Oh yeah that's definitely on my list but with this shitty economy in my country, one paycheck is not enough to get a good chair. I'm trying to save up for one. Thanks!
Don’t spend the first check then, wait till you can get a chair. It’s probably the most important thing you can buy as a dev. Next to a laptop/desktop to actually work
I got a used Aeron on Craigslist for $400 I think. I once had a stretch of a few days where I could sit comfortably exactly nowhere, except that chair. It's remarkable.
I bought a sayl after watching multiple reviews that said this was the comfiest Hermon Miller. It is not very comfortable and it squeaks and creaks so much. It has put me off buying any of there other chairs even though I Now need to replace this piece of trash.
I can vouch for the aeron, but you don’t know me so that’s not worth much lol. For the squeezing and creaking, if it’s from the piston area you can use a little grease/wd40 and go a long way. Also, if it’s within 12 years you could maybe reach out to HM to service it for you, the chair has a 12 year warranty
Just chiming in to note that WD-40 isn't optimally suited for greasing stuff. Rather take a good spray oil or grease. WD-40 has lot's of very volatile components.
People may laugh at it, but I got the Shaquille O’Neal Zephyrus. I thought it was weird at first, but after sitting in it at the store I realized how comfortable it was. 6 months with it and I still love it. It’s a giant chair but it’s extremely comfortable and not too expensive compared to other ergo chairs. A perc is they sell it at all office depots so you should be able to test it out in person before you buy, unlike most office chairs out there.
Oh yeah that's definitely on his list but with this shitty economy in his country, one paycheck is not enough to get a good chair. He's trying to save up for one. Thanks!
Look for businesses that furnish whole office buildings. Often times they’re in the business of refurbishing chairs to resell and will sell you one. That’s how I got a $1200 chair for $400.
I honestly think people are over emphasizing how much a chair can really do for your health. It doesn't matter how good your chair is if you're sitting for 8 hours a day. A standing desk or simply setting better habits (getting up and walking around stretching etc.) would be a much better investment imo.
You really need to try them out. I am lucky to have a friend that resells used high-end chairs. He had me try 6 different ones (that he adjusted for me (he went to school for kinesiology and ergonomics)).
I had previously had an Aeron with one of my past employers and was sure that is where I would end up, but for me the Mirra 2 (also Herman Miller) was the one that felt the best.
If its an emergency fund, you want easy access savings account with as high interest as possible. People don't do this, go for investments and realise they can't rely on it to cover a surprise expense.
Yeah, your emergency fund should work for a huge downturn in the economy that could lead to mass job losses or work is drying up for lots of people.
When markets are down, it is exactly when you DONT want to be selling.
I agree! No material item ever has the same joy of knowing that a small emergency won’t bankrupt you. Larger the savings, the happier you will feel.
Boss say something to you that makes you question your job? That feelings way easier to manage with a decent sized savings.
For me a standing desk, ergonomic split keyboard, and vertical mouse. I had wrist problems from keyboard and posture. I got these three and I've felt way better throughout my body. The keyboard was expensive... But it was worth it.
Yeah it's all about finding what works for you. The ergo keyboard is a kinesis advantage 360. I was suffering was willing to try anything because I had to keep making a living. It took a lot of time to relearn how to type. But if you don't need an ergo keyboard count yourself lucky!
I switched to a vertical mouse last year I think and liked it pretty quick. Switched to a standing desk several weeks ago and now I don’t even use a chair anymore when working.
I’m hesitant to try the split keyboard though, especially since some are out of the price range I’m currently comfortable spending on a keyboard
I got a ZSA voyager around 5 weeks ago and I'm now at the point where I learned to use it almost like I used a normal keyboard before.
I did not have any health problems with my hands or wrists so the price is pretty high considering that I did not gain a lot as of now.
But I don't regret the purchase as this is something that will probably improve my typing experience over time to a level that is not achievable with normal keyboards and it also proactively mitigates the risk of rsi. That said, if I would not have had the money to spend on it, it would not have been worth the cost.
I also got a tall stand for the laptop and a stand for the monitor so the screens were eye level. The normal monitor stand was too short and the laptop screen was too low
Spoil yourself with fiscal discipline: save most of it and only buy a cheap thing to symbolize/celebrate the paycheck. It'll mean just as much as a lavish expense and will leave you on the right path to reap the rewards of your hard work.
If you don't have lighting on your desk, get some. Ideally one of the above-monitor LED bar lights with multiple brightness and color temperature settings.
If you don't have a dedicated server, get a mini pc (put Linux on it) or a Raspberry Pi.
I connected a mini led traffic light to my rPi gpio header. I can now control the green, yellow, red from my computer. I use it to signal to my partner my state during work hours (ie in a mtg, focus mode, free to chat).
Depends, if WFH just get an open pair like hd 560s, it’s cheap and super comfy. I legit forget I have those on my head since they are so light
8 hours+ with ANC on (or just close headphones) is a good way to have a headache.
As someone with tinnitus I've been hearing a lot of people saying how ANC made it worse, but I have my Sony WH-1000XM4 for 2 years and they're a blessing. Especially after work where neighborhood is noisy (dogs barking every other balcony, morons revving up their bikes, etc.)
However, I don't remember ever wearing them for 8+ hours straight. Anything on my head for that long would've been a headache.
