tools
• Wilde Tools
• Irwin Tools
• Leatherman Tools
• Council Tool
• Vaughn & Bunshell
• Stiletto Tools

1. Channellock: Best Screwdriver Brand

Channellock is a brand of hand tools and accessories for construction and industrial uses.

They offer some of the best-made screwdrivers on the market today, with ergonomic handles that have comfortable grips and plenty of torque to turn screws in tight spaces.

Their ratcheting hooks are also one of their most popular items – they can be used to hang things or to pull nails out of wood panels or studs in drywall walls.

Channellock also makes combination pliers that can be used as an alternative to plier sets when you need more than just one pair of pincers or needle-nose pliers in your life!

2. Stanley Black & Decker

Stanley Black & Decker has been designing durable hand tools for over 175 years. They offer a wide range of hand and power tools to cater for professionals and DIYers alike.

Stanley tools are made of high-quality steel and have excellent durability. The hand tool brand offers more than just basic hand equipment; they also have specialty tools such as saws, drills, circular saws, grinders, and more.

Stanley Black & Decker is the mother company to many other tool making subsidiaries including Craftsman and Irwin Tools.

3. Milwaukee: Best Electric Tools

Milwaukee Tools (Milwaukee) is a brand of electric tools that make it easier to perform home repair work.

The hand tool brand produces various tools such as drills, saws, hammers and other power tools that you can use in both residential and commercial settings.

Milwaukee’s products are designed for ease of use and safety. They offer warranties on most products so you can buy with confidence.

Bosch is another leading hand tool brand producing a range of products for different purposes like construction, woodwork, agriculture, and gardening. 

These products are widely used worldwide, and their popularity is growing daily due to their friendly design, reliability, and maneuverability.

Additionally, Bosch’s products are built to stand the test of time– hence perfect for daily use in farms or gardens with heavy workloads.

5. Makita: Best Brand for Power Tools

Makita might be known for its new electric power tools, but the company also has a decent selection of durable hand tools. Its products are well-made and come at an affordable price point.

They have a wide range of options for different uses and you can find them at many different retailers around the world.

Every tool from Makita has been re-engineered with high-performance materials, giving you the best performance for the job.

Their extensive selection of hand tools such as hammers, wrenches, folding knives and pliers are perfect for any job. Their tools are strong and durable, designed to last a lifetime with proper care.

6. Festool: Best Tool Brand for DIY Projects

Festool is another great brand specializing in home improvement tools. They offer everything from drills to saws and everything in between, so you can find exactly what you need to simplify your projects. 

The ergonomic design of the tools sets them apart from the competition, providing users with comfort and ease of use.

The robust construction and craftsmanship of their tools make them ideal for use in any professional or DIY project.

They offer a wide range of products, from hammers and wrenches to screwdrivers and cordless tools. 

Many of their products come with a warranty, giving customers peace of mind. With their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Festool has quickly become one of the top hand tool brands.

7. DeWalt 

DeWalt has the best power tools and some excellent options for home improvement projects.

DeWalt’s 2-in-1 hammer drills are amazing for handling jobs around the house. You can use them as a standard drill or change out the bit to use it as an impact driver or hammer drill.

The batteries last long, so you won’t have to worry about replacing them often.

DeWalt high-tech products and tools are built to take on heavy-duty tasks like construction or carpentry projects. They also make versatile finishing tools for professionals who need to do their jobs quickly and efficiently.

8. Snap-On Tools 

Snap-On is another great hand tool brand offering quality products at pocket-friendly rates. Their long line of products offer multiple sets to help you complete different jobs.

Snap-On tool kits are perfect for anyone who needs help with their home repair projects, and most come with everything you need in one box!

Snap on tools has been around since 1920 and has been making hand tools for nearly 100 years. Its products are known for their versatility and durability, which makes them a great pick if you’re looking for some new tools.

9. Craftsman 

The Craftsman hand tools brand is owned by Stanley Black & Decker. Craftsman products are known for their high-quality, wide range and user-friendly designs.

The company makes various innovative tools, including sockets and wrenches, screwdrivers and ratchets, pliers, hammers and more.

Not only do they offer quality products, but they also have some of the best prices around! If you want to save money while still getting quality tools, this is definitely one of your best options!

10. Estwing

Estwing is another well-known tool maker with a wide range of products in its line of hand tools. The company’s line includes traditional hand equipment and specialty tools like shingling hammers and double-bit axes.

Estwing also makes an array of other types of tools like saws, folding knives and saw blades, drills, and drill bits etc.

Estwing Hand Tools are known for their durability and reliability, which makes them suitable for outdoor activities such as gardening or construction.

The hand tools are made from steel and aluminum to ensure strength while keeping the weight down. 

The company also uses composite handles to provide a comfortable grip while working with the tool. Estwing offers numerous models of each type of hand tool, so you’re sure to find something for your needs.

11. Klein Tools

Klein is a well-known and respected hand tool manufacturer. The tool brand produces various types of hand tools including woodworking, metalworking, and power tool accessories.

All Klein tools are made in the United States with high quality materials and manufactured to exacting standards.

A popular choice among woodworkers and hobbyists, Klein tools offers a wide range of products designed for specific tasks.

For example, the company sells cutters for cutting paper, plastic and other materials. Other hand tools include sanders, drill bits and chisels. 

Klein tools also makes drills, saws and sanders that you can use along with any other product from the company’s line of power tools.

Lenox is one of the best hand tool brands in the world. They have a wide range of products including hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, saws, and other tools for home repair and garden use.

The most popular Lenox product is the screwdriver set. It includes two-piece screwdrivers that can be used with both Phillips and flathead screws.

These screwdrivers are made from stamped steel and have rubberized grips for easy handling. They come in several colors so you can easily find one that suits your needs.

Lenox also makes a complete line of hammers that are designed to work well in any environment. They come in various sizes so you can choose one that fits your needs perfectly. 

If you need to remove nails in a tight corner, go for a hammer with an adjustable claw. Such tools make it easier to use multiple tools at once without switching to a new tool all the time.

13. Dalluge Tools

Dalluge Tools  specializes in hand tools, power equipment and accessories. They offer a full range of tools for carpenters, framers, cabinetmakers and do-it-yourselfers alike.

Their line includes everything from hammers to chisels to saws.

The company also sells an impressive line of finishing supplies like nail pullers and putty knives. Their most popular product is their wood chisels which come in a variety of sizes including 8 inch, 10 inch and 12 inch models.

They are made out of forged steel with comfortable grips that help keep your hands steady while you work.

14. Wright Tool Co.

Wright Tool Company, Inc. is a manufacturer of different woodworking machines and masonry tools, including wrenches, ratchets, sockets, etc.

They are the largest manufacturer of hand tools in North America, selling to contractors and homeowners worldwide. Wright has been in business since 1927. 

Wright currently sells their products through a network of independent dealerships that serve customers locally or via national distributors for large scale distribution.

Their products are sold at more than 4,000 retail locations across the country including hardware stores, home centers, lumber yards and plumbing supply stores.

15. Kraft Tool Co.

Kraft Tool Co. is a household name in the woodworking industry, and with good reason: they produce a wide range of hand tools that are designed to meet the needs of professional woodworkers and DIYers alike.

They come in all shapes/sizes, from basic hand saws to routers, coping saws, chisels and even jigs.

Their products are made from top-quality materials such as steel, aluminum and titanium for durability and strength.

They also use a variety of finishes to give their tools an attractive appearance without compromising strength or durability.

Their products are sold around the world so you’re sure to get high quality hand tools at an affordable price!

16. Big Gator Tools

Big Gator tools have been around for over 30 years, but they’re still going strong. The brand was founded by two brothers who were making their own tools in their garage.

Today, Big Gator has more than 80 different products and is one of the best hand tool brands on Amazon.

The tool brand offers a wide range of products,  including hammers, saws, nails and screwdrivers. They also have a popular line of pocket knives and multi-tools .

Big Gator will also be expanding their offerings to include more power tools in the future.

17. Chapman Tools

Chapman Tools is a leading manufacturer of hand tools and power tools. Their products are designed to work with each other and offer users multiple options for completing jobs at home or on the job site. 

The company offers an extensive selection of screwdrivers, pliers, hammers and rivet setters in a variety of styles and sizes.

Chapman also offers a wide range of drill bits, wrenches and sockets in popular styles such as Phillips and Pozidriv.

Chapman has over 3,000 products available for purchase on Amazon including everything from glue guns and levelers to flooring tools and drills.

Their prices are competitive too with some items costing less than $50!

18. Grace USA

Grace USA is a leader in the hand tool industry. The brand offers both corded and cordless power tools that are perfect for any job site or home improvement project.

They offer many different types of drill bits including drywall screws and lag bolts, which can help you build anything from cabinets to fences or decks! (Read our article on the best redwood fence sealer to use.)

They also make other types of screwdrivers such as Phillips head screws, flathead screws, hex head screws and more! Grace USA’s also got you covered if you want to buy a set of screwdrivers with every bit size.

19. Loggerhead Tools

Loggerhead Tools focuses on outdoor tools like hammers, axes and saws as well as manual fastening tools like screwdrivers and pliers.

The brand has been around for several years and it offers a wide range of versatile hand tools at affordable prices.

Their gear is designed to last through heavy use, so you don’t have to worry about replacing it every few months or so.

Loggerhead also offers an extensive line of power tools to help you do more projects on your own.

20. Wilde Tool

Wilde is a tool brand based in New Jersey, USA. The company makes some of the best hand tools available today.

Their products feature sharp blades made from heat treated steel that will last long without frequent replacement or sharpening. They also provide custom-made tools to the construction and plumbing industries.

Wilde Tool was founded in 1922 by Otto Froeschl  and Paul Froeschl and has grown to be one of the largest suppliers of professional hand tools to the construction, plumbing and electrical industries.

Wilde also makes automotive specialty tools.

21. Irwin Tools

Irwin Tools is a manufacturer of hand tools, founded in 1885 by Charles Irwin. The company is based in Martinsville, Ohio and is now owned by Stanley Black & Decker.

Irwin offers a range of hand tools including its trademark Vise-Grip locking pliers and other products like clamps, drill bits, screw extractors and bolt removers, snips, etc.

22. Leatherman

Leatherman is a brand of multitools-meaning a single tool built to multitask. The US-made tools are famous for their versatility. A single leatherman multi-tool can include the following and more:

• Knife 
• serrated knife 
• Spring-action scissors/scalloped razor blade (for cutting small things)
• Mini saw 
• Ruler, etc.

Leatherman also makes some other popular products like the Skeletool which includes pliers, wire cutters, crimpers, screwdrivers etc., or the Wave which has scissors, awl prongs and tweezers.

23. Proto Tools

Proto Tools is another popular brand of hand tools. The company was founded in 1933 by Henry S. Proto and his brother, Richard A.

Proto, as an offshoot from their original business selling electrical sockets and sockets for lightbulbs to the public.

In 1948, the company was acquired by Stanley Works (the parent company of Stanley Tools) which still owns it today.

The tool brand makes a range of products including:

• Hand tools – socket wrench sets, screwdrivers, hex keys and more!
• Impact sockets – These are great if you’re working on your car or motorcycle as they allow you to tighten bolts without having to use an air wrench or other special tool that would need access through a small opening near where your socket fits onto its handlebars (like on some bicycles).

Eklind is a US tool manufacturer famous for its professional-grade Hex Keys. The company was founded in 1923, and has grown to be one of the biggest tool suppliers worldwide.  

Eklind is known for its high quality and durable  tools including Screwdrivers, L-Key, T-Key, and Fold up tools with Ball-Hex, Hex, TORX and tamper-proof tips.

Eklind’s commitment to innovation has made them one of America’s most trusted brands.

Their vast array of premium products also includes pocket multipliers – offering multiple functions including screwdriver extensions or hex keys that fit into your pocket or toolbox without taking up space!

25. Council Tool

Council Tool is a US-based manufacturer of hand tools. The firm focuses on American-style striking tools including mauls, sledgehammers, axes, pry bars etc.

This tool brand was founded in 1886 by John Pickett Council.

Council’s impressive collection of products are designed with the utmost care and precision, ensuring that each tool is reliable and of highest quality.

Their axes feature durable materials that can withstand even the toughest of tasks, making them the perfect choice for tough jobs.

26. Vaughn & Bunshell

Vaughn & Bushnell tools are crafted with precision and attention to detail, ensuring superior performance that allows professionals and hobbyists alike to work with confidence.

Their dedication to innovation and cutting-edge design has resulted in a comprehensive range of tools trusted by experts all over the world. 

Vaughn & Bushnell’s commitment to quality extends beyond the tools they manufacture, they provide ongoing support to their customers, offering helpful advice and valuable technical support. 

With a variety of tools to choose from, Vaughn & Bushnell have something for just about any project imaginable. 

27. GearWrench: The Best Wrench Brand

GearWrench is without a doubt one of the best hand tool brands on the market. They have a wide selection of tools from ratchets and sockets to universal joints and screwdrivers but they have the best wrenches in the market.

Their wrenches are designed for both speed and precision, making them a great choice for technical jobs. Plus, the tools’ ergonomic design is easy on hands and wrists, allowing for extended use without feeling the strain. 

GearWrench products are also versatile hence suitable for a variety of projects, from home improvement to professional applications.

28. Amartisan

Highly reliable, incredibly durable, and offering a range of sizes, Amartisan has become a go-to choice for many professionals, hobbyists, and DIY-ers. 

Each tool is designed to provide maximum efficiency and make the job easier. 

The company’s attention to detail and commitment to quality and durable tools has earned them a well-deserved reputation as a leader in the hand tool category. 

Their products are designed to withstand the demands of daily use and provide reliable performance for years to come. With a wide selection of sets and individual tools, Amartisan has something for every job.

29. Stiletto Tools

Stiletto Tools closes our list of the best hand tool brands. It describes its products as powerful, lightweight and easy to use!

The company uses the latest in manufacturing technologies to ensure their tools withstand the toughest of jobs.

Not only is their collection of hammers and screwdrivers robust, but their saws, pliers and wrenches are incredibly reliable and powerful.

Furthermore, they are lightweight and easy to use, making them an excellent choice for all kinds of home improvement projects. 

As an added bonus, the company offers a wide range of accessories so that every tool is tailored to the user’s needs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Hand Tool Brands

When you’re looking for the best hand tool brands, it can be hard to know what to look for. Here the most important things to think of when buying quality tools:

Durability — Hand tools are designed to last a long time and not break easily, but they do wear out over time. To ensure your hand tool lasts as long as you’d like, choose one that is made from high-quality materials and has a durable design.

