Max Chafkin | Inc. magazine

Technology for the Virtual CEO

Five must-have products for telecommuting

Courtesy Companies

 

1. Laptop

Given that most business software is delivered over the Internet, your choice of computer doesn't matter much. So pick one that won't be a pain to take to a meeting at Starbucks and that won't run out of juice halfway through your PowerPoint deck. The MacBook Air ($1,499) and the Dell Vostro V13 ($669) both look good and fill the bill.

2. Headset

A Skype headset will give you better sound quality than a landline phone, not to mention the use of both hands. We like the Freetalk Everyman ($23; $80 for the wireless model).

3. Smartphone

The massive library of apps for Apple's iPhone 3GS makes it a good choice ($199 with a two-year contract with AT&T). But, with a growing app library and a choice of cell-phone networks, Google's Android operating system is catching up fast. We especially like the handsome Motorola Droid ($200 with contract from Verizon).

4. Mobile broadband

Sprint's Overdrive ($100 after rebate with two-year contract) allows up to five of your employees to get online at the same time and gives you access to faster WiMAX networks.

5. Webcam

Your built-in laptop camera will work fine for casual use. But if you plan on marathon video chat sessions, invest in a Logitech Pro 9000 ($99), which delivers clear sound and a crisp picture, even in dim light.

Senior contributing writer Max Chafkin has profiled companies such as Yelp, Zappos, Twitter, Threadless, and Tesla for the magazine. He lives in Brooklyn, New York. @chafkin