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The Best Essential Tech for Starting Your Biz

The Best Essential Tech for Starting Your Business

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What technology do I need to start a business?

Are there any must-have tech and gadgets for entrepreneurs?

You’re just starting out as a business owner and it can feel like you need everything and you need to learn everything.

Don’t get overwhelmed! Odds are if you have a working smartphone and internet you can accomplish a lot. But, if you’re like me, you want to invest in yourself and your new business, then you want to know what the best technology for small business owners is.

Or maybe you know someone who wants to be an entrepreneur and you want to get them an awesome gift they will love and find useful. Personally, I love thoughtful gifts that are practical to my hustle, it shows that you get me and what I’m about. So feel free to use this as a gift guide for entrepreneurs too.  

This post includes affiliate links. 👇🏽 Click here for the full disclaimer statement.

I’ve been going at this self-employed, entrepreneur’s life for a while now, and I’ve bought, tried and returned a lot of gadgets and tech. That’s why I love Amazon Prime (get your Prime Discounted Monthly Offering), I buy it, get it in a day and if I don’t love it I return it and get something better. This post is a collection of the very best products I love and use and the highest ranked and reviewed technology online. I did the research and the returning so hopefully, you don’t have to. 

Let’s get to the must-have tech for entrepreneurs!

 

The Best Tech For Starting a Biz

Click below to jump ahead 
👇🏽 The Bare Essentials

MacBook Pro, Asus Chromebook or Microsoft Surface Pro

WD Portable Hard Drive

Dropbox Cloud Storage

👇🏽 The Perfect Office Set-Up

Frameless Eye Care Monitor

Anker Ergonomic Wireless Mouse

JTech Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard

Brother Wireless Printer

Anker Multi-Port Charger

Amazon Echo Dot Personal Assistant

👇🏽 The Office On-the-Go Essentials

Bose Noise-Canceling Headphones

RavPower Portable Charger

Compact Digital Camera

Bluetooth Wireless Speaker

👇🏽  The Creative Content Set-Up

Logitech HD Webcam

BlueYeti USB Microphone

LimoStudio Lighting Kit

Canon DSLR Camera

Wacom Drawing Tablet


The Bare Essentials

These are the basics, nothing beats having a powerful laptop that can keep up with you and enough storage to grow with.

1. Laptop

👉🏽For the Apple-User

You’re a boss now and the number #1 thing you need is a reliable laptop that you can count on to keep up with you and everything you need to get done in a day. Everyone always asks which laptop they should get, or if they “need” a Mac. Sure, you can work on anything, but if you want a laptop that will last you for years and has reliable support, then I highly recommend the Apple 13″ MacBook Pro (2017). With 8GB of Ram, 2.3GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 processor with Turbo Boost up to 3.6GHz and Retina Display, this MacBook Pro should serve you well and for many years. It’s an investment, I’ve had mine since mid-2012 and it’s still going strong, so I’ll always first recommend a MacBook Pro.

👉🏽For the Chrome-User

But, it’s you’re not a fan of Apple and maybe looking for a more medium-term investment in a laptop, check out these. The ASUS Chromebook Flip C302 runs Google Chrome OS, has stellar online reviews, is extremely light-weight and a battery that lasts up to 10 hours. With an Intel Core m3 Processor, 64GB storage and 4GB RAM also features a 360-degree hinge for it’s 12.5″ Full-HD touchscreen. I actually just purchased one and I LOVE IT! 

👉🏽For the Windows-User

Switch to Mac, just kidding. If you’re willing to splurge, I’ve heard nothing but good things about the Microsoft Surface Pro. Tablet meets laptop with a touchscreen, Intel Core i5 Processor, 256GB of storage, 8GB RAM and an insane battery. Plus, with loads of memory, storage options and fun accessories to choose from you can customize it just for you. This beauty makes me want to switch to Windows.

2. Portable Hard Drive

Let’s be honest, once you start creating products, shooting photos and video you’re going to run out of hard drive space. Enter the WD 2TB My Passport Portable External Hard Drive. Available with up to 4TB available, it comes in a super fun metal meets matte finish available in eight different colors including red, yellow, orange and blue.