Ease of Use — A good hand tool should be easy to use and functional. The right balance between the ease of use and practicality will give you the best overall experience.

Versatility — Hand tools can be used for many different purposes, so it’s important that each one offers multiple uses on its own, or in combination with others.

For example, if you want an all-purpose screwdriver set, then you may want one with multiple types of screws included in its set (such as Phillips and flathead). 

Workshop Hand Tool Storage Ideas

It can be difficult to organize and store hand tools in a workshop. There are so many different types of tools, and each has its unique storage requirement.

But with a little bit of thought, you can come up with a system that works for you. Here are a few ideas to try:

1. Group tools by type . This is the simplest way to group different tool classes– it makes it easy to find what you need when you need it.

2. Hang hammers, wrenches and other heavy tools on a pegboard or wall-mounted tool rack. This keeps them off the ground and makes them easy to grab when it’s time to work.

3. Use tool storage units or cabinets to store smaller tools. This keeps them organized and prevents them from getting lost in the clutter.

4. Invest in a tool bag or caddy. This is a clever way to keep your most-used tools close at hand.

Whatever system you choose, make sure that it’s easy to follow and that everything is within reach. That way, you’ll be able to work more efficiently and avoid losing precious time looking for the right tool.

1. Who makes the best hand tools in the world?

Some of the best hand tool brands in the world include Stanley, Craftsman, and Dewalt. These brands offer a variety of hand tools that are designed for different tasks and purposes. Whether you’re looking for a basic hammer or a more specialized tool, these brands are sure to have what you need.

What are the made-in-USA hand hools brands?

There are many brands of hand tools that are made in the USA. Some of the most popular brands include Stanley, DeWalt, and Craftsman hand tools. These brands are known for their quality and durability, and they offer a wide variety of hand tools to meet the needs of any user.

Final Words

When it comes to hand tools, it can be overwhelming to decide which brand to trust with your project.

Hand tools are the foundation for any tool kit– and the quality of the tool often determines the quality of the work.

With that in mind, consider these hand tool brands when shopping for new project equipment, and refer to our website for more woodworking tips and tricks.

What next? Check out our article on “ Best tool for cutting holes in wood ” to discover the most efficient tools for drilling holes.

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15 Best Hand Tool Brands in 2023

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Have you ever shopped for new hand tools online? If so, then you know that there are far, far more brands on the market then there were even 10 years ago. Often, this challenge is made even more intimidating by a lack of knowledge about each brand’s performance in the field.

After all, one brand’s screwdrivers may far outperform their wrenches when it comes to durability and usability. As such, it can be extra important to know which brands excel when it comes to certain tool classes and types.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make that differentiation between some of the best hand tool brands. Herein, you’ll learn about the history and reputation of these brands, as well as which of their products are considered “the best” among working professionals.

9 Best Hand Tool Brands Overall

Let’s first start by looking at what I believe to be the best hand tool brands overall. Later on, I will also look at a couple of different hand tools specifically.

Irwin Industrial Tools is one of several hand tool brands on the market today that fallen out of the public eye. However, back in the 20th century, this brand was well-known for the quality of its flagship tool lines. This includes the iconic “Vise-Grip,” which was invented by one of the company’s early blacksmiths as the first-ever locking pliers .

Starting with its inception, Irwin made all of their tools in the US.

However, since 2008, the brand moved its production overseas to China in order to remain competitive in the current market. Their products’ quality has not seen a noticeable drop since then, though their popularity has continued to wane.

Since 2016, Stanley Black & Decker has owned the Irwin brand. This has led to a slight resurgence in the visibility of their brand. In particular, their bar clamps are still considered the most reliable and sturdy available to consumers today. Beyond regular hand tools, Irwin’s saw blades and drill bits are also go-to options for many craftsmen and contractors.

Irwin tools on Amazon

Stanley is one of America’s oldest hand tools brands, with a history that stretches all the way back to 1843. Though it has officially been a part of the merged Stanley Black & Decker since 2010, this brand retails much of its previous acclaim in the marketplace.

To be specific, Stanley is well known for making almost every type of hand tool imaginable. Levels, wrecking bars, hammers, screwdrivers, cutting tools – you name it and there’s a good chance that Stanley makes it.

In fact, when it comes to certain mainstay tools in today’s toolboxes, Stanley was the first to introduce them into the market. This was certainly true for the locking tape measure, which remains one of the brand’s most popular products.

Stanley, as a brand, hasn’t rested on their laurels, either.

They continue to lead the hand tool market’s trend towards introducing more digital equipment. This can be seen in their digital leveling systems, which are exceptionally accurate and reliable. They’ve also innovated in minute ways as well, such as packing extra durability into their carbide blades.

See how Stanley compares with: Black & Decker | Craftsman | DeWalt | Husky |  Makita

Stanley tools on Amazon

Craftsman may be one of the best-known hand tool brands in the US, not least because they spent decades dominating the market through their primary sales channel. To be specific, Craftsman started as an in-house brand for Sears, making them exceptionally accessible and competitive during the mega-retailer’s heyday.

That being said, Craftsman’s popularity waned with the fortunes of Sears. In fact, the brand itself was sold off to Stanley Black & Decker in 2017. The same can be said of their product’s quality, which has fluctuated often due to the manner in which Sears contracted out the manufacturing of the tools.

At times, they were functionally identical to hand tools made for New Britain, Stanley, and Western Forge, as a result.

Despite all of these variations, the Craftsman brand remains a mainstay in the modern hand tool market. In particular, Craftsman’s numerous toolsets are popular for their affordability, size, and versatility. These sets include everything from wrenches and screwdrivers to drill bits and ratchets.

See how Craftsman compares with: Black & Decker | DeWalt | Husky  |  Kobalt | Makita | Milwaukee | Porter-Cable | Ridgid | Ryobi | Stanley

Craftsman tools on Amazon

In recent years, DeWalt has become better known for its versatile lines of power tools. Even so, they continue to remain a visible part of the hand tool market thanks to the widespread availability and affordability of their tools.

Within its broad catalog of available hand tools, DeWalt’s ratchets, wrenches, hex keys, and mechanic’s toolsets are among their best-reviewed products.

The DeWalt brand dates back almost 100 years to Raymond E. DeWalt who invented the first-ever radial arm saw. The brand grew its name on the fame of these saws over the decades until the 1990s, when they took a turn towards hand and power tools .

This included the release of a contractor’s toolset in 2011 that included pliers, saws, hammers, and more.

Today, the DeWalt brand is a subsidiary of Stanley Black & Decker. Many of their hand tools are labeled as being “made in the USA,” though these tools utilize parts that are made overseas. DeWalt also enjoys exceptional brand recognition, thanks in large part to its availability in both retail and online stores.

See how DeWalt compares with: Black & Decker | Bosch | Craftsman | Dremel | Festool | Hilti | Husky | Kobalt | Makita | Metabo HPT  | Milwaukee | Porter-Cable  | Ridgid | Ryobi | Skil | Stanley | Worx

DeWalt tools on Amazon

Klein Tools

Klein Tools is another longstanding American tool brand with roots back in 1857 when founder and namesake Mathias Klein started creating tools for linemen.

Throughout the rise of telecommunications in the US, the Klein brand grew due to its reputation for creating reliable lineman tools. Though the brand now makes other hand tools including hex wrenches, screwdrivers, and more, these origins still shine through in the company’s logo.

Today, Klein Tools is one of the only brands that can proudly (and accurately) refer to its tools as being “made in the USA.” That’s because many of their tools are made at company-owned plants in Texas and Kansas. The company has also made long-term investments in US-based manufacturing, including expanding some of its plants in the last 10 years.

Given their origins in making lineman tools, it’s no surprise that Klein today makes some of the best insulated tools on the market. Their telecom specialty tools are also second to none. Many craftsmen today rely exclusively on this brand’s strippers, cutters, and clippers as well, thanks to their durability.

Klein tools on Amazon

Snap-On Tools has a storied history among automotive and industrial professionals due to its devotion to making high-end, pro-grade tools.

Its tools are also well-known for their unique form of accessibility, which is to say, they do not sell their products in retail stores. Instead, their dealers travel from shop to shop by van and sell their wares directly to their clients.

This method of sales has earned the brand a lot of loyalty.

Many mechanics and industrial professionals also appreciate the brand’s attention to detail and respect for both its sales team and manufacturing plant employees. Of course, Snap-On’s core products are still the primary reason they are well-respected in the hand tool market.

Among others, its wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers are considered top performers in their class.

When it comes to tools, Milwaukee is best known for its electric power tools.

That being said, the brand still offers a broad assortment of hand tools that are just as reliable as their primary power tool lines. These include an assortment of folding knives optimized for craftsmen and construction contractors. The brand also sells an assortment of socket wrench sets and tape measures that can meet most user’s needs.

As a company and as a brand, Milwaukee dates back to 1918.

In that year, A.H. Petersen accepted a commission from Henry Ford to improve upon existing electric drills used in his factories. Petersen was successful and launched his brand on the back of this success.

Over time, the brand became well-known among craftsmen for their tendency to innovate new electric power tools year after year.

See how Milwaukee compares with: Black & Decker |  Bosch | Craftsman | DeWalt | Dremel | Festool | Hilti | Husky |  Kobalt | Makita | Metabo HPT | Porter-Cable  |  Ridgid | Ryobi

Milwaukee tools on Amazon

Harbor Freight

When it comes to hand tool brands, Harbor Freight is technically a new kid on the block. Started in 1977 as a family-owned business, the brand has grown in popularity for its commitment to providing affordability without sacrificing quality.

It is also among the most widely available hand tool brands today due to their operation of branded stores and a mail-order system.

As far as tools are concerned, Harbor Freight sells most of the general hand tool types that general contractors can count on. This includes lines of durable socket wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, hammers, and more.

However, the brand’s specialty tools, including magnetic hand tools, are particularly popular due to their price compared to premium brands.

Like many major hand tool brands today, Mac Tools saw its fortunes improve with the demand for tools around World War II.

Thereafter, Mac Tools remained a market mainstay by selling direct to consumers via its fleet of sales vans. The brand became recognized for its impressive variety of available tools, which at one point numbered as high as 42,000 items.

Today, Mac Tools offers some 8,000 different tools at competitive prices to other direct-to-consumer brands. In particular, the brand today specializes in making automotive tools and auto-sports tools. Mac Tools’ toolsets are also recognized for their consistency and durability.

2 Best Screwdriver Brands

With the best brands overall out of the way, let’s look at the two brands that stand out when it comes to making exceptional screwdrivers.

As a tool brand, Cremax is not widely known at all. However, they earn a spot as the top screwdriver brand because they offer a very affordable set of magnetic screwdrivers.

Professionals and DIYers alike agree that magnetic is the way to go if you want to take the hassle out of driving screws . As such, their 10-piece magnetic screwdriver sets make this kind of productive luxury accessible to the masses.

However, Cremax screwdrivers appear to only be available online through popular e-retailers. This has the benefit of keeping their products accessible while making it more challenging to find them when stock runs low.

Also, this brand’s warranties and guarantees are not known for being reliable. So, a prospective buyer may need to count on recommendations from other craftsmen to see a purchase of these screwdrivers through.

Cremax tools on Amazon

Channellock

Channellock’s hand tools carry a noteworthy history that began with a line of hand-forged farrier’s tools made by founder George B. DeArmet. Over time, DeArmet’s commitment to making a superior product empowered his company to innovate and create the multi-position, tongue and groove pliers known as the “Channellock” pliers.

Needless to say, these pliers are still very popular today, enough so that almost every major tool brand has created their own variant.

Channellock also makes several other lines of useful hand tools, including an assortment of specialty and Torx screwdrivers. All of these tools are made in the US at the company’s factory in Meadville, PA.

Channellock tools on Amazon

2 Best Wrench Brands

Next, let’s look at the brands that excel in making manual wrenches.

Gearwrench is a fairly recent addition to the wrench market. But despite only entering the market in 1996, the brand has gained recognition as a premier hand tool brand for mechanics.

Their ratcheting wrench, in particular, is known for using a patented five-degree system that provides for user-friendly operation. They offer 20 other styles of socket wrenches besides this as well as over 600 other automotive specialty tools.

See how Gearwrench compares with: Husky

Gearwrench tools on Amazon

If you’ve ever used a “Crescent wrench,” then you are familiar with this brand’s most iconic product.

Even today, Crescent’s adjustable wrenches are considered some of the very best for their durability and versatility. Besides this, Crescent offers some 2,600 other tools to professional tradesmen, including a variety of other specialty wrenches that carry the brand’s durable construction.

Unlike many other historically famous tool brands, Crescent’s share of the market has remained stable over the years. This may be because most agree that their quality has not wavered almost at all. They are also widely available at most big box hardware stores, making them fully accessible to DIYers and professionals alike.

Crescent tools on Amazon

2 Best Hammer Brands

Finally, let’s take a look at the best hammer brands.

Stiletto Tools

You might think that all hammers of the same type are essentially the same. But if that’s the case, then you need to try out one of Stiletto Tools’ hammers.

They utilize an ultra-durable titanium head that is easy to control without losing any heft. These hammers also feature a replaceable hammer plate which allows them to enjoy an extremely long service life.

Stiletto Tools is also known for its production of specialty hammers, such as their drywall hatchet.

All of these hammers are part of this brand’s heritage which dates back to 1901. The brand became widely known for its introduction of titanium into its striking tool line in order to decrease each tool’s rate of recoil. This, they claim, helps reduce wear on the hands and wrists of their tools’ users.

Stiletto tools on Amazon

Vaughn & Bushnell

Though their products are sold under the Vaughn name, the Vaughn & Bushnell brand dates back to 1869. At that time, Alexander Vaughn entered into the custom tool business in Peoria, IL, with a new type of post auger.

Later on, in 1886, the brand expanded its offers to a standardized set of workman tools, which included hammers. These hammers were innovative in their basic design, which included the now-iconic triple-wedge design.

Today, Vaughn & Bushnell continue to make some of the industry’s most trusted striking tools exclusively in the US. In fact, the majority of the company’s products are still made in small-town America, out in rural Bushnell, IL.

V & B tools on Amazon

Which Hand Tool Brand Is the Best?

If you’re looking for a single hand tool brand that can provide you with the best durability, performance, and price, I’ve got news for you…one brand cannot do it all.

