Remote Work Environment Sharing (Hardware Edition)

Taiwan has been affected by the pandemic and entered a Level 3 alert status, with some companies starting to implement remote work. Having been working remotely in Japan since last year, I’d like to share some of my experiences.

Preparation

Once you're ready to set up a remote work environment, I recommend placing your orders for equipment "immediately" after deciding what to buy. During the initial phase of the pandemic in Japan, I delayed my orders, resulting in longer wait times for essential items like webcams.

Environment

If you plan to work from home, it’s best to designate a separate space as your office. Working on a laptop from the sofa or coffee table can lead to poor posture and make it difficult to concentrate on work. I recommend checking out this Remote Work Shopping List that includes various recommended devices for remote work. While acquiring everything on the list can be quite expensive, you can start with the essentials that you need the most.

Currently, I hide my laptop behind an external monitor to save desk space. You can also use a stand to elevate the laptop for a better viewing angle.

Standing Desk

A standing desk is quite essential for heavy computer users. Unless you're accustomed to maintaining a fixed height, I recommend investing in one. I'm currently using the FLEXISPOT E3W standing desk (¥45,000). If you’re not particular about the tabletop, you can buy it along with the desk; I got mine separately from a hardware store.

Chair

When it comes to chairs, it's advisable to choose a quality one since you'll be spending long hours in it, and the quality of your chair directly affects your health. I use the ITOKI office chair from Japan (YL7-BK-AEL ¥34,900). If your budget allows, consider getting a Herman Miller ergonomic chair.

4K Monitor

I personally prefer a dual-monitor setup, but a curved monitor is also a good option. Since I already had a monitor from a previous upgrade, I currently have one 4K monitor.

• BenQ 27-inch HDR EW2780 ¥24,877
• Dell 27-inch 4K U2720QM ¥59,800

Keyboard

Keyboards are a matter of personal preference. I’m currently using the legendary HHKB keyboard, model HYBRID Type-S (¥35,200), which supports up to 4 Bluetooth devices and one wired (USB) connection, making it very convenient to switch between multiple devices. You can see a wooden board underneath the keyboard to ensure my wrists don’t bend too much while typing.

The HHKB keyboard has several unique features:

Different Keyboard Layout

The CapsLock key has been replaced with a Control key. It takes a bit of getting used to, but once familiar, it's very convenient to press Control with just a slight movement of your pinky. The Delete key has been moved above Enter, reducing the distance you need to move to press it.

Minimal Key Count

The HHKB design eliminates unnecessary keys, even omitting directional arrows (you need to press fn to use them).

Capacitive Keyboard

The typing feel is quite different from mechanical keyboards, but it's significantly quieter. I initially switched to the HHKB because I found that typing for long periods on a mechanical keyboard caused finger fatigue. After switching, I rarely experience finger fatigue.

Designed for Programmers

The HHKB was originally designed for programmers, so if you're accustomed to Vim, you should find it easy to adapt (no directional keys, with Ctrl conveniently located to the left of A).

The downside is that it’s considerably more expensive than typical mechanical keyboards.

Remote Video

The built-in camera on the MacBook has poor resolution, so if you want to ensure good video quality, I recommend investing in an external webcam. I suggest the Logitech Webcam C920 (¥7,480), which supports 1080p. Just a heads-up: I waited over two weeks for mine to be back in stock during the pandemic because I delayed my order, so be sure to place yours quickly.

Microphone

Sound quality is very important—arguably more so than video quality. In remote meetings, unclear audio can quickly lead to frustration. I currently use the Blue Yeti (¥17,100); entry-level microphones generally have good sound quality, but it ultimately depends on your requirements.

Noise-Cancelling Headphones

If you have others at home, noise-cancelling headphones can help minimize distractions. I'm currently using the Sony WH-1000XM3, and the WH-1000XM4 is now available. If sound quality isn't your top priority, AirPods Pro would also suffice.

WiFi Router

The quality of your internet connection directly affects your remote work efficiency. Besides internet speed, choosing the right WiFi router is crucial. I recommend watching this video from 家 - 羽, which covers all the key points. I'm currently using the Google Nest Wifi (¥19,800), which is currently unavailable in Taiwan (one of the few perks of living in Japan). Its specifications are quite sufficient, even exceeding my needs.

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SwitchBot Hub Mini

This is an infrared transmitter that can be operated via WiFi, allowing you to pre-cool your air conditioner or turn on the TV before you get home, or set timers for lights, all managed through SwitchBot. It works seamlessly with Google Home, making it very convenient for me to control lights without a remote.

Google Home Nest

I often use it for reminders, such as letting me know when it's time to prepare lunch, which helps me avoid blurring the lines between work and personal time. If used effectively, Google Home can integrate various tasks, such as setting alarms, timers, calendars, listening to news, and controlling appliances.

Upcoming Purchases

• Green Plants: I want some greenery to liven up my space.
• Air Purifier: Since I'm working from home, ensuring good air quality is essential.

Miscellaneous

I remember writing about my experience of remote work in Fukuoka for four months around this time last year. Back then, I was wondering when I could safely return to Taiwan, and it seems I’ll have to wait a little longer. I hope the pandemic stabilizes soon, and I can return home.