Which laptop accessories are worth buying in 2026?

A laptop isn’t just for work – it’s also for studying, gaming, video editing or watching TV series in the evenings. Different accessories come in handy for each of these uses: some improve comfort, others boost performance, and others help keep your device in good condition for longer. Here are our top picks.

What are the main types of laptop accessories?

Let’s start with the basics. The most common approach is to use USB flash drives, chargers, mice, keyboards, bags and adaptors. If you’re running out of storage space, it’s worth buying an external SSD or a drive enclosure for your own storage device – some models support M.2 SATA, others the faster M.2 NVMe PCIe, and others still support classic 2.5-inch drives.

Modern power adapters use GaN technology, which means the charger is smaller whilst delivering the same power output. A multi-port GaN model can charge a laptop, a mobile phone and other devices all at once – making it ideal for use both at home and when travelling. Before you buy one, compare the power output with your computer’s requirements and check which Power Delivery profiles are supported.

Connectors and standards: what to check before buying

The subject of connectors can be a bit overwhelming, but there are a few things worth bearing in mind. Most new accessories use a connector Universal Serial Bus Type-C, but the shape of the plug alone doesn’t tell you much about its capabilities – it’s worth checking the transmission standard, the maximum charging power and whether the cable transmits video. USB4 allows a single cable to handle data, video and power, whilst Thunderbolt offers higher bandwidth – Thunderbolt 5 can already cope with fast external drives, high-resolution displays and feature-rich docking stations.

It is also important that video cable: HDMI 2.0 is sufficient for a typical 4K monitor, whilst HDMI 2.1 performs better with high refresh rates.

Do you have an Apple computer? Also check that the adapter is compatible with Apple Silicon processors (M1–M4) – not every MacBook supports the same number of monitors as older models with Intel chips.

A docking station or a USB-C hub – which to choose?

USB-C hubs and adaptors are usually passive devices, powered by the laptop. They are lightweight and portable – they are perfectly adequate when you need to connect a USB stick, a keyboard, a memory card or a monitor via HDMI.

For a complex workstation with several monitors and numerous devices, a docking station is a better option – it usually has its own power supply, more ports and can charge your laptop at the same time. It is important that the connector supports DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt, as USB-C 3.1 alone does not always mean it can transmit video. Two monitors can be connected using a single cable, provided both the laptop and the docking station support this – simply connect the docking station to a USB-C or Thunderbolt port, the monitors to HDMI or DisplayPort, and select ‘extended desktop’ mode in the system settings.

Before you decide on a specific model, check that it is compatible with the system - Windows, macOS, Android or Linux – and supported resolutions.

Mobile or desktop set – choose accessories to suit your working style

Do you travel a lot with your laptop? Go for a lightweight set that fits easily into your bag: compact USB-C hub, wireless mouse, GaN charger, headphones in a handy case These are more than enough to connect a USB stick, a memory card or a monitor in the conference room.

If you tend to work from one place most of the time, it’s worth investing in a more comprehensive workstation – an active docking station, a stand, a full-size keyboard, an ergonomic mouse and one or two monitors will ensure that your laptop can easily replace a desktop computer, without having to plug in several cables every time.

The price depends on the class of equipment – the budget segment consists of simple hubs, stands and mice, whilst docking stations with their own power supply and high-speed drives require a greater investment.

An ergonomic workspace for work and study

A few little things can to relieve strain on the neck, shoulders and wrists:

• A laptop stand should raise the screen so that its top edge is close to eye level – it’s worth pairing it with an external keyboard.
• A vertical mouse positions the hand in a more natural position, thereby reducing strain on the wrist.

Wireless mice and keyboards connect via Bluetooth or a 2.4 GHz receiver. Bluetooth does not take up a USB port, whilst 2.4 GHz usually provides a more stable connection and is easier to set up. If reliability is your priority, wired equipment is the way to go.

When choosing a bag or a rucksack, make sure the compartment fits the screen size (14, 15.6 or 17 inches) – a pocket that’s too loose won’t keep the laptop stable, whilst one that’s too tight may put pressure on the casing. A good bag should protect the corners and have a separate compartment for the charger and accessories.

Laptop cooling pad – is it worth it?

A laptop may overheat whilst gaming, rendering, or running several resource-intensive programmes at once. A high case temperature does not always indicate a fault, but restricted airflow will affect performance and cause the fan to run more loudly.

The cooling stand raises the casing and facilitates airflow to the lower ventilation openings, and the built-in fan supplements the standard cooling system – although its effectiveness depends on the placement of the air intakes in the specific model. This is no substitute for cleaning the inside of the computer, but it will significantly improve its operating conditions and, at the same time, raise the screen to a more comfortable position at your desk.

Laptop accessories for students and remote learning

Are you studying remotely or working between classes? Go for a lightweight mouse, headphones with a microphone, a compact hub, a power bank compatible with USB-C Power Delivery, and a Bluetooth mechanical keyboard to make typing longer pieces of work easier.

If you carry your laptop around a lot, make sure you also get a good case that fits the dimensions of the laptop, with soft padding and corner protection. When packing your bag, it’s a good idea to keep your laptop separate from the charger, cables and any metal objects that might scratch the casing.

Where can I buy laptop accessories?

You can find all these accessories in one place. Von Halsky, the shopping assistant in the InPost Mobile app, searches through offers and suggests specific options tailored to your needs. You can say or type what you’re looking for – for example, “a USB-C hub with HDMI and a card reader for up to 150 zlotys” – and By Halsky will display the products in a clear carousel.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which laptop accessories are most highly recommended for programmers?

Above all, a docking station that supports multiple monitors and an ergonomic mechanical keyboard with Bluetooth connectivity will come in handy. High-bandwidth ports will improve the transfer of large files and the use of external devices.

Which laptop accessories are best avoided?

Uncertified power supplies without surge protection – unstable voltage can damage the motherboard or cause components to wear out more quickly. It is safer to choose equipment from an official distributor, covered by a standard 24-month warranty.

How can you look after your laptop accessories so that they last longer?

When disconnecting cables and adapters, hold the plug rather than the cable – this will protect the contacts from damage. Cooling pads and fans Dust them regularly, and with wireless mice and keyboards, keep an eye on the battery level and ensure batteries are replaced in good time.