While some brands such as Craftsman, DeWalt, and Stanley all have the reputation to back up their quality, their best attribute is their broad selection. Meanwhile, affordable brands like Harbor Fright also offer large sets of tools through a variety of accessible outlets.

When it comes down to it, you should select each type of tool in your toolbox based upon a brand’s performance with that tool.

That’s why screwdriver shoppers should keep an eye on Channellock models rather than settling for standard screwdrivers from a better-known brand. The same goes for hammers, which should always be purchased from a striking tools specialist like Vaughn & Bushnell.

Is It Better to Stick to One Hand Tool Brand?

Simply put, sticking with a single hand tool brand in today’s market simply is not worth the effort.

Back in the day, this made a lot of sense given the accessibility of brands like Snap-On or the warranties carried by brands like Craftsman. But many of those exclusive traits have melted away with time. Now, all you should be focused on is how each individual tool performs in the field.

That’s not to say that brand loyalty should go entirely out the window.

Indeed, buying tools from the same brand can set you up for a quick understanding of their performance. But still, you should only stick with a brand if you are fully satisfied with its performance compared to its competition. This is especially true of specialty tools that your specific trade calls for.

It’s hard to believe that there are this many hand tool brands on the market today. But there are, so you have to be able to tell the difference between them when shopping for new hand tools.

With the information in this guide, you should now be able to shop like a savvy craftsman and find a hand tool brand that matches your needs and your budget.

If you are also in the process of looking for power tools, make sure you check out what I think are the best power tool brands you can go with. Same with the best pneumatic tool brands .

Best monitors for home working of 2024

Working from home? A single screen might not be enough

Some companies provide laptop computers to employees because they are smaller and portable. As more people work from home , many are using their work laptops at home or even their own personal laptops. Either way, they have started noticing the limitations of working all day on a small screen (most range in size from 13 to 15 inches).

The ergonomics of bending over and looking at a laptop all day can lead to neck and back problems, while laptop users also lose screen real estate compared to desktop users.

There’s good news: most modern laptops, and other work from home laptops can connect to an external monitor. An external monitor connected to your laptop will improve your ergonomics and productivity. Thanks to its larger screen size, you will see better, and thanks to its stand or monitor arm if you add one, desktop monitors are easier on the eyes and help you maintain a healthy posture while working.

How to use an external monitor with your laptop

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

You can choose your external monitor as your laptop's only display or make it a dual display configuration.  When you plug an external monitor into your laptop, it functions in mirror mode, displaying the same image on both screens. With a larger screen and a higher resolution, you can view more information at once. 

However, you can be most productive by using two screens simultaneously and extending your desktop to two displays. This lets you run two full-screen apps at the same time. This way, the second external screen will let you organize your program windows and work more smoothly.  

Whether you have a single application running expanded to fill the two screens or two full-screen applications (one on each display), the productivity gains are significant: you won't have to scroll to find information, and you won't have to switch between applications. Using two monitors is also ideal if you want to edit a document in a word processor or spreadsheet while looking up information in another app, such as a web browser , email client , or PDF reader .

You should keep the monitor and laptop at the same height when using this dual-screen scenario. The Scribbler recommends using a laptop stand that tilts the laptop’s keyboard at 45 degrees. Once you get used to an external monitor with your laptop, you'll never want to return to a single display.

We've also featured the best business monitors .

The best monitors for home working of 2024 in full:

1. Dell UltraSharp U2518D monitor

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Dell 's 25-inch monitor features a quality 2K QHD IPS panel and is a good choice for a home office desk that complements your laptop's built-in display. 

The screen's panel is bright enough for most types of work, handles reflections well, and has great colors right out of the box. It has great ergonomics, allowing you to adjust its tilt, height, swivel, and 90-degree pivot to work in portrait mode. It also has VESA mount holes if you want to attach them to a wall mount or desk arm .

The panel supports 10-bit input and has an excellent SDR color gamut. But SDR is only available when connected via HDMI. sRGB color space rendering is excellent, but Adobe sRGB coverage isn't optimal, so graphic designers, particularly those working with print media, should look at other options. 

The Dell U2518D acts as a USB 3.0 hub with one input and four downstream USB 3.0 ports, two of which are specifically marked because they provide up to 2AMPs of power for fast charging your tablet or smartphone . Dell's trademark hole on the stand also allows for easy cable management. Moreover, the hub continues to work even when the monitor isn't on, so you'll be able to use USB flash drives or a webcam for surveillance plugged into its hub even without the monitor.

There is also a DisplayPort in and a DisplayPort out, which allows you to daisy chain two monitors while using only one DisplayPort cable for your laptop.

The default monitor settings look great, and you can fine-tune them easily using the On Screen Display menu with the four buttons at the bottom. One of the provided presets, "ComfortView," provides low blue light to ease eyesight during long work hours.

Although more advanced monitors are available, this Dell model is a better option for most home workers looking for the balance between price and features. The fact that Dell offers a three-year warranty is just the cherry on top.        

2. Dell P3222QE 32” 4K Hub Monitor

Our expert review:

You need as much flexibility as possible if your home is suddenly your new office. With this model, Dell offers a "docking" monitor, which means it has various connectivity options, including USB-C, to simplify connections and boost productivity. Dell designed it to be your connectivity hub, so you can leave your mouse, trackball, webcam(s), keyboard, and USB sticks all plugged into the monitor and only have to plug a single cable into your laptop. 

On top of this and its big size, it features a gorgeous 31.5-inch 4K IPS display which means you can see more and do more. With a 4K resolution, you will no longer have to squint to see data in big spreadsheets or complex software apps. 

It delivers these superb specs with modern aesthetics: a matte black chassis and a silver metal stand. A single joystick operates the OSD menus to calibrate or switch display modes. With the stand, you can adjust the display height, tilt, swivel and pivot, and rotate to portrait mode. You can also use the VESA holes (100x100) at the back of the monitor to attach it to a monitor arm or wall mount if you don't want to be limited by the stand.

You have three video input options: DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, and DP Alt mode on USB-C, so you can charge your laptop with the same cord you use for video. Furthermore, it has four USB 3.0 ports and an RJ45 network port, removing the burden from your laptop and routing all the fixed cabling, including high-speed Gigabit Ethernet networking, to the monitor. 

It is worth noting that Dell has made speakers optional. The company’s optional Dell mini soundbar is magnetically attached below the bottom bezel. There is also no headphone jack on this model, so you'll have to use Bluetooth- connected speakers or headphones if you don't want to purchase Dell's SB521A Slim Soundbar.

Read our full Dell P3222QE USB-C Hub Monitor review .

3. Dell S2722DZ 27” (QHD) Video Conferencing Monitor

Working from home has meant that in-person meetings have been replaced by video conferencing. For better or worse, we all got used to seeing coworkers with low-quality webcams, bad lighting, poor microphones, or odd webcam placement that leads to some hilarious image angles and the subsequent adjusting and tweaking until things look "right." Those webcam issues interfere with fluid communication. 

Home-based work also leads to back and neck problems due to small laptop screens and poor posture. Many home workers opt to buy an external monitor for their laptops for this reason. Dell has decided to resolve the problem of the home worker with a silver bullet: the S2722DZ, which combines an excellent screen for home working with a great webcam. 

Because of the IPS panel, the display delivers bright colors that cover 99% of the Adobe sRGB color gamut, making it suitable for even graphics professionals. With 350 nits of brightness, a 1,000:1 contrast ratio, and a refresh rate that can reach 75Hz, it promises to be a reasonably bright and convenient display. 

Nevertheless, what sets it apart from the competition is the handy 5MP IR pop-up camera with wide viewing angles and noise-canceling microphones integrated into the device. Using the camera, you will be able to show off your best side on your video call and sound good thanks to its quality microphone. Moreover, you will be able to hear your partners well, as it has a pair of 5-watt speakers.

Using the connectors on the back of the monitor, you can connect this monitor via DisplayPort, USB-C (alt DP mode), or HDMI. The USB-C port can deliver up to 65W of power to charge a laptop, which is a considerable amount of power. There are two 5Gbps USB 3.2 downstream ports on the unit, one at the back and another on the left underside, making it easy to access.

Read our full Dell 27 Video Conferencing Monitor (S2722DZ) review .

4. ASUS ProArt Display PA279CV monitor

An ultra-high definition (UHD) 4K monitor will elevate your home office productivity. Creative professionals have heard their wishes as ASUS offers an array of ProArt Displays that produce stunning graphics with varying degrees of color accuracy. Among the many ProArt monitors, we'll refer to this one by its model number, PA279CV.

As an upgrade to the PA278CV, its 2K QHD predecessor, this monitor offers 4K resolution. Content creators can get sharp images and accurate colors thanks to its perfect coverage of sRGB color space. You can choose from twelve preset display modes in addition to manual adjustments using the buttons on the bottom of the display.

Thanks to its wide color gamut and higher information density, it is ideal for home workers editing photos or videos or using productivity apps. The large display makes it easier to work without moving between windows. As it is flicker-free and has low blue light filters, you can work long hours in front of it without harming your eyes, two aspects that are typically lacking in cheaper monitors.

Along with thin bezels and a simple design with metallic finish plastic, its stand has a clip on the back for cable management. With its matte anti-reflective coating, this monitor delivers vibrant colors with 100% of the sRGB color space, which is excellent for most work purposes.

In terms of connectivity, it doesn't disappoint either: you can connect it to your computer through three different methods: USB-C (DP alt mode), DisplayPort, or HDMI. There are also four USB 3.1 type-A downstream ports, so you can connect USB flash drives, webcams, keyboards, mice, or trackballs directly to the monitor, leaving just one cord attached to your laptop or PC. With support for USB-C power delivery, the monitor can deliver up to 65W of power to charge your laptop over the same cable used to transmit video.

5. UPerfect True4K portable monitor

You may not have as much space as you would like when you work from home. Sometimes, your laptop may take up a large portion of your desk, and you just need a secondary monitor that won't permanently encroach on your workspace. After you are finished working on it, perhaps you would like to let the kids watch a movie on it. Portable monitors like this make it possible for you to do these things. 

Our only caveat is that we hadn’t heard of this firm before. However, the vast number of five-star reviews on Amazon by hundreds of reviewers and positive comments by the picky Mac community convinced us that this wasn't a fly-by-night operation. The brand names like ASUS, still offering only Full HD options, are still behind in this market segment.

Featuring a 15.6-inch IPS panel enclosed in an aluminum chassis, this UPerfect 4K monitor delivers stunning images at UHD resolution. The PU leather cover case doubles as a stand when folded away. With its panel, you get a 100% sRGB color gamut, 400 nits of brightness, a 60Hz refresh rate, and an ample viewing angle of 178 degrees. With its Low Blue Light mode, you don't have to worry about damaging your eyes. 

Additionally, it has a headphone jack and speakers. Furthermore, this monitor can be wall mounted using a VESA mount.

6. HP 24mh 24” 1080P monitor

Do not despair if your wallet is thin and your budget is tight. You can still get an external monitor to improve your home working conditions. With this HP 24MH monitor, you will have just the right size. It is larger than your laptop's screen, but it isn't too big that it will take up your entire desk or work surface.  

Aside from its strong design, it also has a slim panel with practically no bezels around the screen, making it attractive. The display's 178° horizontal and vertical viewing angles provide crisp and clear images, and its refresh rate can go up to 75Hz, compared to the Windows default of 60Hz. Make sure you go into Windows display settings and change the refresh rate from 60 to 75Hz.

In addition to the DisplayPort and HDMI inputs, users with limited funds will be pleased to know that it also features an old VGA input that those with very old PCs can connect to.

A 90-degree rotating screen, adjustable height, and swiveling base are just features that set this monitor apart from others in its price range.  Switching to its Low Blue Light mode will put less strain on your eyes as the colors shift in a warmer spectrum with more natural whites. You will find its speaker to be of modest power, but that does not hurt it in any way. 

We've also featured the best ultrawide monitor .

What you need to know about configuring your external monitor

Once you have plugged in an external monitor, here’s what you need to do to extend your desktop with an external monitor properly:

How to configure your external monitor on Windows:  

Right-click on the desktop, choose “Display Settings,” then scroll down to "Multiple Displays" and select "Extend desktop"

You can arrange your monitor location relative to your laptop by moving the boxes on that screen. Once you have finished this configuration, you can move your mouse cursor between monitors, and your workspace will effectively be doubled. Now you can enjoy running your web browser full screen and your productivity apps or video calls on the other.

How to configure your external monitor on a Mac:

Go to System Preferences and select Displays, then click on the Arrangement tab. You have to uncheck “Mirror Displays” there. You can then arrange the screen location relative to your Mac's screen. 

How to choose a monitor for home working

When choosing a monitor, the first obvious hurdle is price, how much to spend on it, and if the price you’re paying offsets the benefits you’ll get. The second issue to consider is connectivity; ideally, you want a monitor that matches your laptop's outputs: USB-C, Thunderbolt, HDMI, or DisplayPort. If your laptop is old, maybe it has a VGA output. In that case, you´ll probably need an inexpensive HDMI adapter or, better yet, a USB external graphics adapter with modern outputs. 

Past these basic decision points, the hurdles multiply: you must consider the resolution and color accuracy if you are a creative professional, and finally, display size according to your work needs and also the available desk and room space. 

If you do frequent video calls (Zoom, Google Meet, Jitsi Meet, Skype, etc), you’ll need to decide if you’re going to use your main laptop screen and webcam for them or instead get a secondary monitor with a better webcam built-in and use that for your video calls. All these choices will steer your selection toward the monitor that best suits your needs. 

Size : There are no limitations to what you choose, but setting up an improvised workspace at home can limit how big you can realistically go. A 24-inch monitor is a good starting point for limited desk spaces; you can place it almost anywhere. For those with a dedicated home office space, a 27-inch or a 32-inch might be workable, or you can even go up to a 34-inch ultrawide for the ultimate home office.

Resolution : If you choose to keep your laptop as your main work display, sometimes a secondary 1080P Full-HD display for video conferencing is a game changer and all you need to improve your workflow without breaking the bank. Full HD monitors are inexpensive these days, so cheap that getting two is no longer a luxury. You can find retailers selling them in packs of two, as 1080P is no longer state-of-the-art technology.

However, if your work requires high information density, like spreadsheets or specialized software with complex user interfaces, 2K, also known as QuadHD, is a good intermediate step before going UHD. Creative professionals that need crisp text and a high DPI display will be better served by going straight to a 4K monitor.

