Best Desk Setup Accessories for Remote Workers in 2026

The Kensington SmartFit is the strongest single upgrade for any remote worker using an external monitor. It raises your screen to the exact height you need, frees up the desk surface underneath, and integrates cable management to keep things tidy. Supports displays up to 34 inches — more than enough for most home office setups.

Pros

• Strong adjustability — height, tilt, and rotation
• Frees up significant desk space
• Integrated cable management
• Supports monitors 13-34 inches

Cons

• Requires a VESA-compatible monitor
• More expensive than a basic riser
• Installation takes more time than a stand

Verdict

The best ergonomic upgrade for remote workers using an external monitor. If you’re serious about your setup, a monitor arm is the first thing to add.

The VIVO Dual Monitor Arm is the go-to choice for remote workers who use two screens. Full articulation on both arms means you can position each monitor exactly where you need it — side by side, stacked, or angled. Cable management clips keep the desk clean, and the sturdy clamp mount fits most desk thicknesses.

Pros

• Full articulation on both arms
• Good desk space savings for dual-monitor setups
• Cable management clips included
• Solid build quality for the price

Cons

• Only worth it if you actually use two monitors
• Setup takes longer than a single arm
• Requires VESA-compatible monitors

Verdict

The best value dual monitor arm for remote workers who multitask across multiple screens. Saves desk space and improves posture in one setup.

A wood monitor riser does two things at once — it raises your screen to a better viewing height and adds a warmer, more polished look to your desk. The storage space underneath is a practical bonus for remotes, notebooks, or a keyboard when not in use. Quality varies by seller, so look for solid wood or bamboo options with good reviews.

Pros

• Better aesthetics than plastic risers
• Useful under-monitor storage
• Stable and durable with good construction
• Blends well into home office setups
• Very affordable — under $20

Cons

• Fixed height — no adjustability
• Takes up more desk space than a monitor arm
• Quality varies significantly by brand

Verdict

The best monitor riser for remote workers who want a cleaner, more polished desk without spending on a full monitor arm.

The Amazon Basics monitor stand is the most affordable way to raise your screen to a better height. Three height settings give you some flexibility, and the space underneath helps reduce desk clutter. The plastic build is basic but functional — a solid starting point for anyone new to ergonomic setups.

Pros

• Very affordable — under $30
• Three height settings
• Extra space underneath for storage
• Simple setup

cons

• Plastic construction feels basic
• Limited height range
• Less premium look than wood or metal options

Verdict

The best budget option for raising your monitor or laptop screen. Gets the job done without spending much.

A felt desk pad transforms the feel of your workspace — softer surface for your wrists during typing, quieter mouse clicks, and a cleaner overall look. The Desky felt pad is one of the better options for minimalist home offices, with a refined look that improves with time rather than showing wear quickly.

Pros

• Soft, comfortable wrist feel during typing
• Minimalist look — works well in home offices
• Protects desk surface
• Works well with most mice

Cons

• Felt can show wear over extended use
• Not waterproof — spills are harder to clean
• Premium versions can get expensive

Verdict

The best desk pad for remote workers who want a softer, more refined workspace surface for long daily sessions.

A PU leather desk pad is the most practical desk accessory on this list. It protects your desk surface, improves mouse glide, and makes the workspace look tidier — all for under $30. Easy to clean, available in large sizes that cover both keyboard and mouse areas, and durable enough for daily use.

Pros

• Easy to clean — wipes down quickly
• Affordable — under $30
• Good mouse surface
• Large sizes available

Cons

• Less premium than real leather
• Edge wear on cheaper versions
• Some models have a strong factory smell initially

Verdict

The best value desk accessory for most remote workers. Practical, durable, and immediately improves how your desk looks and feels.

A monitor arm gives you more flexibility — you can adjust height, tilt, and depth precisely, and it frees up desk space completely. A riser is simpler, cheaper, and doesn’t require installation. If you use an external monitor regularly and care about posture, a monitor arm is worth the investment. If you’re using a laptop or just want a quick, affordable lift, a riser is the practical choice.

Not strictly, but it makes a real difference. A desk pad protects your desk surface, improves mouse tracking on most materials, and makes long typing sessions more comfortable. At $15–$40, it’s one of the highest-value accessories you can add to a home office setup.

Aim for a pad that covers at least your keyboard and mouse area together — typically 35 inches or wider. Larger pads (47 inches and above) cover most of the desk surface and give you more flexibility to rearrange your setup. Measure your desk before buying.

Most modern monitors are VESA-compatible — meaning they have standard mounting holes on the back (usually 75x75mm or 100x100mm). Check your monitor’s specs before buying an arm. Laptop screens don’t use VESA mounts, so a monitor arm is only for external displays.

If you only make one change, make it ergonomic: raise your screen to eye level. A monitor arm or riser does this most effectively. After that, a desk pad adds comfort and organization at minimal cost. Cable management is a lower priority but makes a big visual difference when you get to it.