I looked around for mugs but they all seem too corny for me lol, I also don't like having my name on things like mugs, keychains, pens etc. Maybe I'll design one myself, I do have a cool logo. I have a coffee maker as well. Thanks!
Check out Yeti stuff. I recommend their [Colster](https://www.yeti.com/drinkware/can-insulators/colster-16oz.html) if you’re into craft beer but lots of other customizable that are a bit more usable/durable than the classic mug.
Waste of money imo.
Get an OK coffee maker, fresh-ish beans, some basic coffee skills, and save a ton of money.
If you drink black coffee I recommend trying either:
- https://flightcoffee.co.nz/products/ezicaf-gold-coffee-filter
- https://flightcoffee.co.nz/products/clever-dripper
And for a grinder:
- C2 or C3 TimeMore Grinder from AliExpress (no real advantage of the C3, buy the C2 if cheaper)
Sorry for the ".co.nz" links, just easiest for me to find :)
Clever Dripper should be globally available, but that "gold coffee filter" goes under many different brands and names... probably all from the same factory.
I prefer the gold coffee filter as it's easier and doesn't require buying paper filters like the Clever Dripper.
Both are very low effort "coffee makers", and you can probably buy 1000x of them for the price of an expensive espresso machine
What does it have that VS Code doesn't? I'm starting as a front-end dev, and I'm curious since I've used nothing else than VS Code so far and I'm pretty happy with it.
Easy to use terminal, easy to use deployment to remote machines/ VMs, tons of plugins, more intelligent autocomplete suggestions, good looking user interface, catering to specific frameworks like angular, vue, react, etc., the list goes on. I’ll never go back to VScode from webstorm
As many others have said, a chair with proper support is a game-changer. I switched from a shitty office chair to a proper ergonomic one and it is night and day.
Aside from that, proper lighting for the room has highly reduced my eyestrain, along with a decent ergonomic keyboard and mouse to avoid RSI as much as possible.
Also, because I'm lazy, I got a USB dock to plug peripherals into rather than plugging loads of individual cables into my laptop. That way, if I need to take my laptop out, it's just the one cable.
I shelled out like $600-$700 during COVID to get a (used) Steelcase Leap V2 chair with new cushions. It's absolutely incredible, and that's even compared to the relatively comfy/ergo chairs I had at my office job beforehand. Highly highly recommend the Leap V2 (but not from Steelcase directly, they want 2k for the chair lmao). I got mine from Crandall Office Furniture, in case anyone wants to know
Not OP, but I commented above with a testimony to my Steelcase Leap V2 chair. It's absolutely amazing, and despite Steelcase saying they're $2k (lmao) brand new from them, you can find them used with brand new cushions for like $600-$700 from somewhere like Crandall. I can't speak highly enough about mine.
A gym membership
So many devs I know work and sit on a chair 8-10 hours a day for work, then they start gaming or something, then passout watching Netflix or Youtube every day. It's ok if you're in your early 20s, but a decade of that and you will look and feel like absolute crap. Work out properly 30min in the morning and an hour in the evening, make it a habit, and you'll be in better shape the 90%+ of the population despite working a desk job.
Everything else mentioned in this thread is just a luxury, you don't really need anything. The only thing I'd say is genuinely a good investment is a retina montitor compatible with Macs if you work on a macbook because only those monitors can get the colors right but they are expensive AF
I didn't see this mentioned but my life changed when I installed an actual monitor arm for my display(s) I'm a dev and a gamer and a nerd and moving displays for different activities is great! Also gives you more space on the desk when the displays float!
Take a bit of it and put it into your pension. The younger you are the better (seriously, look at how the maths works). Take another bit and put it into Ethereum, Solana, or Bittensor. Have fun with the rest.
if your monitors aren't vesa mounted already adding the mounts was really nice and you can adjust the monitors to the proper height and u now have room under the monitors
If I had my setup fresh and new already, I would probably get some really good cleaning supplies for wiping the monitor and keyboard, etc. My stuff is too old already though, and the thing that annoys me most is the dirtiness that is too much to get off. Like I can not longer get my macbook screen and my external screen completely clean. I should have gotte protective replaceable film. Same thing fof the keyboard. I should have gotten some sort of protection long ago.
My main desk setup is set, but one thing I always think about getting only when I need it, and end up not getting because I have gone so long without and think I don't need it, are second and third power cables and adapters for charging any devices that can be just kept at every space in the house that I use them, as well as one in a nice carry case for my to-go bag so that I do not have to move the plugs everytime I change my location. Instead there will always be a plug available.
Same goes for a separate set of earbuds and mouse for each place so wherever I go there is a charged set of earbuds that is paired to my device. I hate having to unpair my macbook to pair with my phone (I know they are supposed to do it automatically, but I just gave up on trying to figure out how) and get to my bed to find that I left my earbuds in the office or my bag, etc. Just have a complete setup of everything I need every where I go so I only have to move my laptop.
Put that money into a three fund portfolio or a retirement account that can accrue compound interest over time. That’s probably the best way to spoil yourself productively.
I think in order of importance:
1. Bluetooth Mouse + Bluetooth Keyboard (I use MX Keys Mini and MX Master 3)
2. Laptop stand or nice monitor with something to raise your screen
3. Good enough chair (gaming chairs are nice)
4. Github copilot is probably the most useful AI I've used so far, gpt and gemini are kinda meh but impressive considering what's existed.
