Running my SaaS businesses from my MacBook, I've found five apps that I literally can't live without anymore.
1. Vivid - Screen Brightness Booster
I use this to nearly double my MacBook's screen brightness beyond the default max. Game-changer when I'm working near windows with sun glare.
2. Supercharge - Notification Killer
I only use one feature: clearing all notifications with Caps Lock + X. No more clicking them away one by one - I just hit my shortcut and they're gone. I can’t stress enough how freaking useful this is.
3. HomeRow - Keyboard Everything
I press Caps Lock + F and suddenly I can access everything on my screen with keyboard shortcuts. No need for reaching for my mouse constantly.
4. Ice - Clean Menu Bar
Open source version of Bartender. I use this to hide most of my menu bar apps and only show the essentials. Keeps my interface clean when I have tons of apps running.
5. Little Snitch + Oversight - Security Combo
Little Snitch shows me every network connection apps make (so I can deny sketchy analytics). Oversight alerts me when my camera or mic turns on. I sleep better knowing what's happening on my Mac.
These apps work together perfectly - like how Oversight's notifications pair with Supercharge's quick dismiss. Once you start using tools like these, going back to stock macOS feels painful.
Bonus mentions: Raycast for app launching (GOATED) and Setapp for accessing dozens of quality Mac apps through one subscription.
