Google Pixel Tablet (256GB)
The Google Pixel Tablet is a portable powerhouse, and my tablet of choice. It weighs just over a pound and has a bright 10.9-inch LCD screen. I have plenty of space for writing in Google Docs, reviewing spreadsheets and taking meetings. I use the Nulaxy phone stand to prop the tablet up at a coffee shop, event venue and more.
My Dell Latitude 7430 laptop weighs just under 3 pounds, but also takes up more space in my bag. The tablet easily fits into one of my favorite leather purses instead of my hefty, less stylish backpack. And there’s still room in my purse for a couple of key accessories to complete my workstation, as well as other personal essentials.
The Pixel’s battery is strong; I don’t find I need to charge it at all for a full day of work. The only downside is that it doesn’t offer LTE network compatibility, so you’ll need to connect to Wi-Fi to access many of your apps.
The Google Pixel Tablet’s versatility and portability make it an essential piece of my mobile workstation setup.
If you absolutely need LTE, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE also works, though you’ll still feel the heft of the tablet. You can also use an Apple iPad (10th Gen) or iPad Mini (Sixth Gen) for a similar setup. I’m primarily an Android user, so I opted to stay in that ecosystem. The Pixel Tablet’s lightweight build, big screen and long battery life make this a must-have for my portable setup. When I’m not on the move, I dock it at home where it doubles as my smart home assistant.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
Part Phone, Part Tablet
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5
Sometimes, it doesn’t make sense to even pack a tablet, especially if you’re constantly on the move, have frequent meetings or simply don’t need it for this particular workday. On days like this, I pack my Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5. It’s a smartphone that unfolds into a 7.6-inch tablet. For a mobile device, that’s a lot of space. I add a case with the S Pen and use Samsung Notes to jot down notes during briefings and events, which I find really handy.
Because it has apps like Google Docs, Monday and more, I can pair this smartphone with the Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 keyboard to create a mighty mini PC (with LTE capability) in a pinch. It’s not a perfect layout, and I find I miss that extra 3 inches of display real estate. When using the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, you’ll want to pack a portable charger, too, which can add bulk. The battery is solid but expect the display to reduce it throughout the day. Overall, I find it a great option in a pinch—or when I don’t want to carry the larger Pixel Tablet.
Logitech Keys-To-Go 2
A Portable Keyboard To Pair With Your Tablet
Logitech Keys-To-Go 2
Logitech just launched this new iteration of its portable keyboard, and I’ve quickly grown impressed with the Keys-To-Go 2. The device feels nearly weightless at just 0.4 pounds, and it’s very responsive when typing. I’ve used it in both scenarios outlined here with the Pixel Tablet and with the Galaxy Z Fold 5.
The recently launched Logitech Keys-To-Go 2 is extremely lightweight and can connect to multiple devices simultaneously.
I can connect it to up to three devices at once. If I need to hop on Slack and quickly type out a message, I can connect it not only to my Pixel Tablet, but also to my Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 and my laptop, swapping Bluetooth connections with the tap of a button.
It takes coin cell batteries—one of my only gripes about this device—but the battery lasts for three years, so there’s no need to worry about plugging it in for a recharge. Choose from lovely shades of Lilac, Pale Grey and Graphite (I’ve been digging rainbow colorways in tech products and opted for the Lilac). It’s a little steep in price at around $80, but I found it worth the cost to save on weight in my bag and given how easily it blends into my mobile setup.
Logitech Lift Vertical Ergonomic Mouse
A Mini Vertical Mouse
Logitech Lift Vertical Ergonomic Mouse
The Logitech Lift Vertical Ergonomic Mouse takes the classic mouse design and adds a vertical ergonomic component to reduce wrist strains and pains. My hypermobility caused similar issues a few years back for me, and it’s one of the reasons I’m especially particular about the tech I use daily. I ordered this ergonomic mouse to see if it would help with those aches, and to my absolute delight, it did. It’s so crucial in my daily routine that two years later, I’ve ditched all other mice.
While even the best ergonomic mice can feel bulky, this Logitech Lift fits small- to medium-sized hands. It features an adjustable DPI (dots per inch, or the mouse’s sensitivity), so I can customize how quickly the mouse responds to my movements. In the entire two years I’ve owned this mouse, I replaced the single AA battery once. Like the Keys-To-Go 2, the bottom has three Bluetooth connections available (you can also use an included dongle), and I can connect to my devices with the press of a button. Even pairing a new device is easy: Press and hold the designated button until the LED light flashes.
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
Tune Out The World While You Work
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones are our pick for the best noise-canceling headphones, the best wireless headphones and more—and all for good reason. The noise-canceling technology in these headphones is the best on the market. I can take virtual meetings in noisy settings and hear clearly. There have been moments when I’m wearing the headphones, and I don’t even realize someone is speaking to me until I’m tapped on the shoulder.
It also comes with a massive battery life that trumps even the best wireless earbuds at up to 20 hours. That means that even when I rush out the door and forget to charge them, I don’t have to worry. I’ve also found that a quick 15-minute charge from any power source provides three hours of playback. I also like that they come in a gorgeous White Smoke color. They’re one of the pricier wireless headphones on the market, but I can’t imagine packing any other pair when working in noisy settings.
These are all my essentials for setting up a portable, lighter and more mobile workstation.
