A roundup of gadgets and apps that make working from home (remote work) more efficient

If it looks good, even better.

Don't you feel like working from home has become the norm and you're finding yourself needing new items more often? Wirecutter (from NY Times), a very popular American media that thoroughly compares various gadgets and proposes recommendations, has compiled gadgets and apps that strongly support telecommuting. I will translate and introduce.

---

Your home office doesn't need the thinnest, lightest, or ultra-luxury items. What you need is a reliable, comfortable and efficient tool.

So, three experienced remote workers spent 150 hours combing through the latest gadgets and apps with Wirecutter's guide. We have carefully selected items that are perfect for working from home.

We've searched for the best software and apps for remote workers to discover the best computers, phones, printers, and audio equipment for the job. We have compared and verified applications such as time tracking, task management, tax filing, and web conferencing, and have repeatedly discussed the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Once the best items were selected, they were placed on their ideal work desks and photographed. It seems that there were many Wirecutter staff and planning staff who were inspired to set up their own home offices in the same way. Please use it to streamline your home office and reduce stress!

I want to increase the "storage capacity"

Western Digital My Book 4TB (external HDD for desktop)

Western Digital My Book 4G

14,581 yen

Western Digital My Book 4TB is the best choice. It is highly reliable, and when we conducted transfer tests with music and image data, it overwhelmed other products in terms of speed and price.

If you can't buy it because it's out of stock or because the price is skyrocketing, the Western Digital Elements 4TB is fine. It's another reliable and good product, but it comes second because of its shorter warranty and lack of backup software than the My Book.

Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB (Portable HDD)

Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB

¥8,820

The compact design of Seagate Backup Plus Slim 2TB is your best choice. Small enough to travel with, the Backup Plus Slim has the most important storage reliability. With nearly 9,000 reviews, only 6.5% are negative. It's lighter and smaller than its competitors, so it's very convenient to store and carry around. The price per terabyte is also one of the lowest among the products tested.

The 2TB Seagate Backup Plus Slim weighs only 159g and is just under 1.3cm thin, making it the thinnest class of portable HDD. In fact, in this test, the difference in speed between products of the same type was not so large. This model also has speeds that are about the same as other competitors, with a read speed of 87.8MB/s and a write speed of 86.8MB/s.

Backblaze (Cloud Storage Service)

If you work from home, you should have a cloud backup as well as a local backup on an external hard drive. If you install the app by paying a few hundred yen per month, your data will be safely backed up on the cloud service in the background. No need to buy additional hardware or disks. Your backups are safe, so if your home office catches fire or your computer is stolen, you won't lose your files.

Backblaze is the cheapest backup service we tested. In addition to the essential functions such as the deduplication function and external HDD backup function, it also has many "nice to have" functions.

The biggest advantage of Backblaze is how easy it is to set up. Just run the installer, enter your email address and password, and you're good to go. Once installed, Backblaze will instantly launch and back up all your important files. Then the application is finished. There are few difficult operations to add setting changes. The operating experience is very friendly and works on Mac and Windows. Once set up, it's an unsung hero who silently continues backup work in the background.

Synology DiskStation DS218+ (NAS)

Synology DiskStation DS218

¥36,575

To create a NAS (Network Attached Storage) guide, I tested 5 modern devices and the fastest NAS was the Synology DiskStation DS218+! This 2-bay NAS is compatible with many third-party apps, making it a versatile backup device, web hosting, media streaming, BitTorrent box, and more.

DS218+ is equipped with an Intel Celeron processor, 2GB of RAM and hardware-level encryption. The interface of the installed OS is also easy to understand, and you can grasp the status of the drive with the displayed widget. The file system is Btrfs, which has the ability to transfer files quickly and prevent accidental deletion of files. If you use the optional cloud service "Cloud Station Server", you can also access files remotely.

Cloud Sync also allows you to back up your files to external cloud platforms such as Google Drive, Backblaze, Amazon, Dropbox, etc. It also supports media playback with its own app, fulfilling many needs.

Kingston DataTraveler Elite G2 64GB (USB memory)

Kingston DataTraveler Elite G2 64GB

3,168 yen

After 40 hours of research and testing, the Kingston DataTraveler Elite G2 64GB is the USB drive of choice for most people. The capacity is just right at 64GB, and the cost per gigabyte is reasonable.