 

3. Cloud Storage

When you’re on the go and you need cloud storage for your files. I’m a huge fan of Dropbox. Not only does it store your files safely and securely for you, but it allows for easy sharing with clients and collaborators, as well as quick syncing across your devices. Get started for free today and get 500MB of bonus space when you join with my referral link and install Dropbox of your computer.


Once you join, you can sign up for 1TB of storage for $9.99/month.

 

 

The Perfect Home Office Set Up

4. Frameless Eye Care Monitor

If you have an office, you need this monitor. Hunching over your tiny laptop is bad for your back, eyes and mental health (been there, tried that).

The ASUS Designo MX279H 27″ Frameless Monitor is where it’s at with Full HD, and a wide range of monitor controls including night mode for those late night work sessions. 


ps. If you have a Mac or Surface Pro, don’t forget to grab a Mini DisplayPort to HDMI cable, this Fosmon Mini DisplayPort to HDMI one is 6ft long and for Surface Pro, MacBook Pro, iMac or MacMini.

 

5. Wireless Ergonomic Mouse

You need a mouse that isn’t going to kill your hand and shoulder.

I switched to the Anker Ergonomic Wireless Mouse and haven’t clicked back since. It’s USB 2.4G Wireless and has fun side controls.


ps. You may also want to get a wrist rest to offset your wrist rubbing on the desk.  Get the Gimars Memory Foam Set Keyboard and Mouse Wrist Rest on Amazon.

 

6. Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard

No matter which device you’re working from, you can always use a wireless keyboard to help you set up an ergonomic office space (on the go or away!).

The JETech Ultra-Slim Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard works on pretty much every device, from your smartphone to your computer as long as it has a Bluetooth connection. It’s compact and portable, with comfortable keys for quiet and effortless typing and with super long battery life.

 

7. Wireless Printer

I’m sure you’d love to be fully paperless but the reality is your going to need to print stuff. Save time on running to the print shop every minute with a simple, yet reliable Brother HL-L2340DW Compact Laser Printer. It has just what you need with fast printing from your mobile device or laptop and two-sided when you need.


ps. Keep your headphones safe and beautifully displayed with the Link Dream Headset Standfor your desk or office.

 

8. USB Multi-Port Charger

You’re probably going to run out of USB ports to charge your phone, tablet and other gadgets. Pick up the Anker 40W/8A 5-Port USB Multi-Port Charger with PowerIQ that charges your devices as fast as possible.


ps. Most laptops only come with two USB ports, you might want to also get a UDB port hub, I recommend the Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Ultra Slim Data Hub for Macbook, Surface Pro, Notebook and more. I have mines secured to the side of my desk.

 

9. Echo Dot Personal Assistant

Get the personal assistant you’ve always wanted with the New Amazon Echo Dot, now available in white or black to match your office. Call or message anyone hands-free, play music, get directions, check your calendar or weather with just a command.

 

 

Office On-the-Go Essentials

10. Noise-canceling Headphones

You need to focus and work almost anywhere. Give yourself peace and quiet with the Bose QuietComfort Noise Cancelling Headphones. With world-class noise cancellation, the world is quieter and your music sounds better, plus enjoy 20-hour battery life per charge and up to 40 hours in wired mode. Also, take calls with build in dual-microphone.


ps. Keep your headphones safe and beautifully displayed with the Link Dream Headset Stand for your desk or office.

 

11. Portable Charger

Running a business from your smartphone while listening to music and catching up on social smartphone drains your battery. Don’t lose your charge with the Portable Charger RAVPower 26800 Power Bank. Not only does it have high-speed charging, but simultaneously charge up to 3 devices.