Connectivity : All the digital connections, such as HDMI, DisplayPort (DP), and USB-C / Thunderbolt, will give you a stable picture. You only get limited resolutions, bulky cables, and noisy outputs if your laptop has an analog VGA connector. Adapters between HDMI, DP, DVI, and USB-C are inexpensive and plug-and-play. However, it’s better to stick to what your computer provides. If your computer has a DP output, go for a monitor with a DP input. Likewise, with USB-C and HDMI.  

How we tested the best monitors for home working

We review monitors based on a number of factors including price, design, and performance. We consider the size of each display, along with panel type, resolution, refresh rate, color coverage and HDR support. We also consider connectivity, including HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C and wireless interfaces. 

Pixel density and color accuracy are particularly important for digital design monitors, but so are ergonomics, so we assess stand adjustability and stability. Finally, build quality and value for money are judged against competitors in the market.

Read more on how we test, rate, and review products on TechRadar .

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Former TechRadar Pro B2B Hardware Editor, Collin has been in journalism for years, with experience in small and large markets, including Gearadical, DailyBeast, FutureNet, and more.

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The best office chairs 2024 tested and rated

These are the best office chairs for getting work done comfortably

• Best overall
• Best budget
• Best premium
• Best ergonomics
• Best for back pain
• Best for gaming
• Best for long hours
• Best for home office

Office chairs compared

• How to choose
• How we test

More home office picks

Office chair deals.

The list in brief 1. Best overall 2. Best on a budget 3. Best premium 4. Best for ergonomics 5. Best for back pain 6. Best for gaming 7. Best for long hours 8. Best for home office 9. Best for mesh How to choose How we test

I’ve been using one of the best office chairs for years now and it’s made a huge difference in my work life. During the day, I often sit for long periods of time and a good office chair makes it so much more comfortable plus, my back and shoulders have all the extra support they need.

Based on my extensive testing, the best office chair overall is the Branch Verve Chair . I really like how its 3D knit backrest helps it stand out (in a good way) but it also allows for better airflow. The Branch Verve Chair also has an adjustable lumbar rest, a contoured seat and backrest and its casters are perfect for my hardwood floors. If you’re on a tight budget though, I strongly recommend the Flash Furniture Mid-Back Office Chair which is frequently on sale for just over $100.

Below, I’ve put together several recommendations for all types of use cases, including my favorite ergonomic option, the best office chair for back pain, my top pick for gaming and more. These are the best office chairs you can buy right now that I personally recommend.

The quick list

Best office chair overall

The Branch Verve Chair is as comfortable to sit in as it is beautiful to look out. The 3D-knit mesh back not only keeps you cool but it also wraps around you while you're sitting in the chair. In addition to this gorgeous coral color, the Verve chair is also available in black, white, light green and light blue.

Read more below

Best budget office chair

The Flash Furniture Mid-Back Office Chair shows you can still get a chair with a unique design without spending a lot. This budget office chair has a mesh back and is available in yellow, red, orange, black, white and gray. It lacks the adjustability of other chairs but still looks great.

Best premium office chair

The Herman Miller Aeron is the best office chair if you can afford it. It's extremely comfortable with an iconic design. The Aeron is made entirely of mesh to keep you cool and you can adjust just about everything about it.

Best office chair for ergonomics

The Steelcase Karman is an extremely comfortable and light office chair. It uses a proprietary textile called Intermix instead of mesh that can respond to your body's movements. The Steelcase Karman is also available in a wide variety of color combinations.

Best office chair for back pain The SIHOO Doro S300 sports a futuristic look and a dual dynamic lumbar support which is also adjustable. Its mesh is made from a combination of Italian velvet and DuPont TPEE and has great elasticity. The Doro S300 is available in either white or black.

Best office chair for gaming The Razer Fujin Pro is a gaming chair that doubles as an office chair thanks to its sleek, all-black design. This premium chair has a mesh backrest and seat pan as well as an aluminum alloy frame. It's only available in black but offers plenty of adjustment options. If it's too expensive for your budget, you can always pick up the standard Razer Fujin instead.

Load the next 3 products...

Best office chair for long hours

The X-Chair X2 K-Sport Management Chair is a full mesh office chair that comes at a premium price. Its a durable and well designed chair with a lumbar support that reacts to your movement. There are also some great optional accessories like a heat and massage unit.

Best office chair for home office

The Branch Ergonomic Chair is an attractive office chair that's still very affordable. It has an adjustable lumbar support as well as a mesh back to keep you cool. Unlike other chairs that are all one color, the Branch Ergonomic Chair has a white frame and a silver base for a unique look

Best office chair for mesh

The OdinLake Ergo Butterfly 753 is a premium mesh office chair with a unique design and plenty of features. It's only available in black but it does come with a built-in headrest. The back bar at the top of the lumbar rest makes the chair easy to move and it's also perfect for hanging up your jacket.

Anthony Spadafora has been working from home exclusively for the past six years (two full-time with Tom's Guide) and during that time, he's tested work from home accessories, standing desks and of course, office chairs. In fact, he has reviewed more than a dozen office chairs from full mesh chairs to task chairs to ergonomic chairs. Anthony can tell you how comfortable a particular chair is to sit in for long hours at a time as well as what goes into putting it together.

The best office chairs you can buy today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

The best office chair overall

1. branch verve chair.

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

As the follow-up to the Branch Ergonomic Chair, the Branch Verve Chair immediately sets itself apart from the competition thanks to its unique design which won an iF Design Award in 2022. Instead of a mesh back, it has a 3D-knit backrest that's extremely comfortable while also being breathable. Besides the Coral color seen here, the Branch Verve Chair is available in black and white as well as light green and light blue.

Besides being pleasing to look at when pushed in at my desk, the chair's V-shaped suspended back also houses its adjustable lumbar rest. Likewise, its inward curving arms help the Branch Verve Chair stand out (in a good way) and I love how the base of the chair is the same color as its seat and backrest.

I found the Branch Verve Chair to be quite comfortable during testing and was impressed by how my body sunk into the chair. At the same time, its nylon casters also made a big difference and were much smoother when rolling around on my hardwood floors. The Branch Verve Chair features six points of adjustment and it felt really good leaning back in the chair while taking short breaks throughout my workday.

Read our full Branch Verve Chair review .

The best budget office chair

2. flash furniture mid-back office chair.

One reason I liked the Flash Furniture Mid-Back office chair is that, in a sea of black and gray office chairs, it stood out with its bold blue and white color scheme (it's also available in gray, yellow, red, orange, white, and yes, black). 

The price of this chair varies based on the color you choose as well as the style — you can opt for a mid-back, high back, and drafting chair — but ranges from around $120 to $210, making it a very affordable model if you're on a budget. 

However, as with most budget office chairs, the Flash Furniture model isn't very adjustable, you can raise and lower the seat and adjust the tilt tension, but that's it. Still, I found it pretty comfortable when sitting for long periods of time. And, when I was ready to head home for the day, the chair's arms fold up, so that I could tuck it under my desk more easily. If you're looking for a cheap office chair that looks good, this is definitely a model to consider.

Read our full Flash Furniture Mid-Back office chair review .

The best premium office chair

3. herman miller aeron.

The Herman Miller Aeron chair may be the symbol of dot-com excess, but there's a good reason for that: It is damn comfortable. I could adjust everything on this top-tier chair, including more esoteric things, like the tension of eight zones of the fabric (including the important lumbar support) and the tilt and angle of the armrests. It also supports working in two profiles: one for when you are leaning forward and another for when you are leaning back and reclining. 

The mesh bottom and back of the Aeron also allowed for plenty of airflow, which was welcome on warm days when my air conditioning wasn't working as well as it should have. However, this came with a little tradeoff, as I didn't think the Aeron offered as much support as the Steelcase Leap , which has a firmer fabric bottom and back. 

Check out our comparison of the Herman Miller Embody vs Aeron if you've having a hard time deciding which is best for you.

It's perhaps no surprise that all of this comes at a price, as the Aeron starts at more than $1,000. My advice is to look for sales of office furniture as companies clear out their buildings of unwanted items. You're bound to find an Aeron for a lot less used. 

Read our full Herman Miller Aeron chair review .

The best office chair for ergonomics

5. steelcase karman.

The Steelcase Karman goes beyond a traditional mesh chair thanks to the company's proprietary Intermix textile. This office chair is available in a number of different colors and even color combinations since it's created using a weaving process where yarns and other filaments are injected into the weave. 

The Steelcase Karman is also exceptionally light at just 29 pounds and unlike every office chair I have reviewed so far, it comes fully assembled. Under the chair's seat, there's a weight-activated mechanism that when combined with Intermix, literally wrapped around my body and supported me, regardless of which angle I was sitting at. 

The Steelcase Karman may lack a dedicated lumbar support but in my own testing, I found I didn't need one due to how the chair responded to my body's movements throughout the day. This level of comfort and engineering doesn't come cheap though but Steelcase does back up the Karman with a 12-year warranty.

Read our full Steelcase Karman review .

The best office chair for back pain

4. sihoo doro s300.

The SIHOO Doro S300 offers some big improvements over the SIHOO Doro C300 which we also reviewed. These include its dual dynamic lumbar support, its anti-gravity mechanism and its mesh which is made from a woven combination of Italian velvet and DuPont TPEE.

This premium-looking office chair is available in either white or black but there aren't any other add-ons or upgrades you need to worry about. It is more expensive than the C300 at $799 but if you're on a tighter budget, there's also the SIHOO Doro S100 to consider which features a very similar design albeit with less premium materials.

During our testing, we were very impressed with its futuristic design, how its mesh kept us cool while working and the way in which the dual dynamic lumbar support cradled our back. The armrests do leave a bit to be desired though and we found they moved a bit too easily for our liking. Also, the Doro S300's recline is limited to three positions. Still though, this office chair will be a huge help for those with back problems and it offers plenty of adjustability.

Read our full SIHOO Doro S300 review .

The office chair for gaming

5. razer fujin pro.

The Razer Fujin Pro is as much an office chair as it is one of the best gaming chairs . Unlike other gaming chairs with flashy designs, Razer went with a sleek, all-black look for its latest chair. The Fujin Pro also features a mesh backrest and seat pan to keep you cool while working or gaming along with a sturdy, aluminum alloy frame.

If the Razer Fujin Pro is a bit out of your price range at $1049, you can get the standard Razer Fujin for $649, though it lacks the aluminum alloy frame and mesh headrest available with the pro model. Another thing I really like about this office chair is that there aren't any add-ons or extra costs to consider at checkout.

In our testing, we found the Razer Fujin Pro to be very easy to assemble and to adjust. The adjustable lumbar support dwarfs those you'd find on other gaming chairs and the padding on its armrests is extremely comfortable too. The seat pan can be moved forward or backward as well for taller people.

The Razer Fujin Pro does double duty as a gaming and office chair and unlike other gaming chairs, you won't be embarrassed to be seen sitting in this one during video calls or even at the office.

Read our full Razer Fujin Pro review .

The best office chair for long hours

7. x-chair x2 k-sport management chair.

When I sat in the X-Chair X2 and turned on its optional heating and massage pad, it transported me back to the days when I would go to the mall and relax in the massage chairs at Brookstone. 

Nostalgia aside, the X2 Chair is a very slick and very comfortable office chair. Both the seat back and bottom are mesh, which provides plenty of breathability, and the chair has a ton of adjustment points, so you can get it to fit you just right. The one downside is that it took me a good while to get everything just the way I wanted it. 

I also loved the look of the X2; it's not quite as flashy as a gaming chair, but it's not as subdued as one of the thousands of generic office chairs you can find online. It's also sturdily built: part of the frame and the base are made out of metal, which has a shiny chrome finish

At around $900, the X2 is not cheap; it's about the same as you'll pay for a Herman Miller Aeron. But, it's a chair that will definitely keep you comfortable — especially if you buy the massage pad.

Read our full X-Chair X2 review .

The best office chair for home office

8. branch ergonomic chair.

While sleeker than most other office chairs, there's nothing overly flashy about the Branch Ergonomic Chair, and maybe that's a good thing. Once I settled into this $300 office chair, I largely forgot about it as I sat on it while working from home. But isn't that the point of any good office chair?

The Branch Ergonomic Chair has seven adjustment points (the height and width of the armrests, as well as how far forward you want them, seat height, backrest angle, lumbar support, and position of the seat relative to the backrest). That's not as many as you'll find on more expensive models, but it's more than enough for a $300 chair like this one from Branch Furniture. Just as important: all of these adjustment points were easy to change. There's nothing worse than struggling to get a chair to fit just right. 

My only real critique of the Branch chair — if you can call it that — is that its padded seat didn't feel as comfortable as mesh seats on pricier chairs, and is not as breathable. But all in all, this chair delivers excellent value.  

Read our full Branch Ergonomic Chair review

9. OdinLake Ergo Butterfly 753

The OdinLake Ergo Butterfly 753 is an ergonomic mesh office chair that stands out thanks to its innovative and one-of-a-kind design. Its butterfly split backrest makes it immediately recognizable while the back bar above it makes it easy to pull out and push into your desk. Plus, you can use the back bar as a coat hanger and the headrest comes standard.

To help you find the right fit for you, the OdinLake Ergo Butterfly 753 features eight adjustment points.  The backrest has five levels of up and down adjustment while its seat can be moved either forward or backward 2-inches. Likewise, you can raise or lower the chair's height with a simple pinch of the right armrest or lock in its 90-135 degree tilt at any angle by pinching the left armrest. Surprisingly, many of these tweaks are handled by the OdinLake Ergo Butterfly 753's bicycle brake line-inspired adjustment system which I've yet to see on any other office chair so far.

At just under $1000, the OdinLake Ergo Butterfly 753 is a premium office chair that's more of an investment than a simple upgrade. However, since it's backed by a 15-year warranty, this is an ergonomic mesh office chair that you'll be able to use for years to come.

Read our full OdinLake Ergo Butterfly 753 review .

How long should you sit?

Even if you have the best office chair in the world, it's unhealthy to remain seated for hours on end. A number of studies have found that sitting for prolonged periods can have negative effects on your body, such as higher rates of heart disease, obesity, and cancer. 

To that end, a number of experts recommend you stand up every so often. The Mayo Clinic , for example, suggests that you stand up every 30 minutes, or invest in one of the best standing desks , as well as one of the best under-desk treadmills . Either way, get up and stretch your muscles. One strategy I use myself is to set a timer; some of the best smartwatches , such as the Apple Watch , will automatically remind you to move if you've been sedentary for too long. Also be sure to check out our guide on the best exercises if you sit all day .  

