Open a work document. Note any text you enlarge, screen reflections and controls you struggle to reach. Start your shopping list there.
Turning 50 doesn't specify an equipment list. CCOHS recommends matching workstations to the individual.
Try larger text before choosing a monitor
Try your computer's text-size controls before replacing the monitor. Open your usual apps at the new setting: can you read the text and still see the spreadsheet columns you need?
Windows separates text size from whole-interface scaling; macOS includes text-size and zoom controls. Follow Microsoft's instructions or Apple's instructions for your version.
Shopping for a monitor? Bring that text setting and your desk measurements. Our stand dimension reference lists manufacturer measurements for three models.
Check reflections at your working time
Look for screen reflections when you actually work, including after dark. Try moving a lamp or adjusting a blind before buying another accessory.
CCOHS advises directing task lighting onto paper, which needs more light than a screen. For a new lamp, check its adjustment range, base dimensions and switch position.
Separate keyboard lettering from keyboard layout
Larger lettering doesn't specify larger keys or a lighter key press. Check the layout you use, including a number pad if needed, and the connection to your computer.
The Logickeyboard Slimline Large Print is one example: its manufacturer lists white-on-black lettering, USB-A and Windows compatibility. We haven't tested it; the specifications we checked don't give letter height or key-press force. Our large-print keyboard comparison covers connections, backlighting and dimensions for three other models.
Check mouse fit and reachable controls
Logitech describes its Lift mouse as intended for small-to-medium hands, with a left-handed option. We haven't tested its fit.
Try reaching the buttons from your working position. Do the same for chair levers and desk controls; record the adjustment ranges you need before comparing products.
Keep a shopping worksheet
Use the worksheet below to keep your measurements and requirements beside each product's specifications.
Record the seller's return deadline and costs before paying. Try your usual work tasks during that window.
Home-office shopping worksheet
Date: __________ Device and operating system: __________
Try with your current equipment
Open a document you actually use for work. Write down the text-size setting you prefer: __________. Check a spreadsheet and a video-call window at that setting. Record any labels or controls you still cannot read: ____________________.
At your usual working time, note reflections on the screen: ________________. Record whether moving the screen or a lamp changes them: __________________.
Bring these details when shopping
| Check | My requirement | Candidate product / source |
|---|---|---|
| Available desk width and depth | __________ | __________ |
| Display text at my chosen scaling | __________ | __________ |
| Keyboard layout and key legends | __________ | __________ |
| Keyboard connection and OS compatibility | __________ | __________ |
| Mouse handedness and button reach | __________ | __________ |
| Reach to lamp, monitor and furniture controls | __________ | __________ |
| Chair and desk adjustment ranges | __________ | __________ |
| Assembly steps or assistance needed | __________ | __________ |
| Return deadline and return shipping cost | __________ | __________ |
Check during the return window
Try your normal typing task, a document and a video call. Record the task and what you would change: ________________________________________________.
Product: __________ Seller: __________ Last return date: __________
Keep the packaging until you have checked the seller's return conditions.