Featured in this article
A MacBook SleeveNative Union Stow Slim Laptop SleeveRead more$70Amazon
A Simple, Minimal BackpackBellroy Via WorkpackRead more$159.png)
Amazon
A Beautiful Laptop StandNative Union Desk Laptop StandRead more$80
Amazon
A MacBook CaseIncase Hardshell Case Dots (16-inch MacBook Pro)Read more$40Incase
MacBooks are practically begging to be accessorized. Regardless of which MacBook you own, they all have simple, minimal designs, the ports are usually limited, and remember: They're laptops. They're some of the best laptops you can buy, but they're still laptops. And that means they are designed first and foremost as mobile devices—not computers to build a whole remote work setup around.
Whether you're looking to expand its capabilities in a home office or on the road, these essential peripherals can really enhance your MacBook. Our list include products like laptop stands, keyboards, charging bricks, and external displays. Everything listed below has been hand-tested by myself or someone on the WIRED Reviews team, so we recommend them in full confidence.
Check out our Best Home Office Gear guide for even more recommendations.
Updated April 2026: We've updated over half the recommendations on this list, including the Logitech MX Master 4 mouse, Native Union Laptop Stand, a Bellroy laptop bag, and much more.
A MacBook Sleeve
Photograph: Luke LarsenSave to wishlistSave to wishlistNative Union
Stow Slim Laptop Sleeve
$70Amazon
$70Native Union
A lot of laptop sleeves are overly bulky, taking up more space in your bag than they really deserve. That's why I like Native Union's Stow Slim. It feels no less secure than many of the thicker sleeves I've tested, while being slim enough to store it in a standard laptop bag pouch.
The Stow Slim also has one exterior pocket for holding loose items or cables, and the Stow Slim even magnetically closes to ensure your MacBook doesn't slip out. When working remotely, I often find myself using my laptop on top of the sleeve thanks to its flatter surface. I like the Sandstone color, but all three color options look attractive.
A Simple, Minimal Backpack
- Photograph: Adrienne So
- Photograph: Adrienne So
Bellroy
Via Workpack
$159Amazon
$159Bellroy
Most people don't need anything too fancy for a laptop backpack. Safe, clean, and hopefully stylish storage will do it. This little backpack isn't big enough to store too much, although the laptop pocket can handle up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro, with plenty of room to expand if you're tossing in extra peripherals. There's even room for an interior water bottle holder despite its tiny size.
It's really the ideal bag for shorter trips to the coffee shop where you might only need the basics on hand. Our resident bag guru, Adrienne So, particularly enjoys the two grab handles, which make it a handy handheld tote while traveling too.
A Beautiful Laptop Stand
- Photograph: Luke Larsen
- Photograph: Luke Larsen
- Photograph: Luke Larsen
- Photograph: Luke Larsen
Native Union
Desk Laptop Stand
$80Amazon
$80Native Union
MacBooks aren't the most ergonomically-sound things in the world. no matter how you position it, the screen is just too far down to be comfortable for long periods of time. There are tons of great laptop stands out there, but the prettiest, most functional one I've tested is the Native Union Desk Laptop Stand. The fabric on the stand feels great, as does the aluminum stand and base. It's extremely versatile and rigid, and there's just no better laptop stand out there.
A MacBook Case
Photograph: IncaseSave to wishlistSave to wishlistIncase
Hardshell Case Dots (16-inch MacBook Pro)
$40Incase
$50Apple
This case is available for a few MacBook models, but I've been using it with the 16-inch MacBook Pro. It has precise cutouts for all the ports, rubberized feet that prevent it from sliding, and ventilation to keep the MacBook from overheating. For this specific model, the case comes in clear, pink, and black. It does add a noticeable heft to the 16-inch MacBook Pro—which is already a heavy laptop.—Brenda Stolyar
A MacBook Skin
Photograph: DbrandSave to wishlistSave to wishlistdbrand
MacBook Air 15-inch Skin
$25DBrand
The 15-inch MacBook Air in Starlight is stunning, but it's tough to conceal scratches or dings on such a faint color. And while I'd typically opt for a case, I didn't want to add any additional weight or bulk to a slim, lightweight laptop. This skin from Dbrand was the perfect solution. It's super thin, easy to install, and is accurately cut to fit the MacBook. It's textured too, which gives it a high-end feel and a sleek look. It's also durable for the most part. I spotted a few dings on the skin itself— which technically means it is doing its job protecting the MacBook—but I quickly buffed them out with a hair dryer.