 


12. Compact Digital Camera

You’re on the go every day and want to take amazing photos, but don’t necessarily want to always around with a bulky DSLR. Meet the Samsung NX Mini 20.5MP CMOS Smart WiFi & NFC Mirrorless Digital Camera, it’s compact and powerful, with Smart Wifi, touchscreen, a 3″ flip screen for easy selfies or videos shooting, and a 9-27mm lens. And it comes in mint, white, pink, brown and black.


13. Bluetooth Wireless Speaker

Take your playlists anywhere with a portable, wireless speaker that packs a punch. The JBL FLIP 4 Flip4 Bluetooth Speaker comes in 7 colors including white, grey, teal and red, and has 12 hours of playtime. Connect wirelessly to up to 2 smartphone or tablets and it’s waterproof so “working” by the beach or pool ain’t a problem.

 

The Creative Content Set-Up

14. HD Webcam

Video is poised to be the #1 form of content in 2019. Shoot awesome YouTube videos, do high-quality Facebook lives and Skype calls, and webinars with the Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920 Steam Webcam. With full 1080p HD and background replacement technology, this is the best webinar for entrepreneurs, bloggers or social media mavens.


15. USB Microphone

Can you hear me now? Pick up the most popular microphone among creative to complete your set up. The Blue Yeti USB Microphone delivers clear audio for all your online calling and conferencing needs and is perfect for recording podcasts or videos. Bonus, it’s compatible with Windows and Mac and comes in 10 colors including blackout, space grey, satin red, white and teal.

 

16. Lighting Kit

We call can’t live and work in perfectly lite spaces. Shooting video or snapping flat lays in poor lighting is a nightmare. Stay lite with the LimoStudio 800W Triple Umbrella Continuous Lighting Kit, that includes 3 compact light bulbs, three umbrellas, 3 light stand tripods and carrying cases. I love the table top light for shooting live videos!

 

17. DSLR Camera

Want to shoot video and photo with more power and performance?  The Canon EOS Rebel T6i DSLR features a flip out screen, shoots up to 24.2 Megapixels and comes with a bunch of bonuses including a spare battery, shotgun mic, tripod, and 64 GB SDHC Card.

 

18. Drawing Tablet

Are you an artist, photographer or is sketching part of your creative process? If you don’t have a touchscreen laptop, the Wacom Bamboo Pen Tablet is the best for detailed drawing or digital editing. Plug it in via USB and is compatible with both Mac and Windows-based computers.

 

BONUS Must-Have for Entrepreneurs

Have all of your entrepreneur essentials delivered to you in record time with Amazon Prime. Trust me, nothing beats one-day delivery when you really need something for your business ANYWHERE in your country. Seriously amazing feature if you’re always on the go.

 

"let me know" in yellow script font

Am I missing any essential start-up technology?

 

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. I should really look into the cloud storage thing as I’m currently working from a tablet only. The space should come in handy.

    • Hey Emma,

      I LOVEEEE my DropBox cloud storage. I had to switch to a 500GB, from a 1TB drive and I wouldn’t have been able to without that nice 1TB of DropBox storage I have.

  2. Wow some of these tools I haven’t even thought of. Really useful, I will definitely be adding some of these to my home office 💗

  3. Wow these are wonderful complete list you made here, very useful for those who wanted to start their business. It’s absolutely true that the primary tool that a business to have is publicity which includes technology indeed.

    • Hey Lexie,

      That’s a great point! We always talk about like online tools we need, but without the tech you really can’t use any of them.

    • Hey Saranya,

      I’m kind of old-fashioned with my camera choices. I learned on a Canon and I’ve been loyal ever since. Happy Camera Shopping!

  5. I am in serious need of a good studio lighting kit and a new professional yet easy to use camera! I am going to look deeper into your suggestions here. Thank you for this. Also sending off to my husband for some HINTS!

    • Hey Heather,

      I really think they will! It’s almost scary how well the work. I’ve had people walk up to me, try and talk to me and eventually have to tap on my shoulder to get my attention. And of course, frighten me in the process! You can also buy them, try it and if they don’t work send them back.