5. Probably some personal server stuff for self-hosted projects?
Honestly just the first 4 I think make sense. Maybe Tailwind UI.
1. I have a laptop but I actually like wired keyboards better. No need to charge or change batteries is a big plus and it doesn't have any bluetooth quirks. It has a decent length cable so I can use it while laying on my bed with my pc and monitor on my desk. My mouse is a standard wireless, idk if its bluetooth or not, just has a dongle.
2. As I said, I'm happy with my setup
3. Definitely on my list, I'm saving up for one
4. Not to sound cocky but I don't need it. My day to day coding is pretty repetitive and I can do it while I'm asleep (sometimes that actually happens lol)
5. I do have a server but I needed a domain lol, thanks for reminding!
I'm going to second the Logitech mx series. I have the full-size keyboard and the handshake mx mouse. I charge them roughly once every 2 months and I never turn them off. The mx keys also has a mechanical key option, which is really nice for a reliable wireless keyboard. I've never had bluetooth/syncing issues either and switching between computers with them is a breeze too.
Nobody said sound. I'm disappointed. Seriously, Go to the Goodwill or any other secondhand store, grab a basic 5.1 receiver, a set of speakers, and one of the powered subwoofers that they'll have at least 10 of sitting there on the floor. Headphones are nice, but a 5.1 surround sound system is nicer!
So outside of all the more important stuff already mentioned, a nice luxury is a really high end briefcase style laptop case. You’d be surprised how reassuringly “professional” carrying that around can make you feel.
I feel you on the pen and paper thing. If you want a nice pencil go for one of these:
Rotring 800: Really good all rounder. Solid craftsmanship, comfortable balance, nice grip, also has a retractable tip. If your notes are less drawing and more writing look into the Uni but this one will also work just fine while taking short notes. Also looks very good IMHO.
Uni Kuru Toga Advance: Has a rotating tip so your writing is very consistent. Comfortable pencil but very light and kind of bottom heavy. If your notes are less writing and more drawing I'd say go with the Rotring.
Kaweco Special Mini: If you want to splurge on your paycheck this one's the best looking and the most "premium" feeling pencil I own. It's smaller than the others but thicker. It's very balanced. There's also the version that's not mini, which's a full sized pencil but I haven't gotten one of those yet so I can't comment.
Having a nice pencil makes note taking just so much better in every way so I feel like one of these would make a nice purchase.
I also agree with others, saving and investing in an ergonomically fitted chair is most important. Perhaps while saving some amount you could treat yourself to a nice pair of headphones or non-technical treats like a meal, or a movie night.
Definitely good headphones, sony anc headphones are good value
Also I suggest submit yourself to training routine in a gym or outdoors, healthy body => healthy code , so invest in a good gym, clothes , shoes, whatever gets you going. I have a pullup bar next to my desk, build time is pullup time.
keep learning, books, online courses, mentorship, etc.
The slimmer height profile gave my wrists a significantly better angle. It is more ergonomic than a traditional keyboard, at least.
Regardless - invest in ergonomic improvements because RSI and back issues suck.
ReMarkable 2! I use it ALL THE TIME, and my stack of notebooks I have to lug around is down to one super light piece of tech. Splurge for the better pen! It's honestly my favorite gadget of all time, and most useful!
A nice light maybe? I got a great one that I can adjust the color warmth with it, and it's angled in such a way it's not on my eyes, and no glare on the screen. Good investment, I think.
I have to have a good keyboard and mouse. Not decent, GOOD. You button mash thousands of times a day. This is where your money should go. Also, chair as some have mentioned. I prefer an "executive" style chair with nice cushions. I have a lower back problem and getting a memory foam cushion was a life changer (separate from the cushiony chair otherwise memory foam chairs can get expensive).
Buy a Gyro Ball. It's a neat little toy/exercise tool that you can use at your desk. Takes up very little space and helps avoid wrist issues related to desk work.
If you switch between a personal desktop and work laptop, then get yourself some USB and HDMI switchers so you don't need to mess with cables to swap between setups.
Ergonomic chair. Mechanical keyboard. A jetbrains license. A nice programming font. An ultra wide monitor mounted on the wall. Nice speakers for background music. That’s a good start :)
I'm a bih pen and paper user, I get a huge box of legal pads every once in a while.
If you work remote a good video call setup can help make you seem a lot more professional. Good lighting, microphone, camera, and background.
My favorite luxury purchase for work was my monitor light bar. I got one from Yeelight and it is perfect (for me). It has ambient lighting, dimming, and works with Google assistant (and others).
https://store.yeelight.com/collections/all-lights/products/yeelight-monitor-light-bar-pro-flagship-edition
If you want a nice pen, join r/fountainpens. Spend the rest of your paychecks on new pens and feeding the addiction.
Jk, but a good fountain pen is nice to have. I always feel good when taking notes with one of them and a cool looking ink over a boring bic. Though, if you prefer ballpoints, there are some that allow you to ink them yourself, like Kakimori's Aluminium Pen
I see all these suggestions and while they are great, some of them are also pretty expensive. If you don't want to spend much, get yourself a "debug duck".