The DataTraveler Elite G2 was the fastest and most reliable in our file transfer tests. The case is also made of sturdy metal instead of the usual plastic. It also has a flashing activity light which is nice.

The warranty period is 5 years, which is average for flash memory, but it is sufficient for most needs. The cap that protects the USB plug is small and easy to lose, but the USB-A connector is durable enough that losing it shouldn't be a problem.

I want to make PC operation more comfortable and efficient

Logicool K380 (Bluetooth keyboard)

Logicool K380

3,382 yen

After testing over 42 Bluetooth keyboards over the past few years, Logitech's K380 is for those who type all day or just want a wireless keyboard that lets them quickly switch back and forth between multiple devices. We recommend a multi-device Bluetooth keyboard.

Comfortable, compact and affordable, the K380 can be paired with 3 devices. The battery also lasts a long time, and several Wirecutter staff members say they haven't changed batteries in two years. Some people need to get used to the round keyboard, and the lack of a backlight feels like a scratch to the ball, but it's cheap anyway, so it's highly recommended.

The keystroke sound is light, and the "feeling of being able to press" is sufficient. Still, it's not loud enough to annoy people around you. The round keys are elastic, giving you a satisfying typing feeling. Each key is slightly concave (the top and bottom keys are convex) and feels better than the flat type. The Logitech K380 is comfortable and more than adequate for most typing needs.

If you need a numeric keypad, we recommend the Logitech K780. Similar to the K380, but with a numeric keypad, stand for smartphones and tablets, and an optional USB dongle for RF connectivity.

Varmilo VA87M (mechanical keyboard)

If you spend most of your day typing, it might be time to upgrade to a mechanical keyboard instead of sticking with a cheap one with few features! Mechanical keyboards are sturdier, more responsive, and more customizable than other types of keyboards.

While the optimal model varies depending on user preferences and usage, after testing 19 leading candidates over several months, Varmilo VA87M won the best tenkeyless mechanical keyboard. The decisive factor is quality, compactness and minimalist design.

Varmilo VA87M has a wide variety of "axis", such as Cherry MX Clear (clear axis), MX Brown (brown axis), MX Blue (blue axis), MX Black (black axis), MX Red (red axis), etc. , various types are available. If you don't know what axis you like, we recommend Cherry MX Brown, which is not too loud and gives you a satisfying switch feel.

The VA87M is also attractive because you can choose a fun keycap set and a matching case. It comes with a detachable mini USB cable and a wire keycap remover and works on both Windows and Mac. Although not fully programmable, it does come with multiple customization features. The VA87M typically costs around $130 (most good mechanical keyboards are like that), but you'll pay extra for different axes, optional keycap sets and backlighting.

Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB (ergonomic keyboard)

Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB MX Brown

29,480 yen

The Kinesis Freestyle Edge RGB is the best ergonomic keyboard we've tried. I really like the fully split left and right design, the highly responsive Cherry MX mechanical keys, the 0 degree tilt and thin design, and the programmability. You can move the left and right keyboards closer or farther apart as you like to reduce shoulder strain and neck strain. You can also stand it on one side to keep your wrists in a comfortable position. The keyboard split in two can be a little hard to use for first-time users, but you should get used to it after a few days.

The layout of the

key is also a familiar standard, so you can operate it comfortably. When you want to change the layout, you can easily map the keys with a few clicks.

Logicool M720 (wireless mouse)

Logicool M720r

6,045 yen

After researching 42 wireless mice and testing 14 of them, the best wireless mouse for most people is the Logitech M720. It connects easily via USB or Bluetooth and works well with any mouse pad surface material. Easy to use anyway.

Tall and arched, it fits comfortably in your hand and is more comfortable to use than other products in the same price range. You can connect smoothly with both Mac and Windows. Pair with 3 Bluetooth-enabled devices and easily switch between them.

According to Logitech, the M720 has a battery life of about two years. We've had this mouse for about 15 months now and it's still going strong. Also, with Logitech software, you can customize the six buttons. The mouse wheel can be switched between ratchet mode and free spin mode.

I want to charge efficiently

AUKEY Focus Duo 30W (rapid charger)

AUKEY Focus Duo 30W

2,599 yen

The AUKEY Focus Duo 30W (PA-D1) is the best charger for fast charging your phone. Equipped with a 12-watt USB-A port and a 30-watt USB-C port, it can charge not only smartphones, but also small laptops and tablets. With two ports, you can charge two devices at the same time and at high speed (although it drops to 18 watts when using the two USB-C ports). The power adapter is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry around in your bag.

