A Must For Mac
Launcher: (free) One of the most useful apps that I’ve installed on my Mac is a launcher, and Alfred is perfect for first time Mac users. Mac comes with its launcher-like feature called Spotlight, but Alfred is like Spotlight on steroid. Not only Alfred will help you launch anything with a few keystrokes, but it can also define words, do math calculation, search local folders and the internet, find contacts, play iTunes, become clipboard manager, and more. You can also choose one of the themes to change its appearance. If you upgrade your Alfred with powerpack, you can create custom themes to make Alfred looks the way you want, and workflows to cut down the repetitive task.
There are alternative launchers that you can try like (free) and (€ 24.00). Files and Folders Management ‘Finder’ is a files and folders management feature that is built into Mac OS X, and it does a good job. But for more advanced files and folders management, you need help from third-party apps. For Finder alternative, you can use (US$ 39.95). Other than supporting dual pane window to make copying and moving file easier, Path Finder also provides you with full keyboard navigation, ability to batch rename files, compare and sync folders, and more. Other than Finder alternative, you can also automate file management using. You set conditions on a folder, and when the conditions are met, Hazel will do a set of actions.
For example, every time you finish downloading a movie file, the file will be moved to Movies folder automatically. We have discussed Hazel before, so please refer to that article if you want to know more about it. One more tool that you can add to your arsenal is (free).
It’s an app that can help you extract virtually any archive format. Note Taking and Synchronizing What is a computer without? And today’s version of text editor adds the synchronizing twist to the genre. There are quite a few of note taking and synchronizing apps in the Mac’s world. If you just want a robust text editor, try (free). But if you want a multi-platform note container, the obvious choice is the mammoth (free with upgrade options).
Or if you want the lighter options, there are (free) and the beautiful (US$ 9.99). Since we are talking about writing tools, why not try (US$ 19.99)?
This (Apple’s best app of the year for 2014 and 2015) is a minimalist writing app that takes a different approach to the old craft. Don’t let the blank canvas fool you, as the editing options will present themselves above the selected text. This app is also a robust that supports WordPress, Medium, Blogger, Tumblr, Evernote and even Facebook.
Video Playing and Converting Many Mac users consume movies on their machines. Among many, there are two that stand out: and (both free). These two players can play virtually any media files that you throw at them, supports subtitles, and tons of other media playing features. Due to the limitation on Mac App store, (the latest version of) the apps are not available there. Once in a while, you’ll need to convert media files from one format to another. The most famous media converter is (free). This powerful app has very detailed settings that users can choose, but unfortunately, the features make it difficult for ordinary users to use it.
If you want something as simple as drag and drop converting, maybe you can try (US$ 9.99). Image Editing and Manipulating You don’t have to be a professional graphic designer to need an image editor. Even everyday computer users need to edit and manipulate pictures once in a while. You can do anything with Photoshop, but it’s both too huge and expensive for everyday users. The lighter (and almost as powerful) alternative is (US$ 29.99).
If what you need is a little bit of screen captures here and there, and a quick image annotations, you could try Evernote’s (free) that will quickly snap your screen with a keyword shortcut, and save the result to your Evernote account. Here are some too, if you are not fond of it. And to automatically optimize image size, you can use (free). Just drag and drop your images into the app’s window and it will do its magic. Alternative Browsers Mac OS X’s Safari is a very capable browser.
It’s fast, light, and does everything that a browser does. But having other ready wouldn’t hurt either. Maybe you want the same experience anywhere you go, or maybe you just want to open a similar website with different identities.
The best browser alternatives are and (both free) with others practically non-existent. Other than available for other platforms, these alternative browsers also sync your account across devices and can be expanded using browser extensions. Windows Management One of the first thing that those who come from the Windows world would notice the first time they use Mac is that Mac treats application windows differently than what Windows does. In Mac environment, windows float around the screen. They do full screen, but they don’t “snap”. If you want to recreate that familiar snap feeling in Mac, you can use the help of (free).
The app will allow you to move and resize windows quickly and easily using keyboard shortcut combination. For example, you can use Command + Option + F to make the window fill the screen, or Command + Option + Right Arrow to put the window on the right half side of the screen. But if you think Spectacle is not advanced enough for your windows management thirst, you can try (US$ 13.99). SEE ALSO: And More With literally thousands of apps out there, there must be many apps that are not included in the list. So, if you think that there are other apps that should be installed by the first time Mac users, please mention them in the comments section below.