  7. I wish I had read it a couple of months ago! But I agree – there is stuff you just have to have in order for your work to go smoothly. I’m pinning this for future reference:)

    • Hey Karolina,

      AWww sorry it’s so late. Hope you were able to find what you needed when you were looking.

    • Shooting lighting is soooo clutch, especially during the winter with these 5PM sunsets.

  9. What a wonderful list for people just getting started. I know how overwhelming it all can be. I’m an Apple lover and would I’d be lost without my Mac. It literally goes everywhere with me. After that, my portable chargers are life savers because it’s such a bummer when you’re working on something and run out of power. x

    • Hey Ali,

      OMG me too! Seriously, I LOVE my Mac too. I just bought a new Matt & Nat backpack so I’m totally taking it everywhere too.

  10. Completely agree with your list! Especially the Apple. Just so much easier to use and knock out all your work quickly. Still haven’t invested in a DSLR camera my iPhone has even taken the place of my expensive point and shoot.

    • Hey Sue,

      It’s a great investment, probably the best one I’ve made for my business. Even though I have a mid-level DSLR I also shoot a lot on my phone, especially when I’m on the go too. It does a pretty decent job!

    • Hey Amy,

      The Airs great too, especially if you’re not doing anything crazy like editing. Sometimes I wish my Pro weighed as much as an Air.

      I just got my first pair and they’re amazing, I cannot work without them. I love plugging in and just letting the world disappear so I can work, work, work.

  12. This list has me excited to go shopping for the holidays! I wouldnt consider myself a techie but all of these items are so cool and fun for anyone that owns a business. Thanks for the great ideas!

    • Hey Censie,

      YES! Doesn’t it, I’m like oooh I need this and that. Black Friday is coming and the deals will make getting all of these so much more affordable. I’ve got a few on my list too.

  13. These are all such great picks. As I’ve gotten more into blogging, and daylight savings has kicked it, I’ve realized how important lighting is! That’s my next investment. Also, the portable charger is a must! My phone is always dying.

    • Hey Antonia,

      I love my lighting kit, it’s such a saver with these early sunsets. And since it’s warm light, you look great no matter what time it is. Portable chargers are great too! I just decided to change my iPhone battery because it wasn’t holding a charge.

    • Hey Krstyal,

      My pleasure, I hope it’s a helpful list. Me too, my computer issues are almost non-existent since switching to a Mac. I shall never go back. Also, can’t agree with having a laptop that’s keeping up with me for five+ years.

  15. There really are a lot of cool things out there that would make starting a business easy, that is for sure. I need to get a few things myself and I have been in business for 3 years. I have a nice camera and am set on most things but I need to upgrade my pc for sure!

    • Hey Melissa,

      Yay, I’m so glad it’s a helpful list. I’ve purchased most of these over the last few years. It’s good to pace your purchases and not overdo it in when you just start. Hope you find a new PC you like! The Surface Pro is pretty amazing, I even slightly want one haha.

  16. This is a really helpful list. Of course it all depends on the business type, but I can’t argue with most of it. Can I add a really good coffee maker to the list? Cos you’ve gotta fuel those genius ideas!

    • Hey Claire,

      I so agree that it’s definitely business-specific for sure. OH yes, a good coffee maker is KEYY to productivity. I was going to include that in an upcoming post about office essentials, beyond the basic tech set-up.

  17. So many new gadgets in the market nowadays hard to keep up. This great list is perfect for holidays shopping list. I recently purchase subscribe to dropbox its really worth-it. I have so many photos and files stored in my old laptop. When its broke i spend a fortune to retrieve my files not no more. Thanks to Dropbox.

    • Hi Farrah,

      Isn’t it, there’s always something new and fancy. BUT, I’m loving the digital assistants like the Echo that are available.

      I’ve had a similar experience with Dropbox, my 1TB hard drive was dying and I just moved my files to the cloud and got a smaller, but faster replacement. Love it!

  19. The YETI microphone kicks some serious ass! I love that thing!Girl, I don’t think you missed a THING in this list!! Everything is so essential.

