As an entrepreneur, having the right tools is essential for success. With the rapid advancements in technology, there are now countless gadgets available that can make the life of a busy self-starter much easier. Here’s our picks for the best tech gadgets for entrepreneurs, so all you trailblazers out there can streamline your work and improve your productivity.
1. MacBook Pro M1
The MacBook Pro M1 is Apple’s latest offering for professionals and is one of the best laptops for entrepreneurs. It features a powerful M1 chip that makes it faster and more efficient than previous models. The battery life is also impressive, lasting up to 17 hours on a single charge. With a 13-inch or 16-inch display, the MacBook Pro M1 is perfect for multitasking and working on multiple projects at the same time.
2. Microsoft Surface Pro 7
If you’re looking for a laptop that can also double as a tablet, the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is an excellent option. It’s incredibly lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go. The Surface Pro 7 has a 12.3-inch touchscreen display and is powered by an Intel Core processor, making it a powerful device that can handle even the most demanding applications.
3. Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+
If you prefer to work on a tablet, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S7+ is an excellent option. It features a 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display that’s perfect for streaming videos or working on documents. The tablet also comes with an S Pen, which makes it easy to take notes or draw diagrams.
4. Logitech MX Master 3
While many businesses start with a built-in touchpad, sometimes you need a good mouse to save yourself time (and prevent carpal tunnel). The Logitech MX Master 3 is one of the best mice for go-getters on the move. It’s ergonomically designed and features a thumb rest, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. The mouse also has customizable buttons and can be used on multiple devices, making it a versatile tool for any entrepreneur.
5. Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Many entrepreneurs have a new office every day. Cafes, coworking spaces, libraries, trains, bus stops. The work doesn’t stop, no matter where you are. But you can’t always control your surroundings. This makes it tricky to focus on your work. That’s where the Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones come in. They feature noise-canceling technology that blocks out distractions and allows you to focus on your work while you blast relaxing lo-fi hip-hop (or maybe some intense synth-wave/outrun). The headphones also have built-in Alexa and Google Assistant, making it easy to manage your tasks and stay organized.
6. Wireless Earbuds: AirPods Pro
Don’t fancy headphone? The AirPods Pro is another noise-cancelling headphone option to limit distractions or make jumping in and out of meetings easier. They are also water and sweat-resistant, making them suitable for outdoor activities such as running or cycling. So you can attend a meeting straight after a lunchtime jog! The earbuds come with a wireless charging case that can provide up to 24 hours of battery life. They also have touch controls that allow you to play, pause, skip tracks, and answer phone calls with ease.
7. Smartwatch: Apple Watch Series 7
A smartwatch can be a game-changer for self-starters on the move. With the latest Apple Watch Series 7, you can access your emails, messages, and notifications from your wrist. The watch comes with an always-on retina display that is 20% larger than its predecessor, making it easier to read and navigate. You can also use it to track your fitness goals, schedule appointments, and make phone calls. The watch is available in two sizes and comes in five colors, making it a stylish accessory that can complement your business attire.
8. Evernote Smart Notebook by Moleskine
Not everybody likes to live on their laptop. If you prefer to take handwritten notes, the Evernote Smart Notebook by Moleskine is a great option. It features special paper that’s compatible with the Evernote app, allowing you to digitize your notes and access them from anywhere. The notebook also comes with stickers that can be used to tag and organize your notes. It’s the perfect union of oldschool and newschool - Ernest Hemmingway and Harper Lee would be proud!
9. Ring Video Doorbell Pro
If you’re headdown working on project plans, you may not always be able to answer the door when someone comes knocking. That’s where the Ring Video Doorbell Pro comes in. It allows you to see who’s at your door from your phone or tablet, making it easy to manage visitors even when you’re not at home.
10. Anker PowerCore 10000 Portable Charger
How are you going to make sure your laptop, headphones, and smartwatch stays charged? The Anker PowerCore 10000 Portable Charger makes sure you’re never without power. It’s small and lightweight, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. The charger can provide up to three charges for most smartphones, making it a lifesaver when you’re out of juice.
11. Wi-Fi Extender: Netgear Nighthawk Mesh X6S
With every day being different, sometimes you can’t guarantee your internet access. And a slow and unreliable Wi-Fi connection is the kryptonite of budding enterprises who need to stay connected throughout the day. The Netgear Nighthawk Mesh X6S is a Wi-Fi extender that can provide a strong and reliable connection throughout your office or home. It supports Wi-Fi speeds of up to 3 Gbps and can cover an area of up to 3500 square feet. It also comes with a mobile app that allows you to set up and manage your network with ease.
12. Portable Scanner: Doxie Q
Not everything is digitized. Hardcopy documents still exist. For those occasions, a portable scanner can be a lifesaver when you need to scan and digitize documents on the go. The Doxie Q is a portable scanner that can scan documents, receipts, and photos up to 600 DPI. It is small enough to fit in your bag and can scan up to 8 pages per minute. The scanner comes with a rechargeable battery that can provide up to 1000 scans per charge. It also comes with an app that allows you to upload and organize your scanned documents to the cloud.
Superpower your start-up for on-the-go success
Investing in the right tech gadgets for business owners can make all the difference in terms of productivity, efficiency, and even cost savings. From a smartwatch to a portable scanner, by incorporating these gadgets into your daily routine, you can streamline your workflow, save time, and ultimately achieve your business goals more easily. So why not give them a try? You might be surprised at how much easier your life can be with the right gizmo at your fingertips. Finally, technology can also help small businesses improve their customer experience. Chatbots, for example, can be used on websites to provide instant customer support, answer frequently asked questions, and even guide customers through the purchasing process. This not only saves time for both the customer and the business but also ensures that customers receive the help they need quickly and efficiently. Mobile apps can also be used to enhance the customer experience by providing a more convenient way for customers to purchase products or services, track orders, and receive personalized recommendations.
User beware: technology challenges and risks for SMBs
However, with all of these benefits come potential challenges and risks. One of the biggest challenges small businesses face when it comes to technology is the cost. Many small business tech tools and software can be expensive. Especially when you start adding more and more tools to your operational expenses. It can be difficult for small businesses with limited budgets to justify these outgoings. However, it’s important to remember that the cost of not using technology can be even more significant in the long run. By investing in the right tools and software, small businesses can save time, increase efficiency, and ultimately grow their business.
Beyond cost, you might be curious about data breaches and cyber-attacks. And for a good reason. Small businesses are often seen as easy targets by hackers, who may steal sensitive information such as customer data or financial records. It’s important for small businesses to take steps to protect themselves, such as using firewalls, encrypting data, and implementing strong passwords with password manager software like 1Password. It’s also a good idea to educate employees on identifying and preventing cyber threats.
No longer a “nice to have”, but a must-have
While there are advantages and disadvantages to consider, investing in the right technology can ultimately help small businesses achieve their goals and succeed in a rapidly changing business landscape. By embracing technology and staying up-to-date with the latest small business technology trends and tools, your company can stay ahead of the competition, improve its operations, and grow your customer base. In today’s digital age, technology is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for small businesses to thrive and succeed.
