Sometimes you don’t know what you need until someone else gets it. Now, thanks to this list of uncommon but absolutely must-have office supplies, you can be the trend-setter. Here are eight of the best gadgets to super-power your office.
1. Hand-Warming USB Mouse
It’s fairly common for office workers to have poor circulation in their hands and feet, and these clever little mice provide a solution. They work like standard, high-quality USB mice in all respects except one: They’re comfortably warm. There are several brands to choose from, but ValueRays is the specialist for this product.
2. Livescribe
While there are a range of copycats who now provide similar products, Livescribe was the first mainstream option and remains the strongest. For those unfamiliar with the concept, Livescribe is a pen that automatically creates a digital copy of your written notes. Every company should have at least one Livescribe-powered note taker at their meetings.
Buy it: NEW Smartpen Portfolio black (Input Devices)
or Livescribe Pulse Smart Pen Charger Station with USB and AC Power Cables – Retail Box
3. Whiteboard Paint
This gadget may be low tech compared to the electronics on this list, but its creation took a chemical mastermind. The paint comes in a variety of colors, but they all work in the same way: You simply paint whatever area you want to use as a whiteboard and then use your whiteboard markers directly on that surface. Ideapaint is the major innovator for this product.
Buy it: Buhl LyteBoard Interactive Whiteboard
or PolyVision TS 620 USB Touch Sensitive Interactive Whiteboard
4. Foot Massager
The other half of the solution to the poor circulation problem comes in the form of simple foot massagers. Electronic foot massagers are energy efficient, discreet, and can provide heat and comfort for your tired soles while you work.
Buy it: UComfy Leg, Foot, Calf, and Ankle Massager (Squeeze and Vibration)
5. Moving Keyboards
Ergonomic keyboards may be a step above the standard models, but the primary problem is repetitive motion, not the position of your fingers. Companies like Smartfish now provide keyboards that solve this by automatically shifting the position of the keys slightly at regular intervals. While it does take some time to get used to, you also gain the advantage of freaking out any co-workers who aren’t aware of your new gadgetry’s functions.
6. The USB Warmer/Cooler
It’s hard to mention this device without also mentioning the brand, since Excalibur is the only company that has a market-ready model that both cools and warms your beverage. You simply plug-in the hot-and-cold plate via USB, adjust the settings, and rest your drink on top of it for optimal temperature results.
Buy it: Koolatron KWC-4 Coca-Cola Personal 6-Can Mini Fridge
or Norpro 5569 Decorative Cup Warmer
7. The Babble Voice Garbler
If you have concerns about your co-workers overhearing you while you’re on the phone (maybe because you’re in a competitive sales environment or maybe because you’re not strictly following the company’s rules) you can use the Babble voice security system to automatically garble your voice to those not sitting directly at your workstation.
8. Keyboard Putty
Maintaining a clean keyboard can be tough, but keyboard putty, like the sort offered by Cyber Clean, makes the cleaning process easy and a bit fun. You just slap this silly-putty-like goo on top of your keyboard and gently peel it off, making your keys shiny, clean, and more hygienic.
Buy it: Cyber Clean 25055 Home & Office Pop-up Cup – 5.11 oz. (145g)
Whether you’re looking for privacy, comfort, or just a bit of fun, these gadgets can help you make the most out of your office.
Article by Guest Author: Richard Tucker
About the Author: Richard Tucker is an engineer specializing in replacement elevator parts. When he’s not working, you can find Rich in the kitchen, trying to perfect his chili recipe for the upcoming Chili Cook Off!