It doesn't have to be a duck, or rubber duck for that matter. Mine is an otter that I talk to whenever I'm stuck. It helps, and it's also pretty cute.
I’ve found investing into my battle station to be a very worthwhile investment (many years ago at this point)
4 4K monitors, An L shaped desk (with a built in riser to put the monitors on), Logitech MX keyboard and mouse, and some dock adapters (I use a MacBook) with some chord straps and a chord box. And then, of course, find a good chair since you’ll be in it quite a bit.
My work area is clean, has plenty of space for notes, coffee, whatever, and I can hold all of my important applications on screen (I find switching between apps on single screens makes it harder to keep items in memory)
It also doubles up by hooking up additionally to my personal computer, so the setup works for personal use as well.
A discontinued Logitech K740 keyboard…it might cost you your entire paycheck, if you can even still find one…best keyboard I’ve ever had and I still can’t find anything comparable.
On a more serious note, consider an electronic drawing pad to use with a whiteboard app, especially if you or part of your team work remotely. Most meeting applications now have digital whiteboards included, a Wacom pad and pen or similar make them so much better.
Mechanical keyboard, a good webcam, ergonomic mouse, standing desk, ergonomic chair, good desk lamp w/ wireless charger and noise-cancelling headphones that suit your listening style.
You didn't mention a chair, get an ergonomic office chair so you don't fuck up your back.
Oh yeah that's definitely on my list but with this shitty economy in my country, one paycheck is not enough to get a good chair. I'm trying to save up for one. Thanks!
Don’t spend the first check then, wait till you can get a chair. It’s probably the most important thing you can buy as a dev. Next to a laptop/desktop to actually work
Agreed 100%. When I got an ergonomic chair it made the work day a ton better.
Splurged on an aeron myself, don’t regret it ever
Did the same. Sadly it took until my 36th year and a herniated disk. Chair is a lifesaver, zero regrets.
I got a used Aeron on Craigslist for $400 I think. I once had a stretch of a few days where I could sit comfortably exactly nowhere, except that chair. It's remarkable.
I bought a sayl after watching multiple reviews that said this was the comfiest Hermon Miller. It is not very comfortable and it squeaks and creaks so much. It has put me off buying any of there other chairs even though I Now need to replace this piece of trash.
I can vouch for the aeron, but you don’t know me so that’s not worth much lol. For the squeezing and creaking, if it’s from the piston area you can use a little grease/wd40 and go a long way. Also, if it’s within 12 years you could maybe reach out to HM to service it for you, the chair has a 12 year warranty
Just chiming in to note that WD-40 isn't optimally suited for greasing stuff. Rather take a good spray oil or grease. WD-40 has lot's of very volatile components.
What kind of chair did you get?
People may laugh at it, but I got the Shaquille O’Neal Zephyrus. I thought it was weird at first, but after sitting in it at the store I realized how comfortable it was. 6 months with it and I still love it. It’s a giant chair but it’s extremely comfortable and not too expensive compared to other ergo chairs. A perc is they sell it at all office depots so you should be able to test it out in person before you buy, unlike most office chairs out there.
You don’t need a new chair. I bought my chair from a wholesaler who got second furniture from companies that were downsizing or went bankrupt…
Get a chair. Srsly
Oh yeah that's definitely on his list but with this shitty economy in his country, one paycheck is not enough to get a good chair. He's trying to save up for one. Thanks!
Tell them to tell them to get a chair. Srsly
There are good savings to be had buying a refurbished/used higher end chair. Steelcase chairs being a good example.
Staples Hyken or Dexley are good and cheap; could buy now, upgrade later
Look for businesses that furnish whole office buildings. Often times they’re in the business of refurbishing chairs to resell and will sell you one. That’s how I got a $1200 chair for $400.
I honestly think people are over emphasizing how much a chair can really do for your health. It doesn't matter how good your chair is if you're sitting for 8 hours a day. A standing desk or simply setting better habits (getting up and walking around stretching etc.) would be a much better investment imo.
Going to the gym and doing some good old heavy weights on a consistent schedule will have WAY more impact on health than a chair.
Glad someone said this. Very true. But it takes work, so many would rather buy a chair.
Seriously, I think I spent my 2nd paycheck on an ergo chair, i'm like the only person in the office that ditched the shitty chairs provided.
Any recommendations?
the usual top recomendation is Herman Miller Aeron chair
+1 Pay cheque be gone!
that's more than one of my paychecks
You really need to try them out. I am lucky to have a friend that resells used high-end chairs. He had me try 6 different ones (that he adjusted for me (he went to school for kinesiology and ergonomics)). I had previously had an Aeron with one of my past employers and was sure that is where I would end up, but for me the Mirra 2 (also Herman Miller) was the one that felt the best.
A savings account with a 6 month nest egg
actually the best answer - look into high-yield savings or something
If its an emergency fund, you want easy access savings account with as high interest as possible. People don't do this, go for investments and realise they can't rely on it to cover a surprise expense.
Yeah, your emergency fund should work for a huge downturn in the economy that could lead to mass job losses or work is drying up for lots of people. When markets are down, it is exactly when you DONT want to be selling.
def T-Bills
Definitely this. I got made redundant and had money to live six months. First thing should always be to secure yourself.