How to choose the best office chair for you

When it comes to picking out the best office chair for your needs, there are several factors that come into play which we go into further detail below:

Office chairs range widely in price, from less than $100 up to $2,000. Ultimately, you should purchase an office chair that best fits with your budget. There are two main differences between budget office chairs and more expensive models. The first is materials: Less expensive chairs will often be made with cheaper materials, and may not have as big an emphasis on design. More expensive chairs will be more fashion-forward, and will be made from more premium materials, and may even provide you more options for customization.

The second difference between low- and high-priced office chairs is adjustability. Less expensive chairs can't be adjusted as much as more expensive chairs. For instance, an office chair that costs around $100 may only let you adjust its height. As you go up in price, office chairs will have more things you can adjust, such as their arms, lumbar support, seat position, and more. 

However, if you see a chair that you like that's a little out of your price range, it's worth doing some digging to see if you can find a previously owned model for less. A lot of companies were forced to close or downsize their offices over the past few years which has resulted in a lot of office equipment being sold for pennies on the dollar.

Comfort Comfort is pretty easy to understand: A comfortable chair should offer a seat that is yielding but that also provides some level of firmness. It should also wick moisture so you don't get sweaty on warm days. Seats and backs made of mesh tend to fare the best in this regard.

The seat should be wide enough that people of larger stature can sit comfortably on it and not feel like they are squeezing into a kids' chair. 

The armrests should be contoured for the elbow and upper arm to lean comfortably on and be made of fabric or softer material that won't jar the elbow when you bump into it. 

Lumbar support

Another critical feature is lumbar support. This piece of an office chair helps you maintain the curve of your lower back, so that you don't strain yourself by sitting for long periods (not that you should). Like other parts of an office chair, this should be adjustable so that you can move it up or down, or increase or decrease the amount it pushes out. I have also seeing some newer chairs like the Sihoo Doro-C300 incorporate lumbar support mechanisms that automatically adjust their lumbar support based on how you're sitting in them.

What an office chair is made of can also have a big impact on your comfort. For the most part, office chairs are covered in some sort of fabric, with padding beneath. However, some have either a mesh back or seat, which can help with airflow, and keep you cooler throughout the day. And, if you want to make a statement, there's nothing like a leather chair. 

But the materials go beyond the seat itself; pricier chairs will often use more metal parts in the base and elsewhere, whereas less expensive models will have more plastic parts. 

Adjustability 

Adjustability is the other major factor. The best office chairs should allow you to tweak pretty much everything, including the following:

• Seat height
• Armrest height
• Armrest width
• Armrest angle
• Backrest angle
• Backrest height

That's important because every person is different; getting a chair that allows you to adjust all of these things lets you configure it to your unique body shape. Generally, the more expensive the chair, the more things you'll be able to adjust. Chairs that cost less than $100 will usually only let you change their height. 

How we test the best office chairs

In order to test the best office chairs to review them and see how well they stack up against one another, I spend a few weeks sitting in each one. During this time, I see how well each office chair supports my back, shoulders and arms and determine their comfort level. In addition to comfort, I also take a close look at how easy each chair is to adjust and whether or not the changes I make to a chair stay that way.

While I review many of these office chairs on my own from the comfort of my home, I also have family and friends of different weights and heights test them out too. This gives me a better idea of how well each chair will work with different body types and I can gauge someone else’s reaction to sitting in them for the first time. For the chairs that other members of the team at Tom’s Guide review, they do something similar when working remotely but if they’re in the office, other co-workers come and try out each chair.

During our testing process, I also take note of each chair’s design, appearance and how customizable they are. Likewise, I inspect their materials and parts and see how well they hold up over time. Since few people build furniture as often as I do, I take a lot of notes while putting each chair together to see how easy or difficult it might be for someone with less experience to build one. I assemble every office chair on my own but I point out in my reviews where having someone else to help during the assembly process can make it easier or speed things up. 

Finally, I take into account the overall cost of a chair, the length and fine details of its warranty and how it compares to competing chairs in the same price range. For more information on our testing process, check out our how we test page for Tom’s guide.

You'll need more than one of the best office chairs to fully outfit your work-from-home space. You'll also want to check out our guide to the best standing desks , as well as the best desk lamps to ensure that you can work comfortably without straining your eyes or your back. 

You'll also want to invest in one of the best webcams , best microphones , and best ring lights if you want to look and sound your best on video calls with coworkers. 

And, to make sure your computer setup is as productive as possible, we have recommendations for the best Wi-Fi routers , best monitors , best keyboard , and best mouse . 

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Anthony Spadafora is the security and networking editor at Tom’s Guide where he covers everything from data breaches and ransomware gangs to password managers and the best way to cover your whole home or business with Wi-Fi. Before joining the team, he wrote for ITProPortal while living in Korea and later for TechRadar Pro after moving back to the US. Based in Houston, Texas, when he’s not writing Anthony can be found tinkering with PCs and game consoles, managing cables and upgrading his smart home. 

• Mike Prospero U.S. Editor-in-Chief, Tom's Guide

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Home » Guides » General » 9 Unique Tool Brands For Serious Woodworkers

Woodworking Tips & Guides

9 Unique Tool Brands For Serious Woodworkers

By Eric Trion

Makita vs. Dewalt. Milwaukee vs. Festool. Woodworkers are used to comparing tool brands to decide what their next tools should be. But what most woodworkers miss is the unique tool brands that make woodworking faster, easier and improve quality.

For example, FastCap has a glue bottle that takes the hard squeeze out of that Titebond bottle your stressed hand is used to gripping.

Or, Powertec has a huge line of high quality tools at a much discounted price vs. large (marketing heavy) brands. 

Learn what tool brands you should be shopping in this article.

• No products found. for mess-free gluing
• Kreg 720PRO   is the ultimate pocket hole jig system for woodworking
• Woodpeckers DelVe Square   for precision woodworking tasks

Page Contents

1. Kreg Tools - The "Blue Brand"

Company history.

Starting with simple cabinetry joints, Kreg has grown since 1989 to be one of the top brands in woodworking tools.

With a careful eye to keeping products affordable for, well, home woodworkers to professionals they always have a jig or solution in budget. 

And while they specialize in hand tools in their infamous blue color they have recenly started venturing into power tools.

Top Tools From Kreg Tools

• Pocket hole jigs:  Kreg started and first filed a patent on the pocket hole craze so it’s only fair to make this the first on the list.
• Drawer slide jigs: for making sure your expensive drawer slides are perfectly installed the first time.
• Adaptive cutting system: similar to a track saw, this power tool solution is portable, quickly clamps and adjusts for reducing plywood sheets to size.
• Plans: with integrating their products in mind, Kreg offers up plans for building a variety of projects. Including your next bench.

Our Pick: Kreg 720PRO

Shown: Kreg 720PRO Pocket Jig  

With the company built around this jig its only fair to make it a highlight.

And for many woodworkers this jig has launched them into every project from cabinetmaking to furniture. Since a pocket hole jig is fast, easy to use and affordable it is a must for every workbench.

2. FastCap Tools

Founded in 1997 by a cabinetmaker turned inventor, FastCap is aptly named after the stickers the founder invented to cover screw heads in cabinets.

From there the company has exploded and continues to innovate through ideas from, well, woodworkers.

Unique Tools From FastCap

• Cabinet jacks: to hold upper cabinets in place during installation.
• Glue bottle:  GlueBot that doesn’t drip and can apply glue in both a horizontal and vertical position. Yep – vertical.
• Track saws: rip guide that pairs with your track saw system to quickly setup measurements on both sides of your track.
• Organization: Kaizen foam that can be custom fit to storage drawers to make a perfectly organized shell for your tools. 
• Safety tools: like the innovative $10 million dollar stick for holding wood pieces on the miter saw
• Adhesives: CA glue with activator for filling micro craks to large dents.

Our Pick: FastCap GluBot

No products found.

Shown: No products found.

Every woodworker could use a better glue bottle. With the standard Titebond bottle you can only glue horizontally and drips are inevitable. 

The GluBot fixes that. With a couple of  sizes and a unique design that allows even vertical gluing it’s a solution any woodworker can appreciate.

3. General Tools

In business for almost a century, General Tools is an old name.

But, they are not commonly seen on big box shelves. Which makes their tools something woodworkers see online or through word of mouth.

Featuring over 1,000 tools they offer a wide selection of both common tools AND unique woodworking tools. 

Their #1 niche? Integrating Bluetooth and digital into everyday woodworking tools.

Unique Woodworking Tools From General Tools

• Dovetail jig: while a professional dovetail jig is an expensive option, General Tools has a simple solution that even new woodworkers will find easy to use.
• Pocket hole jig: competing with Kreg is tough on pocket hole jigs. But General Tools has a portable, all-in-one budget friendly pocket hole jig .
• Bluetooth angle finder: that lets you calculate angles on an app and send to the tool.
• Crown jig: anyone who has installed trim and crown molding knows that crown is hard to cut. But not with the General Tools crown jig.

Our Pick: Pinless Moisture Meter

Shown: General Tools Pinless Moisture Meter  

Choosing hardwoods is hard enough.

Stop guessing what the moisture content is if you’re purchasing from a 3rd party who “says” the wood has been kiln dried and stored in a controlled environment.

With a pinless moisture meter that costs about the same as one board you’ll be confident in your purchase.

4. Powertec Woodworking Solutions

This rapidly growing woodworking tool supplier offers up everything from high quality connectors for dust collectors to router jigs and budget friendly track saw guides.

With top brands charging more for their accessories, Powertec has stepped in and offers alternative solutions at a fraction of the price.

Woodworking Tools From Powertec

• Ratcheting table clamp:  that quickly adjusts to any material thickness and holds workpieces firm. Including miter tracks for various brands of track saws .
• T-track hold-downs: with woodworkers accessorizing their workbenches with t-tracks, Powertec has quickly adapted and offers a host of clamping solutions.
• Abrasive cleaning stick: every woodworker needs one to avoid needlessly replacing sandpaper .
• Workbench casters: that lift and mobilize a workbench and firmly set it back down again.
• Dust collection parts: for turning a maze of hose into a well-organized dust collection system .

Our Pick: Powertec Ratcheting Table Clamp

Shown: Ratcheting Table Clamp  

Compatible with many track saw guides, including Powertec’s of course, this innovative clamp will quickly secure your workpieces. 

5. Woodpeckers Tools

When woodworkers think of precision tools they start with Woodpeckers.

While a first reaction from woodworkers is WHOA! that’s a bit expensive, like other top brands (Festool) you get what you pay for. 

Making a precision end-grain cutting board and need precision layouts? A Woodpeckers precision gauge will pay for itself after avoiding a few crooked cuts.

Precision Tools From Woodpeckers

• Miter fences: while there are DIY kits, a Woodpeckers miter stop system is the most accurate and all-in-one kit available.
• Jigs and more jigs: from coping sled jigs, dovetail jigs to router jigs and more Woodpeckers has a complete line of jigs.
• Clampzilla: for a perfectly flat glue-up this 4-dimension clamp will keep your panel as flat as the boards you put in it.
• Corner planes: while the traditional plane is dead for many woodworkers, a fast corner edge is a precision alternative to the sander or router.

Our Pick: Woodpeckers Precision Square

Shown: Woodpeckers DelVe Square  

When woodworkers gain enough experience to start collecting precision tools they turn to Woodpeckers. And for everything from finding the center of boards to marking precision cut lines this square is the go-to for accuracy.

6. Festool - The "Pros Brand"

As another tool brand that is almost a century old with a 1925 start, Festool is widely known as the premier woodworking tool brand. From patented solutions like the DOMINO for making loose tenon joints to coveted saws and sanders they are the brand professionals prefer.

While they started innovations with chainsaws their lineup of tools now covers just about every power tool a woodworker would need.

Top Tools From The Festool Brand

• DOMINO joiner:  with articles written on alternatives to this unique joint , most woodworkers that see the DOMINO want one.
• Routers: Festool features a router of almost any shape and size for free-hand to router table work.
• Sanders: With legendary vibration-free performance the Festool solutions are premium priced. But premium performance.
• Track saws: Top of the line cutting and chip-out reduction makes their track saws a premium solution. 

Our Pick: Festool DOMINO

Shown: Festool DOMINO DF 500 Q Set  

While biscuit joiners, doweling jigs and pocket hole joinery are three ways to join wood the DOMINO offers a twist on one of the oldest and most durable woodworking joints : the mortise and tenon.

With a unique plunge and rotate action the DOMINO will cut an on oblong loose tenon that offers a square shoulder to hold pieces during glue-ups. And features top strength as well. 

7. SawStop - An Innovator in Table Saw Safety

With over 100,000 saws shipped and countless fingers saved SawStop started in 1999 with a mission to revolutionize table saw safety.

And table saws are dangerous enough that there up to 10 amputations A DAY in just the USA. So with a company built around table saws, and a patent on their unique technology, woodworkers of any skill should be protecting their #1 asset.

SawStop Table Saws

The SawStop system works through an electrical sensor that detects a change in current when skin contacts the blade. Once detected, a brake is instantly deployed that stops the blade and pulls it below the surface of the saw.

Unlike other saws where the blade keeps running not knowing its cutting wood…or you.

SawStop Contractor Table Saw

Shown: SawStop Contractor Table Saw  

Suitable for most home workshops, this saw is a jump in price from a standard contractor saw. But, compared to medical bills and life changing amputations, well worth the extra investment to protect your hands.

8. Leigh Woodworking Jigs

Started in 1980 after the founder needed a better solution for dovetails, Leigh has grown to be the top-of-line choice for dovetail joinery.

In fact, their jigs cover every size and type of dovetail possible. Well, with the exception of what can be hand-cut with a marking gauge and Japanese saw .

Leigh Brand Dovetail Jigs

When a company invests heavily in just one solution you know it has to be good. And with Leigh their dovetail, box joint and other similar jigs are both innovative and premium quality. 

Other standard dovetail jigs work fine for most woodworkers.

But when a maker moves from simple to advanced the tools have to keep up. Which makes these Leigh jigs popular:

• D4R Pro – capable of just about any style of dovetail.
• Super 12″ – with almost the capability of the D4R
• Super 18″
• Super 24″ – for large drawers and furniture
• RTJ400 – for router tables
• B975 – box joint jig

Leigh Router Table Dovetail Jig

Shown: Leigh RTJ400 Router Table Dovetail Jig  

There are a lot of dovetail jigs on the market.

