WFH Upgrades 2021

Over the past few months, I have been progressively upgrading my work from home setup to optimize it for productivity.

In my first article, I discussed my desk, chair, lighting, cable management, and artwork. In this article, I will go over the changes made to my webcam, speakers, headphones, microphones, footwear, and snacking accessories. 

I am always looking for new brands to review, please send me recommendations for any products that you want to be reviewed here.

Webcam 

I have absolutely loved using my GoPro HERO9 as a webcam. It is surprisingly simple to set up.

I made a TikTok here showing how you can start using your GoPro as a webcam. It is great for travelling. It is a very easy way to increase your video quality. I have been loving finishing a Friday meeting, attaching my HERO9 on my helmet mount, and going for a bike. The MAX lens mod is great for biking. However, it captures every corner of my apartment when I use it as a webcam which makes it great for boardroom calls. 

I have been using all the amazing accessories that GoPro offers. The media mod significantly improves my audio quality when recording. It also allows me to attach the zeus mini light which is great for filming selfie content or taking late-night video calls. The magnetic clip is also useful for mounting the HERO9 to my monitor. My favourite attachment has been the Display Mod and shorty grip because it makes the HERO9 perfect for vlogging and is much more compact than my Canon G7X Mark ii.

Microphone

The team at Shure sent over both their MV7 and MV5C to review. I was excited to try out both products. I noticed a significant improvement in my sound quality by using both microphones. 

Both microphones connect with a single Micro USB cable. I have been using the MV7 daily as seen in this TikTok. I use MV5C as my travel microphone. I have gotten amazing feedback on my sound quality and will never use my built-in microphone again. A good webcam coupled with a great microphone makes my video calls consistently professional.

Sound (Speakers & Headphones)

The lovely folks at Bose sent me their NC700 Headphones. They instantly became part of my daily routine. While I am writing this article, I am listening to the Red Hot Chili peppers while my girlfriend is watching TV. The NC700 Headphones have industry-leading noise cancellation technology coupled with great-sounding audio. I take video calls all day wearing my NC700 and they have never let me down. 

The Bose team also sent a set of Companion 20 Speakers which have been great for working. They have more than enough power. I previously had a subwoofer and two speakers on my desk. It took up a ton of room. The Companion 20 Speakers have a small footprint and I could not be more impressed with the sound quality. From experience, I know that they are loud enough to get noise complaints. I liked the Companion 20 Speakers so much that I got a second pair, and hooked them up to my Apple TV using a Bluetooth audio receiver. 

Footwear

I only wear two pairs of shoes. I recommend all my friends and family to buy both pairs.

I have the fortune of wearing Atoms Model 000 every day when working from home. They are amazing for long days at the standing desk. I almost look at them as my condo slippers. Here is my unboxing.

However, I do frequently go outside and have been battle testing my Vessi Weekend Sneakers due to them being fully waterproof. They have been great for canoeing and biking. I am never worried about the weather changing when I wear my Vessi sneakers. Here is my unboxing.

Snacking Accessories

I have been juicing a lot recently, but have had discussions with friends about the benefits of pulp. The team at Ventray sent over their Pro 600 blender as seen in this TikTok.

The blender has Japanese steel blades and is fantastic, quick, and easy to use. I love the smoothies it makes. It has come in handy for blending Adobo peppers and has some great functions I have yet to try. It is great for any kitchen and performs equitably to blenders that are double the price. 

Other Details

Living in 2021, masks are the norm. I have been loving the Atoms Everyday mask. 

The Atoms everyday crew socks have been great on bike/canoe rides. 

Brands interested in product reviews can submit a request here or message me directly on LinkedIn.