Most remote workers use laptops, which are great for portability but don’t have a lot of visual real estate.
A standalone monitor provides more space to have other applications open.
There are a variety of monitors on the market. Some are quite expensive, and some are a bit more affordable. Here are some things that will help you decide if you need a stand-alone microphone.
You need multiple applications open
You are reading documents, browsing tabs, sifting through email, listening to a streaming channel, and checking spreadsheets. A larger monitor allows you to have two screens, your laptop and your monitor, or just one big one.
You have enough ports or an adapter for an external monitor
Make sure you have enough ports or an extender to plug in an external monitor. Most modern laptops have enough ports to connect an external monitor or at minimum can support extenders to allow a connection and proper monitor use.
You have room at your workspace
Most external monitors take up a fair bit of space due to their size and their cables. Monitors have slimmed down over the years and their stands are thinner. You can create space for a monitor by using an articulating arm – https://www.thehumansolution.com/uplift-monitor-arm.html.
You are feeling strain in your neck
An external monitor will sit higher up on your workspace which provides better ergonomics for your neck. You can also use bigger font sizes without crowding your screen space.
Final Word
Our favorite part of using an external monitor is the extra visual space we have along with the reduced strain on our neck from looking down at a laptop screen.
External monitor options:
- Dell 27 4k ($399) – https://www.dell.com/en-us/shop/dell-27-4k-uhd-usb-c-monitor-s2722qc/apd/210-bbqt
- ASUS 27” ($299) – https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LCPY1TR/
Here’s good list for monitors for the remote worker:
The 6 Best Monitors for 2022 | Reviews by Wirecutter (nytimes.com)