It also comes in dozens of fun colors and prints and has the option to customize your kit. Dbrand sent me the Deluxe Kit in Off Pink, which comes with the top skin, bottom skin, trackpad skin, palm rest skin, and microfiber cloth. It's more expensive, but it's a great option if you want to protect every inch of your MacBook. Otherwise, you can opt for the Essential Kit, which comes with only the top and bottom skins. They're available for different MacBook models too.—Brenda Stolyar
A MacBook Keyboard Cover
Photograph: Brenda StolyarSave to wishlistSave to wishlistMosiso
Keyboard Cover Skin
$9Amazon
I haven't used a keyboard cover on my laptop since college. But lately, I'm seeing it on people’s MacBooks on TikTok. I take my MacBook Air on the go often, and I'm always getting makeup on it or trying to keep crumbs from falling through the cracks. So I decided to buy a keyboard cover.
This one from Mosiso has been great. It fits accurately on top of each key (complete with a cutout for the Touch ID button), feels comfortable to type on, and is thin enough that I can fully close the MacBook lid without damaging the screen. Made of silicone, it's easy to wipe down accidental coffee spills too. It's available in various colors and different MacBook models, including the M-series MacBook Air (13-inch and 15-inch) and MacBook Pro (14-inch and 16-inch).—Brenda Stolyar
A 4K Monitor
- Photograph: Luke Larsen
- Photograph: Luke Larsen
- Photograph: Luke Larsen
- Photograph: Luke Larsen
Dell
27 Plus 4K Monitor (S2725QS)
$300 $280 (7% off)Amazon
$300 $240 (20% off)Dell
Apple prides itself on using really sharp displays in all its products. That's even true of a budget-tier device like the MacBook Neo. It'd be criminal then, to pair it with anything less than a 4K monitor. The Dell 27 Plus is my favorite right now, primarily because of how affordable and high-quality it is. It's a classy-looking monitor too, coming in all white.
A 4K resolution at 27 inches won't quite replicate the sharpness of a MacBook screen though. If you really want to go all the way, step up to something like the LG UltraFine 6K monitor or one of Apple's own Studio Display monitors. These really only make sense for creative professional using it with a MacBook Pro.
A Slim Charger
Photograph: Brenda StolyarSave to wishlistSave to wishlistNomad
65W Slim Power Adapter
$50Nomad
Forget Apple's bulky charging brick. Take this instead. It's shockingly thin, and the 65 watts of power is plenty to juice up a MacBook Air. It can charge a MacBook Pro fine, just maybe not under load. The prongs fold up for easy storage, and the design matches the look of Apple's hardware. There are two USB-C ports at the bottom, both of which offer 65 watts individually, or they'll split to 45 and 20 watts, respectively.—Brenda Stolyar
A Customizable Keyboard
Photograph: Henri RobbinsSave to wishlistSave to wishlistKeychron
B2 Pro
$40 $36 (10% off)Amazon
$40 $32 (20% off)Walmart
$40 $32 (20% off)Keychron
Sure, you could just buy yourself a standard Apple Magic Keyboard. They're great for what they are. You could also get a chunky mechanical keyboard; those are popular because they're fun to type on. But the Keychron B2 Pro is an in-between. You get the quality of Keychron's other keyboards, but it's a more conventional scissor-switch keyboard, meaning it feels more like a MacBook keyboard. As our keyboard reviewer calls out, the B2 Pro's customization and remapping through the Keychron Launcher software takes things to another level.
A Serious Mouse
- Photograph: Henri Robbins
- Photograph: Henri Robbins
- Photograph: Henri Robbins
- Photograph: Henri Robbins
Logitech
MX Master 4
$120Amazon
$120Best Buy
$120Logitech
The trackpad on any of the MacBook is already top tier. But when you want to get some serious work done—or if you've got your MacBook up on a laptop stand—the Logitech MX Master 4 is the go-to solution. The latest version of this iconic mouse doesn't make any drastic changes, keeping its ergonomic shape, click buttons, and precise sensor. WIRED mouse reviewer, Henri Robbins, still proclaims it as the best ergonomic mouse you can buy.
