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

  • 16” MacBook Pro, M3 Max, 64GB RAM (2024)

    I was using an Intel-based 16” MacBook Pro 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.

  • Apple Pro Display XDR (Standard Glass)

    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.

  • Apple Magic Keyboard

    I’ve tried to switch to mechanical keyboards but I always end up back here. The key travel is just too good.

  • 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.

  • Leap – Ergonomic office chair

    If I’m going to slouch in the worst ergonomic position imaginable all day, I might as well do it in an expensive chair.

Development tools

  • VSCode

    I’ve tried to switch to other editors but I always end up back here. The ecosystem is just too good.

  • IntelliJ

    I use IntelliJ for all of my Java and Kotlin work. It’s the best IDE, hands down.

  • Android Studio

    I don’t like it but I have to use it. It’s the best tool for Android development.

  • Xcode

    I don’t like it but I have to use it. It’s the best tool for iOS development.

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

  • Raycast

    I use Raycast for all of my quick actions and app launching. It’s like Alfred but with a lot more features built in.

  • Warp

    Warp is a modern terminal with AI built in. It enhances productivity with features like command predictions, smart search, and collaborative sessions.

  • In Your Face

    I use In Your Face to remind myself to take breaks. It’s easy to get lost in work and forget to take care of yourself.