Here’s a curated list of tools for business owners—15 must have tools that are universal, cost-effective, and every new business owner should have in their starter toolkit — whether you’re running a service, ecommerce shop, consulting business, or creative studio.
1. External Hard Drive or SSD
Why it matters: You must back up your important files—client docs, contracts, design assets, everything. An external drive is one of the tools for business owners, one of the 15 must have tools that gives peace of mind and keeps your laptop clutter-free.
Example: SanDisk 1TB Portable SSD
Use it for: Backups, large files, version history
Where to buy: Amazon
2. Business Accounting Software
Why it matters: Even if you’re just starting out, clean financials = less stress at tax time and better decision-making.
Example: Wave (free), QuickBooks Self-Employed (under $100/year)
Use it for: Invoicing, expense tracking, tax estimates
Where to Sign Up: Square Invoicing
3. Label Printer
Why it matters: If you sell or ship anything, a dedicated label printer makes you look professional and saves time.
Example: Rollo or MUNBYN Thermal Label Printer
Use it for: Shipping, product tags, file labels
Where to buy: Amazon
4. Professional Email and Domain
Why it matters: A custom domain and branded email address build trust and make you look legitimate.
Example: Google Workspace or Zoho Mail
Use it for: [you@yourbusiness.com]
Where to Sign Up: Google Workspace
5. Multi-Port USB Charging Hub
Why it matters: If you use phones, tablets, or portable devices daily, a charging hub keeps your workspace powered and clean.
Example: Anker 6-Port Charging Station
Use it for: Phones, tablets, wireless headphones, etc.
6. Time-Tracking App or Clock
Why it matters: Time is money, especially if you’re billing hourly or juggling clients.
Example: Toggl (free), Harvest, or a physical digital desk timer
Use it for: Project management, client invoicing, burnout prevention
7. All-in-One Printer + Scanner
Why it matters: Even in the digital age, you’ll need to scan, print, or sign documents regularly—especially contracts and forms.
Example: Canon PIXMA or HP DeskJet models
Use it for: Invoices, contracts, permits, business licenses
8. Basic Legal Templates Kit
Why it matters: You need contracts, NDAs, and service agreements from day one—no excuses.Example: LegalZoom, HoneyBook templates, or lawyer-reviewed Etsy bundles
Use it for: Client agreements, refund policies, independent contractor forms
9. Notion or Trello (Digital Workspace)
Why it matters: Running a business requires organization—project planning, client pipelines, SOPs, goals, and more.
Example: Notion (free), Trello, or Asana
Use it for: Task management, templates, to-do lists
10. Blue Light Blocking Glasses
Why it matters: You’re going to stare at screens—a lot. Protect your eyes and reduce fatigue.
Example: ANYLUV or Livho
Use it for: Long workdays, video calls, late-night edits
11. Digital Payment Reader (Square or PayPal Zettle)
Why it matters: If you ever sell in-person, you’ll want to accept credit cards instantly.Example: Square Reader, PayPal Zettle
Use it for: Pop-ups, service fees, local delivery payments
12. Ring Light or Webcam Setup
Why it matters: Your digital presence matters—especially on video calls, Zoom pitches, or livestream content.
Example: Neewer Ring Light Kit, Logitech C920
Use it for: Zoom calls, social content, product demos
13. Business Card Printer or Canva Templates
Why it matters: Yes, people still ask for business cards—especially at events, expos, and local meetings.Example: Canva + Avery cards or VistaPrint
Use it for: Networking, welcome kits, packaging inserts
14. Ergonomic Chair Cushion or Support
Why it matters: You may not need a $600 desk chair yet, but you do need lumbar support while you’re building your empire from the kitchen table.
Example: Everlasting Comfort Seat Cushion
Use it for: Office chairs, dining chairs, coworking spots
15. Whiteboard or Dry-Erase Wall Stickers
Why it matters: Visual planning is a must—whether you’re tracking goals, mapping client funnels, or brainstorming ideas.
Example: U Brands Wall Whiteboard or Post-it Wall Pads
Use it for: Planning, visual SOPs, brainstorms
Where to buy: Amazon
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to spend thousands to run your business professionally—you just need smart, foundational tools for business owners that make your life easier. These 15 must have tools under $100 offer the function, flexibility, and impact that every first-time founder needs.
