There’s no doubt investing in key tech desk accessories can really make a difference to the way you work. They can help add crisper sound, better ergonomics and organisation and just add a little fun to the daily grind.

The end of the financial year is the perfect time to add a new gadget to your collection as you’re often able to wholly claim any work-related tech expense under $300 at tax time, or claim the depreciation of an asset for anything above that amount.

Now is the time to scan your space and see if there are any gaps in your desk tech that need filling, whether it’s an ergonomically sound keyboard, new headphones or printer that doesn’t make you shout at it each time you try to print.

Need to Know: Claiming Tech and Desk Accessories at Tax Time

If you use any tech and desk accessories for work, you may be able to claim them as a tax deduction. If you’re using the items for both work and private use, you can only claim the work-related portion. Hold onto your receipts and keep records of when you use these items.

Infographic comparing claimable items (tablets, laptops, keyboards, mice, headphones, speakers, printers, ink and toner cartridges, chargers and docking stations) versus non-claimable items (private use items and items provided by others).

‍Tech Accessories to Boost Productivity

The right tech desk accessories can reboot your workday by boosting your productivity and helping you power through your to-do list.

A powerful tablet can make working on the go or keeping track of tasks much easier, especially if you invest in one with handy features like all-day battery life*, AI capabilities and 8GB of memory (RAM), which enables your device to do plenty of heavy lifting.

A great pair of wireless headphones allows you to take calls handsfree and the 50 hours of battery life in this model means you can listen to music, podcasts or presentations without frequent recharging, while a simple multiport adapter makes working with multiple devices at the same time easier, keeping you agile and able to move between files and documents seamlessly.

And don’t forget the underrated workhorse of any office: the printer. Seasoned tech experts will already know the value of an all-in-one printer (that prints, scans and copies), which makes handling documents a breeze – especially one that allows you to connect your devices wirelessly.

An assortment of tech accessories to boost productivity shown on various brightly coloured backgrounds. Products include a tablet, wireless headphones and an all-in-one printer.

What to Try

SEE ALSO: The Best Office Desks for Work and Home This EOFY

It’s Time to Upgrade Your Keyboard and Mice

The desk accessories you use most have the biggest impact on your everyday comfort – and your keyboard and mouse are about as everyday as it gets. Yet they’re rarely the first thing you think of upgrading at tax time. That's worth reconsidering, because swapping to a better-fitting or more reliable setup can be surprisingly refreshing.

As any ergonomic expert will tell you, the right keyboard and mouse make a real difference in keeping wrist and hand strain at bay. Choosing the right style is important for aesthetics too. That’s why a matching duo such as a computer mouse and keyboard set is one of the best ways to do an update. Not only are they often wireless so you can retire any annoying cables, but they come in a range of fun colours too, from a dusty rose to a lilac that pops and a super sleek crisp white.

The good news? You don't have to go hunting; the keyboards and mice below are well-regarded for striking the right balance of Bluetooth connectivity, battery life and ergonomic comfort.

An assortment of wireless keyboard and mice combos shown on various brightly coloured backgrounds. Products include the Logitech MK250 combo in rose, the Logitech POP Icon combo in lilac and the HP 650 Combo in white.

‍What to Try

SEE ALSO: The Best Laptops and Tablets for Work This EOFY

Separate Speakers for Better Sound

If you’ve yet to invest in a great speaker for your workstation, now is the time to add this to your list of desk accessories to upgrade.

Brighten up your space with a quality speaker in a punchy red hue. Bonus points for the fact it also has wireless Bluetooth connectivity and handy AI Sound Boost technology, which analyses your tunes in real time for better acoustic performance. Plus, it’s portable, so you can set the tone at the team brainstorm or play a soothing playlist while you power through your to-do list.

If you’re still using the in-built speakers that came with your laptop, it might be time to consider enhancing your next work call with multimedia speakers. This Logitech pair delivers crisp audio and features an in-built volume and power dial, as well as a desk-friendly compact design (they’re 84.5mm wide x 151.5mm high) to take your listening experience to a new level.

An assortment of speakers shown on various brightly coloured backgrounds. Products include the JBL Charge 6 Bluetooth Speaker in red, and Logitech Multimedia Speakers in black.

What to Try

SEE ALSO: Under $10 Desk Accessories to Upgrade Your Workspace

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This is general information only and does not constitute taxation or legal advice. Other requirements under the tax law apply. Seek professional financial and/or legal advice to determine the right outcomes for your business or individual needs.

*Battery life/run time is an indicator and estimated based on supplied brand’s testing environments. Actual battery life may vary, and is dependent on various factors including loaded applications, configuration, features, usage, network and settings. Battery run times quoted are typically results of benchmark testing by brands. Refer to the specific brand’s website for specific testing conditions.