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.

Development tools

  • VS Code

    I don’t care if it’s missing all of the fancy IDE features everyone else relies on, VS Code is still the best text editor ever made and it’s extension are like a superpower.

  • 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 and it’s what I know.

  • TablePlus

    Great software for working with databases. Has saved me from building about a thousand admin interfaces for my various projects over the years.

  • Postman

    A powerful tool for API testing and development. Postman allows you to create, share, and test APIs with ease. Its user-friendly interface and extensive features make it an essential part of any developer’s toolkit.

  • tmux

    A terminal multiplexer that enables you to manage and switch between multiple terminal sessions seamlessly, enhancing productivity and workflow efficiency.

  • Docker

    A platform for developing, shipping, and running applications in containers. It simplifies the deployment process and ensures consistency across different environments.

  • GitHub

    The go-to platform for version control and collaboration. GitHub makes it easy to manage code repositories, track changes, and collaborate with other developers.

  • Slack

    A communication tool that enhances team collaboration. With channels, direct messaging, and integrations, it keeps everyone connected and informed.

  • Jira

    A project management tool that helps teams plan, track, and manage agile software development projects. It provides visibility into project progress and team performance.

  • Trello

    A visual project management tool that uses boards, lists, and cards to organize tasks and projects. It’s great for managing workflows and team collaboration.

  • Safari

    A web browser built into macOS that is fast, secure, and feature-rich. I use it daily for browsing and managing passkeys, and I believe it has one of the best toolkits for website testing, making it ideal for checking responsiveness and functionality with the developer tools.

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.

  • Canva

    A user-friendly graphic design tool that simplifies the design process. Canva is great for creating social media graphics, presentations, and other visual content without needing extensive design skills.

  • DaVinci Resolve

    A professional video editing and color grading software. It’s a powerful tool for creating high-quality videos, including movies, commercials, and documentaries.

Productivity

  • Raycast

    A powerful productivity tool that enhances your workflow with a wide range of features, including quick actions, search, and automation.

  • Obsidian

    A knowledge base app that allows you to create, organize, and connect your thoughts, ideas, and information. It’s great for taking notes, creating mind maps, and building a personal knowledge base.

  • Notion

    A versatile note-taking and project management tool that allows you to create, collaborate, and manage your projects in one place. It’s great for creating databases, wikis, and kanban boards.

Workstation

  • 13” MacBook Air, M2, 8GB RAM (2023)

    I was using an Intel-based Windows machine prior to this and the difference is night and day. I’ve never heard the fans turn on a single time, even under the incredibly heavy loads I put it through with our various launch simulations.

  • Samsung 1440p 165Hz 27” Monitor × 2

    The only display on the market if you want something HiDPI and bigger than 27”. When you’re working at planetary scale, every pixel you can get counts.

  • CoolMaster Keyboard

    This keyboard offers a comfortable typing experience with responsive keys and customizable backlighting, making it perfect for long hours of work.

  • ProtoArc Mouse

    The ProtoArc Mouse features an ergonomic design and precise tracking, ensuring smooth navigation and reducing strain during extended use.

  • Herman Miller Aeron Chair

    Renowned for its exceptional comfort and support, the Herman Miller Aeron Chair is designed to promote good posture and enhance productivity throughout the day.