Software I use, gadgets I love, and other things I recommend.
I get asked a lot about the things I use to build software, stay productive, or buy to fool myself into thinking I’m being productive when I’m really just procrastinating. Here’s a big list of all of my favorite stuff.
Workstation
14” MacBook Pro, M1 Pro, 16 RAM (2021)
I was using an Intel-based 16” MacBook Pro prior to this and the difference is night and day. I admin to sometimes wanting more RAM, especially with 2 instances of IntelliJ open.
Ultimate Hacking Keyboard
This is the best investment I made in 2023. It took me a while to get used to a split keyboard, but it feels so much better now. Aside from the obvious increased ergonomics, the biggest advantage is how many things you can do with your thumbs.
Apple Magic Trackpad
Something about all the gestures makes me feel like a wizard with special powers. I really like feeling like a wizard with special powers.
Development tools
IntelliJ & Webstorm
If I code clojure or ClojureScript, I use IntelliJ with Cursive. If I code Typescript, Javascript or any web related languages, I switch to Webstorm simply because it takes less resources - it's pretty much the same editor. Jetbrains created amazing IDEs.
ITerm2
I’m honestly not even sure what features I get with this that aren’t just part of the macOS Terminal but it’s what I use.
LogSeq
Whenever I collect data or I need to keep something for reference, I use LogSeq, although I think I'm gradually going back to Apple Notes.
Design
Figma
We started using Figma as just a design tool but now it’s become our virtual whiteboard for the entire company. Never would have expected the collaboration features to be the real hook.
Productivity
Todoist
This is where I keep my tasks, personal projects and quick add tasks on the fly. I love it for the Siri & email integration so I can capture everything in my life fast and analyse it later.
Alfred
It’s not the newest kid on the block but it’s still the fastest. The Sublime Text of the application launcher world.
Fantastical
Great tool for scheduling meetings while protecting my calendar and making sure I still have lots of time for deep work during the week.