Brian Ruiz

What I use every day to build, create, and stay productive.

Gear and apps I actually own and enjoy using. Mostly tech. Links are affiliate where available, which means I may earn a commission if you buy something, at no extra cost to you.

Everyday carry

  • AirPods Max

    For focused desk work, commuting, and travel. AirPods Pro are the lighter everyday pair.

  • M1 Pro MacBook Pro 16-inch

    Holding strong as the portable center of engineering and creative work.

  • Samsung T7 Shield SSD

    Portable storage for editing projects and recording ProRes footage.

  • Urth backpack

    Sleek and water resistant. Holds the daily tech essentials.

Workstation

  • Apple Studio Display

    Main display for development, design, and editing. BenQ ScreenBar Halo sits on top for reducing eye strain.

  • Ergonofis Sway standing desk

    Paired with the Ergonofis desk shelf. A clean, comfortable foundation for long coding sessions that still feels minimal.

  • Herman Miller Aeron

    Bought secondhand. Still one of the most important parts of the workspace.

  • Mode Designs Envoy keyboard

    Probably my end-game keyboard. Logitech MX Master 3S and an Apple Magic Trackpad round out the desk.

  • Shure SM7dB

    This microphone is perfect for podcasting and streaming. Get clear, warm vocals every time.

Camera gear

  • Peak Design carbon fiber tripod

    Light enough to actually bring along, sturdy enough for real work.

  • Sennheiser MKE 600

    Don't underestimate a good mic. The DJI Mic covers on-the-go recording.

  • Sony 24–70mm f/2.8 GM II

    The workhorse lens on the FX3 for most video work.

  • Sony 40mm f/2.5 G

    Small, sharp, and easy to carry for everyday street shooting.

  • Sony a7C II

    Compact full-frame body for street photography around New York City.

  • Sony FX3

    My dream camera. It can feel like overkill, but using it you understand why it's so loved. This camera forces you to learn more about videography, and that's why I love it myself.

Apps

  • Bevel

    I use this for various health metrics to extend Apple Health, including fitness tracking, food logging, and sleep.

  • Cursor

    My primary IDE for software development and AI-assisted coding.

  • Figma

    Where I explore interfaces and turn ideas into visual direction.

  • Final Cut Pro

    Where the YouTube videos come together.

  • Notion

    Planning, notes, and systems.

Home

  • Cowboy Classic v4

    My e-bike. I love the design. From a distance it still looks like an ordinary classic bike, but it's perfect for zipping around the city.

  • Fellow Ode

    Coffee grinder at home, with a Fellow kettle alongside it.

  • LG C4 OLED

    Living-room essentials with a Sonos Beam and Apple TV 4K.