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, M3, 16GB RAM (2023)
After using the Intel Core i5 MacBook Pro(13-inch, 2020), I recently upgraded to the M3. It’s a beast. I love it so much.
Keychron K3 Pro Keyboard
I am used to laptop keyboards, but I want to try a mechanical keyboard. So, I decided to choose the Keychron K3 low-profile keyboard. It is really good to use with my laptop on a laptop stand.
Logitech MX Master 2S
This mouse is a bit large and difficult to carry, but its functionality perfectly meets my requirements, especially the scroll wheel.
Testing Mobile Devices
Over the years, I have tested and used various mobile devices, including Samsung, Pixel, OnePlus, Xiaomi, iPhone, and iPad models. As a mobile application developer with a passion for smartphones and gadgets, I’m always eager to explore new technology. I am currently interested in the Nothing Phone and its OS. I remain a huge fan of Google Pixel devices, which have become my favorite due to their user experience and features.
Development tools
IntelliJ IDEA
I primarily use IntelliJ IDEA for developing Android applications and truly appreciate its robust features and extensive plugins. It has become my trusted companion for various other application projects as well. I also have a particular fondness for JetBrains tools in general.
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.
Scrcpy
I've been using scrcpy from Genymobile for Android device control for quite some time, and now Mac Sequoia has added iPhone mirroring. So now multiplatform developers can use two phones simultaneously.
Chrome
As an Android developer, Chrome browser and Android WebView are my go-to tools for daily testing, and I've been accustomed to using them for a long time. However, their high memory usage might be something to reconsider in the future.
Design
Figma
Figma has become the standard UI/UX tool for many companies, and I often use it to create icons and design user interfaces. Over time, it has also evolved into our company's virtual whiteboard. I never anticipated that its collaboration features would become its most compelling aspect.
Photopea
I started using Photoshop when I was younger and still love it. However, Adobe's shift to a subscription-based model feels excessive, so I now use Photopea for quick and efficient editing.
Axure, Procreate
I learned and used Axure as an alternative for Figma, but I can no longer renew its yearly subscription. As for Procreate, I use it casually for fun whenever I feel like sketching something.
Productivity
G Suite
I’m now quite familiar with Google Suite, using tools like Gmail, Docs, Sheets, Drive, Photos, and Keep daily. While I don’t feel a strong personal connection or love for it, I have to admit it’s essential for staying productive in my day-to-day tasks.
Notion
Using a daily and ultimate notes system organized by topics has been incredibly powerful for me. It’s an excellent tool to keep everything easily discoverable by topic, even across all my directories and notes.