But there are very few router table dovetail jigs. And with most woodworkers having premium router table routers and top of the line router tables why not have a dovetail jig to match?

9. JessEm Tool Brand

For over 20 years JessEm has been making routers happy in router tables.

Or is that router table users happy that they aren’t having to reach under the table to adjust their router?

Either way, JessEm is known within woodworking circles for their router lifts and router tables. Which for most serious woodworking shops is in the top five woodworking purchases alongside the miter saw, table saw, drum sander and dust collector.

JessEm Router Tables and Supplies

While JessEm specializes in world class router table lifts, they also offer a few other woodworking tools:

• Doweling Jigs
• Router Plates
• Marking Gauges
• Miter Jig Slides
• Table Saw Stock Guides 

Our Pick: JessEm Stock Guides

Shown: JessEm Table Saw Guides  

For woodworkers in the market for a router lift there are plenty of ways to find one.

But for unique tools, JessEm offers up one of the best stock guides that will help keep your fingers safe. And, for those SawStop owners, help prevent an expensive blade and brake replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular brand of tool.

While you could start with Dewalt as one of the most popular brands of tools the answer depends on the trade. While mechanics would perhaps say Snap-on, a woodworker may say Kreg and a welder could choose Lincoln. But at the end of the day brands of tools are deceptive as most brands are owned by a much larger conglomerate that, well, “brands” colors and styles of tools. Its best to research your tools by need, then decide what brand is best for you.

What power tool brands are popular for woodworking?

Some of the most common power tool brands in woodworking are Dewalt, Makita, Festool, Grizzly and Jet. While there are many more that have niche tool selections these four manufacturers are known for high quality tools that cover everything from cordless tools to high end table saws.

What tool brand is best for jigs?

Kreg Tools defined the market for woodworking jigs back in the late 1980’s and has been building and innovating with jigs every since. If they don’t have the jig you’re looking for, Porter Cable, Woodpeckers or General Tools are other suppliers to check out.

• 14 Woodworking Joints for Everyday Use
• Festool DOMINO Alternatives On A Budget
• Unique Jigs for Woodworking Every Shop Needs
• About the Author
• Latest Posts

Eric has been a professional woodworker for over thirty years and has worked in small cabinet shops making everything from kitchen cabinets to hand-made furniture. Now working from a home woodworking shop Eric is sharing his passion for woodworking, tool advice and how-to knowledge from his Minnesota-based woodshop.

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The best cabinet jacks will make a cabinet installation faster, reduce the chance of injury and, most importantly, improve the finish quality of the installation. You can learn more in this guide.

The best drawer slides combine features like full extension and soft closing with durability for decades of use. Learn what brands and mounts are best for your project.

Building an external barn door is a great DIY project. Since your construction doesn’t need to be picture perfect this style of door can be built and used on just about any outdoor structure. In this guide learn basic construction techniques and hardware to use outdoors.

Domino vs Biscuit Jointer and When To Use Each One

While biscuit joiners have been around for decades it is only recently that the Festool DOMINO has become “the” tool to own for loose tenon joinery. In this article learn the differences between a domino joiner vs biscuit joiner and what’s best for your projects.

The Best Cordless Table Saws For Woodworking

With massive battery packs the cordless table saw is now a reality. However, only a few top brands make these compact saws and the features are similar to a portable table saw. Learn which saw is best for your portable sawing needs.

Track Saw Guide: Choosing The Right Cordless Or Corded Model

Track saws have quickly become a staple in most woodworking shops. By pairing table-saw accuracy with portability and plunge action this saw allows for maximum portability and safety. Learn what’s best for your shop in this hands-on guide.

Disclaimer : DIY projects can be dangerous,  hire a professional (link to Home Advisor) if unsure.

Best Brand Woodworking Power Tools: Top Picks for Your Workshop

If you’re passionate about woodworking, then you know that having the right tools can make all the difference. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, investing in high-quality woodworking power tools is essential for achieving the best results. With so many brands and models to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to buy. In this article, we’ll be exploring the best brand woodworking power tools to help you make an informed decision.

When it comes to woodworking, power tools are essential for making precise cuts, drilling holes, and shaping wood. Unlike hand tools, power tools can help you complete your projects faster and with less effort. However, not all power tools are created equal. Some brands offer better quality, durability, and performance than others. That’s why it’s important to choose the right brand when buying woodworking power tools.

In this article, we’ll be sharing the top woodworking power tool brands that you should consider. We’ll also be discussing the key features to look for in woodworking power tools, as well as essential power tools for woodworking projects. Additionally, we’ll offer tips on maintaining your woodworking power tools and using them safely. So, let’s get started!

Key Takeaways

• Choosing the right brand is crucial when buying woodworking power tools.
• Look for key features such as durability, performance, and precision.
• Essential power tools for woodworking projects include saws, drills, and sanders.

Understanding Woodworking Power Tools

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdI7gIucy6g&embed=true

Types of Woodworking Power Tools

When it comes to woodworking, there are various power tools that can make your projects easier and more efficient. Some common types of woodworking power tools include table saws , sanders, routers, jigsaws , miter saws , circular saws, drills, jointers, planers, lathes, thickness planers, drill presses, and bandsaws.

Power Tools vs. Hand Tools

Power tools offer speed and efficiency, making them ideal for larger projects and repetitive tasks. On the other hand, hand tools provide precision and control, making them suitable for detailed work and fine adjustments. It’s essential to have a good balance of both power and hand tools in your workshop to cater to different woodworking needs.

Selecting the Right Power Tool for Your Project

When selecting a power tool for your woodworking project, consider the specific requirements of the task at hand. For instance, a table saw is perfect for making straight cuts, while a router is great for shaping edges. Understanding the unique capabilities of each power tool will help you choose the right one for your woodworking project. Remember to prioritize safety and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for operating power tools.

By understanding the different types of woodworking power tools and their applications, you can make informed decisions when selecting the right tools for your projects.

Top Woodworking Power Tool Brands

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pwTyVk49GJo&embed=true

If you’re looking for the best woodworking power tools, you’ll want to consider the top brands in the industry. Here are some of the most popular brands to consider when shopping for woodworking power tools.

Premium Brand Showdown

When it comes to premium brands, there are a few top contenders that stand out from the rest. These brands are known for their high-quality, durable tools that are designed for professional use.

DeWalt : DeWalt is one of the most well-known brands in the power tool industry. They offer a wide range of tools, including table saws, miter saws, and drills, all of which are designed for heavy-duty use.

Makita : Makita is another top brand that is known for their high-quality tools. They offer a wide range of products, including cordless drills, circular saws, and impact drivers.

Bosch : Bosch is a German-based company that has been producing power tools for over 130 years. They offer a wide range of tools, including jigsaws, routers, and sanders.

Value for Money Brands

If you’re looking for a great value for your money, there are a few brands that stand out. These brands offer a good balance between quality and affordability.

Skil : Skil is a brand that offers a wide range of power tools at an affordable price. They offer everything from circular saws to jigsaws, and their products are known for their reliability.

Ryobi : Ryobi is another brand that offers a good balance between quality and affordability. They offer a wide range of cordless tools, including drills, saws, and sanders.

Craftsman : Craftsman is a brand that has been around for over 90 years. They offer a wide range of tools, including table saws, drills, and sanders. Their products are known for their durability and reliability.

Brands for Beginners

If you’re new to woodworking and looking for a good brand to start with, there are a few options to consider.

Black+Decker : Black+Decker is a brand that offers a wide range of affordable power tools. They offer everything from cordless drills to sanders, and their products are designed for beginners .

Worx : Worx is a brand that offers a wide range of cordless power tools at an affordable price. They offer everything from drills to saws, and their products are designed for beginners.

Stanley : Stanley is a brand that has been around for over 175 years. They offer a wide range of tools, including hammers, saws, and screwdrivers. Their products are known for their affordability and durability.

No matter what brand you choose, make sure to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase. With the right power tools, you can take your woodworking to the next level.

Key Features to Look for in Woodworking Power Tools

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azeXwwzTUkQ&embed=true

When it comes to buying woodworking power tools, there are several key features that you should consider to ensure that you get the best tool for your needs. Here are some of the most important features to look for:

Performance Metrics

One of the most important things to consider when buying woodworking power tools is performance. You want tools that can handle the job you need them for and that will make your work easier and more efficient. Look for tools with high performance metrics, such as a 15-amp motor for table saws or a high RPM for cordless tools.

Durability and Reliability

Another important factor to consider is durability and reliability. You want tools that are built to last and that will stand up to heavy use over time. Look for tools with a reputation for durability and reliability, such as those made by well-known brands like DeWalt or Makita .

Safety and Ease of Use

Safety should always be a top priority when using power tools, so it’s important to choose tools that are designed with safety in mind. Look for tools with safety features such as blade guards or automatic shut-off switches. You’ll also want to choose tools that are easy to use and comfortable to handle, so you can work for longer periods without getting fatigued.

When it comes to specific tools, there are some additional features to look for. For example, when choosing a random orbital sander , look for a tool with a variable speed control and a dust collection system to keep your work area clean.

Overall, when choosing woodworking power tools, it’s important to consider your specific needs and the features that are most important to you. By taking the time to research and compare different tools, you can find the best tools for your projects and your budget.

Essential Power Tools for Woodworking Projects

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AHauRpxsmt8&embed=true

When it comes to woodworking, having the right power tools is essential. With the right tools, you can make precise cuts , shape wood to your desired specifications, join pieces together, and apply the perfect finish. Here are some essential power tools for woodworking projects that you should consider adding to your collection.

Cutting Tools

Table saws are a staple in any woodworking shop. They are versatile and can make rip cuts, cross cuts, and angled cuts. Look for a table saw that has a powerful motor , a large cutting surface, and a good fence system to make your cuts more accurate.

Miter saws are great for making angled cuts. They are perfect for cutting trim, molding, and other decorative pieces. Look for a miter saw that has a powerful motor, a large cutting surface, and a good blade.

Circular Saws

Circular saws are handheld power tools that are great for making straight cuts. They are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for cutting lumber on job sites or in tight spaces. Look for a circular saw that has a powerful motor, a good blade, and an adjustable depth setting.

Jigsaws are versatile cutting tools that can make curved and intricate cuts. They are perfect for cutting out shapes and patterns in wood. Look for a jigsaw that has a powerful motor, variable speed settings, and a good blade.

Shaping Tools

Routers are essential for shaping wood. They can make decorative edges, cut grooves, and create intricate designs. Look for a router that has a powerful motor, variable speed settings, and a good set of bits.

Sanders are used to smooth out rough surfaces and prepare wood for finishing. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, including belt sanders, orbital sanders, and random orbital sanders. Look for a sander that is easy to use and has a good dust collection system .

Joining Tools

Jointers are used to create flat and straight edges on boards. They are essential for making sure pieces fit together perfectly. Look for a jointer that has a powerful motor, a large cutting surface, and a good fence system.

Planers are used to create smooth and even surfaces on boards. They are great for removing rough spots and preparing wood for finishing. Look for a planer that has a powerful motor, a large cutting surface, and a good dust collection system.

Finishing Tools

Belt sanders.

Belt sanders are used to remove material quickly and efficiently. They are great for preparing wood for finishing or removing old finishes. Look for a belt sander that has a powerful motor, a good dust collection system, and a variety of grits.

With these essential power tools for woodworking projects, you can tackle any project with ease. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced woodworker, having the right tools can make all the difference.

Accessories and Attachments

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WHnzrHwEkdY&embed=true

When it comes to woodworking power tools, accessories and attachments can make all the difference in the quality of your finished product. Here are some of the most useful accessories and attachments for your power tools:

Blades and Bits

The blade or bit you choose for your saw or drill can greatly affect the quality of your finished project. Make sure you choose blades and bits that are appropriate for the material you are working with. For example, a fine-toothed blade is best for cutting plywood, while a coarse-toothed blade is better for cutting thicker wood.

Sanding and Polishing

Sanding and polishing attachments can help you achieve a smooth, professional finish on your wood projects. Sanding discs or belts come in a variety of grits, so make sure you choose the appropriate grit for your project. Polishing attachments can help you achieve a high-gloss finish on your wood.

Measuring and Marking Tools

Accurate measuring and marking are essential for precision woodworking. A tape measure is a must-have tool for any woodworker, but you may also want to invest in a combination square for more accurate measurements. Marking tools like pencils and marking knives can help you make precise cuts and joints.

Workshop Organization

Keeping your workshop organized is key to staying productive and efficient. Tool storage solutions like cabinets, shelves, and pegboards can help you keep your tools and accessories easily accessible and organized. A shop vac is also a great investment for keeping your workspace clean and free of sawdust and debris.

By investing in quality accessories and attachments for your woodworking power tools, you can achieve better results and make your woodworking projects more enjoyable.

Maintaining Your Woodworking Power Tools

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RynRDTKBcNY&embed=true

To ensure that your woodworking power tools last for a long time and perform at their best, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some tips on how to maintain your woodworking power tools.

Cleaning and Lubrication

One of the most important aspects of maintaining your woodworking power tools is keeping them clean and well-lubricated. You should clean your power tools after every use to prevent dust and debris from accumulating. Use a soft cloth or brush to remove any debris from the tool’s surface and air vents. You can also use compressed air to blow out any dust or debris that may have accumulated in hard-to-reach areas.

After cleaning your power tools, you should lubricate them to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. Use a lubricant that is specifically designed for power tools and apply it to the moving parts of the tool. Be careful not to over-lubricate, as this can attract dust and debris.

Sharpening and Calibration

Another important aspect of maintaining your woodworking power tools is sharpening and calibration. Sharp tools are essential for achieving precise cuts and reducing the risk of accidents. You should sharpen your tools regularly using a sharpening stone or a honing guide.

In addition to sharpening, you should also calibrate your power tools to ensure that they are accurate. Use a calibration tool to check the accuracy of your tools and make any necessary adjustments.

Storage and Handling

Proper storage and handling of your woodworking power tools is also important for maintaining their performance. Store your tools in a dry, cool place to prevent rust and other damage. You should also store your tools in a way that prevents them from coming into contact with each other, as this can cause damage.

When handling your power tools, be sure to use them in a safe and appropriate manner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and wear appropriate safety gear, such as eye and ear protection. Never use a tool that is damaged or malfunctioning.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your woodworking power tools remain in good condition and perform at their best for years to come.

