You don't want a YouTube desk. You want a calm one. Here's the smallest possible upgrade kit that makes a Mac desk feel finished without becoming a hobby.
You opened YouTube and a man with very good lighting started shouting about productivity. You closed the tab. You still want a nicer desk. Just less of one.
The list below is the smallest set of upgrades that will make a Mac desk feel finished and stop you from ever opening that video again.
The stack:
BookArc Flex · vertical stand that gets the laptop out of the middle
HiRise 3 Deluxe · one home for the iPhone, watch, and AirPods
WHOOSH! · the screen cleaner you stop being embarrassed by
Klack · the one keyboard upgrade you will actually feel
Norma · the small object that quiets the room
1. Get the Laptop Out of the Middle
Your MacBook is doing the work of a desktop, badly. It is also using up the most valuable surface area you own. BookArc Flex stands it on its side and reminds you that it is a computer, not furniture.
The desk gets back the space it should never have lost. The laptop stops being the center of attention. You stop hunching over it without noticing. It is a small fix for people who use an external display but still let the MacBook occupy the best part of the desk.
BookArc FlexVertical stand for laptops, optimizing desk space.Visit WebsiteThe Twelve South BookArc Flex Chrome is a sleek, low-profile stand that keeps your MacBook or laptop secure in a vertical position, optimizing desk space while improving heat dissipation. Its modern aluminum design seamlessly blends into any décor, making it perfect for home offices or casual workspaces. The stand doesn't require inserts or complicated adjustments; gravity holds your laptop in place. It's compatible with laptops up to 16 inches and features non-slip silicone pads to prevent slipping and scratches. Enjoy easy access to external monitors and peripherals with a clamshell mode setup, transforming your laptop into a desktop powerhouse.Visit Website
2. Give the Charging Pile One Address
Every device you own has a cable. Every cable is shorter than the one before it. Eventually the desk turns into a cable graveyard. HiRise 3 Deluxe replaces three cables with one object.
The layout is:
iPhone on top
Apple Watch on the side
AirPods in the front
The reason this matters is not aesthetic. It is that you stop searching for the dead device in the morning. If you move between calls, commutes, and short work sessions, one reliable charging home removes a surprising amount of daily friction.
HiRise 3 DeluxeWireless Charging Stand for Apple DevicesVisit WebsiteThe Twelve South HiRise 3 Deluxe is the ultimate solution for charging your Apple devices. This elegant, compact charging station allows you to simultaneously charge your iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, helping you eliminate clutter on your desk or nightstand. The 15W MagSafe Charger features an adjustable angle for optimal viewing and is designed with vegan leather for a sophisticated touch. Along with fast charging for your Apple Watch, it also offers versatility with a third charging spot. With international plug adapters included, the HiRise 3 Deluxe is travel-ready, making it perfect for use anywhere in the world. Its space-saving design fits well in any small area, creating an organized and stylish charging solution for all your Apple devices.Visit Website
3. Clean the Screen You Stare at All Day
Your monitor is the most expensive object you look at for eight hours. It is also covered in fingerprints, dust, and one mysterious smudge from a sneeze in February. WHOOSH! is the answer everyone keeps deferring because cleaning sprays do not feel like a real upgrade.
It is a real upgrade. A clean screen makes the whole desk feel cared for in about thirty seconds, and you will become a person who cleans the screen on Sundays.
WHOOSH!Powerful Screen Cleaner Spray for MonitorsVisit WebsiteThe WHOOSH! Screen Shine Duo is a cleaning kit designed for electronic devices, including iPads, monitors, laptops, and MacBooks. It features a non-toxic, streak-free cleaning solution that effectively removes dirt, fingerprints, and smudges from both glossy and anti-glare surfaces. The kit includes a 3.4 oz bottle for home or office use, a 0.3 oz travel-sized bottle, and two microfiber cloths, ma
- Includes a 3.4 oz bottle for home or office and a 0.3 oz travel-sized bottle for on-the-go cleaning.
