twinysam/computertoolbox

A list of some of my favorite and essential computer programs

Computer Toolbox

My software essentials, the handy tools, the things that make my life easier and/or more enjoyable. Mostly Windows-oriented, but plenty of open source and cross-platform software in there.

In no particular order:

• LightShot - Taking screenshots made easy. Windows and Mac.
• Brackets - Coding for the web. These days I'm using Visual Studio Code quite a bit also, but Brackets still remains my favorite for all things HTML/CSS/JS. Cross-platform.
• foobar2000 - My favorite audio playback software for Windows. Extremely customizable.
• SpeedCrunch - Hands down the best calculator I've ever used. Cross-platform.
• PeaCalc - This one is WAY more lightweight and faster than SpeedCrunch, but not as pretty and can't really be customized. Windows only.
• Network Lights - Can turn that useless scroll-lock light on your desktop keyboard into a network connection traffic indicator. Especially useful if your modem is not on sight. Windows only.
• VLC media player - My favorite video player and the best one out there. If you are still using Windows Media Player or iTunes, you are missing out on life. Cross-platform.
• Notepad2e - The best replacement for Windows default notepad. It can fully replace it in the installation. It highlights code, has soft-wrapping, character counter, and many more features. Plus it is highly customizable.
• qBittorrent - Once upon a time uTorrent was the shit, but then it turned to shit (full of ads and spyware). This is open source and keeps getting better. For all your torrenting needs. Cross-platform.
• ResophNotes - Notes are an essential part of my life and this windows app is the fastest, most handy and lightweight I've come across. I also like Notation and the native SimpleNote app. But ResophNotes has earned a solid spot on my day-to-day.
• Feed Notifier - Simple desktop feed notifications. I've been looking for something like this for ages. Simple RSS notifications without the need for a fully fleshed feed manager/reader. Ideal to stay on top of news (ie: adding only a handful of feeds).
• Sumatra PDF - The best alternative to Adobe Reader. Lightweight and supporting all sorts of formats.
• Handbrake - Video transcoding made easy. Cross-platform.
• WriteMonkey - One of my favorite distraction-free writing software. I've been using it for years now. Windows.
• Aseprite - Pixel art for the 21st century. Good for icons, GIFs and your basic Paint needs. Incredibly powerful.
• Calibre - For all your e-book needs. Cross-platform.
• CDisplay EX - For reading CBR comicbook files.
• Ghostwriter - Another great distraction-free writing tool. This one is open source and is named like that awesome show.
• Mem Reduct - Tool to keep track of RAM on Windows and reduce it if needed. Very handy.