My setup and tools
I’m occasionally asked what tools I use so I’ve created this page to answer that question.
Note: just because I own an item doesn’t mean I recommend it. If I’ve missed anything or you have questions, feel free to get in touch.
The hardware I use
I use a MacBook Pro 15″ (2018) in stock configuration, connected to a Viewsonic 32” 4K monitor. A Twelve South StayGo USB-C hub deals with the MacBook Pro’s lack of ports. The laptop sits in clamshell mode on a Twelve South ParcSlope stand. I use a Logitech MX Master 3 mouse and a Logitech MX Keys keyboard.
When working remotely, I’ll use my laptop with a Rooster laptop stand, an Apple Magic Keyboard, and a Magic Mouse. I keep these input peripherals in an Adore June case and I’ll throw everything in my North Face Borealis backpack. Pro-tip: I keep my bag permanently packed – hence the need for an additional mouse/keyboard – so I can grab it and go at a moments notice.
I also use an iPad Pro 10.5” (2017). I protect it with a Smart Cover and a Pack & Smooch sleeve when travelling. I’ll pair the iPad to my Apple Keyboard and Apple Magic Trackpad. I use this cheap stand from Amazon when I want to do some long-form writing. I also own but rarely use the Apple Pencil.
My phone is a iPhone 11 Pro. And I couldn’t live without AirPods.
The software I use
As a web developer, I spend a lot of my day writing code. My code editor of choice is Visual Studio Code (using the Horizon theme and JetBrains Mono typeface). I use iTerm2 as a terminal replacement, Sequel Pro for managing MySQL databases, Transmit for FTP, and Laravel Valet for my local development environment.
For long-form writing, I use Ulysses (using the Blush theme and iA Writer Mono typeface). I use Bear for note taking, MindNode for mind mapping, and Google Documents/Sheets to run my business.
To edit photos, I use both Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop. For vector work, I use Affinity Designer and for wireframing I use Adobe XD. I have an active Sketch license, but rarely use it.
Alfred is the first app I install on any new Mac. Things 3 is my task manager of choice, while Trello handles client projects. 1Password keeps me secure, Slack keeps me connected, and Soulver helps me with numbers. My browser of choice is Google Chrome. I also use Setapp which includes a bunch of useful apps and utilities.
On iOS, a few notable apps include: Timery for time tracking, Waking Up for guided meditations, Overcast for podcasts, Weather Line for weather forecasts, Reeder for RSS, and Instapaper for reading articles.
Home office
I use a Bekant site/stand desk from Ikea with a Prism standing mat. I have a Markus office chair, also from Ikea.
I use an Amazon Echo for timers and music and when I want to get some work done, I’ll block out the outside world using my Bose QuietComfort 35 II’s.
I also use a Theme System Journal with a Uni-Ball Jetstream pen.
My dream setup
I’m happy with my current setup, but there’s always room for improvement.
The OCD side of me wants to replace my silver Magic Trackpad with a space grey version to fit in with my mouse and keyboard. The logical side of me knows this would be a monumental waste of money.
I really really hope Apple releases a beautiful monitor that doesn’t cost $6,000. My current monitor has a great display panel, but it doesn’t charge via USB-C and it’s a little ugly looking.
At some point, I’d like to replace my office chair with a Herman Miller. They’re super-duper expensive, though, so I’m not sure when/if I’ll actually end up getting one.
The next part of my setup due for replacement is my Amazon Echo. I’d like a speaker with better sound quality and I’m increasingly feeling uncomfortable with an always-listening device sat on my desk. I plan to replace it with a pair of Sonos One SL’s as soon as I find a good deal.