- Comes with two microfiber cloths that effectively remove dust and smudges without scratching surfaces.
- Non-toxic, alcohol-free, and ammonia-free formula safe for all screen types.
- Quick-drying solution that leaves screens streak-free.
- Suitable for a variety of electronic devices, including iPads, monitors, laptops, and MacBooks.
The WHOOSH! Screen Shine Duo offers a practical solution for cleaning various electronic devices. Its non-toxic formula effectively removes dirt, fingerprints, and smudges, ensuring screens remain clear and visually appealing.Visit Website
4. Make One Thing Feel Better Every Time You Touch It
The Apple Magic Keyboard is fine. It is also dead silent in a way that feels like the keyboard is hiding from you. Klack adds typing sound back to your existing keyboard. No new hardware. Just sound.
This is the kind of upgrade you do not need until you try it for an afternoon and refuse to give it back. It is also the cheapest piece of joy on this list. It is for people who already like their keyboard but want the work to feel a little more physical, less glassy, and less silent.
KlackSatisfying sound with every keystrokeVisit WebsiteKlack is a macOS application designed to enhance the typing experience through high-fidelity sound for each keystroke. It provides features such as immersive spatial audio, instant feedback, and customizable sound options, making it suitable for writers, developers, and anyone who values an engaging typing environment. The app is easily accessible from the menubar and offers extensive configuratio
- Provides immersive spatial audio for enhanced typing feedback.
- Allows customization of keystroke sounds, pitch variations, and volume settings.
- Features a menubar interface for quick access to configuration options.
- Supports instant feedback with each keystroke for a more engaging experience.
- Designed for writers and developers seeking auditory feedback while typing.
Klack enhances the typing experience on Mac by providing high-fidelity sound for each keystroke.Visit Website
5. Add the One Object That Asks for Nothing
A desk full of devices is a desk full of small noises. Fans, pings, AirPods sliding out of the case, the click of an external drive. Norma is the only piece of the setup that does not light up, beep, or ask for your attention.
That is what makes it the most important object on the desk. Every other thing on this list earns its place by doing something. Norma earns its place by not.
NormaMeet the object that restores silence.Visit WebsiteNorma is an innovative device designed to help users regain focus by silencing distracting notifications and blocking selected apps. With a simple tap of your iPhone on the Unit Disc, you can pause the apps of your choice, making them temporarily inaccessible to eliminate distractions. Using NFC technology, this device offers a seamless user experience without requiring subscriptions or hidden fees. Weighing just 270g and made from high-quality stainless steel, Norma is both functional and stylish. With the added benefit of free worldwide shipping on orders of two or more units, it encourages a focused and peaceful environment. Therefore, whether you’re working, studying, or simply need a break from constant phone interactions, Norma enhances your ability to concentrate and reduces unnecessary interruptions.Visit Website
Five small purchases, finished desk, no rabbit hole. The video stays closed.
Die-cut holographic stickers for Apple Silicon chips.
WorkspaceCreative
Macintosh 128K inspired Iphone case
Retro style meets modern protection.
Workspace
Mac mini Transparent Case
Transparent case with dust-filtering design
WorkspaceDesign
Orbit Deskmat
A perfect blend of design and function
Workspace
Bokeh Deskmat
Elevate your workspace with the NuPhy Bokeh
Workspace
AirPods max Stand
Stylish and functional headphone stand designed for
Workspace
All-Aluminum Headphone Stand
Stylish and sturdy headphone stand for your
WorkspaceUtilities
New additions
Text Catalyst
Clipboard manager meets text expander.
Freemium
Text Catalyst is a clipboard manager and text expander software designed for macOS. It enhances clipboard functionality by combining clipboard history with text expansion features, allowing users to efficiently manage copied content and frequently used text snippets.
- Stores and manages clipboard history for easy retrieval of copied text.
- Allows users to search and filter clipboard entries by the originating application.
- Enables creation of text shortcuts for quick insertion of frequently used snippets.
- Supports pasting multiple copied items simultaneously to streamline workflows.