Anker PowerLine series (USB/Lightning cable)

Anker PowerLine MicroUSB cable (1.8m, black x 2)

999 yen

Anker PowerLine II Lightning cable (1.8m, white)

1,299 yen

Anker PowerLine II USB-C & USB-C 3.1 (Gen2) cable (0.9m, black)

2,000 yen

Having a spare charging cable around your desk saves you the hassle of searching for it. If you want to buy additional MicroUSB cables and Lightning cables, Anker's PowerLine series is recommended.

PowerLine MicroUSB cables charge your MicroUSB accessories and devices at maximum speed and are extremely durable. The PowerLine series cables are made with Kevlar fiber and are covered with PVC to prevent fraying.

Anker cables are also affordable. Even the highest length of 3 meters does not reach $ 10 (about 1076 yen). Anker's reputation for hardware quality, stellar customer service, and 18-month warranty, which is unusually long for a cable, makes it a no-brainer.

PowerLine Lightning cables are recommended for Apple users. The reason is the same as before. It's MFi-certified, and the connector can be plugged into almost any phone case. It's overwhelmingly cheaper than Apple's genuine cable, and it's one step ahead of other companies' products.

If you're using a device with a USB-C port (such as a recent MacBook or Android phone), then the PowerLine II USB-C & USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 Cable is for you. It's fully compliant with the USB-C standard (if it's not, you risk damaging your device), and it's compatible with USB 3.1 Gen 2 for transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps. Laptops can also be charged at full speed. Of course, MacBook Pro (15 inch) is also OK!

RAVPower RP-PC069 (wireless charger)

Wireless chargers are items for smartphones that use the Qi standard. If you have an iPhone 9 or later, or a recent Galaxy or Google Pixel 3, and you don't want to have to connect your smartphone to a cord each time, a Qi charger that you can just put on your phone is pretty convenient.

Among them, the RAVPower RP-PC069 can charge smartphones such as iPhone XR from 0% to about 50% in 1 hour. Most competing products are around 30% to 40%.

The RP-PC069 doesn't work well with a USB port on your computer or a weak charger, so you have to plug it into a wall outlet using the included charger. The simple design is available in black or white. He/she melts into every environment.

This product has been certified for safety by WPC international standards, but in the unlikely event that a problem occurs, the warranty is extended for 18 months, and an additional year if registered.

CalDigit TS3 Plus (docking station)

CalDigit TS3 Plus

33,000 yen

If you want to connect a PC with a Thunderbolt 3 port to multiple peripherals (displays, storage, printers, etc.), plug a Thunderbolt 3 dock into your PC's Thunderbolt 3 port to keep all your accessories connected. is recommended.

CalDigit's TS3 Plus has more USB-A ports than competitors, plus a USB-C port and SD card slot, making it the best Thunderbolt 3 dock for most users. is. The compact model does not take up much space on your desk. A connected laptop can be charged at 85W, so a 15-inch MacBook Pro can be charged at full speed. Definitely recommended.

I want a more comfortable monitor

HP Z27 (4K monitor)

Now is a good time to get a 4K monitor. Even the best ones are not so expensive now.

After hundreds of hours researching and testing monitors, the HP Z27 is the best! So it was decided. It has the most accurate color reproduction of any I've tested, the narrow bezels, and easy angle and height adjustments. There are also a number of convenient ports such as USB 3.0 and USB-C, which can even charge your laptop at 65W. It comes with a 3-year warranty for peace of mind. Even if there is a pixel that does not work properly, it will respond according to the policy.

I want better audio equipment

SONY MDR-7506 (headphones)

SONY MDR-7506

11,180 yen

Good headphones are an investment in focus and entertainment. For work use, I recommend his MDR-7506 headphones from SONY. They're the best headphones under $200, and they typically sell for around $100. They're a favorite in professional studios, and were unanimously voted #1 by audio experts in our 15-headphone test.

These headphones have replaceable ear cups, a 1-year warranty on each part, and a durable coiled cord that will last you a long time. A perfect fit for anyone with a design that doesn't choose the shape of the head or the shape of the ear. It's foldable so it doesn't take up much space for storage or travel. Unfortunately, it doesn't have a built-in mic, so it's not great for online meetings, but it's great for blocking out ambient noise and focusing on work.