    • Hey Gigi,

      Isn’t it just amazing? I’m totally digging how it comes in so many colours now too, not just blue or silver.

  20. These are all very important especially when you’re starting an online business. I think starting with a laptop is really essential and you work your way from there.

    • Hey Carol,

      That’s for sure! I think a solid, reliable laptop should always be #1. Most of these other essential techs for entrepreneurs are just add-ons or better versions of what you can do with your laptop or smartphone.

  21. One of the things that I’d like to invest in for my business is a laser printer. I am thinking of getting into high-quality printing for a possible Etsy business. One of the things that you mentioned that has really come in handy for me is a portable hard drive.

    • Hey Yona,

      I love my laser printer too! I went with a monochrome one because I knew any colored printing I actually did, I would need to get professionally done. But its a great investment for your business if you’re going to use it on the regular. Those printing costs add up quickly!

  22. A lot of people are starting to take the entrepreneurial path now and these tips are very helpful. We’re in the age of technology and a lot of people rather do things online. Thanks for these helpful tips!

  23. Business now are turning digitally. Reading this articles giving me a lot of choices to buy techy things for my workspace. I need the ergonomic mouse and wirless keyboard for my working days.

    • Hey Kelly,

      That ergonomic mouse saved my back, I was in so much pain from using a mouse that was too flat. It’s pretty amazing!

    • Hey Belinda,

      You’re so welcome! The brother printer’s a great basic choice. I also really like the Canon ImageClass Monochrome All-In-One Printer. It’s pretty great too!

  26. This is a really great list! As someone who has an online business as well, things can get a bit of a struggle. I once had lost a whole harddrive so I have since looked into online storage. Whew!

    • Hey Aileen,

      Girl, I feel ya, the struggle can be all too real, especially when your tech fails or isn’t reliable. Nothing sucks like running out of space. 🤦🏽‍♀️

    • Hey Jane,

      It’s sooo difficult. Especially when the weather is nice. I’m kind of happy its super cold out right now so I can just work. Really loving my office set up during the Fall – Winter months.

  29. Oh these are some good items. I desperately need a new mouse. Mine is driving me crazy. I will check out the one you featured. Thanks Nadalie.

    • Hey Kasia,

      Seriously you should that mouse. It’s amazing, I’m literally using it right now. It’s a bit odd the first time you use it, but you’ll never be able to go back to your trackpad or your other mouse.

  30. This is awesome information for those looking to entrepreneurs. It is so important to have the equipment and supplies you need for your home office. I love the idea of have wireless tech which makes life easier in an office. Thanks for sharing the awesome information.

    • Hey Rebecca,

      I so agree with you, it just makes things easier to have what you need. Wireless is everything, no cords cluttering up your pretty home office.

    • Hey Kristen,
      Wish lists are the best! Getting it all at once can be really bad for your budget.

  33. This is such a great article. Lots of choices when it comes to technology and gadgets. I am looking forward to portable hard drive and wireless printer. Looks perfect in my workspace. I like it.

    • Hey Elizabeth,
      Sometimes we can have too many choices, or maybe that’s just me. These are some of the best, most reliable and thankfully stylish options for our offices.

  34. To be honest I am a bit lost in this technology jungle!😂 They seems to be all great things to use for a start-up! But since I love photography I have to chose the camera!

    • Hey Dada,

      Oh no, don’t get lost! There really is so much great must-have technology out there for entrepreneurs who are just starting out. Great choice, it’s an awesome camera.

  35. It is amazing to me that we all have a similar wishlist – this list of essentials is awesome and you’ve taken the time to put it Allin one place. I’ve bookmarked this page and will revisit when I’m ready to shop for Christmas <3. I'm crushing not he camera! ;-D

    • Hey Evelyn,

      =) This is (or was) my wish list when I first started out as an entrepreneur. I’ve purchased most of these suggested start-up tech items over the last few years.

      Yay for being bookmarked, it’s a great shopping list for sure!

    • Hey Amber,

      Yay for having a ready-made holiday shopping list! Also, perfect for Black Friday and Boxing Day.