- Provides a preview of content before pasting to ensure accuracy.
Text Catalyst is a macOS application that enhances clipboard functionality by combining clipboard history and text expansion features. Users can manage copied items, search through their clipboard history, and preview content before pasting. The app supports quick access to frequently used text snippets and allows for pasting multiple items efficiently.
SoftwareProductivitymacOS
Balance
Time tracking and Pomodoro, beautifully simple
Freemium
Balance is a Mac time tracking and Pomodoro app designed to enhance focus and promote work-life balance. It allows users to log work sessions intentionally, receive reminders for breaks, and maintain session records. This tool is suitable for freelancers, students, and professionals. Balance is available for free on the Mac App Store, with optional in-app purchases, and requires macOS 14 or later.
- Tracks time using the Pomodoro technique to enhance focus and productivity.
- Provides customizable break reminders to prevent work fatigue.
- Maintains detailed session logs for tracking work patterns and productivity.
- Offers a user-friendly interface suitable for freelancers, students, and professionals.
- Available for free on the Mac App Store with optional in-app purchases.
- Requires macOS 14 or later for optimal performance.
Balance is designed for users seeking to enhance their productivity through structured time management. Its features cater to freelancers, students, and professionals who benefit from focused work sessions and regular breaks. By maintaining session logs, users can track their progress and optimize their workflow.
SoftwareProductivitymacOS
TinyFolder
A native app launcher for your Dock
One-time
TinyFolder is a macOS application designed for organizing frequently used applications by creating custom folders in the Dock. This software simplifies access to apps, allowing users to group them for quicker launching. It is particularly useful for individuals looking to reduce clutter and enhance productivity by keeping their most-used applications easily accessible.
- Groups frequently used applications into customizable folders for easy access from the Dock.
- Offers various layout options, including icons, lists, and tiles, to suit user preferences.
- Supports global keyboard shortcuts for quick launching of applications.
- Allows for extensive customization of folder appearance, including backgrounds and effects.
- Available as a one-time purchase with a 14-day satisfaction guarantee.
TinyFolder is a native app launcher designed for macOS 13 and later, compatible with both Apple Silicon and Intel Macs. It allows users to create custom folders in the Dock for frequently used applications, enhancing organization and accessibility. The application is code-signed and notarized by Apple, ensuring a secure installation.
SoftwareProductivitymacOS
Spotted in Prod
The very best of iOS
Freemium
Spotted in Prod is a web platform that curates standout iOS apps and interactions. It features short clips showcasing real product user interfaces from both indie developers and major tech companies. The platform aims to support designers and builders by providing insights into the people behind the work and offering a library of downloadable apps.
- Access a curated library of standout iOS app interactions and user interfaces.
- View short video clips showcasing real product UI from various developers.
- Discover profiles of indie makers and established tech companies behind the apps.
- Download featured apps directly from the platform for hands-on experience.
- Membership unlocks the full library of clips for comprehensive exploration.
Spotted in Prod serves as a resource for designers and developers seeking inspiration from a diverse range of iOS applications. By showcasing real product UI through curated clips, it facilitates learning and exploration of effective design practices.
SoftwareDesigniOS & macOS
FloatyDo
A tiny floating todo list for Mac
Freemium
FloatyDo is a floating todo widget designed for macOS. It allows users to manage tasks while working across different applications, providing quick capture and keyboard controls for easy access to daily priorities. The widget can be customized with various themes and fonts. FloatyDo is available for free on the Mac App Store, with an optional Lifetime unlock, and requires macOS Sequoia 15.
- Floating widget remains visible across applications for easy access to tasks.
- Quick capture feature allows for rapid entry of tasks using keyboard shortcuts.
- Customizable themes and fonts to personalize the user interface.
- Designed for minimal distraction, focusing on daily priorities rather than extensive project management.
- Available for free on the Mac App Store, with an option for a Lifetime unlock.
- Requires macOS Sequoia 15.0 or later for optimal functionality.
