Accessories that can make your day

In technology, what are the best kinds of purchases that will bring you the most quality, functionality and, ultimately, happiness?

To truly get the best bang for your buck, consider this old-fashioned piece of consumer wisdom: spend your money where you tend to spend the most amount of time.

Take beds, for example. We spend roughly a third of our existence lying down. So, when it comes to mattresses, it’s worth investing extra, simply because of the return we’ll get in terms of physical comfort, spread out over the vast amount of time we’ll actually use the item.

In technology, what’s the equivalent? What gadgets or gear do you use the most and spend the longest hours interacting with?

This month, we’re looking at a few key accessories that reflect where many users spend most of their computing time. The thinking is that if we upgrade wisely here, we stand to elevate our overall experience in the most cost-effective way.

Don’t settle for second best: accessorise yourself.

What is it? Keychron V1 Mechanical Keyboard (pictured)

How much? $149 Pros: Standard keyboards are rather dull and lifeless. Mechanical versions offer colour, lighting and customisation options, plus a tactile, pleasurable typing experience. The V1 is widely held to be one of the best-value entry-level mechanical keyboards. Cons: Mechanical keyboards can be clicky and clacky. That’s part of their charm (the acoustics), but just be aware they’re much noisier than non-mechanical keyboards. keychron.com.au

What is it? Apple Magic Trackpad

How much? $209 Pros: If you’re a mouse user, it may be worth considering switching to a trackpad, which many people find more comfortable and effortless (although it depends on what you’re using it for). A key advantage of the Magic Trackpad is that it gives users a range of gesture support options, for things like selecting and swiping content. Cons: Not cheap and Mac-only in terms of official support. Shop around, because you can sometimes find older models online for less. apple.com/au

What is it? Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 monitor

How much? $2999 Pros: Extravagant, yes, but an example of how much you can upgrade your display. The Odyssey Neo G9 is a massive 49in, effectively as wide as two displays side by side, offering 5120 x 1440 pixels in a 32:9 aspect ratio. It’s curved, so it’s easier to take in everything in front of you. It’s designed for gamers, but think how productive you’d be at work!

Cons: Nobody will believe you bought this for work. samsung.com/au