      Happy shopping!

  37. Love this list, It’s so worth it to invest in a good printer and quality tech stuff when starting a business.

    • Hey Tasheena,

      I so agree with you, a reliable printer definitely counts as essential technology for starting a home office.

    • Hey Danasia,

      OH no! I hope they can fix it. It’s probably just your hard drive that has died. If not, it might make a nice new holiday gift for you.

  39. Oooo so many business must haves!!! For me, all I started with was my computer! My computer and WiFi started all the blogging magic lol

    • OHH, me too! My laptop is my most essential technology and also my first purchase.

      Hey, we all need wifi right! I should add that to the list.

  40. I love my MacBook Pro but when I went to buy a newer model recently it didn’t have any of the inputs I needed on the sides. I ended up with a MacBook Air instead so I could use my SD card!

    • Hey Kristin,

      Yeah, I’d so need one with an SD slot too, although most new cameras have built in wifi so you can transfer your photos wirelessly. No more losing memory cards =)

    • Hey Ola,

      Oh nice choice, I bought mines as a graduation gift for myself and so love using it for drawing graphics for my blog.

  42. nice selection! My laptop and camera are what keep me in business day to day. My top travel item is the plug with all the USB ports in it to charge everything at once!

    • Thanks Nicki! Me too, I certainly cannot get through a day without my laptop, barely through an hour without it.

      Ohh good tip! It would be super useful to charge while you travel.

    • Hey Rosemary,

      Sometimes having “good tech” can help you when you’re not techy at all.

      Great idea, take your time! I purchased most of these over a few years.

    • Hey Natasha,

      Awesome, you are well on your way to having all the must-have technology for entrepreneurs.

      Truth be told, this post started as a holiday gift guide list but turned into this. =)

  45. Thanks for sharing your biz ideas! Yeah these are awesome, reminds me that i need to add a good lightings. And a ring light.

    • Hey Blair,

      You are so welcome! Good lighting is key for the winter months for me, there’s hardly ANY sunlight. Oh great addition, a right light is a great accessory.

  46. These are such great ideas. I know that being in business for yourself requires you have the tech to be efficient.

    • Totally agree that efficiency is everything. Especially, if you’re a one-person show, you need the best technology for your business to ultimately save time.

  47. Hi,
    Excellent stuff!!
    You have nailed up all the basic kinds of stuff for entrepreneurs should need. I have few of these listed tools and very useful for work. Thanks a lot for sharing these useful elements and have a great weekend.

  48. Nadalie, I think I caught myself drooling while I scrolled x) Thanks for including the creative content ones, you do a great job including us all. Do you think this list will change drastically in the near or distant future? I like to think that I am building towards my perfect business tool set up (this post is a great resource), but I have a feeling once I have that, I’ll be in a whole other ball game (or, more accurately I guess, I’ll just find more stuff I want). Speaking of which, do you find yourself traveling a lot and having to use a lot of on-the-go set ups? Or are those more of a “just in case” for you?

    • Hey Tristen,

      Haha, me too! Any of these technology must-haves that I don’t already have are so on my wishlist! Whenever I’m on the go, all I need is my laptop and my smartphone. Maybe a power bank too, just in case I lose battery power.

  49. Hey Nadalie , this a great list for anyone that wants to become an entrepreneur it has every gadget that you will need. For me my laptop is my best asset.

    • I so agree with you Stefan! I can probably manage without everything else, but I do love my Macbook.

  50. Wonderful list of essentials tech for every buisness. I love this lis so much that I have pinned it to my most favourite board Nadalie.

    Also going to Bookmark this page.
    Great Job

  51. Wonderful list of essentials tech for every buisness. I love this list so much that I have pinned it to my most favourite board Nadalie.

    Also going to Bookmark this page.
    Great Job

  52. hey loved you suggesions and great list you have made.

    If you are an graphic designer or an artist i highly recommend you getting a dawing tablet. I myself have a wacom intuos drawing tablet and i absolutly love working with it. They make my work so easy.

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