No two people work alike — our vocation and habits make sure of that. What most of us can relate to, though, is the need to curate our home or office workstations the way we want. And we’re all dipping our hands into the same pool of devices — computer, mouse, keyboard and speakers — and hoping the right mix will allow us to become our most productive, efficient and creative self. So what to choose?
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At Gear Patrol, we gravitate towards an Apple workstation. Its Mac line is secure and dependable — and damn pretty as well — plus all Apple computers seamlessly integrate with the iPhone most of us already own. Still, walk around our offices and you’ll notice that no two setups are identical. Some have desktops. Others have laptops, with no — or multiple — external monitors. There are standing desks, too, along with every kind of over-ear cans you can imagine.
Since everybody works differently, there really isn’t a perfect desktop setup — so we’ve created four for four different people. There are the minimalist and high-end setups, depending on how much you want to spend or how clutter-free you want your workspace. And there are desk-tied setups and ones that have no problem being packed up and going mobile. All are rooted in a Mac. And all have a little flair. A good desktop setup can be used for work and play, remember.
The Apple Laptop, Basic Setup
Despite proclamations to the contrary, the smartphone hasn’t antiquated the computer. Not even close. A laptop still provides more processing power, memory and versatility than any smartphone could ever hope to. Don’t underestimate the bigger screen and an actual keyboard, either. This basic setup is for the person who can’t always be confined to a desk. Even if there aren’t too many frills, everything works seamlessly with each other. Plus, this specific power bank can juice the M1 MacBook Pro for a few extra hours.
The 13-inch MacBook Pro has Apple's M1 chip, so it's more powerful and efficient than previous laptops. (And it doesn't carry the steep price tag of Apple's 2021 Pros. )
Alvin's cutting mats make some of our favorite desktop mats. Also, each mat has a green side and a black side, in case you want to certain desktop look. Available in a number of sizes.
This is a nifty 20,000mAh portable charger for your laptop and few of your other gadgets.
The Apple Laptop, Power User
This setup combines the best of both worlds. It’s rooted around a 16-inch MacBook Pro, so it can be taken mobile if need be, but it’s really optimized to run like a high-end desktop. There’s a separate wireless mouse and keyboard, so you don’t have to be right up near the screen. Speaking of which, the huge curved display is an Excel user’s dream. (It’s also pretty awesome for gaming.)
The redesigned 16-inch MacBook Pro brings back all the fan-favorite nostalgia of previous Pros (MagSafe, more ports, function keys), but all gives users a bigger, more beautiful display and the choice of Apple's latest and greatest M1 Pro or M1 Max chips.
The wireless keyboard is necessary for those working with an external monitor or those who place their laptop on a stand. This specific keyboard has the extended numeric keypad.
LaCie makes some of our favorite (and most conspicuous) external hard drives. This one can connect directly to your MacBook Pro via USB-C.
The Apple Desktop, Basic Setup
Even in this age of portability, there’s still a place for a traditional desktop. It’s more upgradable than a laptop and you generally get more for less, in terms of better processor, better graphics chipset, bigger screen and more storage. And, of course, its fixed location naturally helps you separate work from everything else. This setup is designed to gel effortlessly together, while still maintaining a clean, clutter-free desk.
The newest 24-inch iMac has Apple's powerful and efficient M1 chip. It also a near edge-to-edge display, a thinner design and smaller base, as well as improved speakers and a 1080p webcam. And it's available in a variety of vibrant colors.
Apple has finally integrated Touch ID into one of its wireless keyboards, however it'll only fully work with a M1-based Mac (as opposed to an Intel-based Mac). If purchased with an M1 iMac, Apple will color match it with your desktop.
The Bose Companion 2 Series III is a great and affordable way of improving the already-decent sound system that's on your iMac.
The Apple Desktop, Power User
The ultimate desktop setup doesn’t include a desktop — let that sink in. Instead, we’ve combined the top-of-the-line M1 (Pro or Max) MacBook Pro with two 4K monitors (connected via Plugable's powerful dock, which can also connect one 5K display), powerful desktop speakers and several other accessories that’ll maximize productivity. Just step back and revel in its glory. No desk mat needed.
The new 16-inch MacBook Pro is configurable with either of Apple's newest high-end chipsets (M1 Pro or M1 Max) — it's a beast. It also is decked out with all the nostalgic features (MagSafe charging, function keys, lots of ports) that any pro will love.
Grovemade's gorgeous shelf sits on top of your desk and easily holds two monitors (ideally up to 27" each). You can purchase in two woods: maple or walnut (shown).
Released in late 2019, the Logitech MX Master 3 is one of our favorite wireless mice. It boasts a great scroll wheel, an ergonomic design and USB-C charging.
Plugable Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C Dual Display Dock
This is one of Plugable's newest and most powerful docking stations. It has a total of 11 ports and is capable of powering 4K external monitors. It's a beast.
The A5+ are a bigger and better-sounding version of the company's A2+ powered speakers. They have a number of connectivity options, including built-in Bluetooth.