You've made the plunge. You're getting a new Mac (or maybe you already ordered one and you're anxiously awaiting its delivery). Though most PC accessories will work just fine with Apple's computer, there are a couple of things you're going to want to get to really tie the room together with your beautiful new Mac aesthetic.
Here's a list of accessories you'll want to get you started right away. iMac and iMac Pro accessories If you've decided to go all-in with one of Apple's signature desktop computers, there are a couple of additions you'll want to bring to this party. Logitech MK850 Mouse and Keyboard combo. The iMac and iMac Pro come with Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse, or you can upgrade to the Magic Trackpad for $50. If you're not happy with Apple's peripherals, however, I suggest Logitech's MK850 mouse and keyboard combo. The wireless duo is specially designed for comfort. The keyboard has a slightly rounded shape and a soft wrist padding.
The mouse is ergonomic with a thumb inset (right-handed only, sorry lefties). They are both capable of pairing with three different devices at the same time so you can switch between them without having to repair or set up a new one. I personally prefer Apple's Magic Keyboard and Trackpad (though I also love the Magic Mouse), but if the low-profile aesthetic is not for you, the $100 MK850 mouse and keyboard combo is an attractive and comfortable alternative. Bose Companion 20 speakers. I'm not going to lie, the built-in iMac speakers are.
If you're not trying to blast your beats, they are good enough for low to medium volume listening, especially if you're mostly watching cat videos on YouTube. But if you want to feel the beat and plan on turning it up to 11, you're going to need something better. Bose makes a solid set of computer speakers that round out the levels of your tunes. They are meticulously designed with proper lows and highs so you don't have to add a subwoofer to still get the well balanced sound you're looking for. They're also smart-looking. The sharp, rectangular design and brushed aluminum look is a perfect fit for your iMac or iMac Pro.
They connect to your desktop using the 3.5mm audio jack, so you're not taking up precious USB ports. If you don't think you'll listen to music louder than, say, a third of full, you'll be fine with the built-in speakers, but if you're looking for something to bring on the bass, the $249 Bose Companion 20s will not disappoint. Apple SuperDrive.
The iMac does not come with a CD or DVD drive. For the most part, you're not going to need one. But, you'd be surprised at how often I find myself needing one to transfer my media to digital copies. Though we've moved on to a mostly digital existence, there are still times when an optical drive is a must-have. The SuperDrive is just about the size of a Discman and you can read and write CDs and DVDs with it. You can play movies, listen to music, and access files.
A Must For Macbook Pro
You don't even have to connect it to a Mac to use it. It's got a standard USB-A connector, so you could plug it into any display with a USB port. If this is your first Mac, there is a chance that you're used to having a CD or DVD drive, so you'll really feel like you're missing something without the SuperDrive. Do yourself a favor and grab one.
They're only $80. Seagate 4TB Backup Plus.
I cannot stress this enough: Back up your data. If something were to go wrong with your Mac, the only way to ensure that all of your data is protected is with a regular backup routine. I don't care if you save all of your important stuff in the cloud, you should still be backing up your Mac.
Every Mac, which is a very simple to use backup program, but you can double down on backup protection with Seagate. The Backup Plus provides a subscription-based cloud storage backup for, not only everything on your Mac, but also Dropbox, Google Drive, Facebook, Flickr, and YouTube. So you can protect every aspect of your digital life. The thin external hard drive is outfitted with 1 - 5GB of storage, but the best deal for the gigabytes is the 4GB drive. No matter what, you should back up your Mac. But if you want a top-notch external hard drive with the added benefit of a cloud-based backup services, the Seagate Backup Plus is right for you. It comes in black, silver, blue, and red and costs $110 for the 4GB model.
MacBook and MacBook Pro accessories If you've opted for Apple's more portable, but still incredibly powerful laptop line, your accessory collection will need to complement your on-the-go lifestyle. Booq Superslim laptop bag. I never leave the house without my if I have my MacBook Pro with me.