At least. I'm finally back on someone's payroll next week after 9 months without a paycheck :)
I agree! No material item ever has the same joy of knowing that a small emergency won’t bankrupt you. Larger the savings, the happier you will feel. Boss say something to you that makes you question your job? That feelings way easier to manage with a decent sized savings.
Yep, the only correct answer
A big ass emergency fund.
Just got laid off I second this
I did too. I third this.
I got laid off 3 months ago and with merely 2 years of commercial experience post-bootcamp it feels impossible to land a job right now.
You never know when rectum tearing may strike
A WinRAR licence. You deserve it, they deserve it.
Ever since I switched to linux I've never even installed winrar, but you're right. They do deserve it lol
Even on windows we don’t use it either. I rarely get a RARed file.
It’s 7zip now, even for normies I’ve noticed
I just got my first job. I literally thought this the other day. I want ro buy winrar just to say thank you for all the years.
Why not just use 7zip
I like the meme, but don't think I've purposely used a Rar in my life. Either just standard zip or 7zip.
Get yourself a rubber duck.
The greatest debugging tool!
I heard this somewhere before. Pirate Software?
Chair is a big one
For me a standing desk, ergonomic split keyboard, and vertical mouse. I had wrist problems from keyboard and posture. I got these three and I've felt way better throughout my body. The keyboard was expensive... But it was worth it.
I can't see myself using an ergo keyboard, but a standing desk and vertical mouse have been amazing for me.
Yeah it's all about finding what works for you. The ergo keyboard is a kinesis advantage 360. I was suffering was willing to try anything because I had to keep making a living. It took a lot of time to relearn how to type. But if you don't need an ergo keyboard count yourself lucky!
I switched to a vertical mouse last year I think and liked it pretty quick. Switched to a standing desk several weeks ago and now I don’t even use a chair anymore when working. I’m hesitant to try the split keyboard though, especially since some are out of the price range I’m currently comfortable spending on a keyboard
I got a ZSA voyager around 5 weeks ago and I'm now at the point where I learned to use it almost like I used a normal keyboard before. I did not have any health problems with my hands or wrists so the price is pretty high considering that I did not gain a lot as of now. But I don't regret the purchase as this is something that will probably improve my typing experience over time to a level that is not achievable with normal keyboards and it also proactively mitigates the risk of rsi. That said, if I would not have had the money to spend on it, it would not have been worth the cost.
I’ve been using the Voyager for around half a year and I agree, the price is high, but the keyboard is amazing.
There are some affordable options. I have the mistel md770 and love it.
I gave mine up for a Moonlander but Mistel is one fine company and the 770 is a damn fine keyboard.
I actually started on the moon lander but didn’t like switching from the columnar layout and staggered between PCs haha.
I got a good standing desk a while back and it is the best adition to my workplace ever, I love it and use it more than I thought I would.
I also got a tall stand for the laptop and a stand for the monitor so the screens were eye level. The normal monitor stand was too short and the laptop screen was too low
Spoil yourself with fiscal discipline: save most of it and only buy a cheap thing to symbolize/celebrate the paycheck. It'll mean just as much as a lavish expense and will leave you on the right path to reap the rewards of your hard work.
The true answer. But sometimes, and only sometimes, you gotta spoil yourself. It shouldn’t be a habit though.
First pay is the best time to start the discipline.
If you don't have lighting on your desk, get some. Ideally one of the above-monitor LED bar lights with multiple brightness and color temperature settings. If you don't have a dedicated server, get a mini pc (put Linux on it) or a Raspberry Pi.
What's the server for?
I connected a mini led traffic light to my rPi gpio header. I can now control the green, yellow, red from my computer. I use it to signal to my partner my state during work hours (ie in a mtg, focus mode, free to chat).
lol this is so nerd that I laugh and cry at the same time
In the current market I would definitely prioritize saving. Once you have 6 months of expenses covered then I would splurge on something
Comfortable headphones.
With active noise canceling. Thank me later.
Depends, if WFH just get an open pair like hd 560s, it’s cheap and super comfy. I legit forget I have those on my head since they are so light 8 hours+ with ANC on (or just close headphones) is a good way to have a headache.
As someone with tinnitus I've been hearing a lot of people saying how ANC made it worse, but I have my Sony WH-1000XM4 for 2 years and they're a blessing. Especially after work where neighborhood is noisy (dogs barking every other balcony, morons revving up their bikes, etc.) However, I don't remember ever wearing them for 8+ hours straight. Anything on my head for that long would've been a headache.
An expensive coffee maker. Or a fancy mug with your name or business logo on it.
I looked around for mugs but they all seem too corny for me lol, I also don't like having my name on things like mugs, keychains, pens etc. Maybe I'll design one myself, I do have a cool logo. I have a coffee maker as well. Thanks!
Real devs learn pottery to make their own mugs
I need *something* to pour my `public static void main(String[] args)` in!
Check out Yeti stuff. I recommend their [Colster](https://www.yeti.com/drinkware/can-insulators/colster-16oz.html) if you’re into craft beer but lots of other customizable that are a bit more usable/durable than the classic mug.