BOSE NOISE CANCELING HEADPHONES 700 (noise canceling headphones)

BOSE NOISE CANCELING HEADPHONES 700

43,683 yen

BOSE NOISE CANCELING HEADPHONES 700 are the best noise canceling headphones. Perfect for blocking low-frequency noise from refrigerators, air conditioners, and heaters, or for frequent travel by plane or train. It has some of the best active noise canceling features we've tested so far. Moreover, it can be adjusted in 10 steps, so you can adjust it to the level that is perfect for you. Not only does it significantly reduce the noise around you, but it is also lightweight and comfortable to wear. It is easy to operate. There is also a quick conversation function that allows you to pause the music with a single button when you want to listen to the surrounding sounds, such as when someone is talking to you. The battery has a large capacity of 20 hours, so you can use it with confidence.

MACKIE CR4BT (speaker)

MACKIE CR4BT

24,750 yen

MACKIE CR4BT is recommended for those looking for a speaker for PC. Rap music with deep bass, relaxation sounds such as the sound of a waterfall and rustling of the wind, online meetings, etc., are the best monitor speakers that provide just the right amount of balanced sound.

With a front-mounted volume wheel and the ability to connect either left or right speaker to power, Mackie's design is highly intuitive, making it easy to set up and use all day long. The speakers are a little larger than the other speakers in our test, but they don't take up too much space on your desk. However, it might be better if the color is not neon green.

Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM2 (Bluetooth speaker)

Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM2

8,800 yen

The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM2 is recommended for those who don't listen to much music in the office, move around the room when working at home, or need a portable speaker while traveling. A rugged, waterproof, and high-quality portable Bluetooth speaker. After a group of audio experts tested and analyzed over 100 items, the WONDERBOOM2 stood out for its overall strength in sound, convenience, design, and bag-friendly size. It doesn't produce heavy bass that shakes the shelves, but it does sound well even with hip-hop songs that have a lot of bass.

I want a more comfortable internet environment

TP-Link Archer A20 (Wi-Fi router)

TP-Link Archer C4000

18,000 yen

(Editor's Note: In Japan, it is deployed as TP-Link C4000)

After testing 10 routers over 120 hours, the TP-Link Archer A20 is the best Wi-Fi router for the average home! It's faster, more reliable, and less stressful than handling multiple wireless devices at the same time, in both short-range and long-range tests.

Archer A20 has 3 channels, 2 5GHz channels for high speed communication and 1 2.4 GHz channel for low speed connection. Among similarly priced routers, 5GHz has one thing. The Archer A20 is equipped with Broadcom's 1.8 GHz (quad core) CPU. With 512MB of RAM, it can handle traffic from any device. Low-cost routers such as the TP-Link Archer A7 have a single-core processor and 128 MB of RAM. It's enough to handle about five devices in a small apartment, but you still need something as powerful as the Archer A20 to maintain more simultaneous connections without getting stuck.

In addition, if you live in a large house or apartment (210 square meters or more), the walls are made of concrete or brick and the radio waves are easily blocked, or you live in a three-story house, mesh Consider a networking kit.

In such cases, we recommend the Eero Pro + 2 Eero Beacons. This is the best Wi-Fi mesh kit for most people as it works with any platform. It performed well in our test environment, achieving 186 Mbps throughput in our kitchen and 128 Mbps across multiple walls at the edge of our basement lab 80 feet away. Realized. It's easy to set up and use, and has all the advanced features you'd expect from a high-end router.

Motorola MB7621 (cable modem)

(Editor's note: This product is not sold in Japan)

After researching about 100 cable modems over the past 5 years, the Motorola MB7621 is the recommended modem for cable line users who don't want to pay a separate modem rental fee to their provider. The cost of the modem can be recovered in as little as eight months, and after that you can save up to $10 each month.

The Motorola MB7621 is also highly reliable and provides the fastest internet connection for most people in the United States. Plus, it's compatible with most US cable internet service providers, so you don't have to worry when you switch providers.

MB7621 supports plans up to 600 Mbit/s. It is a DOCSIS 3.0 modem capable of handling 24 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels. The number of reviews is less than other modems, but the reputation is excellent. It's also nice that it comes with a 2 year warranty.