For Power-Hungry Machines
Photograph: SatechiSave to wishlistSave to wishlistSatechi
108-Watt USB-C 3-Port Wall Charger
$80 $64 (20% off)Amazon
$80Satechi
If you have a MacBook Pro, go for Satechi's 108-watt wall charger. It's on the larger side, but it's not as big as the one from Apple. It comes with three USB-C ports, each with the ability to charge at 100 watts if only one device is connected—perfect for the 16-inch MacBook Pro. However, if you want to charge three gadgets at once, it'll charge them at 45, 30, and 30 watts, respectively, 58, 30, and 20 watts, or 65, 20, and 20 watts, depending on what you're charging. The plug folds up too.—Brenda Stolyar
A Portable Setup for Hybrid Work
-SOURCE-Medea-Giordano.jpg)
Photograph: Medea GiordanoSave to wishlistSave to wishlistLogitech
Casa Pop-Up Desk
$180Walmart
$180B&H Photo
$180Logitech
The best part about having a laptop is that it's portable, allowing you to work from virtually anywhere at any time. But if you're the type who likes to work using an external keyboard and mouse, it can be annoying to have to also carry your accessories everywhere. Logitech's Casa Pop-Up Desk is a great solution to this specific issue. The included keyboard and trackpad fit neatly into a compact case that doubles as a laptop stand (which holds your laptop in place using magnets). It's expensive, but it's an ideal choice if you're the type who is constantly working out of coffee shops, the library, or travels a lot.—Brenda Stoylar
High-Quality Headphones
- Photograph: Ryan Waniata
- Photograph: Ryan Waniata
Apple
AirPods Max (USB-C)
$549 $450 (18% off)Amazon
$449Walmart
$549Apple
Apple's AirPods Max are expensive, but they reign as the absolute best noise-canceling headphones. With excellent sound quality, brilliant noise reduction, stellar build quality, and seamless connectivity, they're hard not to love. When paired with your MacBook, they'll automatically connect to the laptop whenever you take them out of the case. If you own other Apple devices like an iPhone, you can easily switch back and forth between devices without having to manually dig through the Bluetooth menu.
If you prefer earbuds, we recommend the Apple AirPods Pro 3. These are the best earbuds for iPhones, but they're also a great option for MacBooks. These latest generation AirPods Pro have improved noise canceling, longer battery life (up to six hours of playtime), and overall better sound quality.—Brenda Stolyar
More Good MacBook Accessories
We've tested a lot of MacBook accessories. Here are 10 more solid options if you're hunting for something more specific.
Harbor London Sleeve for $159: Prefer a more luxe laptop sleeve? WIRED editor Julian Chokkattu has had a good experience with Harber London's full-grain leather sleeve. The inside is lined with wool felt to keep your machine scratch-free, and the black or tan leather exudes luxury. It fits a variety of MacBook models, including the largest 16-inch model. The flap stays shut thanks to magnets, so your MacBook won't easily slip out. You can even charge the laptop while it's in the sleeve.—Brenda Stoylar
CalDigit TS5 Plus.
Photograph: Luke LarsenCalDigit TS5 Plus for $500: Many of the accessories on this list appeal to the average MacBook user, who probably uses a MacBook Air or Neo. But there are people out there who are looking to base an entire workstation setup around their MacBook Pro, and that's who the CalDigit TS5 Plus is for. This is an absolutely decked-out Thunderbolt 5 dock, and when you pair it with an M5 MacBook Pro, the possibilities are nearly endless. I'm still waiting for more Thunderbolt 5 accessories to show up in the wild, but for those that really need it, there's no reason not to futureproof your setup with the latest and greatest.