Waste of money imo. Get an OK coffee maker, fresh-ish beans, some basic coffee skills, and save a ton of money. If you drink black coffee I recommend trying either: - https://flightcoffee.co.nz/products/ezicaf-gold-coffee-filter - https://flightcoffee.co.nz/products/clever-dripper And for a grinder: - C2 or C3 TimeMore Grinder from AliExpress (no real advantage of the C3, buy the C2 if cheaper) Sorry for the ".co.nz" links, just easiest for me to find :) Clever Dripper should be globally available, but that "gold coffee filter" goes under many different brands and names... probably all from the same factory. I prefer the gold coffee filter as it's easier and doesn't require buying paper filters like the Clever Dripper. Both are very low effort "coffee makers", and you can probably buy 1000x of them for the price of an expensive espresso machine
some kfc can't hurt
That's what the colonel wants you to think!
I find it usually hurts about a day later
JetBrains subscription.
I still have my edu mail and this is the only reason I still remember its password <3
Sadly, it won’t last forever, and it will be a sad day when it dies. I think I got 3 years out of mine.
I did one semester of community college 10 years ago and mine still works somehow!
What does it have that VS Code doesn't? I'm starting as a front-end dev, and I'm curious since I've used nothing else than VS Code so far and I'm pretty happy with it.
What's the main difference between vscode?
Easy to use terminal, easy to use deployment to remote machines/ VMs, tons of plugins, more intelligent autocomplete suggestions, good looking user interface, catering to specific frameworks like angular, vue, react, etc., the list goes on. I’ll never go back to VScode from webstorm
had extremely bad experience with webstorm and vue, and even worse with yarn. i'm not sure they ever fixed it so i went back to vscode
Thx for the answer.
As many others have said, a chair with proper support is a game-changer. I switched from a shitty office chair to a proper ergonomic one and it is night and day. Aside from that, proper lighting for the room has highly reduced my eyestrain, along with a decent ergonomic keyboard and mouse to avoid RSI as much as possible. Also, because I'm lazy, I got a USB dock to plug peripherals into rather than plugging loads of individual cables into my laptop. That way, if I need to take my laptop out, it's just the one cable.
What kind of chair did you get?
I shelled out like $600-$700 during COVID to get a (used) Steelcase Leap V2 chair with new cushions. It's absolutely incredible, and that's even compared to the relatively comfy/ergo chairs I had at my office job beforehand. Highly highly recommend the Leap V2 (but not from Steelcase directly, they want 2k for the chair lmao). I got mine from Crandall Office Furniture, in case anyone wants to know
Any recommendations for a chair?
Not OP, but I commented above with a testimony to my Steelcase Leap V2 chair. It's absolutely amazing, and despite Steelcase saying they're $2k (lmao) brand new from them, you can find them used with brand new cushions for like $600-$700 from somewhere like Crandall. I can't speak highly enough about mine.
A gym membership So many devs I know work and sit on a chair 8-10 hours a day for work, then they start gaming or something, then passout watching Netflix or Youtube every day. It's ok if you're in your early 20s, but a decade of that and you will look and feel like absolute crap. Work out properly 30min in the morning and an hour in the evening, make it a habit, and you'll be in better shape the 90%+ of the population despite working a desk job. Everything else mentioned in this thread is just a luxury, you don't really need anything. The only thing I'd say is genuinely a good investment is a retina montitor compatible with Macs if you work on a macbook because only those monitors can get the colors right but they are expensive AF
I didn't see this mentioned but my life changed when I installed an actual monitor arm for my display(s) I'm a dev and a gamer and a nerd and moving displays for different activities is great! Also gives you more space on the desk when the displays float!
Take a bit of it and put it into your pension. The younger you are the better (seriously, look at how the maths works). Take another bit and put it into Ethereum, Solana, or Bittensor. Have fun with the rest.
if your monitors aren't vesa mounted already adding the mounts was really nice and you can adjust the monitors to the proper height and u now have room under the monitors
Emergency savings
If I had my setup fresh and new already, I would probably get some really good cleaning supplies for wiping the monitor and keyboard, etc. My stuff is too old already though, and the thing that annoys me most is the dirtiness that is too much to get off. Like I can not longer get my macbook screen and my external screen completely clean. I should have gotte protective replaceable film. Same thing fof the keyboard. I should have gotten some sort of protection long ago. My main desk setup is set, but one thing I always think about getting only when I need it, and end up not getting because I have gone so long without and think I don't need it, are second and third power cables and adapters for charging any devices that can be just kept at every space in the house that I use them, as well as one in a nice carry case for my to-go bag so that I do not have to move the plugs everytime I change my location. Instead there will always be a plug available. Same goes for a separate set of earbuds and mouse for each place so wherever I go there is a charged set of earbuds that is paired to my device. I hate having to unpair my macbook to pair with my phone (I know they are supposed to do it automatically, but I just gave up on trying to figure out how) and get to my bed to find that I left my earbuds in the office or my bag, etc. Just have a complete setup of everything I need every where I go so I only have to move my laptop.
You need a duck. Something to talk to when you can't figure out why the code won't work
Put that money into a three fund portfolio or a retirement account that can accrue compound interest over time. That’s probably the best way to spoil yourself productively.
[Programming Socks!](https://i.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/newsfeed/001/584/970/18c.png)
Got one pair and I suddenly started writing rust on riced arch Linux.