I want to print and scan at home

HP Color LaserJet Pro M254dw (laser printer)

(Editor's note: difficult to obtain in Japan)

We have spent over 300 hours researching and testing laser printers over the last few years. And of the 40 printers we tested in 2018, the HP Color LaserJet Pro M254dw was the most reliable and smoothest printer for high-volume printing. It prints as fast as 17 single-sided pages per minute, is powerful, flexible, and easy to set up and use. It's the perfect laser printer for everyone.

The print quality is impeccable, and it's packed with all the features you'd expect from a high-end machine. It features extensive network options for automatic two-sided printing, compatibility with popular mobile printing standards, and a dedicated tray for special-sized paper. Additional extra-large toner cartridges are available for printing over 3,000 pages. If you want to save toner, we recommend that you set the default setting to double-sided printing and use ink saving mode. Not suitable for handing out to clients, but good enough for my daily use.

Also, laser printers are slightly inferior to inkjet printers in print quality. However, since the capacity of the toner cartridge is larger than that of the inkjet, it is less likely that the toner will run out at a critical moment, and cleaning is almost unnecessary.

HP OfficeJet Pro 9015 (Printer [MFP])

HP OfficeJet Pro 9010

22,800 yen

(Editor's Note: Equivalent to HP OfficeJet Pro 9010 sold in Japan)

If you print or copy 100 to 500 pages per month, and occasionally scan or fax, a mid-range inkjet printer all-in-one is a great fit.

The HP OfficeJet Pro 9015 isn't the most powerful inkjet printer MFP from HP. But it's very easy to set up and use. Its speed, print quality and reliability are unmatched by other printers. The running cost is also reasonable at 2.2 cents (about 2 yen) per page for monochrome and 8.9 cents (about 10 yen) for color. By subscribing to HP's Instant Ink Program, you will be billed based on the number of pages printed, and new ink will be sent automatically when the ink level is low.

The sleek design sets it apart from other products that tend to look bulky, and more than makes up for the slightly smaller touchscreen and unreliable output tray. Negative points are minor.

At the time of purchase, about 850 pages of black-and-white printing and 420 pages of color ink are included. Depending on usage, it will last a long time. Even after reaching the replacement time, the running cost is quite user-friendly. A full set of HP962 XL ink cartridges can be purchased for about $150 (about 16,000 yen) and can print about 2,000 black-and-white pages and 1,600 color pages.

Brother ADS-1250W (portable scanner)

(Editor's Note: This product is not sold in Japan)

Don't let the word "portable" fool you. The Brother ADS-1250W is a great tool for doing a lot of scanning at your desk, clearing space that would otherwise be filled with paper, and organizing your documents. After more than 130 hours of research and hands-on testing since 2013, we found the Brother ADS-1250W to be the most comfortable scanner. Work faster while providing accurate text recognition, crisp scanned images, and a reliable Wi-Fi connection. It's bigger and heavier than some of its competitors, and it doesn't have a battery, but it still feels pretty portable.

Adobe Scan (Document Scanning App)

If you are looking for a good looking PDF document, Adobe Scan (for Android and iOS) is by far the best scanning app for those who want to create PDF documents that look good every now and then. and free).

Adobe Scan has a simple design and minimal options. Compared to apps with more complex functions such as Scanbot and CamScanner, it may feel lacking. But it's very easy to document. From text to photos, it produced the cleanest scans of any app I tested. Another app from the Adobe ecosystem (also free) lets you add additional input to scanned documents, and it does a great job of recognizing text. I'm also happy that all scan data is automatically saved in Adobe's cloud. Of course, at no extra cost.

FaxZero (online fax service)

(Editor's note: service for the United States and Canada)

After more than 20 hours of research and testing of online fax services, we found FaxZero to be the best option for those who fax occasionally, but not often. You can send up to 3 pages + cover for free without creating an account. Since it's free, you'll see the FaxZero logo on the cover, but for personal use, it won't bother you much.

If you have a lot of opportunities to send long documents, or if you don't want a cover with a logo because it's for work, HelloFax is a good option. For about $10 a month, it is integrated with major cloud services such as Google Drive, Dropbox, Box, OneDrive, and Evernote, and can send and receive up to 300 pages in total. You can cancel anytime when you no longer need it. Of course you don't have to call.