WD My Passport Ultra for $139: Apple charges a ton for extra storage when you configure your MacBook, and you can't upgrade it afterward. That means you'll likely need a large, fast, and hopefully somewhat portable storage solution, which is exactly what the WD My Passport Ultra is. It's not an SSD, so you don't want to toss it in your bag or use it for on-the-job file transfers, but WIRED reviewer Scott Gilbertson says it balances the portability of hyper-portable SSDs with the long-term stability (and affordability) of mechanical hard drives. You can always pair it with a smaller and faster SSD like the Crucial X9 to take on the go with you. Check out our Best External Storage Drives guide for other options.—Brenda Stoylar
Oripura Laptop Stand.
Photograph: Luke LarsenOripura Laptop Stand for $55: Your posture doesn't need to suffer just because you don't work at an office every day. A portable laptop stand can do wonders in this regard, saving your neck and back. Many portable laptop stands I've tested are junky and flimsy, but this Herman-Miller model is surprisingly robust. My favorite aspect, though, is the way it so easily folds flat, making it easy to throw in a laptop bag next to your MacBook. Just remember to pair it with a mouse and keyboard to complete your portable ergonomic work setup.
Grovemade Desk Mat for $70: I've been using this one at my desk, which gives me enough room to place my keyboard, mouse, notebook, and coffee mug. It feels nice, looks sleek, and is easy to clean (I've managed to wipe up accidental spills with no trouble). This desk mat comes in a variety of fun colors including dark orange, light green, and blue. Since it's felt, it slides around slightly—but I've been using it on a glass desk. If you're worried about this, get the Grovemade Matte Desk Pad instead. It's pricier, but the cork bottom keeps it from moving around.—Brenda Stolyar
Harber London Leather City Backpack for $729: Time to class up your MacBook. Bring this all-leather bag to the office, and you'll demand some respect. It's currently the daily carry of WIRED editor Julian Chokkattu, who says he's received lots of compliments on it. There's tons of space inside, including a dedicated sleeve for you MacBook, a front zipper, and lots of spare space.
Apple 35W Dual USB-C Port Compact Power Adapter for $39: Apple's dual power adapter comes with two USB-C ports, which lets me recharge my MacBook Air and iPhone simultaneously. It's rated at 35 watts, so it's powerful enough to recharge an iPad Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, and more. It will recharge a MacBook Air just fine, though more power-hungry MacBook Pro models will require something more powerful.—Brenda Stolyar
Bellroy Laptop Caddy for $49: If you're going to opt for a thicker laptop sleeve, I like the approach of this laptop caddy, which adds extra room for cables and other peripherals. There's entire second pouch, as well as some designated areas with a stretchier fabric. It feels bit more like a miniature briefcase.
Casetify I'm Busy MacBook Case by Tabetaaii
Photograph: Brenda StolyarCasetify I'm Busy MacBook Case by Tabetaaii for $66: I've been using this adorable case I'm Busy MacBook case by tabetaaii for the 13-inch MacBook Air (2022). It's durable, the cutouts are accurate for all the ports, and the rubberized feet at the bottom keep it in place. As with most cases, it does add some weight to it. If you choose one of the clear cases (like the ones I've been testing) the matte finish can be a fingerprint magnet, but it's easy to wipe off. I tested the standard versions, but Casetify discontinued those. You will, however, have the choice between its Impact and Bounce cases which come equipped with bumpers on the sides for extra protection.—Brenda Stoylar
Logitech MX Mechanical Mini for Mac for $139: This Mac version of the Logitech's MX keyboard mimics the experience of your MacBook keyboard a little better. There's a Do Not Disturb key and the ability to program the function row key with Apple's apps like Final Cut Pro, Keynote, Photos, Safari, and more, using the Logi Options+ app—in addition to other Mac-specific shortcuts. It's only available with tactile quiet switches, which are ideal if you typically work around other people. The low-profile keys are still satisfying to type on all day. It's slim and lightweight so it's a nice option to travel with too.
Avoid These Accessories
We're constantly testing a ton of accessories. Unfortunately, they're not all worth buying. Below, we've listed the ones we suggest avoiding altogether.
