Jeff Dennings avatar

Gadgets I love, software I use, and other stuff I recommend.

I’m frequently asked about the tools and resources I rely on to build software, enhance productivity, or occasionally convince myself I’m being productive when I’m not. Here’s a curated list of my favorite gadgets, software, and other recommendations.

Workstation

  • 16” MacBook Pro, M3 Pro, 36GB RAM (2023)

    I was using an Intel-based 15” MacBook Pro prior to this and the difference is night and day. I’ve never heard the fans turn on a single time, even under the incredibly heavy loads. The battery always outlasts my workday and night.

  • Apple iMac 24", M1, 16GB (2021)

    The Apple iMac 24” (2021) with the M1 chip and 16GB RAM delivers exceptional performance and a stunning 4.5K Retina display. Its sleek design, vibrant visuals, and smooth multitasking make it perfect for work, creativity, and entertainment.

  • Apple iPhone 16 Pro, 128GB (Apple Intelligence)

    The Apple iPhone 16 Pro (128GB) combines sleek design with cutting-edge Apple Intelligence for a smarter, seamless experience. Its advanced camera, powerful performance, and vibrant display make every task effortless, while 128GB storage keeps everything you need at your fingertips. Technology has never felt this intuitive.

Development tools

  • Divi Theme and Page Builder by Elegant Themes

    A powerful, all-in-one solution for creating stunning WordPress websites without needing extensive coding knowledge. With its intuitive drag-and-drop interface, Divi allows me to design and customize every aspect of websites visually, offering unparalleled flexibility and creativity. Packed with pre-made templates, responsive design options, and advanced features like split testing and dynamic content, Divi streamlines the web development process.

  • Microsoft Visual Studio Code

    A lightweight yet powerful code editor with robust features including intelligent code completion, debugging tools, and Git integration, making it an essential tool for efficient coding workflows. With an extensive library of extensions, I can customize VS Code to support virtually any programming language or framework. Its seamless user interface, built-in terminal, and cross-platform support make it ideal for everything from quick edits to managing complex projects.

  • Next.js

    A cutting-edge React framework that empowers me to build high-performance, scalable web applications with ease. Known for its seamless server-side rendering (SSR) and static site generation (SSG) capabilities, Next.js enhances speed and SEO optimization, making it ideal for modern web development. It comes equipped with powerful features like automatic code splitting, API routes, and incremental static regeneration, simplifying complex tasks while improving user experience. With a focus on developer productivity, Next.js integrates effortlessly with tools like Javascript, CSS-in-JS, and a wide array of deployment platforms.

  • GitHub

    The world’s leading platform for version control and collaboration, enabling me to manage code efficiently and work seamlessly on projects of any scale.

Design tools

  • Tailwind CSS

    I love using Tailwind CSS because it makes designing modern, responsive websites both fast and intuitive. Its utility-first approach lets me style elements directly in my HTML, eliminating the need to constantly switch between my stylesheet and code. With Tailwind, I can build clean, consistent designs without writing custom CSS from scratch, and its extensive configuration options allow me to create a unique look while staying efficient. Whether I’m prototyping quickly or fine-tuning a complex project, Tailwind CSS gives me the flexibility and control I need to bring my ideas to life.

  • Unsplash+

    I rely on Unsplash+ for accessing high-quality, royalty-free images that elevate the visual appeal of my projects. Its vast library offers stunning, professionally curated photos that fit a wide range of styles and themes, making it easy to find the perfect image for websites, blogs, or social media. With Unsplash+, I get the added benefit of premium content and licensing that ensures peace of mind for commercial use. It’s my go-to resource for creating visually engaging designs without compromising on quality or originality.

  • Adobe PhotoShop

    I use Adobe Photoshop as my go-to tool for creating and editing professional-grade visuals. Whether I’m enhancing photos, designing graphics, or creating custom assets, Photoshop’s powerful features and precision tools allow me to bring my ideas to life. Its layers, masks, and extensive customization options make it incredibly versatile, while features like content-aware fill and smart objects streamline my workflow. From quick edits to complex designs, Photoshop gives me the creative freedom and control to produce high-quality results every time.

  • Canva

    I use Canva for creating stunning visuals quickly and effortlessly. Its intuitive drag-and-drop interface and extensive library of templates, graphics, and fonts make it perfect for designing everything from social media posts to professional presentations. Whether I need to whip up a quick design or collaborate with others, Canva’s tools and features help me produce polished, eye-catching content without needing advanced design skills. It’s my go-to platform for combining creativity with efficiency.

Content

  • Ubersuggest

    I rely on Ubersuggest to streamline my SEO and content strategies. It’s an invaluable tool for researching keywords, analyzing competitors, and identifying opportunities to improve website performance. Ubersuggest makes it easy to track rankings, discover content ideas, and optimize for the right search terms, helping me drive more traffic and achieve better results. Its user-friendly interface and actionable insights make it my go-to resource for staying ahead in digital marketing.

  • SparkToro

    I use SparkToro to uncover valuable audience insights and refine my marketing strategies. It helps me identify where my target audience spends time online, what they talk about, and which platforms or influencers resonate with them. With SparkToro, I can make data-driven decisions to create more effective campaigns, reach the right people, and maximize my marketing efforts. It’s an essential tool for truly understanding and connecting with the audiences I aim to serve.

  • ChatGPT

    I use ChatGPT as a versatile tool to enhance my productivity and creativity. Whether I’m brainstorming ideas, drafting content, or solving complex problems, ChatGPT helps me find efficient and innovative solutions. Its ability to understand and generate natural language makes it perfect for everything from writing assistance to coding help. With ChatGPT, I can streamline tasks, explore new perspectives, and stay focused on what matters most. It’s like having an intelligent assistant ready to collaborate whenever I need it.

Productivity

  • Constant Contact Lead Gen & CRM

    I use Constant Contact Lead Gen & CRM to simplify managing my marketing and customer relationships. It helps me capture, organize, and nurture leads with ease, streamlining the entire sales process. With tools for email marketing, automation, and contact management, I can build personalized campaigns that strengthen connections and drive results. Its intuitive interface and integrated analytics make it easy to track performance and optimize my efforts.

  • Zoom

    I rely on Zoom for seamless video meetings that keep my communication clear and efficient. Whether connecting with clients or collaborating with colleagues, Zoom’s reliable platform makes virtual interactions effortless. With features like screen sharing and meeting recording, it’s easy to stay organized and productive. Its user-friendly interface ensures smooth meetings every time, no matter where I am, making Zoom an essential tool for my business.

  • Apple Reminders

    I rely on Apple Reminders to keep my tasks and priorities organized across all my devices. Its simplicity and seamless integration into the Apple ecosystem make it effortless to set up reminders, create lists, and track deadlines. I use it to manage everything from daily to-dos to long-term projects, ensuring nothing slips through the cracks. With features like location-based alerts and shared lists, Apple Reminders helps me stay on top of my schedule and collaborate effectively when needed. It’s an essential tool for staying productive and focused.

  • Apple Freeform

    I use Apple Freeform as a versatile tool for brainstorming and visualizing ideas. Its intuitive canvas lets me organize thoughts, sketch concepts, and collaborate seamlessly with others in real-time. Whether I’m planning a project, mapping out a strategy, or just jotting down ideas, Freeform provides the flexibility to work creatively without constraints. Its integration across all of my Apple devices ensures that my work is always accessible, making it an essential part of my workflow for turning ideas into action.