Through ethnographic research, this paper investigates the motivations behind individuals’ preferences for analog and digital tools in hybrid work and study environments. The study examines how users balance digital tools (laptops, tablets, phones) with analog ones (notebooks, paper, pen) to shape their working environments by conducting in-depth interviews and participant observations across different professional and academic departments. Findings reveal that while digital tools are appreciated for their speed, accessibility, and convenience, they often lead to screen fatigue, struggles with internet connectivity, and issues like charging problems. In contrast, participants gravitate toward analog tools for their ability to enhance focus, provide sensory engagement, and foster a sense of grounding and connection to the workspace. Many participants described analog tools as “remindful,” evoking a comforting and familiar link to their work processes. The research highlights that tool preferences are not solely dictated by efficiency but are also influenced by personal comfort, emotional attachment, and task-specific needs. Most of the participants adopted a hybrid approach, selectively incorporating analog tools to create balance and reduce digital overload. Ultimately, this paper underscores the nuanced relationship between individuals and their tools, reflecting how material and digital cultures intersect to shape productivity, creativity, and well-being in work environments.