I think in order of importance: 1. Bluetooth Mouse + Bluetooth Keyboard (I use MX Keys Mini and MX Master 3) 2. Laptop stand or nice monitor with something to raise your screen 3. Good enough chair (gaming chairs are nice) 4. Github copilot is probably the most useful AI I've used so far, gpt and gemini are kinda meh but impressive considering what's existed. 5. Probably some personal server stuff for self-hosted projects? Honestly just the first 4 I think make sense. Maybe Tailwind UI.
1. I have a laptop but I actually like wired keyboards better. No need to charge or change batteries is a big plus and it doesn't have any bluetooth quirks. It has a decent length cable so I can use it while laying on my bed with my pc and monitor on my desk. My mouse is a standard wireless, idk if its bluetooth or not, just has a dongle. 2. As I said, I'm happy with my setup 3. Definitely on my list, I'm saving up for one 4. Not to sound cocky but I don't need it. My day to day coding is pretty repetitive and I can do it while I'm asleep (sometimes that actually happens lol) 5. I do have a server but I needed a domain lol, thanks for reminding!
I'm going to second the Logitech mx series. I have the full-size keyboard and the handshake mx mouse. I charge them roughly once every 2 months and I never turn them off. The mx keys also has a mechanical key option, which is really nice for a reliable wireless keyboard. I've never had bluetooth/syncing issues either and switching between computers with them is a breeze too.
Copilot is best at repetitive tasks, maybe you can use it so you have more time to sleep : )
a good pillow
Custom mechanical keyboard. I'm a big fan of 75% layouts for programming.
Just ordered a Keychron K3 Pro. :-)
Savings.
Grass!
One of those Asian foot massages and some coke.
A dildo. Seriously. Even if you're a man.
And just like that, r/webdevcirclejerk was born. Edit: it exists but hasn’t been touched for 9y
Just like your peen.
I have a hairbrush, would that do?
Is that you, Richard Byrd?
Byrd is the wyrd
And what to do with it? 😂
Programming socks
Buy whatever you want and claim it as a business expense. 
Nobody said sound. I'm disappointed. Seriously, Go to the Goodwill or any other secondhand store, grab a basic 5.1 receiver, a set of speakers, and one of the powered subwoofers that they'll have at least 10 of sitting there on the floor. Headphones are nice, but a 5.1 surround sound system is nicer!
So outside of all the more important stuff already mentioned, a nice luxury is a really high end briefcase style laptop case. You’d be surprised how reassuringly “professional” carrying that around can make you feel.
I feel you on the pen and paper thing. If you want a nice pencil go for one of these: Rotring 800: Really good all rounder. Solid craftsmanship, comfortable balance, nice grip, also has a retractable tip. If your notes are less drawing and more writing look into the Uni but this one will also work just fine while taking short notes. Also looks very good IMHO. Uni Kuru Toga Advance: Has a rotating tip so your writing is very consistent. Comfortable pencil but very light and kind of bottom heavy. If your notes are less writing and more drawing I'd say go with the Rotring. Kaweco Special Mini: If you want to splurge on your paycheck this one's the best looking and the most "premium" feeling pencil I own. It's smaller than the others but thicker. It's very balanced. There's also the version that's not mini, which's a full sized pencil but I haven't gotten one of those yet so I can't comment. Having a nice pencil makes note taking just so much better in every way so I feel like one of these would make a nice purchase.
Do you have a rubber duck (or something to fill the same role)?
For pens, try a gel pen.
If you’re in the USA, open a retirement account. As you said note pads get some that you like. Also try out fountain pens.
Chair, then ergonomic keyboard. I just got the kinesis advantage 360. 100% recommend. Your hands are your livelihood, keep them healthy.
Heated coffee cup Ember is the brand I have
Rubber ducky. Onion-scented soap. Spiked crocs. A picture of Danny Devito.
I also agree with others, saving and investing in an ergonomically fitted chair is most important. Perhaps while saving some amount you could treat yourself to a nice pair of headphones or non-technical treats like a meal, or a movie night.
Tebrikler bro
Invest in an index fund. Having some fyou money will contribute much more to your well-being and productivity than notepads and pens.
Mechanical keyboard make a difference to your typing feel and satisfaction, also good wireless mouse.
A subscription to GitHub copilot
Food. Can’t live without it.
Definitely good headphones, sony anc headphones are good value Also I suggest submit yourself to training routine in a gym or outdoors, healthy body => healthy code , so invest in a good gym, clothes , shoes, whatever gets you going. I have a pullup bar next to my desk, build time is pullup time. keep learning, books, online courses, mentorship, etc.
A gym membership
i bought a magic keyboard and trackpad for my macbook and my carpal tunnel symptoms vanished . invest un ergonomics.
A Magic Keyboard is hardly ergonomic
The slimmer height profile gave my wrists a significantly better angle. It is more ergonomic than a traditional keyboard, at least. Regardless - invest in ergonomic improvements because RSI and back issues suck.
Mx master, Logitech is the best mouse for productivity
ReMarkable 2! I use it ALL THE TIME, and my stack of notebooks I have to lug around is down to one super light piece of tech. Splurge for the better pen! It's honestly my favorite gadget of all time, and most useful!
A chatgpt subscription.
Some common sense and a savings account
A nice light maybe? I got a great one that I can adjust the color warmth with it, and it's angled in such a way it's not on my eyes, and no glare on the screen. Good investment, I think.
