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.

Frontend

  • React

    The first framework I learned and the most used one. The resources and community are just great.

  • Next.js

    I love Next.js. It’s slowly becoming the standard for me. I love the server-side rendering and the static site generation.

  • TailwindCSS

    I love Tailwind. It’s the best thing that happened to me. Writing CSS has never been so fun and fast. Highly recommend.

  • JavaScript

    The brains of the operation. The language I use the most. Perfect for building web applications especially when a app doesn't need react.

  • CSS

    Good ol’ CSS. I still use it for some projects and definitely for key frame animations. It’s not going anywhere anytime soon.

  • HTML

    The foundation of the web. I still use it frequently. It’s like breathing at this point.

Backend

  • Express

    I use Express for all of my personal and freelance projects. Again, another framework that has a great community and resources.

  • Node

    Its event-driven architecture and non-blocking I/O model make it perfect for building scalable and high-performance applications. Again, I use it for all of my personal and freelance projects.

  • Python

    Love the simplicity and versatility of Python. Have an idea? You can bet Python can help you bring it to life. Super readable as well.

  • FastAPI

    FastAPI is a modern, fast (high-performance), web framework and my go to for building APIs with Python.

  • Flask

    First framework I learned for Python. Its simplicity and flexibility make it easy to get started.

  • PostgreSQL

    PostgreSQL is my preferred relational database. With its support for complex queries, transactions, and extensibility, it's a powerful choice for applications of all sizes. Love the open-source nature of it.

  • MongoDB

    MongoDB is my go-to NoSQL database. Its flexible schema, scalability, and ease of use make it an excellent choice for handling diverse and evolving data.

Workstation

  • 13” MacBook Air M2 (2022)

    I was using a HP Laptop 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 my various applications.

  • LG 49in UltraWide Dual QHD IPS Curved LED Monitor (LG 49WL95C-W)

    I know it huge but talk about productivity! It's like having two 27 inch monitors in one. Highly recommend.

  • Keychron K2 Wireless Mechanical Keyboard

    I love that it's wireless and has a Mac layout. Not much else to say. It’s a keyboard.

  • Logitech G G502 HERO

    I get the best of both worlds with this mouse. It's great for gaming and productivity. I love the customizable button and the scroll wheel.

Development tools

  • Visual Studio Code

    I’ve been using VS Code for years and I don’t see that changing anytime soon. It’s just the best.

  • Git

    I don’t think I need to explain this one. It’s Git.

  • Notion

    I use Notion for everything. It’s my second brain. I keep all of my notes, tasks, and projects in there. Great tool for planning or even just writing down ideas to brainstorm later.

  • Mock Flow

    I use MockFlow for wireframing and prototyping. It’s simple and effective and a quick way to get ideas out of my head and into a visual format.

Design

  • Figma

    Great tool for design, might I say the best. I use it for all of my project mock ups and designs for clients and personal projects. It’s perfect.