Last week, I had to build a desk setup from scratch (just moved into college).
Even though it took a while, I finally finished setting everything up (had to wait for a stranded Amazon package).
Other than the iPad, everything is pretty cheap. Most of the tech you'll see here is <$50. Hopefully that'll make this list helpful.
Here's what's on/under/in my desk.
Alexa 🤖
For years, I've used one of those tiny Echo Dots.
At home, I used it to control all the lights in my room. I also used it for some cool tricks ("Alexa, execute Order 66" was everyone's favorite).
Here, I use it to update me on useful info (like the time, weather, next F1 race, etc.) when I'm working on my iPad. I also use it to build my programming skills—I just published my first ever Alexa skill using the Echo Dot.
They technically retail for $50 on Amazon, but you can find sales pretty often (including right now).
Desk Lamp 💡
Obviously your choice of desk lamp doesn't really matter.
I use this lamp I bought 6 years ago, but anything works.
If you're going to use an Echo Dot or another smart device, think about getting a desk lamp from Phillips Hue or another company. I would've brought my own smart light, but I decided to go with a proper "desk lamp" instead.
At night, the desk lamp makes it way easier to work with my iPad. Even if my roommate is sleeping, I can use this lamp to work without bothering him.
Mouse 🐭
The mouse I would be using right now is this mouse from Logitech.
Unfortunately, I forgot to bring the USB receiver 😭.
That being said, I haven't really missed it. I've been able to work without the mouse just fine.
I’m also thinking about getting a fancy Logitech mouse that can switch easily between computers (would be helpful because I also use a MacBook Air for programming).
Dongle 🛠️
I bought this dongle a while ago and it has everything I need:
2 USB-A ports
1 USB-C port (for charging)
1 HDMI/VGA port for my ancient monitor
I’ve said this thousands of times—just find a dongle that has every port you’ll ever need. Don’t worry about getting a name brand product unless you’re ordering from a sketchy website (which you shouldn’t be doing anyways).
This desk setup took a while to figure out. Using Concepts made it way easier to prepare before I moved in.
Concepts is a cool brainstorming app I've used for years (check my post archive if you don't trust me). I use it to take notes, brainstorm ideas, and even design my desk setup.
I genuinely recommend it (not a BS recommendation).
Concepts is giving Overoptimize users a free 30-day trial to their free plan. And no, you don't have to enter your credit card info.
Back to the post ⬇️
Power Strip 🔌
When it comes to outlet location, I got horrible luck.
While my roommate got an outlet right next to his desk, mine was in the most inconvenient location possible: it was located slightly above the middle of my bed.
It’s tough to explain the layout of the room, but it basically meant that it would’ve been impossible to charge stuff while working at my desk.
Thankfully, however, I was saved. I had bought this surge protector from Amazon the previous week.
Although it's still a stretch to reach my desk, it has definitely been worth it. Probably the best value for the money (it was only $11).
Charging Cable 🔋
I have a ton of cables.
The ones that matter are the standard USB-C cable that comes with every iPad and a USB-C extension cable I bought from Amazon (highly recommend).
Not sure what else to talk about (charging cables are pretty boring).
Fun Stuff 🥳
I also keep some fun stuff.
Example: I keep a Megaminx (a 12-sided Rubik's cube) and a deck of playing cards.
I use the cube whenever I'm super bored and the deck of cards whenever I'm super bored with friends.
This stuff reminds me of home + makes my work environment less stressful. This makes me way more productive when I’m working on my iPad.
iPad
And finally, we have the iPad.
I've said this a million times before, but here's the info for new readers: I use a 2020 12.9" iPad Pro with a Magic Keyboard and an Apple Pencil.
Final Thoughts
"Have a clean desk"—my mom
Thanks for reading!
Adi