The Top 5 Developer Buys at the Top of My Amazon Wish List
Since I’ve been a software developer I’ve noticed that people use their work tools as a sign of status. You’ll see Android developers rocking iPhones (really) to show that they have the latest tech. It’s a common thing and actually something that the following article encourages.
Frankly, you aren’t cool at your software development house if you don’t have these at your fingertips.
Get These Five
Noise-Canceling Headphones
The world outside is rather noisy. You might get distracted by that barista in the coffee shop who KEEPS DROPPING COFFEE (I accept that might only apply to me).
When your concentration is broken it can take 15 minutes or more to get back into the flow of your work.
“That’s not good. I can deliver a feature in 15 minutes. Getting into the zone is a waste of time as my work is SO complex. YMMV”
The solution is to get some cans that allow you to work in peace.
“Don’t wear them on an escooter or ebike. You’re not that cool anyways”
An Extra Monitor
We all love that screen real estate. The greater the space you have to weave that coding magic the better your code.
I know what you’re thinking reader. Save some money with multiple desktops in software, or just use a massssssive widescreen monitor.
“Imagine not having all your code right in your eyeline. Different screens for different purposes”
Having multiple screens means you expend less effort thinking about where your IDE is. Don’t spend time looking around like a junior, spend time coding.
“I need all the code in my head. Fast. Accurate. Awesome. Just like me”
An Ergonomic Chair
A great chair doesn't need to be made by Herman Miller
“If you want to show your status as the best coder, having one helps ‘tho”
This only really applies if you’re going to compare yourself with “that guy” who uses a plastic gaming chair on your Zoom calls. The reason for this is the fancy Corsair logo doesn’t prevent all of the sweating they’ll be doing.
“If a coder doesn’t smell of ramen and sweat they just aren’t trying”
Instead of spending the big bucks for a leather gaming chair, spend that money on a proper Herman Miller. Your back will thank you.
“I need to get my affiliate links working for this blog if I’m going to push Herman Miller as a brand. Editor, are you on this?”
A Pen And Paper
I’m going old school. You know what, it is really important to keep notes even if you’re a developer. You can’t easily find and organize notes on your machine.
“I’d code a better solution than ‘Notes’ if only I wasn’t working on more interesting problems.
If you claim my problems are complaining and not having any friends…you might just be right. But that isn’t what I mean”
Look, if you’re using an iPad with a pen and use that lovely searchable text that would be a great proxy for a real pen and pad. You’ll be splashing so much cash it probably isn’t worth it
“So just use a pen and paper, right?
Nobody likes an Apple fanboi”
Water
You should keep that big brain hydrated. Look after your body and your brain and they’ll look after you.
“I don’t see what use my body is for coding”
Your body and your brain need to be in good condition in order to deliver results in your work. One great way of making your
“Never use Coke. Your teeth, skin, and brain will tank me”
Don’t get these
A rubber duck
Once you realize that you are living in 2023 (if this is earlier than the year you are reading this, simply replace the number with your current earth-year) you know you don’t need rubber duck debugging.
This is because ChatGPT and GitHub Copilot are things. Those are the things you should be checking your work with.
“I don’t need a rubber duck or anyone to check my code. That’s because I’m perfect“
A Dvorak, Colemak-DH, Carpalx or any other weird keyboard
When someone wishes to use your machine it’s annoying. If you’re not using a laptop you’re probably bringing your special keyboard with you.
“Your code makes you cool.
Not the keyboard you use to write code.
Got it?”
Conclusion
Make sure you’ve got the right kit for your job.
“Make sure you’ve got the right knowledge too. You know it makes sense”