I recently got a new Mac (because of M1). Inspired by this installation plan, I decided to make a list of the apps I should install. Hopefully this will work as a good checklist the next time I need to set up a new Mac.
- Download and install Homebrew (for package management)
- Download and install Firefox (for web browsing)
- Download and install R and RStudio (for statistical programming)
- Change theme to “Tomorrow Night 80s” from Modern
- Add the addin quickview
- Download and install iTerm2 (for a better terminal)
- Install Oh My Zsh and change theme to Gruvbox Dark
- Customise vim (e.g., using these recommendations)
- Download and install Python (for programming)
- Download and install Dropbox and Google Drive (for file hosting)
- Download and install Steam (for gaming)
- Download and install Itsycal (for calendar management)
- Download and install Docker (for virtual containers)
- Download and install Microsoft Office (for Word, PowerPoint and Excel)
- Download and install 1Password (for password management)
- Download and install TweetDeck (for Twitter)
- Download and install Visual Code Studio (for programming and writing)
- Download and install Spotify (for music)
- Download and install Slack, Skype, WhatsApp, Zoom and Teams (for communication)
- Transfer SSL certificates and other relevant local files
- Change a series of defaults based on this list and this setup
This all works well and I am really happy with my Mac, especially the M1 chip. However, before I buy my next Mac, most likely in a few years time, I might try to see whether it is time to switch to Linux.