Which ergonomic accessories are worth buying for a home office: laptop stands, keyboards and mice, footrests, monitor arms, chairs and lighting, what the evidence suggests, and what to skip.
The ergonomic accessories market is full of products promising to fix posture and prevent pain. Some genuinely help; others are expensive and unnecessary. This guide focuses on the accessories that address the most common home working problems, based on Health and Safety Executive (HSE) advice.
Start with adjustments, not purchases
Before buying anything, adjust what you have: chair height, screen position and desk layout. Then buy to fix the problems that remain.
Accessories that help most
1. Laptop stand plus keyboard and mouse
For regular laptop users, this is the single most useful purchase. A stand raises the screen to eye level; a separate keyboard and mouse let your arms stay relaxed. The HSE advises this for prolonged laptop use. Affordable options work well.
2. Footrest
If your chair has to be raised for desk height and your feet don't rest flat on the floor, a footrest supports your legs. A sturdy box can do the job.
3. Lumbar support
If your chair doesn't support your lower back, a cushion or roll can help.
4. Monitor stand or arm
For external monitors, a stand or arm positions the screen correctly and frees desk space.
5. A good desk lamp
Adjustable task lighting reduces glare and eye strain.
6. An adjustable chair
If you work from home most days, an adjustable office chair is usually worth it. Look for seat height, backrest and lumbar adjustment, and armrests that don't stop you getting close to the desk. Try chairs in person if possible.
Accessories that help some people
- Vertical or ergonomic mice: may help people with wrist discomfort. Give yourself time to adapt.
- Split or compact keyboards: can reduce reaching for the mouse. Again, there's a learning curve.
- Sit-stand desks or converters: allow you to alternate. Varying posture regularly is what matters; standing for long periods has its own problems.
- Document holders: help if you often work from paper.
- Headsets: prevent neck strain from holding a phone between ear and shoulder.
What to skip, or be wary of?
- "Posture correctors" worn on the body: little evidence that they help long term.
- Products making medical claims without evidence.
- Expensive "ergonomic" accessories bought before trying simple adjustments.
- Very cheap office chairs with no adjustment.
Movement beats equipment
No accessory replaces regular breaks and movement. The HSE recommends short, frequent breaks or changes of activity. Stand up, stretch and look into the distance every so often.
Ask your employer
If you regularly work from home and use a computer as a significant part of your job, your employer must assess your workstation and may provide equipment. Ask before buying.
A budget priority list
- Laptop stand, keyboard and mouse (if you use a laptop).
- Footrest or lumbar cushion, if needed.
- Desk lamp.
- Monitor, if you work from home most days.
- Adjustable chair.
- Sit-stand desk, only if you'll genuinely use it.
Buying tips
- Check returns policies; comfort is personal.
- Read reviews from people with similar needs.
- Buy electrical items from reputable sellers, and check for UK plugs and safety markings.
When to get help?
If you have persistent pain, numbness or tingling, see a GP or physiotherapist, and tell your employer. The NHS website has advice on back pain and repetitive strain injury.
Frequently asked questions
Are blue-light glasses worth it?
Evidence that they reduce eye strain is limited. Regular breaks, good lighting and a correctly positioned screen help more. Get an eye test if you have persistent symptoms.
Do wrist rests help?
They can give somewhere to rest between typing, but avoid resting on them while typing.
Is a balance ball a good chair?
It isn't a substitute for a supportive chair for long periods.
Sources and further reading
- HSE: Working safely with display screen equipment
- HSE: Home working
- NHS: Back pain
- NHS: Repetitive strain injury
Facts checked on 20 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.