My 2024 Desk Setup as an ML Engineer

Introduction

After working remotely for 3 years as an ML engineer, I've finally dialed in my desk setup. Here's everything I use daily and why.

The Desk & Chair

Desk: FlexiSpot E7 Standing Desk (60" x 30")

Height-adjustable (crucial for alternating between sitting/standing)
Spacious enough for dual monitors + laptop
Solid build quality

Chair: Herman Miller Aeron (Size B)

Yes, it's expensive. Yes, it's worth it.
After years of back pain, this was a game-changer
Pro tip: Buy refurbished to save 50%

Don't cheap out on your chair. You're sitting 8+ hours a day. Your back will thank you.

Monitors & Display

Primary: LG 34" Ultrawide (3440x1440)

Perfect for side-by-side code and documentation
144Hz refresh rate (overkill for work but nice for gaming)

Secondary: Vertical 27" Dell (for Slack, email, music)

Monitor Arm: Ergotron LX Dual Arm

Frees up desk space
Easy to adjust position throughout the day

Computer & Peripherals

Laptop: M2 MacBook Pro 16" (32GB RAM)

Handles ML training surprisingly well
Battery life is incredible

Keyboard: Keychron K8 Pro (Gateron Brown switches)

Mechanical keyboard without the obnoxious noise
Wireless convenience

Mouse: Logitech MX Master 3S

Ergonomic and programmable buttons
Works seamlessly across devices

Webcam: Sony A6400 + Sigma 16mm f/1.4

Overkill? Maybe. But video calls look amazing.
HDMI capture card connects to Mac

Audio Setup

Headphones: Sony WH-1000XM5

Best noise cancellation for focus
All-day comfort

Speakers: Audioengine A2+

When I don't want headphones
Surprisingly good sound for the size

Microphone: Shure MV7

Clear audio for meetings
Plug-and-play with Mac

Lighting

Desk Lamp: BenQ ScreenBar Plus

Doesn't take up desk space (sits on monitor)
Auto-dimming is clutch

Key Light: Elgato Key Light Air

Makes video calls look professional
Adjustable brightness and color temp

Cable Management

This deserves its own section because clean cables = clear mind:

Cable tray under desk (hides power strips)
Velcro ties for bundling cables
Cable clips along desk edge
Wireless everything when possible

Software & Tools

Window Management: Rectangle (free, Mac) Note-taking: Obsidian (Markdown FTW) Code Editor: VS Code with custom setup Terminal: Warp (modern terminal, great UX) Focus: Freedom app (blocks distractions)

Productivity Hacks

Standing desk reminder: I set a timer to stand every 45 minutes
Dual monitor layout: Code left, docs/Slack right, vertical for Spotify/email
Do Not Disturb mode: Automatic during focus blocks (9-11am, 2-4pm)
Plants: Added 3 plants - sounds silly but improves the vibe

The New Dad Adaptation

Since becoming a dad 3 months ago:

Noise cancellation became non-negotiable
Added a small whiteboard for quick notes during interruptions
Wireless everything means I can quickly pack up if baby needs attention
Keep baby monitor on standing desk shelf

Budget Breakdown

Essential Tier (~$2,000):

Good chair ($400 refurbished Aeron)
Basic standing desk ($500)
Quality keyboard + mouse ($200)
Good headphones ($300)
Main monitor ($600)

My Setup (~$5,500):

High-end chair ($900)
Premium standing desk ($800)
Dual monitor + arms ($1,200)
Audio setup ($800)
Peripherals ($500)
Lighting ($400)
Webcam setup ($900)

You don't need to buy everything at once. I built this setup over 2 years, upgrading as I identified pain points.

What I'd Change

If I were starting over:

Skip the webcam setup, MBP camera is fine for 90% of calls
Get 38" ultrawide instead of 34" (more screen real estate)
Invest in desk pad earlier (protects desk, looks clean)

Worth It?

Absolutely. I spend 50+ hours per week at this desk. The productivity gains and health benefits more than justify the cost.

Remember: Your workspace is an investment in yourself and your career.

Questions about any of these items? Drop a comment or reach out!