Safety Tips for Using Power Tools

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGeJ-oyDlSI&embed=true

Woodworking power tools are incredibly useful, but they can also be dangerous if not used properly. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when using power tools:

Personal Protective Equipment

Wearing the right personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential when using power tools. PPE includes safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris, earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from loud noises, and a dust mask to prevent inhalation of harmful particles. You should also wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts and scrapes. Make sure your PPE fits properly and is comfortable to wear.

Safe Operation Practices

Always read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow them carefully. Before using a power tool, check it for damage or defects. Don’t use a tool that is damaged or not functioning properly. Make sure the tool is properly grounded and that the cords are in good condition. Keep your work area clean and well-lit. Don’t wear loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in the tool. Always use the right tool for the job.

Emergency Preparedness

Even if you take all the necessary precautions, accidents can still happen. Make sure you know where the emergency shut-off switch is located and how to use it. Keep a first aid kit nearby and know how to use it. If someone is injured, call for medical help immediately. Don’t try to move them unless it is absolutely necessary.

By following these safety tips, you can reduce the risk of injury when using power tools. Remember, safety should always be your top priority.

DIY Woodworking Projects and Tutorials

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If you’re new to woodworking, it can be tough to know where to start. Fortunately, there are plenty of beginner-friendly projects out there that can help you hone your skills and build your confidence. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Beginner-Friendly Projects

Simple Shelves – Shelves are a great first project because they don’t require a lot of complicated joinery. You can make them out of a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. Just make sure you measure carefully and use a level to ensure they hang straight.

Cutting Board – A cutting board is another great beginner project. You can make one out of a single piece of wood or glue together several smaller pieces to create a pattern. Just make sure you use food-safe finishes if you plan to use it in the kitchen.

Birdhouse – Building a birdhouse is a fun project that can be completed in an afternoon. You can find plans online or create your own design. Just make sure you use untreated wood and avoid using any finishes that could be harmful to birds.

Intermediate Challenges

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you may be ready to take on some more challenging projects. Here are a few ideas:

Coffee Table – A coffee table can be a great intermediate project because it requires a bit more joinery than a simple shelf. You can find plans online or create your own design. Just make sure you take your time and measure carefully.

Picture Frame – A picture frame is another intermediate project that can be a great way to showcase your woodworking skills. You can create a simple frame out of a single piece of wood or add more intricate details like beveled edges or inlay.

Jewelry Box – Building a jewelry box can be a fun and rewarding project. You can create a simple box or add more intricate details like drawers, dividers, and hidden compartments.

Advanced Woodworking Techniques

If you’re an experienced woodworker looking for a challenge, here are a few advanced projects to consider:

Rocking Chair – Building a rocking chair requires a lot of skill and patience, but the end result can be truly stunning. You’ll need to be comfortable with a variety of joinery techniques, including mortise and tenon, dovetail, and bent laminations.

Bentwood Box – A bentwood box is a beautiful and challenging project that involves steam bending thin strips of wood to create a curved shape. You’ll need to be comfortable with a variety of tools and techniques, including a steam box, bending form, and clamps.

Grandfather Clock – Building a grandfather clock is a truly ambitious project that requires a lot of skill and patience. You’ll need to be comfortable with a variety of joinery techniques, including mortise and tenon, dovetail, and hand-cut moldings.

User Reviews and Community Insights

When it comes to buying power tools for woodworking, it’s important to consider customer reviews and community insights. These resources can provide valuable information about a brand’s reputation , quality, and performance. Here are some ways to tap into user reviews and community insights:

Customer Reviews and Ratings

One of the easiest ways to get an idea of a brand’s quality is to read customer reviews and ratings. Websites like Amazon, Home Depot, and Lowe’s have customer reviews and ratings that can give you a good sense of a product’s reliability and performance. Look for reviews that mention the specific woodworking project the tool was used for, as this can give you an idea of the tool’s capabilities and limitations.

Forums and Discussion Boards

Online forums and discussion boards are great resources for getting insights from experienced woodworkers and hobbyists. These platforms allow you to ask questions and get feedback from people who have used the tools you’re interested in. Popular forums include Woodworking Talk, Sawmill Creek, and WoodNet. Be sure to search for threads that are specific to the tool you’re considering, as this can give you a more targeted and relevant discussion.

Expert Recommendations

Expert recommendations can also provide valuable insights into the best brands and models of power tools for woodworking. Look for reviews from trusted sources like Fine Woodworking, Popular Mechanics, and Wood Magazine. These publications often conduct hands-on tests of power tools and provide in-depth analysis of their performance. Additionally, many woodworking bloggers and YouTubers offer their own reviews and recommendations based on their personal experiences with various brands and models.

Overall, user reviews and community insights can be valuable resources when researching the best brands of power tools for woodworking. By tapping into these resources, you can make an informed decision and choose a brand that meets your needs and budget.

About The Author

John Lewsam

More articles you might like..., best jobsite table saw for woodworking in 2023, best glue gun for woodworking: top picks and buying guide, best bar clamps for woodworking in 2023, best brad nailer for woodworking: top picks and reviews.

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5 homeware brands that are dominating social media.

• Posted on August 12, 2020

The UK’s homeware industry is worth £13.5B and shows no signs of stopping with an estimated growth of an additional £0.5billion on the cards by 2021. With people spending more time than ever in their homes due to the pandemic, the industry is definitely one to watch. Wearisma’s analytics tool revealed that homeware content saw a whopping 120% increase in Engagements between January and April this year. Brands have been capitalising on the extra buzz with strategic collaborations and social media campaigns. Here are 5 homeware brands that have found success via this method.

Made.com 

Having been founded in the height of the digital era, social media plays an integral role in Made.com’s marketing strategy. With the help of Wearisma’s solutions, Made.com has achieved success by creating data-driven campaigns.

Read Made.com’s Client Success Story and discover how Wearisma’s powerful solutions helped them maximize their Share of Voice.

By utilising Wearisma’s discovery tool Made.com was able to broaden its scope, collaborating with a wide variety of influencers and not limiting itself to creators focused solely on interior design. For example, the brand’s collaboration with fashion and lifestyle influencer Maéwo (@maevvo) has been particularly successful with her posts generating over 5x the average Engagement rate of other Made.com sponsored content. Maéwo’s performance is evidence of the need to use data-driven insights when it comes to influencer selection to prevent you from overlooking influencers who will produce engaging content for your brand. 

Social media campaigns have been the brand’s key to building a solid community of brand advocates. Their latest campaign utilised the #madedesign hashtag inviting advocates to share shots of their homes featuring their favourite  Made.com pieces. The campaign was effective in generating a wealth of creative content attracting online audiences keen to show off their interior design talents. Wearisma’s analytics tool revealed the campaign was well received with #madedesign content achieving sky-high Engagement Rates (ER). Livingston Living’s ( @livingston.living ) post featuring her new Made.com light fixture was particularly noteworthy, generating an ER over 4X higher than their average.

Informative and inspirational video content has been an effective content strategy for Swedish giant Ikea. YouTube is Ikea’s most successful social media platform generating the highest ERs for the brand. The most popular videos featuring Ikea content are “homeware hauls” and “room tour” videos which feature show and tells of different Ikea products as well as showing ways people have combined Ikea furniture to fit their homes. 

Source: Wearisma Platform

YouTuber Lydia Elise Millen had one of the highest ERs for Ikea content with her home themed YouTube videos. Lydia has recently developed an audience of home decorating enthusiasts after purchasing her new home three years ago. Lately, we’ve noticed that Influencer’s are increasingly diversifying their content themes. These developments increase the need to utilise an Influencer Discovery tool that regularly updates when influencers enter new content categories.   

Read more: ‘Is this good?’ Your Definitive Guide to Engagement Rates

H&m home.

Much like their clothing ranges, H&M Home features trendy pieces at reasonable prices. The accessible nature of the brand has meant that they have found success with a broad variety of micro-influencers, such as  German home design bloggers Steph Hudson (@homehudsons) and Marcela (@interior_byma) who had the highest ER for H&M Home content. A strategic choice considering micro-influencers in Germany generate the highest ERs. These two influencers, in particular, generated ER’s between 2-4X the German average for their follower-group category. Factoring this knowledge into marketing decisions is important in ensuring a partnership will have the exposure and Engagement you’re aiming for. 

Over the past year, Wayfair has found success working with mega-influencers. Back in February, the homeware brand announced that singer Kelly Clarkson (@kellyclarkson) would be their first-ever brand ambassador, featuring in social media campaigns as well as creating her own collection: ‘Kelly Clarkson Home.’

The  #kellyclarksonxWayfair content received over double the Engagements for the singer’s regular content. Her content also had the highest Engagements and the highest media value for Wayfair by a longshot with her posts totalling £312K in media value.  The fact that a portion of the proceeds from the collection will be going to COVID-19 relief efforts is arguably a strong factor in the effectiveness of this campaign as online audiences have grown increasingly attracted to socially conscious content . 

Dunelm chose a similar marketing route as Wayfair by collaborating with TV personality Holly Willoughby (@hollywilloughby) . Holly’s Instagram audience is largely based in the UK and Ireland, making her the perfect choice for the exclusively British furniture retailer. When collaborating with influencers, it’s important to check where their audience is based in order to ensure their content is catering to people who actually have access to the products. The collaboration went beyond sponsored posts on Instagram, the collection she promoted was designed exclusively by her catering to her broad fan base. Her posts had a combined media value of just under £176K, the second-highest for Dunelm while her Engagements were the highest for the brand between May – July this year. 

YouTube is another platform where Dunelm has found success. Twins Lydia and Lucy Connell run a successful YouTube channel featuring beauty, home, and lifestyle content and achieved the highest Media Value for Dunelm in the same period.  Having just finished decorating their shared London apartment, they uploaded a video giving viewers a tour showcasing their Dunelm pieces. Genuine and inviting video content such as this has consistently proved effective with homeware brands as evidenced by Lydia and Lucy’s home tour receiving 30x the average ER of other Dunelm content.

With COVID-19 reminding many of us that there’s no place like home, home improvement and decorating content has gained tremendous popularity. Organic and inviting content will be most effective but it’s important for brands to be strategic in their influencer selection and work with those that will help them achieve the highest ROI. 

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Best Power Tool Brands For DIY And Homeowners

Power tools are an important part of many homeowner’s lives, and they’re just as important to DIY enthusiasts. Brands such as Ryobi, Black & Decker, Stanley, DeWalt, and Milwaukee have dominated the power tool market for years now. Determining the best power tool brand is difficult for even the most seasoned veteran, but what is the best one out there?

The best power tool brand for homeowners is Black & Decker, but Craftsman follows closely behind with quality tools. Both brands provide a wide variety of tools to choose from as well as generous warranties to back them up. Other brands, such as Makita, Worx, and Festool excel at producing many power tools that fit any situation that a homeowner could find themselves in.

Some power tool brands, such as Ryobi, excel at cordless tools and have their niche. Others, such as Ridgid and Milwaukee, stand to prove that a wide selection of power tools is key to completing projects. In this guide, we will take a close look at the best power tool brands and what makes their products special.

Best Tool Brand For Homeowners

Homeowners can find themselves at a loss when it comes to choosing the best possible tool brand. With so many choices ranging from DeWalt and Makita to Craftsman and Ryobi, it can be difficult to decipher the truly best. Let’s take a look at the absolute best tool brand for homeowners, no matter what project you may have in mind.

Black & Decker

Black & Decker is not only a household name, but it is the best tool brand for homeowners. Not only did Black & Decker invent the portable drill , but they’ve perfected it ever since. Whether you need high-end belt sanders and chainsaws, or lawnmowers and hedge trimmers , they have options for you.

The combination of fair pricing and unbeatable quality is what makes Black & Decker the best tool brand for homeowners. This is exemplified by products such as their 14” 8 Amp Electric Chain Saw and its affordable $59 price tag. Don’t let their affordable pricing fool you, however, as Black & Decker’s priority has always been quality.

Black & Decker’s umbrella involves the company DeWalt, which they own, and their countless options meet any need. One of the company’s strong suits is that they produce vacuums, leaf blowers, and workbenches to suit any need around the house. Low prices, a wide variety, and products that are easy to use is why Black & Decker is the best choice.

Best Power Tool Brands

Besides Black & Decker, 14 tool brands have made a splash amongst homeowners, and with good reason. Each tool brand has its unique niche and bag of tricks that have made them as popular as they are. Follow along as we explore the best power tool brands that you should consider looking into for your next project.

1. Craftsman

Craftsman is well worth the $900 million that they were sold for to Black & Decker a few years ago. Perhaps Craftsman’s greatest achievement is that you know exactly what to expect with each of their tools: quality. Saws, woodworking tools, drills, and angle grinders are just some of the tools that Craftsman produces.

Craftsman combines affordability with portability, and the perfect example is their V20 20-Volt Max ½” Cordless Drill that costs $117. Their drills are designed so that you can easily change bits, and it’s a bonus that they also sell drill bit sets. All of Craftsman’s cordless options have excellent battery life and performance.

It’s not all power tools with Craftsman, and their hand tools are just as effective. Hand saws, for example, start at just $10 and come in handy whether you’re doing woodwork or yardwork. Craftsman also dazzles with their useful hex keys, screwdrivers, and multi-tools that come in handy with household maintenance.

2. Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s nearly 100-year history certainly shows in the quality that they put forth with each of their tools. Durability is the name of the game when it comes to Milwaukee, and it’s reflected in the price of their tools. This brand may be slightly pricier than say, Worx, but it’s worth it when you don’t have to replace tools often.

The wide selection of their tools cannot be understated, and they offer 70 drills alone that are all high-quality. Milwaukee also knows that homeowners often need accessories to enhance existing tools or address specific problems. They have you covered in that department as well, and they offer 488 accessories for their tools.

Brushless motors and lithium-ion batteries make their electric power tools stand out amongst the pack. If you want to find a tool brand that is going to last you years to come, then you should consider Milwaukee.

Another iconic tool brand, DeWalt, gives the best of both worlds to both homeowners and professionals alike. They sell drills, air compressors , axes, lawnmowers, and more, and they can meet any need around the house. Whether you need to do woodwork, or you simply need to trim your hedges, DeWalt has got you covered.

DeWalt has a lot in common with Black & Decker, which owns the brand, and that includes quality. This brand is consistently highly rated, and they offer any power tool you could think of. Many homeowners say that the DeWalt Atomic 20V Hammer Drill is one of the best drills on the market.

DeWalt appeals to both homeowners and professionals due to the durability and wide selection they offer. Their measuring tools are known for precision, and so too is their beloved Cold Water Gas Pressure Washer. Simply put, DeWalt has a tool for any job, whether you’re doing a DIY project or you’re a homeowner trying to make some fixes.