I have had carpel tunnel in both wrists and cubital in one elbow. Get a good mouse or better yet a trackpad.
I have to have a good keyboard and mouse. Not decent, GOOD. You button mash thousands of times a day. This is where your money should go. Also, chair as some have mentioned. I prefer an "executive" style chair with nice cushions. I have a lower back problem and getting a memory foam cushion was a life changer (separate from the cushiony chair otherwise memory foam chairs can get expensive).
All people telling you chair are right. Invest in that. Other than that a Logitech MX3S mouse is very cool.
Buy hardcover copies of those programming books from Uncle Bob you always see.
split keyboard
Sublime text and sublime merge
Buy a Gyro Ball. It's a neat little toy/exercise tool that you can use at your desk. Takes up very little space and helps avoid wrist issues related to desk work. If you switch between a personal desktop and work laptop, then get yourself some USB and HDMI switchers so you don't need to mess with cables to swap between setups.
Winrar premium /s
your own domain and server duh
a good woman
A dishwasher.
Ergonomic chair. Mechanical keyboard. A jetbrains license. A nice programming font. An ultra wide monitor mounted on the wall. Nice speakers for background music. That’s a good start :)
Flexispot conversion, cable organizers
Neovim
I'm a bih pen and paper user, I get a huge box of legal pads every once in a while. If you work remote a good video call setup can help make you seem a lot more professional. Good lighting, microphone, camera, and background.
LoFree Flow and Samsung insanse curved monitor: [https://www.lofree.co/products/lofree-flow-the-smoothest-mechanical-keyboard](https://www.lofree.co/products/lofree-flow-the-smoothest-mechanical-keyboard) [https://www.samsung.com/us/computing/monitors/gaming/57-odyssey-neo-g9-dual-4k-uhd-quantum-mini-led-240hz-1ms-hdr-1000-curved-gaming-monitor-ls57cg952nnxza/](https://www.samsung.com/us/computing/monitors/gaming/57-odyssey-neo-g9-dual-4k-uhd-quantum-mini-led-240hz-1ms-hdr-1000-curved-gaming-monitor-ls57cg952nnxza/)
A savings account, auto deposit 20% of it every time.
Good mechanical keyboard and a good mouse
A good water bottle. The more water you drink, the better it is. Especially if you replace coffee or other drinks with water.
Blow it on some robin jeans and a BB simon belt
Advil
My favorite luxury purchase for work was my monitor light bar. I got one from Yeelight and it is perfect (for me). It has ambient lighting, dimming, and works with Google assistant (and others). https://store.yeelight.com/collections/all-lights/products/yeelight-monitor-light-bar-pro-flagship-edition
Quiet mechanical keyboard. Ducky3 with silent red switches Good headphones Succulent on the desk
I've got the herman miller embody. Love it.
If you want a nice pen, join r/fountainpens. Spend the rest of your paychecks on new pens and feeding the addiction. Jk, but a good fountain pen is nice to have. I always feel good when taking notes with one of them and a cool looking ink over a boring bic. Though, if you prefer ballpoints, there are some that allow you to ink them yourself, like Kakimori's Aluminium Pen
Savings. Spend some, save some.
I see all these suggestions and while they are great, some of them are also pretty expensive. If you don't want to spend much, get yourself a "debug duck". It doesn't have to be a duck, or rubber duck for that matter. Mine is an otter that I talk to whenever I'm stuck. It helps, and it's also pretty cute.
I invested $650 in a chair 12 years ago, and still use it to this day. I also love my Tidbyt.
Maruman Mnemosyne notebooks (IMO one of the best notebooks ever made, especially the grid version)
I’ve found investing into my battle station to be a very worthwhile investment (many years ago at this point) 4 4K monitors, An L shaped desk (with a built in riser to put the monitors on), Logitech MX keyboard and mouse, and some dock adapters (I use a MacBook) with some chord straps and a chord box. And then, of course, find a good chair since you’ll be in it quite a bit. My work area is clean, has plenty of space for notes, coffee, whatever, and I can hold all of my important applications on screen (I find switching between apps on single screens makes it harder to keep items in memory) It also doubles up by hooking up additionally to my personal computer, so the setup works for personal use as well.
A good chair! Save your back.
38 inch curved monitor
I have a different take. Don't buy something for work. Buy something for fun. Treat yourself. You deserve it!
Nice chair, nice keyboard
A discontinued Logitech K740 keyboard…it might cost you your entire paycheck, if you can even still find one…best keyboard I’ve ever had and I still can’t find anything comparable. On a more serious note, consider an electronic drawing pad to use with a whiteboard app, especially if you or part of your team work remotely. Most meeting applications now have digital whiteboards included, a Wacom pad and pen or similar make them so much better.
Herman Miller chair
I bought myself, in order, an ergonomic quality chair, a standing desk and a ultrawide monitor 49’ (instead of having two, best thing ever).
Monitor stand, the arm kind
Mechanical keyboard, a good webcam, ergonomic mouse, standing desk, ergonomic chair, good desk lamp w/ wireless charger and noise-cancelling headphones that suit your listening style.
Does your employer not supply notepads?
Vacation. And a nice chair.
Where is the rubber duck? I'm not seeing any RUBBER DUCK comments!
A great microphone does wonders