Software and Tools for MacOS Developers in 2024
Recently, I had to set up a new Mac from scratch — a process that is always a little exciting but can be a pain. Typically I would install all my favorite apps/tools from memory. This time, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to take inventory of the tools that have become essential to my development workflow. I’m curious to see how this list will evolve over time, highlighting which tools stand the test of time and which new ones make their way into my daily routine.
This list is by no means perfect and I encourage you to find what works best for you. I mean if you think one is better than what I have on my list, feel free to message me here or on LinkedIn.
Developer Tools
Git (Free)
I know this may seem like an obvious item for almost ALL developers, but hey! This list will help me when I ultimately get a new mac and need to reinstall.
Visual Studio Code (Free)
VSCode has become my primary code editor for quite some time. When I first starting coding it was Atom, then Brackets, a little bit of Visual Studio, then ultimately VSCode.
Sublime Text (Free)
Even though VSCode is my primary code editor. I still enjoy using a separate code editor for any single file reading and quick notes. For this I have used sublime for its simplicity and ease of use.
Hyper (Free)
When I am not using the integrated terminal in VSCode. I have recently adopted Hyper for my terminal window. I enjoy the simplicity and all the plugins that I can integrate into it. I have heard of Warp, which I may take some time to try out and write a comparison of mac terminal vs Hyper vs Warp.
Postman (Free)
When working on APIs I have been a long time user of Postman. Ever since it was a Chrome App. I enjoy their collection setup, I use a ton of variables, and even set up environments. The bonus of collaborating and sharing is extremely easy, whether for a personal project or professionally.
GitHub Desktop (Free)
I have included Git already in my list, but I have to include Github Desktop in the list as well. For repository management and cloning, GitHub Desktop offers a user-friendly interface. Cloning a repo becomes a seamless process, especially with the “Open in Desktop” option directly from GitHub.com.
Docker Desktop (Free)
Docker is a must-have item. I enjoy dockerizing all my applications and running docker for any local testing instead of having a testing db on the cloud, OpenSearch instance, or even supabase for my projects.
MongoDB Compass (Free)
I use MongoDB Compass for any MongoDB instance I have since it provides a nice and simple way to interact with my database. I have found that building out aggregates, saving queries, and even just interacting with my data is perfect for my use cases.
DBeaver (Free)
For any SQL instance that I may be working with. I like to use DBeaver since it is a versatile tool that can support multiple database types with a nice and clean interface.
VSCode Extensions
CodeSnap
I often find myself taking screenshots of code to send to teammates. While I could use a built-in screenshot tool on my Mac, I prefer just highlighting my desired code section and creating a clean image from it — this is where CodeSnap comes into play.
Material Theme
Now if you are a VSCode user with no custom theme to enhance the visual aesthetic of VSCode…. I have some questions for you! I personally have enjoyed using the Material Theme Ocean High Contrast theme for a more pleasant and easy-on-the-eyes coding experience.
Material Icon Theme
Complementing the Material Theme, I use the Material Icon Theme to add more life to my file and folder navigation within my projects.
Gitlens
If you are using Git then this is a must for you. I mainly use the commit history and the rebase editor to make any git interaction fast and simple.
Git Blame
For the times when you are frustrated and need to blame a developer. Only to find out that it was you 2 months ago.
Chrome Extensions
Grammarly
It is no surprise that I am not a professional writer, but that is where Grammarly comes in to assist with the rebound. For those easy-to-catch grammatical errors that is where Grammarly comes in clutch.
Quality of Life Tools
Raycast (Free)
Raycast is a new tool in my arsenal and whilst I may not use it often. It has replaced my original Mac spotlight. I also use it for the simple clipboard history and ready-to-use extensions.
Magnet (Paid)
Window management on MacOs is almost perfect, but in order to take it to PERFECTION I use Magnet for window snapping and resizing.
CleanShot X (Paid)
For capturing screenshots and even some small screen recordings I have been a long-time user of CleanShotX. Their perfect screenshot history folder, previewer/editor, and snappy design have made me a long-time advocate for any Mac user.
Honorable Mentions
Notion (Free)
For about a year now I have been using Notion as a way for me to document my successes, failures, learnings, and a ton of good quotes from books. Not only do I do this professionally to showcase my growth and an easy way to find a message someone sent me saying how I was a lifesaver. Organizing my notes, thoughts, and to-do list could not be done without Notion.
Screen Studio (Paid)
Screen Studio is a new tool for me to record high-quality screen captures, demos, and tutorials. I am constantly sharing code and trying to write more documentation. I have found that creating high-quality videos for these use cases has made it easier to reference later on and share knowledge with team members.
Spotify (Free)
Most people will be in the same boat as me when they say listening to music whilst coding is a must! It helps lock me into the “code zone” (trademark pending). What most people don't know is that Spotify also has podcasts and audiobooks. Which has been my new favorite way to listen to books before purchasing a physical version.
Stats (Free)
Keeping an eye on system performance is important for me, especially when I feel my system being annoyingly slow. Stats offers real-time monitoring of CPU, memory, and network usage right from the menu bar. Plus its free!
These tools have significantly enhanced my development experience on MacOS. As technology advances, I look forward to discovering new tools and seeing how my setup evolves. I hope this list helps you in your own development journey. Feel free to share your favorite tools or any recommendations you might have!
