Uses

Tools that pass the Logic Test.

As a Solution Architect, my philosophy on tools is simple: buy it nice or buy it twice.

I don’t switch tools often. When I do, it’s because the ROI (Return on Investment) is undeniable. Below is a curated list of the hardware, software, and services I use daily to build scalable systems and run WebLogiks.

(Note: This page contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. I only list what I actually use.)

1. The Workstation (Hardware)

My physical setup is designed for focus and ergonomics. I spend 10+ hours a day here, so comfort is non-negotiable.

  • Laptop: MacBook Pro 16″ (M4 Max)
    • Why: As a Full-Stack dev running Docker containers and local LLMs, I need raw power. The M-series chips are the only ones that stay cool under this load.
  • Monitor: Dell UltraSharp 40″ Curved WUHD (5K2K)
    • The Logic: One wide monitor is better than two separate ones. No bezel in the middle means I can have my IDE, Terminal, and Browser open side-by-side without neck strain.
  • Keyboard: Keychron Q1 Pro (Mechanical)
    • Switches: Brown (Tactile but quiet).
    • Why: It’s built like a tank and fully programmable via QMK.
  • Mouse: Logitech MX Master 3S
    • The Logic: The horizontal scroll wheel is a lifesaver for navigating wide columns in code or Excel sheets.
  • Audio: Sony WH-1000XM5
    • Why: The noise cancellation is essential for “Deep Work” sessions.

2. Development Environment (Software)

I have moved away from “bloated” tools. My 2026 stack is all about AI-augmented speed.

  • Editor: Cursor AI
    • Verdict: I switched from VS Code in 2024. The ability to “Chat with codebase” saves me approx. 2 hours/day on boilerplate code.
  • Terminal: Warp
    • Why: It treats the terminal like a text editor. You can click to move the cursor, and the AI command lookup is fantastic.
  • Font: JetBrains Mono
    • The Logic: Ligatures make code easier to scan.
  • API Testing: Postman
  • Database Client: TablePlus
    • Why: It’s native, fast, and doesn’t crash like Electron-based SQL clients.

3. The “Business” Stack (Running WebLogiks)

This site runs on a stack chosen for speed and SEO.

  • Hosting: MilesWeb (Managed WordPress)
    • The Logic: It costs more than cheap shared hosting. My “Time to First Byte” (TTFB) is under 100ms. Speed = SEO.
  • Theme: GeneratePress
    • Why: It is the lightest theme on the market (less than 10kb). No bloat.
  • Analytics: Fathom Analytics
    • Why: Google Analytics is a privacy nightmare. Fathom is GDPR compliant and gives me a simple dashboard without cookies.
  • Email Marketing: Kit
    • Why: The best deliverability for text-based newsletters.

4. Desk & Life

  • Chair: Herman Miller Aeron
    • Note: Buy this used/refurbished if you can. It fixes back pain instantly.
  • Desk: Uplift Standing Desk
  • Coffee: Aeropress
    • The Logic: The fastest way to make a single, perfect cup of coffee without a bulky machine.