Software I use, gadgets I love, and other things I recommend.
I like stuff. I like things that make my life easier, more productive, and more fun. I also like to share the things I like with other people. Here are some of the things I use and recommend.
Workstation
Framework 12th Gen DIY Edition
For years I had been using a Dell XPS 13 as my main laptop, but once Framework opened pre-orders for Australia, I jumped right on it. This laptop embodies everything I love about open technology. The freedom to change out parts, the ability to upgrade the CPU and RAM, and the ability to use any operating system I want.
(Currently running NixOS).Custom Desktop
If i'm going to spend all day on a computer, I want it to be fast, and fun to use.
My current main desktop is a 12-core Ryzen 9 7900X box running Fedora. NixOS is currently being evaluted on my laptop as a new main OS.
(Currently running Fedora).Intel NUC (Hades Canyon) - Virtual Machines
I bought this thing when I moved to Melbourne, because my old desktop was too big to bring. Aside from having a lot of I/O, it is a little powerhouse, and the backbone of my virtualisation workflows.
(Currently running Proxmox).ErgoDox EZ
I have lots of keyboards, but the one I use the most is the one that got me into the hobby. The venerable ErgoDox EZ from ZSA. After using this keyboard, I became a full-on split mechanical keyboard enthusiast.
Ploopy Adept Trackball
As part of my quest for supreme ergonomics, I've tried a lot of pointing devices. I'm currently happy with the Ploopy Adept Trackball. Not only is it a nice trackball, it is 3D printed, open source, and highly customisable.
SecretLab Titan 'Gaming' Chair
I didn't have the money, or the patience to get a Herman Miller chair, so I went for what seemed like the next-best thing. Can confirm, it is a nice chair to sit in all day.
Development tools
LazyVim
I used to use VS Code and IntelliJ, but one of my main resolutions for 2025 was to migrate fully to Neovim. My distro of choice? LazyVim. I use Vim anywhere I can. I use it in the terminal, I used it in VS Code, I used it in IntelliJ IDEA. I use it everywhere. I've sad it before and I'll say it again, Vim is the single most impactful tool I've ever spent time learning.