A Must For Mac Download
It's slim, like its namesake. It's sturdy enough to handle my MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, and iPhone 7 Plus, as well as the USB-C power adapter, a portable charging brick, and a magazine or two. There are pockets inside and out with special spots for pens, phones, and cables. It has a classic smart look, but a fun plaid pattern hidden inside. The tan leather accents give it that, 'I'm a professional, but I like to have fun' look. It's big enough to store practically all of your tech gadgets but slim enough to still fit inside a larger backpack if you need additional carrying space.
If you invest in the Slimfit from Booq, it's unlikely you'll ever need another laptop bag again. It comes in and sizes and costs $60. LG UltraFine 5K display. This is a luxury purchase. If you're planning on connecting your MacBook or MacBook Pro to an external display, this is the one to shoot for. If you need something immediately but don't have the money to spend on the LG UltraFine 5K display, there are some, but if you have the means, or at least have the time to save up, I highly recommend going all-in on this beauty.
It supports 5K Retina, something the brand new MacBook Pro is capable of producing. It has wide-gamut DCI-P3 color, which means brighter, deeper colors all the way around. The Thunderbolt 3 port pulls 5K at 60Hz, so it's clear, crisp, and lightning fast when it comes to transferring data from your MacBook or MacBook Pro. If you've got an extra $1,300, or have the time to save up, the UltrFine 5K is the most compatible display for the MacBook Pro. BookArc stand. Mophie is one of the most popular companies for juice boxes, and it's got a reputation for being the best.
With the Powerstation XXL, not only will you be able to keep your MacBook or MacBook Pro juiced up, you'll also be able to charge your iPhone 7 Plus, Bluetooth headphones, or even your Nintendo Switch. The 19500mAh battery brick has two charging ports. The Quick Charge USB-A port supplies juice to even your most power hungry gadgets, like an iPad Pro or iPhone 7 Plus, with lightning speed. The USB-C 3A/30w fast-charging port supplies juice for the workhorse that is the MacBook Pro. If you plan on working remotely, and want to make sure your MacBook or MacBook Pro will have an additional 14 (estimated) hours of life before the battery takes a nap, get the Powerstation XXL and you won't be sorry.
It's out of stock on Mophie's site right now, but you can keep checking back and grab it for around $150 or head into your nearest Apple retailer. Elgato Thunderbolt 3 Dock.
The new MacBook and MacBook Pro ain't got nothin' but a C-port. That is; they only have USB-C ports, so you're going to want to get some kind of adapter for it. Out of the box, I purchased a USB-C to USB-A adapter because I have lots of gadgets that use USB-A cables., and it works great. But if you're planning on using your MacBook or MacBook Pro as your main computer, you'll soon discover that a USB-A adapter just isn't going to cut it. The Elgato Thunderbolt 3 Dock has a DisplayPort port, so you can connect it to a 5K Display without needing to spend $1,300.
A Must For Mac Free
It's also set up to support two 4K displays simultaneously if you're going to need a full-display set up. The dock itself supplies 85 watts of power to charge your MacBook Pro while you work.
It also features two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, and an ethernet port (that's right, you literally can't connect your MacBook or MacBook Pro to the internet using an Ethernet port without a dongle). You're paying a pretty penny at $300 for the Thunderbolt 3 Dock, but it's the USB-C hub of your dreams and you'll be able to use it for years to come. Seagate 4TB Backup Plus.
I cannot stress this enough: Back up your data. If something were to go wrong with your Mac, the only way to ensure that all of your data is protected is with a regular backup routine. I don't care if you save all of your important stuff in the cloud, you should still be backing up your Mac. Every Mac, which is a very simple to use backup program, but you can double down on backup protection with Seagate. The Backup Plus provides a subscription-based cloud storage backup for, not only everything on your Mac, but also Dropbox, Google Drive, Facebook, Flickr, and YouTube.
So you can protect every aspect of your digital life. The thin external hard drive is outfitted with 1 - 5GB of storage, but the best deal for the gigabytes is the 4GB drive. No matter what, you should back up your Mac. But if you want a top-notch external hard drive with the added benefit of a cloud-based backup services, the Seagate Backup Plus is right for you. It comes in black, silver, blue, and red and costs $110 for the 4GB model.
What would you recommend to a Mac noob? Are there certain accessories that you just can't live without and think are a must-have addition for every new Mac owner? Share your suggestions with us in the comments.