I want a comfortable web conference

Logitech C920s Pro (webcam)

If you don't have a webcam or your laptop's camera isn't enough, Logitech We recommend the C920S Pro. High quality and easy to set up. The optional software is also easy to use, making it a great choice for many people. The video has a resolution of 1080p and 30fps, and the audio is beautiful. Both autofocus and auto white balance performed better than any other webcam. You can quickly cover the lens when there's something you don't want to show, and best of all, it's affordable.

You can easily use the C920S by connecting it to your PC via USB-A and launching the recording software or video chat software (compatible with Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS). If you want more control, Logitech's Camera Settings software for Windows and macOS lets you manually adjust exposure, contrast, color intensity, white balance, and focus.

PLANTRONICS Voyager 5200 (Bluetooth headset)

PLANTRONICS Voyager 5200

13,799 yen

Not everyone needs a Bluetooth headset. But if you're on the phone all day long, or if you're on the phone while driving, the PLANTRONICS Voyager 5200 Bluetooth headset is perfect for you. After spending over 80 hours researching headsets and testing over 18 models over the past few years, the Voyager 5200 has great sound quality, long battery life, great range and a perfect fit. It's a great balanced headset.

Jabra Evolve 40 (USB Headset)

After more than 50 hours of research and testing on 17 different headsets, the Jabra Evolve 40 is the best USB office headset. I was. It's covered in scratch-resistant fabric and softly padded earcups than other headsets. Comfortable to wear even during long online meetings.

The Jabra Evolve 40 also stood out in our sound quality assessment. If you can set the mic position just right for you (the mic rotates 270 degrees and can be worn on either the left or right side), it will cut out breathing sounds and ambient noise, while delivering crystal-clear conversations. The Evolve 40 also comes with an excellent USB controller. The button layout is simple, with four evenly spaced buttons surrounding a circular controller. This is unexpectedly wrong. If the buttons are too close to each other, it is difficult to find the desired button without taking your eyes off the screen.

Jabra Evolve 75 (Wireless USB Headset)

We have spent over 60 hours researching and testing wireless headsets. We found the Jabra Evolve 75 to be the perfect headset for those who make a lot of calls and want the flexibility of being away from the computer while wearing it. The audio quality is surprisingly good, offering balanced sound and comfortable to wear all day.

The most notable thing is the microphone performance, which 4 out of 5 Wirecutter staffers approve. It was clearer and easier to hear than any other headset we tested. The Evolve 75 also comes with a USB Bluetooth dongle for PC use. Moreover, it is already paired with the headset and ready to use (of course, you can also pair directly with a PC). You can also pair it with your smartphone at the same time as your PC.

Cicso Webex Meeting

Currently, Cicso Webex Meeting is the best for online meetings. It looks good and is multifunctional. Although it is not as customizable as Zoom, the free plan is generous with up to 100 participants and no time limit. The app can be used on all OSs, and the browser version is easy to use, so it's easy to handle even if you don't want to bother downloading the app.

The great thing about Cicso Webex Meeting is security and privacy. Cisco was quick to respond to Wirecutter's information security questions, which isn't surprising given Cisco's extensive track record with security-conscious companies such as healthcare. ZOOM is slightly superior in terms of usability, but Cisco Webex Meeting is more reliable in terms of security.

SONY UX560 (IC Recorder)

When recording meetings, lectures, or personal memos, don't you think you can just use your smartphone to record? I don't recommend it. Smartphone microphones are small and are only suitable for phone calls, not suitable for recording distant voices. Moreover, the handset's battery life and storage are easily depleted, which is more of a disadvantage.

We recommend the SONY UX560 for those who want a voice recorder with a large capacity that allows them to listen to voice without stress. This selection is the result of over 52 hours of research and a comparative verification of 12 voice recorder models. It's packed with features that hit the itch and outperforms many of its competitors. The UX560, with its outstandingly clear audio, also received the highest rating in blind tests. The continuous recording time is 39 hours, and the storage capacity is 4GB. The screen with a bright backlight and the easy-to-understand menu screen with excellent operability are also recommended reasons.

The UX560 has a built-in USB connector and a rechargeable battery. I tested it in a busy coffee shop, and it outperformed the competition, picking up on the speaker's voice. This is thanks to the "clear voice function" that suppresses noise and reproduces in an easy-to-hear voice.