FloatyDo is designed for users who need a simple and accessible way to manage tasks without disrupting their workflow. Its floating interface allows for easy visibility across applications, making it suitable for those who prefer quick task entry and minimal distractions. The customization options enhance user experience, while its compatibility with macOS Sequoia 15.
SoftwareProductivitymacOS
Juicy
Custom Mac battery alerts & health
One-time
Juicy is a native Mac menu bar application designed for battery management. It allows users to set custom alerts for battery levels, monitor battery health, cycle count, and temperature, and receive lifecycle notifications for charging. Additionally, it provides insights into connected device batteries, dismisses macOS battery notifications, and tracks per-app energy usage over various timeframes.
- Set custom battery alerts at any specified level.
- Monitor battery health, cycle count, and temperature.
- Receive lifecycle alerts for charging and the 80% charge limit.
- View battery status of connected devices.
- Automatically dismiss macOS battery notifications.
- Analyze per-app energy usage over 24 hours, 7 days, and 30 days.
Juicy provides users with comprehensive battery management tools tailored for Mac. By offering customizable alerts, health tracking, and detailed energy usage insights, it enhances battery longevity and performance. This app is particularly useful for those who want to optimize their device's energy efficiency and minimize interruptions from system notifications. Compatible with macOS Sequoia 15.
SoftwareUtilitiesmacOS
Wick
A proper Clock app for Mac
Free
Wick is a free native Mac application designed to enhance the clock functionality on macOS. It consolidates Timers, Stopwatches, and Alarms into a single interface, offering integration with the menu bar and lock screen. This app is suitable for users seeking a streamlined way to manage time-related tasks and is compatible with macOS Sequoia (15) and later.
- Provides timers, stopwatches, and alarms in a single application.
- Integrates with the macOS menu bar for easy access.
- Displays active timers on the Lock Screen via Alcove.
- Compatible with macOS Sequoia (15) and later versions.
- Free to download and use without any subscription fees.
Wick offers a comprehensive clock solution for macOS users, integrating timers, stopwatches, and alarms in a user-friendly interface. Its menu bar and lock screen features enhance accessibility, making it suitable for those who require efficient time management tools.
SoftwareUtilitiesmacOS
HeyClicky
AI buddy that lives on your Mac
Freemium
HeyClicky is a software application designed for macOS that functions as an AI assistant. It allows users to interact with their screen content by answering questions audibly, providing on-screen guidance, and executing voice-activated tasks across various applications. It integrates with services like Gmail and Notion, offering support for creative tools, code editors, and spreadsheets.
- Provides voice responses based on on-screen content when activated by a hotkey.
- Offers on-screen drawing tools to visually guide users through tasks.
- Integrates with Gmail and Notion for streamlined task management.
- Allows users to create and run voice-triggered agents without using a terminal.
- Delivers step-by-step assistance across various applications, including creative tools and code editors.
- Available in a free tier, with additional features in Pro and Max plans.
HeyClicky enhances productivity by providing real-time assistance tailored to your workflow. Its integration with applications like Gmail and Notion allows for seamless task management, while voice-triggered agents simplify interactions across various software. With a free tier and options for advanced features, it caters to users seeking efficient support in creative and technical environments.
SoftwareAImacOS
Wallspace
Live wallpapers for your Mac
Freemium
Wallspace is a Mac application that provides live and dynamic desktop wallpapers. Users can browse a selection of animated backgrounds and apply them to their desktops, enhancing their workspace with motion and visual themes. This tool is designed for individuals seeking to replace traditional static wallpapers with more engaging and visually appealing options.
- Browse a library of animated wallpapers to customize your desktop.
- Apply live wallpapers that update dynamically based on time or events.
- Easily switch between different visual themes to refresh your workspace.
- Supports multiple monitor setups for a cohesive visual experience.
- Simple installation and user-friendly interface for quick setup.
Wallspace offers a practical solution for users looking to enhance their Mac desktop experience with dynamic wallpapers. By providing a variety of animated backgrounds that can change based on time or events, it allows for a personalized and visually stimulating workspace.
Dudu
