11 gadgets for the digital nomad

High-functioning gadgets that are both small and light can be worth their weight in gold, particularly if you don’t work from a fixed location. It’s getting easier and easier for digital nomads and road warriors to replace just about anything you’d find in an office with devices small enough to fit into a backpack or computer bag. Here are 11 high tech devices that don’t sacrifice function for form.

Built on the same Darkfield laser tracking technology that works on just about any type of surface, the Logitech MX Anywhere 2 builds on the original MX Anywhere to make it into an even better travel mouse. The MX Anywhere 2 incorporates a built-in rechargeable battery, which boasts an hour of usage with a one-minute charge (and Logitech claims a full charge can yield up to two months of use). It supports both a USB transceiver and Bluetooth wireless modes – the MX Anywhere 2 can be paired with up to three different devices using the latter, and can quickly toggle between them with a single button.

Price: $80

The ZAGG Pocket Keyboard is a portable keyboard that promises excellent tactile feel and a “close to a full-size” typing experience housed in a compact body. Designed for use with a smartphone and small tablet, the Pocket Keyboard incorporates an integrated stand for your gadgets, as well as support for Bluetooth wireless. When not in use, it folds into an ultra-slim profile that should slip easily into a handbag or suit pocket. A magnetic clasp secures holds it in its closed form (and automatically turns it off).

Price: $70

The streamlined Bolt Briefcase from WaterField is a laptop bag aimed at digital nomads, yet won’t look out of place in a business meeting. A padded laptop compartment helps keep your portable workstation safe from knocks, and you can place a variety of other gadgets in pockets protected by waterproof zippers. The Bolt Briefcase comes with a removable shoulder strap, and it can slip over rolling suitcase handles. It can also accommodate just about every laptop: It’s available in in three different sizes suited for 13-inch, 15-inch and 17-inch laptops, as well as six distinct color options.

Price: $249 and up

The Dell USB 3.0 to HDMI/VGA/Ethernet/USB 2.0 adapter delivers exactly what its name suggests, replacing the need for multiple adapters for the traveler looking to lighten his load. VGA and HDMI support means you’ll always be able to plug in with your Surface tablet or Ultrabook. Ditto its Ethernet port, which will come in handy at locations that don’t have Wi-Fi – or which you may not be authorized to access. Finally, a built-in USB 2.0 port makes up for your lost USB 3.0 port, ensuring that you are not deprived of the ability to plug in a USB transceiver or USB flash drive.

Price: $75

The TwelveSouth Compass 2 is a multi-use stand that works with just about any tablet out there. The clever contraption folds flat into a compact bundle, yet expands easily into an easel to hold your tablet or phablet in either portrait or landscape position. Made of heavy gauge steel, the Compass 2 is a solid device that will stay in place without wobbling. Rubber along the legs and feet serve to protect your gadget as well as the surface that you set it on.

Price: $40

The AOC 17-inch USB Monitor is a slim, portable display powered by DisplayLink technology. This means that all you need to do is to unpack the portable display and plug it into an available USB 3.0 port to use its generous 17.3-inch viewable area (in other words, no VGA cable or power cord required). The display supports up to 1600×900 resolution at 60Hz and fast 10ms response time, courtesy of the high transfer rates offered by USB 3.0. An auto-pivot feature automatically adjusts the image according to the display’s orientation, while a removable base offers flexibility on how you want to place it.

Price: $180