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, M2 Pro (2023)
I was using an M1 13” MacBook Air prior to this and the difference is quite substantial. 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.
Ipad Mini 6th Gen
I use this for reading, watching videos, and taking notes. I also use for meetings and presentations. I love the size of this device. It’s perfect for me. And I think that the app GoodNotes its a killer.
Keychron K2 Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
Love the clickiness of this keyboard, also has dual layout for MAC/WIndows.
Apple Magic Trackpad 2
I was using the Logitech MX PRO before, but honestly it got sooo laggy sometimes using it. I’m loving this trackpad, it helps me work faster honestly.
Development tools
Visual Studio Code
I’ve been using VS Code for years now and it’s still my favorite editor. I’ve tried a bunch of other editors but I always come back to VS Code. I love the extensibility and the fact that it’s open source.
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.
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.
Extensions
VS Code Pets
I love this extension. It’s a little silly but it makes me smile.
VS Code Icons
I need to know what kind of file I’m looking at without having to read the file name. I also like the aesthetic.
Turbo Console Log
I use this extension to log things to the console
TODO Highlight
Great tools for highlighting TODOs and FIXMEs in your code. Also you can check all the pendings TODOs in the TODO panel.
Quokka.js
Lets you see your console logs in real time in the code.
Prettier
I use this extension to format my code.
One Dark Pro
Gotta love the One Dark theme.
Code Time
This extension shows you how much time you spend coding and sends you a report every week.
Alphabetical Sorter
This extension sorts your imports alphabetically.
Github Copilot
This extension helps you write code. It’s really cool.