Blogging Tools
So you’ve decided to dive into affiliate blogging at home—awesome!
But now you’re wondering…
What tools do I really need to make this work smoothly (without spending a fortune)?
Whether you’re writing product reviews in your jammies, editing images with a cat in your lap, or researching SEO keywords while sipping herbal tea, having the right tools makes all the difference.
Here’s a handy guide to the best gear, apps, and software I recommend (and use!) for successful, stress-free affiliate blogging from home.
Best Laptop or Notebook for Bloggers
You don’t need a fancy editing rig. You do need something reliable, comfortable to type on, and fast enough for multitasking.
Top Picks:
- MacBook Air M4 – Lightweight, quiet, fast, long battery life. Great for blogging, Zooming, and photo editing.
- Acer Aspire 5 – Budget-friendly Windows laptop with a great keyboard and solid performance.
- Lenovo Yoga 7i – Touchscreen convertible with solid power and portability.
Shirley Tip: Get a laptop stand and wireless keyboard/mouse for ergonomics—you’ll thank yourself later!
Best AI Writing Assistant
AI writing tools are a blogger’s best friend these days—especially when you’re writing a LOT. They help generate content, rewrite headlines, brainstorm ideas, and more.
Top Picks:
- ChatGPT (Plus) – My daily go-to. It’s flexible, fast, and can learn to create with your tone over time.
- Jasper AI – Designed for marketers, with templates for blog posts, product descriptions, and ads.
- Copy.ai – Great for short-form content like headlines, email subject lines, and product blurbs.
Best Image Creation Tools
Even the best blog post needs good visuals. From Pinterest pins to blog headers, you’ll need tools that are easy to use and affordable.
Top Picks:
- Canva Pro – Templates galore, drag-and-drop design, free stock photos—great for non-designers.
- DALL·E / ChatGPT’s Image Tool – For AI-generated art. Need a woman drinking tea with a schnauzer on a beach? You can have it.
- Adobe Express – A Canva alternative with powerful design features and Adobe-level polish.
Best Free Photo Sources
If you’re not into creating images, use free stock photos instead. Just make sure they’re royalty-free.
Top Picks:
Best Affiliate Networks to Join
You’ll need something to promote! These networks connect you with brands and track your commissions.
Top Picks:
- Wealthy Affiliate – My top recommendation. Not just training—they give you a site, hosting, tools, and an affiliate program.
- ShareASale – Easy to join and has tons of merchants.
- Amazon Associates – Low commissions but high conversion. Great for beginner bloggers.
Best Writing + Productivity Tools
Keep your workflow smooth and your posts typo-free.
Top Picks:
- Grammarly – Helps you polish your posts (and catch embarrassing typos).
- Trello – Organize blog post ideas, affiliate products, and task lists.
- Google Docs – Draft, share, and collaborate from anywhere (especially helpful if you outsource anything).
- Notion – For planning, content calendars, link tracking, and more.
Best Email Marketing Platform
Start building your list early! Your readers today could be your buyers tomorrow.
Top Picks:
- GetResponse – Affordable and powerful with great automation tools.
- ConvertKit (now Kit)– Popular with bloggers, simple interface, good landing page builder.
- MailerLite – Budget-friendly and clean, great for beginners.
Other Must-Haves for Working at Home
- Comfy Office Chair – Don’t cheap out. Your back will complain.
- Blue Light Glasses – Especially helpful if you’re on the screen all day.
- Good Desk Lamp – Lighting affects energy. Go for natural daylight style.
Recap: Your Home Blogging Toolkit
Here’s your mini checklist:
- Fast, reliable laptop
- AI writing assistant
- Easy image creation tool
- Affiliate networks to join
- Productivity apps
- Productivity apps
- Email marketing platform
- Comfy workspace setup
Download a essentials checklist pdf
Affiliate Links
This post contains affiliate links, which, if clicked on and an item purchased, I receive a small commission with no extra charge to you – Shirley
Key Takeaway
Affiliate blogging at home doesn’t require a giant investment, but it does require the right tools to make it efficient and enjoyable. Start with the basics, upgrade as you grow, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Your blog (and your income!) will thank you.
Got a Favorite Blogging Tool?
Share it in the comments! I love learning new tricks from other affiliate bloggers working from home. – Shirley
4 Responses
I believe that Affiliate marketing is a great business venture because no matter your age you can still get involved in this line of work and the great news is you can do this from the comforts homes. Imagine making a full-time income where you are in the drivers seat or in full control where the monies that are being made you can travel and live comfortably. This is what makes this business a winner and a game changer.
Working from home is a plus, and I’m 71, so age is not an issue. This gives people who are retired but not “DONE” like me a way to contribute that avoids the rat race. Thanks, Norman, for reading my post and your comment. Best wishes. – Shirley
This was such a useful and down-to-earth guide—thank you, Shirley! As someone who’s been affiliate blogging from home, I really appreciated how practical and honest this post was. You’ve covered everything in a way that feels encouraging, not overwhelming.
I especially liked the variety of tool suggestions—from AI writing assistants to ergonomic tips. It’s a good reminder that blogging success isn’t just about fancy tech or chasing money—it’s about creating value, staying consistent, and making the process enjoyable. It’s great to have them summarised in this way.
Do you have a favourite tool that’s made a real difference in your blogging routine? I’d love to hear!
Ask ChatGPT
Hi Lesley. Thanks for your nice comments on my blog post. As for my favorite tool, the use of AI (chatGPT) has made a real difference for me in researching and outlining my blog posts and coming up with new ideas for content. Also in creating images and infographics. thanks again for you comments. -Shirley