I want to increase my productivity

TickTick (ToDo list app)

TickTick organizes members and schedules for each project and seamlessly integrates with the calendar. It's the best to-do list app that fits into any workflow.

The modern and orderly design is easy to understand, and the response to natural language is excellent. If you enter "Submit a manuscript at 3 o'clock on Monday", it will convert it into a task with a deadline, so you can immediately drop it into the app before you forget the task in your mind. It's like magic.

Since it is compatible with all major operating systems such as Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android, you can continue to use it not only on the device you have now, but also if you purchase another device in the future.

Credit Karma Tax & TurboTax Deluxe (online tax filing)

After researching free online tax filing software, if the content of the tax return is simple and the required documents are few (W-2, which is a withholding slip, 1099-INT and 1099- issued by financial institutions reporting investment-related interest income) DIV, 1098-E for student loan interest, etc.), and Credit Karma Tax. It's just a very straightforward app with minimal guidance or support. If your tax situation is more complex, such as mortgage interest, investment transactions, or self-employed income, the more sophisticated TurboTax Deluxe (or a professional tax accountant) will give you peace of mind and save you money. maybe.

If there is more than one declaration, or if there is a possibility that the refund amount may increase or the tax amount may decrease if the items are classified (and if you are not eligible for free use of the software IRS Free File Program provided by TurboTax), TurboTax You should use Deluxe. It's a very sophisticated tax app that provides clear and understandable support and explanations for each situation. When choosing the best tax payment software, I also tried fake tax returns, and TurboTaxDeluxe spotted and noted errors that other software missed.

You Need A Budget

Financial experts and books tell you to stop budgeting apps! That's what most of them are. It is because doing it manually allows you to face the reality of money firmly. Automated spending trackers like Mint aren't enough.

But You Need A Budget (YNAB) is different. It's a coaching app that explains the steps step by step and lets you do the work yourself. It syncs with your bank and credit cards, performs useful calculations, and shows monthly trends. Easy to set up.

Once you've decided on a budget, they'll help you stick to your plan by providing feedback on your spending and encouraging you to keep track of your cash flow. The mobile app is also feature-rich and is pretty good compared to other apps.

Toggl & FreshBooks (work time management & invoice creation app)

(Editor's note: Both apps do not support Japanese)

Toggl (iOS) is perfect for sole proprietors who want to efficiently manage work hours, manage projects, and create invoices. FreshBooks (iOS/Android) is recommended if you need a little more complex invoices, big spend, or need to closely track payments from various clients. After testing 40 different services by an experienced freelancer, these two services were easier to set up than the others.

Toggl and FreshBooks have straightforward monthly pricing based on the number of users and clients, respectively. And this price setting reflects the characteristics of each service as it is.

Toggl has powerful functions such as integration with other project management apps, reminders to prevent forgetting settings, etc., and invoices are clean and easy to read. The reports are also rich and give you a good idea of ​​how you spent your time and effort.

FreshBooks can use more than 12 payment services, including PayPal. In addition, there are many types of invoices, and you can easily search, copy, and change past invoices. It also supports late fees.

FreshBooks makes searching and billing easier than Toggl, but Toggl has a cleaner interface. FreshBooks is useful when client relationships are more complex, but not everyone needs it.

Google Calendar & Apple's Calendar (Calendar App)

We have tested many apps, but the answer is that the best calendar app for smartphones is the best. bottom. There are many attractive calendar apps with their own useful features. But for most people, the apps and browser tabs built into iOS, Android, macOS, and Windows are all you need.

Nowadays, most smartphones are Android and iOS. Most people have their calendars synced via Google or iCloud, or imported from an Exchange account in Outlook.

Google Calendar is a solid choice as it works across browsers, mobile apps, mobile devices and desktops. Apple's calendar does not natively support anything other than Apple products and Microsoft Outlook, so it is somewhat limited to those who can use it.

Both Google and Apple's calendar apps (at least at the time of writing) offer rich experiences that are native to third-party calendar apps. And with each new OS release, it gets better (and sometimes not).

The main selling point of third-party apps is their unique design. Some people prefer certain layouts and texts. That said, Google and Apple products also offer multiple layouts to meet different needs.

So, our conclusion is to use the apps that come with your phone. Unless you don't like their design, or you need Facebook, Evernote, or a to-do list and want something that integrates with them.

©2020 WIRECUTTER, INC. A NEW YORK TIMES COMPANY.