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 disclosure statement, thanks for your support! 😘
This post includes affiliate links. 👇🏽 Click here for the full disclosure statement, thanks for your support! 😘
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)
Let’s get to the must-have tech for entrepreneurs!
Click below to jump ahead
👇🏽 The Bare Essentials
MacBook Pro, Asus Chromebook or Microsoft Surface Pro
👇🏽 The Perfect Office Set-Up
Anker Ergonomic Wireless Mouse
JTech Bluetooth Wireless Keyboard
Amazon Echo Dot Personal Assistant
👇🏽 The Office On-the-Go Essentials
Bose Noise-Cancelling Headphones
👇🏽 The Creative Content Set-Up
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, prefer Windows or Chrome-based systems and maybe looking for a more short-term investment in a laptop, check out these. The ASUS Chromebook Flip C302
👉🏽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
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
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
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
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
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
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 Stand
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-cancelling 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
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
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 2018. 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
17. DSLR Camera
Want to shoot video and photo with more power and performance? The Canon EOS Rebel T6i DSLR
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.
Am I missing any essential start-up technology?
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I should really look into the cloud storage thing as I’m currently working from a tablet only. The space should come in handy.
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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.
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 💗
Hey Lucy,
Awesome! It’s a great time too, with Black Friday coming up!
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.
That’s an amazing list of essentials. I’m due to buy a camera soon, you’ve inspired me to go canon!
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!
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!
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Nicely done! I wonder if those noise cancelling headphones will work for my childrens noise also. 🙂
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.
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.
Great read and helpful tips. I so need to invest in lights for shooting indoors.
Shooting lighting is soooo clutch, especially during the winter with these 5PM sunsets.
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.
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.
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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!
LOVE my MacBook (though I have an Air). I REALLY want noise-canceling headphones next!
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.
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!
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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.
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.
Thank you for all the list that you have provided. I’ve been a mac lover ever since it always gives me that perfect performance. Thank you!
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.
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.
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.
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!
Awesome tools! Saving this list for later!
Awesome sauce. Thanks for saving, Tiffany!
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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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!
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!
You’re so welcome Gemille. Glad it’s helpful.
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!
Next on my to buy list is a wireless printer. Thanks for the recommendation!
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!
I love Dropbox, too! Too bad I’m out of space again! 🙁
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OH my! Do you have the pro account? It’s 1 TB!
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!
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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. 🤦🏽♀️
This is a great list. I’m using Dropbox and some of the items you listed.
Awesome Joy! I can’t make it through the day without Dropbox.
I so agree with all of these. It’s surprisingly difficult to sit in front of a computer all day long.
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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.
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.
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.
Oh goodness, now I have a few things to add to my personal wish list LOL I will say that the hard drive is definitely essential – I would be lost without mine!
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Hey Kristen,
Wish lists are the best! Getting it all at once can be really bad for your budget.
i guess you have covered all the essential parts.. i always carry portable charger with me.
Hey Ankit,
Agreed! Portable chargers are a must!
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.
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!
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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.
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!
Thank you for these. I’ll be adding some to my Christmas list 😉 I do have the Echo Dot. It’s so much fun.
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Hey Amber,
Yay for having a ready-made holiday shopping list! Also, perfect for Black Friday and Boxing Day.
Happy shopping!
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.
My Macbook just crashed, so I might be on the hunt for a new one if they can’t fix it!
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.
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.
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 =)
All of these picks look great. I’ve been eyeing that drawing tablet for a while now.
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.
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.
I am not techy at all but do have several of these. The rest is getting added to my wish list for 2018 as I’m working more on my blog.
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.
Yes, such a great list. I have so many of these items already. But I could definitely use this as a wish list/Christmas list!
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. =)
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.
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.
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.
Excellent, so glad that I covered all the bases for startup tech for entrepreneurs.
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.
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.
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
Thanks Faizan! Quite a few of my favourite purchases every on this list.