It probably comes as no surprise that Ryobi made this list, and it’s because of the quality and selection. Ryobi tools are instantly recognizable whether you’ve used them or not due to their iconic green color. Their primary focus seems to be to make tools for homeowners and less so for professionals, but they found their niche.

For example, the Ryobi 14” Brushless Lithium-Ion Chainsaw is perfect for yard work, but not a professional site. That’s perfect, however, because the tool performs excellently and has a battery life perfect enough for jobs at home. Ryobi has always found the balance between gas-powered and electric tools, but electric may just be their best offering.

Their lawn and garden tools have always stood out, and their 24” 40V Lithium-Ion Hedge Trimmer is a great example. Mowers, snow blowers , generators, and power washers are other useful tools Ryobi consistently puts out for homeowners. Ryobi earned their spot as one of the top tool brands, and it doesn’t hurt they’re so recognizable and affordable.

All across Europe, and specifically Germany, Festool is regarded as one of the best tool brands money can buy. It’s a bonus that Festool produces products in the United States as well, even if it’s a smaller selection. In Europe, Festool’s product line is just as expensive as Black & Decker or Ryobi, and it’s impressive in the U.S. as well.

For American homeowners, you can find some of the greatest power tool accessories possible from Festool. Their dust extractor and jigsaw accessories make doing work around the house much easier and are produced in the U.S. However, European homeowners have access to high-quality saws, grinders, mixers, and more.

You can also find abrasives and sandpaper that make for perfect tools to help when doing finishes. Festool’s primary focus is one power tools, but their line of accessories help you get the most out of their products. If you have access to Festool products, then it is well worth taking a look at their drills, grinders, miter saws, and more.

Similar to Ryobi, Makita is one of the top recognizable tool brands to come out of Japan. With over 100 years of experience in making tools, Makita mastered their craft a long time ago. One thing that Makita is known for more than anything else is its commitment to making affordable tools.

However, Makita has never sacrificed quality regarding its low prices and strong products. Their 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Circular Saw represents their commitment to easy-to-use and affordable tools perfect for beginners and experienced homeowners. It’s a bonus that they offer products such as the 18-Volt X2 LXT Lithium-Ion Backpack Vacuum that allow you to easily clean up after working on your project.

Makita is known for their 18-volt line of electric tools, and that’s largely due to the battery life. You never have to worry about your batteries dying quickly or taking too long to charge with Makita. Their tools aren’t as durable as DeWalt or Ryobi, but they are high quality, affordable, and easy to use.

Part of Ridgid’s success is that they offer tools for everything from cleaning drains and pressing, to tile work. It can’t be stressed enough that Ridgid has a tool for just about any project or problem that could pop up in the house. They are unique in that they offer many HVAC and utility repair tools which come in handy when you own a home.

You won’t find much in the way of home and garden tools with Ridgid, but you can remedy household problems with their tools. Their press tools, such as the RP 350 keep convenience in mind with the light fixed to it to make the job easier. Ridgid also offers a variety of warranties that can help instill confidence that they back up their line of tools.

Hand tools are another strong suit of Ridgid’s, and their bolt cutters, hand saws, and tile tools are a great example. You can also prevent water damage with their array of air blowers and wet/dry vacuums that they currently manufacture. Ridgid should be your go-to tool brand for HVAC and utility repairs that come up for homeowners often.

Skil has a place in American history as their original circular saw was a major part of construction throughout time. The only difference between the Skil of the past and the Skil of today is that they’ve evolved each year. Their benchtop, power tools, and home and garden tools are some of the best that money can buy, and they’re affordable.

Skil’s PWRCORE 40 is one of the most energy-efficient and effective electric lawnmowers on the market. Yardwork got much easier when Skil released their Brushless String Trimmer that proved that electric power tools are as effective as gas. They also provide tools for heavy-duty jobs, such as their 20V Cordless 6.5” Circular Saw that costs only $89.

You can also find mechanical lights from Skil that make it easier, and safer, to work on your project. The Skil 15 Amp 10” Table Saw is just as safe as it is powerful, and the accessibility makes all the difference. You want your tools to be durable, easy to use, and safe, and Skil delivers on all of those fronts.

You could call Kobalt the Jack of all trades in the tool world, and you wouldn’t be wrong to say so. They provide tools for just about any project that you could take on as a DIY enthusiast or homeowner alike. Kobalt’s prices are as low as they are likely because of their inception as an exclusive brand to Lowe’s.

Their tools are quite inexpensive and are basic and accessible enough to where they are ideal for homeowners. Case in point, their 24-Volt Max ½” Cordless Drill costs only $99, and with an impressive brushless motor, that’s a steal. That may not be as powerful as some Milwaukee drills, but it’s more than enough for most homeowners.

Another low-priced and effective tool is their 24-Volt max 24-Volt Max 6-1/2” Circular Saw which is safe and easy to use. Professionals don’t necessarily flock to Kobalt, but their high-quality tools have been the choice of many homeowners since the late 1990s. Kobalt is one of many power tool brands offered by Lowe’s, but since it is their own, they should be cost-effective and impressive as they are.

Bosch has a wide selection that any homeowner or DIY enthusiast can appreciate which covers many needs. Even their selection of 12-volt tools is expansive with 50 products currently available in that particular category. Perhaps their strongest offering is Bosch’s line of impact drivers, which includes 5 powerful tools useful to mechanics and homeowners alike.

Bosch may not be the go-to brand for huge projects, but their tools are perfect for homeowners. A case in point is their 2 Amp Corded Sheet Orbital Finishing Sander perfect for finishing small projects. Bosch’s selection of tools is not as expensive as other brands that made this list, but they make up for it with accessories.

You can find accessories and attachments for miters, jigsaws, drills, grinders, and more from Bosch. European homeowners have access to more tools from Bosch, and that includes home and garden tools. All in all, Bosch is a great tool brand that values quality, customer support, and the importance of accessories for power tools.

11. Metabo HPT

You may recognize the name Hitachi more than Metabo HPT, but they are the same. The name change may have thrown some homeowners off, but rest assured, it does not reflect a drop in quality. Metabo HPT has seen an increase in quality consistently with each new batch of tools that they drop.

Their oscillating, rebar , cutoff, and woodwork tools stand amongst the greats like Black & Decker and DeWalt. Metabo HPT’s nail guns, such as the 2-1/2″ Coil Siding Nailer comes in handy for countless home projects, including roof work. One of their best products is the Universal Miter Saw Stand which makes difficult woodwork seem easy, effortless, and even fun.

Metabo HPT has a long line of accessories and attachments that add to the integrity of their already solid products. Circular saw router, miter, and drill attachments are just some of the attachments in Metabo HPT’s product line. Get used to the name change, because Metabo HPT is going nowhere and will maintain its impressive quality for years to come.

12. Stanley

Stanley represents another one of the gold standard brands of tools that can be used for countless applications. Of all of Stanley’s amazing products, they seem to exceed the most at producing the best hand tools around. For example, the Stanley 14 Oz. Fatmax High-Velocity Hammer only costs $32, but it makes all of the difference.

Another standout is the Magnetic Torpedo Level series which exemplifies accuracy and precision as only Stanley can. Stanley puts just as much attention into their automotive tools as they do their hand tools, and that’s saying something. Their 12” Adjustable Wrench can be used to fix up cars, but it’s also just as effective for tasks and projects around the house.

Stanley toolboxes, such as their iconic Fatmax Pro Toolbox, are one of their most recognizable products. They are durable without being too heavy and cumbersome that they’d become a hassle to move around. Essentially, all you need is to get your hands on a Stanley tool understand why they are so beloved.

Hilti may be less well known than Stanley or Makita, but they are well respected amongst homeowners. Their line of power tools and modular support systems are known for being cost-effective while still retaining quality. Hilti also produces construction chemicals, such as foam sealant and concrete repair which pair well with their tools.

As a brand, Hilti exceeds at providing a wide selection of drills, angle grinders, and sanders that live up to their reputation. You get high-quality products with low-end pricing for many Hilti tools, such as the AG 450 7-D angle grinder for $89. Things get pricier with the AG 500-12D, but the $199 price tag is marked by improvements like the soft grip.

One of the most useful tools that Hilti offers is the HIT-HY 200-A adhesive anchor perfect for installing rebar. Hilti is a go-to brand for many homeowners trying insulation work, and their IDP insulation anchor is outstanding. If you want to get the most bang for your buck, Hilti is a brand that values quality as much as fair prices.

Worx is a bit of a Jack of all trades in the tool world, and that’s why it’s on this list. Whether you are doing home and garden work or are sawing wood, Worx has affordable options for you. Companies such as Milwaukee may have a wider selection, but Worx can go toe-to-toe when it comes to quality.

The Worx BladeRunner Portable Table Top Saw only costs $139, and it exemplifies their attention to detail. Their cordless tools are just as effective as well, and one of the best is the Worx 20V Compact Circular Saw. Worx is known for its garden tools, which include lawnmowers, that are highly regarded and equally affordable.

Drills are another strong suit for Worx, and the 20V Power Share Drill Kit is worth the $129 price. Roof work seems easy when you use the Worx 18 Gauge Nail and Staple Gun, but all of their nail guns are great. Worx deserves its great reputation, and it’s a tool brand that you should certainly consider for your collection.

What is the Best Power Tool Brand?

The best power tool brand would have to be a tie between Black & Decker and Craftsman. Both Black & Decker and Craftsman boast wide selections and even more impressive quality. Neither brand has had to deal with the consequences of releasing inferior tools, and that explains their longevity through the years.

Between the two brands, Black & Decker produces more products than Craftsman, but both offer plenty. Comparing either brand is like comparing hard-anodized and stainless steel cookware ; they both have their strengths and earned their reputation. With that said, Black & Decker is the best tool brand for homeowners because of the wide variety and consistency.

That’s not to say that brands such as Ryobi, Milwaukee, Bosch, and DeWalt are not amazing. It’s more a matter of Black & Decker’s ability to consistently top themselves with each new tool line. Whether it be lawn and garden tools, drills, saws, or woodworking tools, Black & Decker never disappoints.

Best Tool Brand For DIY

The best tool brand for DIY projects is Milwaukee due to the variety of options that they offer. Milwaukee is great for DIY-oriented builder-owners because their accessories, hand tools, power tools, and safety gear are all amazing. You can also find vacuums and dust extractors which are a must for any DIY project.

Everything from the Brushless Cordless ½” Drill Driver to the M18 16” Fuel Chainsaw is easy to use and consistent. What secures Milwaukee’s place as the best power tool brand for DIY is the durability and quality. You need to know that your power tools are built to last for all of your DIY projects for years to come.

Best Cordless Power Tool Brand

The best cordless power tool brand is Ryobi, and Makita follows closely behind. Ryobi has always been at the forefront of cordless power tools, and that has a lot to do with battery life. Cordless power tools are only as effective as their battery life is long.

One of their best options is the Ryobi 18V ONE+ Lithium Chainsaw which boasts a 4AH battery. Ryobi proved that cordless tools are not only quieter, but they can also be superior to gas-powered alternatives. Environmentally conscious, cost-effective, and long-lasting, Ryobi cordless power tools are well regarded for their quality.

Makita also produces some incredible cordless power tools, and it’s one of their strong suits. Not only are their cordless woodwork tools incredible, but Makita also makes some of the best cordless leaf blowers . Ryobi may take the cake as the best cordless power tool brand, but Makita has many products that are just as good.

Best Concrete Power Tool

Right now, one of the best and highest rated power tools for concrete is the DeWalt 20V Rotary Hammer. Not only is this rotary hammer powerful and precise, but it reduces vibrations allowing for more control. The brushless motor on this rotary hammer makes it so that you can use the tool for a long time without wearing it out.

DeWalt doubles down on quality with this tool by providing a comfortable ergonomic grip making long sessions easy. Doing concrete work can become difficult and can wear on you, but this rotary hammer combats that. If you had any doubts that DeWalt is among the best power tool brands, then look no further than this rotary hammer.

Related Questions

Do power tools use a lot of electricity.

Yes, corded power tools can use a lot of electricity with extended usage, and that’s especially true for power saws . Using wet/dry vacuums and air compressors can also increase power bills and consume a high volume of energy. The best way around that is to limit usage or simply switch to using cordless power tools.

How should power tools be stored?

Power tools should be stored safely inside of a shed, or a safe spot indoors such as your basement. It’s acceptable to store power tools in your garage as well, but only if they aren’t exposed to extreme temperatures. The key is to minimize moisture and humidity to protect them from damage, and that’s best done with dehumidifiers.

Can power tools freeze?

Power tools have the potential to freeze, but even if they don’t, freezing temperatures can damage them. The combination of the cold temperatures with the humidity and moisture can be a death sentence to power tools. Plastic, metal, and the electrical components of power tools can all be damaged by freezing temperatures.

What power tool brand has the best warranty?

Craftsman offers the best warranty for any tool brand with its free lifetime warranty, but it comes with a catch. The power tool brand doesn’t honor the warranty if the tool breaks as a result of the customer misusing the product. Even still, Craftsman is often quick to replace your power tools, and they don’t even require that you provide a receipt to do so.

Can power tools get wet?

It is not generally safe for power tools to get wet, and it is advised against by manufacturers. Using power tools in the rain specifically can cause a risk of damaging the tools and even electrocuting yourself. Some cordless drills are considered safe for underwater use, but only for a few minutes at a time.

What Did We Learn?

Craftsman is the best power tool brand in general, and Black & Decker is the best tool brand for homeowners. Black & Decker is ideal for homeowners because of the ease of use and wide selection available for many projects. Other brands, such as Ryobi and Makita , can claim the title of the best cordless power tool options on the market.

Milwaukee is the best tool brand for DIY due to the vast selection and project-specific tools in their catalog. Between the woodwork and concrete tools and accessories, Milwaukee has a tool and solution for any imaginable DIY project. Other brands, such as Ridgid and Worx, also have a wide enough selection that you can find tools for any project you have in mind.

Whether it be Metabo HPT, Bosch, Stanley, or Skil, you have countless options for high-quality power tool brands. It’s ultimately a matter of your personal preference, experience level, and what project it is that you need the tools for. Consider the project that you are going to tackle, and explore these power tool brands to find the right one for you.

Nick Durante is a professional writer with a primary focus on home improvement. When he is not writing about home improvement or taking on projects around the house, he likes to read and create art. He is always looking towards the newest trends in home improvement.

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