I continuously optimize work and life through the right “tools.” Looking back, buying a MacBook Pro in mid‑2016 was the best decision of that year and had a lasting impact. It launched my programming journey in earnest, and the ongoing tuning of the laptop made me realize how important software and hardware are — even something as small as managing a bookmarks folder matters. These bits of organization, categorization, and small investments bring long‑term convenience and efficiency.
OK, here’s my hardware toolkit — mainly to organize my setup and share real impressions. Maybe it helps if you’re on the fence about buying.
Some models may be dated; follow the classic digital rule of thumb — “buy new, not old” — balanced with budget.
MacBook Pro 2015 (13-inch, 16 GB, 512 SSD)
Bought July 2016. Updated to 10.13.4 and still smooth. As a dev, I regret not getting 15-inch — I recommend maxing RAM/SSD; software demands grow.
iPhone 8 Plus (64 GB)
Bought late Oct 2017 for 5828 CNY; not a bad deal given promos. Glass back for wireless charging adds weight; I use a silicone case. Strong performance and camera.
For most, Plus is a good choice — it’s not just screen size, but also battery and camera.
AirPods
Bought Jan 2018 with no discounts, tempted by the Stroll ad. Quickly replaced my wired buds — I wear them daily.
Early ridicule aside, users love them and they don’t fall out easily. Sound isn’t audiophile level (my AKG pair is better), but if you want simplicity and style, buy.
Fun note: looks great on darker skin tones — see the pic.
Kindle Paperwhite
I had a Paperwhite 2 for years, but only relied on it around late 2017/early 2018. Phones are bad for deep reading. Get the lit version — small price delta, big difference. The 3rd‑gen looks noticeably sharper.
FILCO MINILA67 (white, brown switches)
A friend’s recommendation. Initially wished I’d bought an 87‑key, but build quality is great. Bluetooth sips power — months between battery changes. For heavy typists, mechanical boards make writing enjoyable.
DELL U2518DR
Previously owned the D2515H. Stands are excellent; ports are plentiful.
For buyers: choose the 2018 model — the 2015 stand is noticeably worse compared to the 2018.
Logitech M337 (M336) black
I’ve tried mice from Microsoft, Xiaomi, Lenovo — Logitech remains the go‑to. I chose Bluetooth to save USB ports. It’s small, nicely designed, and portable. Yes, BT can be flaky, but less than expected — still better than a nano dongle.
Final Thoughts
That’s most of the hardware.
Sharing my desk setup: big monitor as primary, laptop secondary, and a separate Windows machine for Windows‑only tasks. A good desk layout boosts productivity.
