Software
I run Arch Linux with i3 window manager and no desktop environment. Arch is a rolling release Linux distro with a strong community and thorough documentation. Manjaro with GNOME or XFCE is a good option for users who prefer pre-installed software. I prefer a minimal and modular system built from (nearly) the ground up. Ranger is my file manager, Rofi is my application launcher, and Vim is my text editor. All of these applications are highly customizable. I try to use default key bindings but I do remap keys if it is needed for a more Vim-like experience or to accommodate my 60% keyboard.
I use iOS with an iPad. I use Plex for my video library and Kindle for my books. I use productivity apps from Readdle - they have the best document scanner and PDF editor on iOS. I use Termius as an SSH client to access other machines and devices. Check out this article for an extensive list of iOS app reviews.
I browse with Firefox and search with DuckDuckGo (see bangs). I am trying to do more “de-Googling” and I have used Gmail for email for over 13 years. Mozilla has recently hired developers for Thunderbird and I look forward to the future updates. A good email client could make a transition away from Gmail easier for me.
I have been a Slack user since 2014 and it is my office communication hub. Slack keeps me in the loop on a need-to-know basis by integrating with Stripe, Typeform, Google Drive, Airtable, and more. I have tried self-hosted and open source Rocket.Chat to see how it compares and I prefer Slack for its keyboard navigation, library of integrations, and other more evolved features.
I have been using Todoist since 2015 to keep track of tasks and reminders. My favorite feature is the keyboard shortcuts. Entering tech toolbox #blog p1 12p fri creates a task called “tech toolbox" in my “blog" project due on Friday at 12:00 PM with a priority level of “1" - all with just one short line of text. Things is another good option for macOS/iOS users looking for a simple approach to task management. I use Trello for managing larger projects and collaboration.
My current writing app is Typora. I use Bear for taking notes on iOS and I will check out their web app when it launches. My perfect writing app would be designed like Bear, have customization like Typora, use Vim-like key bindings, and export Markdown files for WordPress. I use Google Docs for its collaboration and version control features. I might give self-hosted and open source Collabora a try as a Google Docs alternative.
Zapier is how I automate and integrate various apps. I have been a user since 2015 and Zapier saves me time by reducing data entry, automating tasks, and eliminating entry errors. I have conditions set for various recurring tasks. IFTTT is a similar service. I use Workflow (now iOS Shortcuts) when working from iOS.
I have been using more open source software since switching my primary machines to Linux last year. I am currently learning how to use GIMP for photo editing and Inkscape for graphic design. The most challenging replacement for me has been an alternative video editor to Final Cut Pro and I am currently trying Shotcut.
Hardware
My primary workstation is an Intel Core i7-8700K desktop computer that I built last year with NVMe storage and GTX 1080 Ti graphics. My case has two large (200mm) fans and a liquid cooler to keep things running smoothly.
I use a single 34" LG UltraWide (21:9) monitor. I previously used dual 16:9 monitors and the single monitor is a much cleaner setup. I have multiple use cases every day where the extra screen real estate makes tasks easier.
My Pok3R mechanical keyboard has Cherry MX Red switches and PBT keycaps with a DSA profile. Check out r/MechanicalKeyboards if you are interested. You might not realize how much you care about keyboards until you try one built just the way you want it!
Last year I bought a ThinkPad X1 Carbon laptop and it is my first non-Mac laptop in 13 years. ThinkPad has the best membrane-style keyboard that I have used. My model also has a great HDR display. Ultimately, switching laptops was more about leaving macOS for me.
I experimented with an iPad tablet as my primary computer back in 2017. The latest ARM chips leave iOS with a lot of headroom. I ultimately decided the iPad was not suitable as a primary device for me because of ergonomics. However, the iPad is still my favorite device to use whether it is to read, watch, browse, or listen.
Office
I have an adjustable Jarvis standing desk which is great for ergonomics (and for keeping things out of the reach of small, curious hands at my home office). I use a Secret Lab gaming chair when I am seated. When I am working away from my home office I am looking for warm, a window, and good Wi-Fi.
Gadgets
I use my DJI drone for aerial photos and video. DJI has dominated the consumer drone category and they have impressive consumer models, including the Mavic Air. They have other great products, too, like their Ronin camera stabilizers.
I have been using my Panasonic GH5 camera for over a year now and it shoots amazing video. I have had to increase my storage capacity and my shooting seems to outpace my editing. My next investment will be a MFT adapter so I can utilize more lenses.