Notebook PCs are almost necessities in today’s ultra-connected world – and this is even truer if you’re a student or a tech-powered professional. If you find yourself reaching for the computer more than two times a day, you’re probably going to need more than just a plain, vanilla notebook. The good news is that you can transform your notebook into a computer fit for a super-user with just a few choice accessories.

Most Useful Notebook Accessories

Storage is crucial, not because notebooks have smaller hard drives (to the contrary, they often have plenty of space) but because you need a different type of storage. Portable storage is the ideal solution for notebooks and laptops because the computers themselves are portable. If you’re a PC power-user, you’ll probably need to transfer files from your laptop, to your tablet or desktop, your digital cameras.

We recommend three portable storage tools:

• Flash Drives – For those quick transfers between USB compatible devices. Keep a few flash drives tucked away on your keychain, backpack, or laptop case.
• External Hard Drive – For backing up your data. With the constant threat of damage, a notebook PC needs a weekly backup to keep your data safe.
• Card Reader – Digital cameras, mp3 players, and cellphones often use removable memory cards of varying sizes. Carrying all of the different adapters around can be a hassle. Use one multi-card reader to keep all your small devices connected.

If you have a need for additional storage, then chances are you’re using your computer for many different tasks. We recommend a portable mouse and keyboard as a case-by-case alternative to the built-in touchpad and keyboard. The native versions are often too small and can ruin productivity on tasks that require a seamless workflow. You’ll need a small USB hub to expand your slots for extra peripherals.

Everything (except, possibly, the mouse) should have a retractable cord if possible. That way, you can throw the devices into your laptop case and take them with you without the risk of loss or tangles. This is why we prefer to opt for durable cases with potential for easy organization instead of pure looks or comfort alone.

Notebooks are powerful little machines but there will always be ways to make it even more powerful. When you customize your laptop, notebook, or netbook with functional accessories, you are truly making it your own. Nothing works or feels better than a fully personalized PC.