I love finding new ways to upgrade my desk setup. Currently, I’m using what I affectionately call “Desk v6.1.” I started out with a small (but cheap) IKEA workbench, a simple laptop, and a super cheap Logitech keyboard. Each time I upgrade my desk, it added a new element to my system (or removed a silly purchase that I still wonder about today – I’m looking at you, double monitor shelf). Strangely, my new desk setup seems to coincide with Prime Day, when Amazon slashes prices on everything from cheap USB coffee mug warmers to full RGB kits. This year’s Prime Day gaming sales hit stores this morning, and the selection is plentiful. Here’s what I’ll be buying for Desk v6.2:
A quick note about cable management
As you move everything on your desk – your gaming PC, monitor, speakers, charging cables, lights, streaming controllers – the wires can get tangled up like a spider’s web. Before you dig into any of the bigger gadgets, it’s a good idea to make sure you have good cable management. We recommend stocking up on some clips (great for keeping wires organized under the legs of your desk or underneath the surface), a runner tray and some durable adhesive tape. The last one will allow you to keep extension cords secured underneath your desk, making for a much neater look overall. Today’s best deals on the products listed above are just below.
1. Monitor Arm
While a monitor stand can elevate your screen and free up space underneath, I prefer a monitor arm that can move freely, something you often see in those “desk setup” YouTube videos you’re sure to see. I opted for a fully retractable gas spring arm that lets me move my Samsung Odyssey G5 in just about any direction, eliminating the need for a frankly uncomfortably wide stand that comes with the panel itself, and leaving plenty of space behind my setup.
First of all, you need to pick a model that fits your screen size, then we recommend opting for a clamp rather than one that sits separately on your desk, and also make sure the actual pole is small enough to fit between your setup and the wall behind you.
2. Desk Pad
(Image courtesy of Future)
Not only does a desk pad protect your desk surface day in and day out, it also makes mouse movements much smoother and gives everything a softer look. I’ve been using my Corsair MM700 RGB Extended for a while now and it’s starting to feel a bit rough. Still, this wide RGB-enabled mouse pad has served me well for years and is still fully functional. I’d buy the same one again when it finally breaks.
3. RGB!
(Image courtesy of Future)
This comes down to personal preference, but there’s a reason RGB is used on so many gaming peripherals: it’s versatile, flashy, and looks pretty damn good when you get it right. Whether you go all out for a multicolored light show or pick a tone like me and go all-in (I use cyan in my setup), RGB lighting can elevate your setup in a variety of ways. Strip lights are a thing of the past, though; those cheap LEDs on flimsy tape are being removed from my corner for good this Prime Day. Instead, I opted for a set of light bars that maintain the same vibe but can be placed much more innocuous around my desk.
4. Monitor Light Bar
(Image courtesy of Xiaomi)
Monitor light bars, as you’d expect, sit on top of your monitor and add extra light around those harsh LEDs. They also bring more light to your work surface, reducing eye strain and making your work much more comfortable overall. At least, that’s what I’ve heard. Everyone who owns one of these light bars is encouraging you to get in on this sale, so Prime Day might be your chance.
However, things can get complicated since I’m dealing with a curved display, and light bars for such panels are expensive, so I’ll wait a little longer. If you have a flat monitor, I recommend the Xiaomi model.
5. Stream Controller
(Image courtesy of Future/Alex Berry)
I’m not streaming anymore, but I do use the Mountain DisplayPad as a productivity tool and I love it. I’ve noticed it’s starting to eat up a lot of system resources lately though, and it doesn’t have as many plugins or compatibility features as the Elgato Stream Deck. I was going to buy the older model a few years ago, but had to wait until the Mk 2 came out and the price dropped. But for Prime Day, Amazon delivered – a pretty sweet deal.
I use a macro pad like this to launch programs, switch windows, view system performance, etc., so it’s a really useful addition to my desk setup whether I’m streaming or not.
Plus, if you’re looking for a bigger upgrade, we’ve also rounded up the best Prime Day PC deals and the latest Prime Day gaming laptop deals, or check out the Prime Day monitor deals that are currently offering the best value.