Twelve South BookArc Flex: Twelve South's BookArc Flex (3/10, WIRED Review) is a beautiful vertical laptop stand. Unfortunately, it fails at its one job: holding the laptop in place. It's too fragile. The slightest movement around the stand causes it to topple, forcing you to be super careful. It's not worth it.—Brenda Stolyer
Tonmom Laptop Stand: Despite its Amazon Choice badge and thousands of good reviews, I found myself very frustrated by this portable laptop stand. It's finicky to setup and way too flimsy. For something you're taking on the go, that's a shame. It's only $9, yes, but unfortunately, not even worth that.
Casetify Magnetic Privacy MacBook Screen Protector: It pains me to put this screen protector under “Do Not Recommend” because it does its job very well. When I used it at an event last year, multiple people commented on how well it blocked what was on my MacBook Air's screen from multiple angles. It's also magnetic, which means you don't have to worry about applying it crookedly by accident. But regardless of how many times I reinstalled it, I couldn't fully shut my laptop with it on—there was always a slight gap between the lid and the bottom half of the computer. I ended up having to remove it whenever I wanted to shut my laptop and reapply it when I needed it again.—Brenda Stolyer
Power up with unlimited access to WIRED. Get best-in-class reporting that's too important to ignore for just $2.50 $1 per month for 1 year. Includes unlimited digital access and exclusive subscriber-only content. Subscribe Today.
Comments
Back to topTriangle
Luke Larsen is a product writer and reviewer at WIRED, covering laptops, PCs, Macs, monitors, and the wider PC peripheral ecosystem. He’s been reporting on tech for over a decade, previously at Digital Trends as the senior editor in computing, where he spent seven years leading the publication’s daily coverage. ... Read MoreProduct Writer & ReviewerTopicsShoppingbuying guidesapplemacbookMacAccessories and PeripheralslaptopsGive Your Back a Break With Our Favorite Office ChairsSitting at a desk for hours? Upgrade your WFH setup and work in style with these comfy WIRED-tested seats.Julian ChokkattuThe Best Portable Chargers for All Your DevicesKeep your phone, laptop, handheld gaming console, and other electronics running with these travel-friendly power banks.Simon HillThe Best Automatic Litter Boxes Tested by Our Spoiled CatsWith these high-tech automatic litter boxes, gone are the days of scooping and smells. Welcome to the future.Molly HigginsThe Best Kindles to Take Your Library AnywhereHere’s how Amazon’s ebook readers stack up—and which one might be right for you. Nena Farrell Every Smart Home Needs Some Voice-Controlled Robotic Window ShadesFrom made-to-measure smart shades to retrofit curtain bots, these are our favorite WIRED-tested drapes for your windows.Simon HillThe Best Fitness Trackers Check Your Sleep, Heart Rate, or Even Your BloodWith almost ten years of hands-on testing, WIRED knows what separates the best fitness trackers from the rest.Adrienne SoThe Best E-Readers, As Tested by ReadersThese WIRED-tested ebook readers let you take your library anywhere. Nena Farrell The Best Lightweight Hiking Boots Won’t Weigh You Down on Your Next MountainEach pair I tested weighs under 2 pounds. Whatever happens on your next adventure, your shoes won’t hold you back.Chris HaslamThe Best Barefoot Shoes for Walking or RunningOur favorite zero-drop, minimalist footwear will let you feel the ground beneath your feet.Scott GilbertsonThe Best Smart Video Doorbell CamerasNever miss a delivery. These WIRED-tested picks will help you keep tabs on your front door from anywhere.Simon HillThe Best Laptop Stands to Save Your NeckOur top picks for laptop stands and risers are your path to better posture, fewer backaches, and a more ergonomic desk setup.Luke LarsenDeath to Dry Skin. These Humidifiers Are Better Than ChapstickFrom models for traveling to humidifiers that double as planters or air purifiers, we've tested a dozen of them.Matthew Korfhage
Wired Coupons
T-Mobile Promo CodeSamsung Gs25+ Free With T-mobile for Business Supermobile
Squarespace Promo CodeSquarespace Promo Code: 20% Off Annual Acuity Subscriptions
LG Promo CodeLG Discount Code: 10% Off Any Purchase
Dell Coupon Code10% Off Dell Coupon Code for New Customers
.png){kind=logo}
Samsung Promo Code30% Samsung Coupon - Offer Program 2026
Canon Promo Code10% Off Canon Promo Code + Up to 30% Off
