?? Top 10 Apps for Developers on macOS and Windows in Different Categories (With My Personal Experience)

As a developer, I’ve used many different tools that significantly speed up and streamline the workflow. Here’s my experience with some of them and alternatives you might want to check out.

?? macOS

1?? File & Server Management:

Cyberduck — I use it for FTP and SFTP server management. It’s great for managing remote files with an intuitive interface.

Alternative: Transmit — More powerful with additional features, but it comes at a higher price.

2?? Task Management & Planning:

Things 3 — A simple, minimalist task manager perfect for personal projects. Easily integrates with my calendar.

Alternative: Todoist — A great alternative with more flexible features for collaboration.

3?? Database Management:

TablePlus — I use it to manage MySQL and PostgreSQL databases. It’s very convenient for quick access and editing.

Alternative: DBeaver — Better suited for more complex tasks with support for a wide range of databases.

4?? Git Clients:

Fork — It works great with Git. Simple yet powerful, I use it for managing branches and merges.

Alternative: GitKraken — A more graphical interface, but it can be a bit more complex for beginners.

5?? API Testing & Documentation:

Postman — My go-to tool for testing and documenting APIs. It’s simple yet powerful.

Alternative: Insomnia — A lightweight alternative with support for both GraphQL and REST.

6?? Container Management:

Docker Desktop — I use it frequently for local development and testing apps in containers. It’s very convenient for isolating development environments.

Alternative: Vagrant — An alternative that requires more configuration and works with virtual machines.

7?? Window Management:

Rectangle — Extremely handy for managing windows with keyboard shortcuts. Helps keep my workspace organized.

Alternative: Magnet — A simple, functional app for organizing windows.

8?? Password & Access Management:

1Password — I use it to store passwords and API keys. It’s secure and easy to use.

Alternative: Bitwarden — A free alternative with open-source code and synchronization across devices.

9?? Screenshots & Screen Recording:

CleanShot X — My favorite for taking screenshots and recording screens. It’s easy to use with many useful features.

Alternative: Snagit — A great alternative with support for annotations and image editing.

?? App Launcher & Automation:

Raycast — A super convenient launcher for finding files, launching apps, and running quick commands.

Alternative: Alfred — Another launcher for macOS with a lot of customizations, though it requires more setup.

?? Windows

1?? File & Server Management:

FileZilla — I use it for FTP and SFTP. Simple but powerful.

Alternative: WinSCP — A solid alternative for those who work with remote files frequently.

2?? Task Management & Planning:

Todoist — The best task manager on Windows. Very convenient with great synchronization.

Alternative: Microsoft To Do — A free alternative with integration across Microsoft services.

3?? Database Management:

DBeaver — My main tool for working with databases on Windows. Supports all major databases and has a solid interface.

Alternative: HeidiSQL — A lightweight alternative for working with MySQL and PostgreSQL.

4?? Git Clients:

Fork — Worked with it on Windows, and it turned out to be very convenient for Git project management.

Alternative: SourceTree — A free alternative with more extensive features for Git management.

5?? API Testing & Documentation:

Postman — Also use it on Windows for API testing. It’s just as convenient on this platform.

Alternative: Hoppscotch — A lightweight alternative focusing on quick API tests.

6?? Container Management:

Docker Desktop — Very convenient for local development and containerizing apps.

Alternative: Podman — An alternative to Docker with lower system requirements and Docker compatibility.

7?? Window Management:

PowerToys — A suite of utilities from Microsoft for managing windows and boosting productivity.

Alternative: DisplayFusion — A powerful tool for managing multiple monitors and windows.

8?? Password & Access Management:

KeePass — I use it for secure password storage. Free and open-source.

Alternative: Dashlane — A very convenient password manager with syncing features.

9?? Screenshots & Screen Recording:

ShareX — A free and powerful tool for screenshots and screen recording.

Alternative: Greenshot — A lightweight app for screenshots and annotations.

?? App Launcher & Automation:

Wox — My favorite launcher on Windows for quick searching and task automation.

Alternative: Launchy — A simple and lightweight app for launching programs and finding files.

Important: I didn’t include code editors in this list because, as we all know, choosing a code editor is like choosing your favorite type of pizza: one person prefers pineapple, the other doesn’t, and arguments won’t change anyone’s mind! ?? So I’ll leave that up to you and your preferences.

These apps have significantly improved my productivity as a developer. My advice: remember that tools are not magic wands, they’re more like “battle companions.” Even if they don’t solve all your problems, they’ll at least make your life a little easier and more productive.

And if you’re still coding without these tools—well, I encourage you to start using them and feel how your mornings with coffee get just a little bit better.

What tools do you use? Share your experiences! Maybe I’ve missed something great? ??