My Micro-Productivity Setup: Work Anywhere, One Coffee Shop at a Time
Barry Weston | November 20, 2024
There's something special about working in a coffee shop—the whirr of espresso machines, the murmur of conversation, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee.
But let's face it, traditional remote work setups don't always cut it when you're out and about. The lack of flexibility from your single laptop screen is guaranteed to slow down your workflow, and even though I could get a carrying case for my iMac, it's less than practical, and it just looks weird.
That's where, what I am calling, my "micro-productivity work-from-anywhere setup" (has a ring to it...) comes in, featuring the Plugable USBC-PDMON, PT-STANDX, and BT-KEY3XL keyboard. Add a Surface Pro and a Surface Mouse to the mix, and voilà: a portable, ergonomic workstation ready for whatever the day throws at me.
Elevating Productivity (Literally)
The star of this setup is the Plugable PT-STANDX. Yes, the Surface Pro has its own built-in stand, but there's a reason I opt for the PT-STANDX instead.
It raises the tablet to a much more ergonomic angle, sparing me from the dreaded neck crick that comes with hunching over for hours. It's sturdy, portable, and has quickly become a must-have in my bag.
Pro tip: having two PT-STANDXs to adjust both the Surface Pro and the USBC-PDMON to the same level is a total game-changer.
The Perfect Trio
The real magic happens when these three products come together. The Plugable USBC-PDMON is my go-to portable monitor. It's slim, lightweight, and incredibly easy to set up. Whether I'm reviewing my latest email draft or crafting content for our socials, having that extra screen real estate is like breathing room for my brain.
The BT-KEY3XL folding keyboard is the unsung hero of the setup, though. Don't let its compact size fool you—it unfolds into a surprisingly spacious typing experience. The keys feel just right under my fingers, and the included case doubles as a stand for my phone—bonus points for versatility.
Specs Without the Jargon
While I'm not diving deep into the tech, here's what you need to know:
- The PT-STANDX keeps things steady and adjustable and folds flat when it's time to head out.
- The USBC-PDMON delivers crisp visuals that make multitasking a breeze.
- The BT-KEY3XL is a portable typing powerhouse, perfect for people like me who refuse to sacrifice comfort for portability.
All three are ridiculously easy to pack up and reassemble, and thanks to the lightweight design of all three accessories, they are ideal for coffee shop hopping.
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Plugable USB-C Portable Monitor with Protective Case/Stand, 100W Pass-Through Charging
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Coffee Shop Vibes
I've been road-testing this setup in coffee shops across town, and it's exceeded my expectations. The setup is compact enough to fit neatly on tiny tables but powerful enough to handle the workload of a much larger desk setup. Plus, having a second monitor like the USBC-PDMON in a coffee shop is a conversation starter. I've been asked so many times what it is, how I like it, and most importantly, where they can get one.
It's a simple yet thoughtful way to break out of the home office bubble while still being productive.
Fresh surroundings, great coffee, and a setup that adapts to any environment.
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