Gearfuse Technology, Science, Culture & More
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American spends 44.5 hours in the office each week. That’s a lot of time! That’s only second to the amount of time that they spend sleeping. While some simply need a framed family photo on their desk to make it their “space”, others want the latest technology to guide them through the workday – and we can’t blame them. We’ve compiled a list of the latest gadgets and office must-haves to make the workday that much more productive and bearable:
- Nano Heated Wireless Mug
It’s an office conundrum – you pour yourself a fresh pot of coffee or tea, then get distracted by a phone call or meeting, only to return to a frigid (and undrinkable) beverage. The Nano Heated Wireless Mug by Green Lama solves that problem. Available in a 14oz and 16oz, the mug maintains the liquid temperature at 145F for 45 minutes after pouring. The mug is easily charged via USB, and the battery life lasts for 7 or more cups, so it can help you get through even the toughest of workdays.
Sometimes you just need to drown out that person in the cubicle next to you, or simply get some peace and quiet in your busy office to finish those month-end reports. The Sony noise-cancelling headphones are your solution. Sony’s latest edition blocks out up to 97% of background noise, so you can focus on the task at hand. The noise-cancelling headphones are available in a variety of colors and there are also wireless options available, in case you need a change of scenery. In addition, battery life can last up to 80 hours which is (hopefully) plenty of time to get you through the work week with your favorite tunes.
- XDDesign Solar USB Charger
For those of us lucky enough to have a window in our office, the solar USB charger is the perfect office addition. The sleek charger attaches to the window pane, eliminating the need to watch for shadows as with other solar chargers. Although the solar window charger requires 13 hours of direct sunlight for a full charge, it’s a great way give your devices that extra boost during the workday.
Let’s face it, offices are dirty. Between eating and drinking at your desk, and an estimated 10% of co-workers who don’t wash their hands after the use the restroom (yuck!), the office is a breeding ground for germs – and your phone is on the front lines. It’s particularly important to keep your phone clean because it is typically on you at all times. With the PhoneSoap Smartphone Sanitizer, you can increase your odds of having a clean device. Simply place your phone inside, close the lid and let the ultra-violet lights do the cleaning.
Those who have tried a number of productivity methods have most likely heard of the time boxing method, wherein individuals box out a specific set of time for certain tasks, and take a break before moving on to the next task. The idea is that when you have a finite amount of time to work, you’ll be more efficient, and the rest in between will allow you to re-focus for what’s ahead. This productivity timing hourglass can help you do just that. What’s more, it serves as a sleek desk ornament.
- Silent Mouse
If you work in a particularly quiet office, the incessant sound of mouse clicks may drive you mad. The silent mouse solves this problem by allowing you to click noise-free, throughout the day. Most major computer accessory manufacturers, including Nexus and Logitech, carry a silent mouse for under $30. This gadget also comes in handy for closing out all of those March Madness windows when you hear your boss making his way toward your office.
Have your own office gadget that you can’t live without? Let us know in the comments below!
