My optimized home setup 2021

Since the first lockdown in 2020, I’ve been investing even more in my home setup as all my work and meetings are now done remotely.

My optimized home setup

Desk

Rekt RGo DESK 140

I had a manual standing desk for 3 years, and it was time to switch to an electric standing desk.
This one came out right during the first lockdown, so I pre-ordered it right away.
I like the shape and all the cable management built-in.

Seat

Herman Miller Aeron Chair

This one needs no introduction, the king of office chairs.
I have been dreaming about this chair at least since 2017.
And it does not disappoint!

My optimized home setup

Computer

MacBook Pro 16” M1 Pro

I love the battery life and the low consumption of the new M1 Pro CPU.
I switched from 13” to 16” because it’s a lot better when working away from home.

Monitors

LG 27UD88-W

Using the same USB-C monitor since 2018.
With 60W power delivery, it’s enough to charge my MacBook.
It serves as a USB hub to connect my keyboard, webcam, microphone…

Ergotron LX

Using the same monitor arms since 2017.

iPad Pro 12.9”

I also use my iPad as an additional monitor sometimes at home. But it’s usually mainly for my nomad setup. I might use it more once universal control is available (ability to control the iPad from my mac mouse/keyboard).

Keyboard

Ultimate Hacking Keyboard

I was looking for a split keyboard to improve my wrists positions.
I liked that this keyboard uses a standard layout and can even be put back together.
I even bought a 2nd one with silent keys when I work away from home.

Mouse

Apple Magic Trackpad 2

I never use a mouse on Mac OS, and this way, I get the same experience when working on the MacBook.

Webcam

Lumina

Lumina is the world’s first AI-powered camera.
It comes with a small application to configure advanced features like cameraman (automatically follow your face) and background blur.
But also, a physical card with an actual palette of colors to do automatic color calibration feels like magic!

Lights

Elgato Key Light

With a good camera, I also need good lighting.
During the day, my desk is near a full-height window, so I need the additional lighting to compensate.

Microphone

Blue Yeti X with Compass arm

One of the best microphones you can buy today, simple to use with Logitech software.
It works great with the Compass arm, and I push it away when I am not using it.

Headphones

AirPods Max

I had utterly dismissed them at release because of the exorbitant price.
But having used AirPods Pro for a few months, I fell in love with spatial audio and wanted to get the same experience with my daily desk headphones.
Now that AirPods Max price has dropped in 3rd party retailers, it’s a great contender against Bose/Sony, especially if you use many Apple devices.
Automatic switching between my MacBook, iPad, and iPhone is a must!