Whether you’re just starting out or have been designing for years, having the right tools can make all the difference. In this list of graphic designer essentials, I’m sharing my must-haves—from reliable hardware to everyday design tools that keep my...
Sections
4
Course
Softwares
Devices
Accessories
Course
i took a short course on graphic design for print media at de lasalle college of saint benilde under the SPACE program. it was fun and i consider that my stepping stone towards my graphic design career.
SPaCE Program Offerings
i took the graphic design course at shillington new york as a full time student months before the pandemic happened and it is truly one of the best investments in my career. i met amazing mentors and great colleagues and friends!
Study Design Online | Shillington Education
i am currently taking the self-paced graphic design course from Briefbox to brush up on my knowledge. i believe that we have to be up to date with our skills and we should never stop learning and improving our skillset.
The Course
Softwares
of course, the OG and the machine behind my career lol. i got the creative cloud subscription to be a well rounded designer. i have so much fun exploring new tools and softwares within the suite.
Adobe Creative Cloud | Professional Creative Software
i discovered this software through my husband and it is quite a learning curve. what i do love is that it brings me back to the basics. it keeps me grounded and i love discovering new ways to create with new tools.
Affinity Designer
a lot of debate about this but i love how canva makes things easy for everybody. remember that phrase from ratatouille that says “everyone can cook!” in canva, i feel the same way “everyone can create!” and i love it.
Canva Pro | Your all-in-one design solution
Devices
this is my machine, my arsenal, my mighty strong device since 2021! i love that it gets alllll the work done for every need i have.
16-inch MacBook Pro
this small but mighty macbook air in rose gold is my back up device. i love love love using this for personal work. i think it gives the work life separation i need.
Apple MacBook Air 13-inch Retina 1.6GHz
my rose gold ipad pro 10.5 has been with me for yeaaars and it is still working beautifully! i love using procreate on this device. simple, fuzz free, gets the job done fast.
Geek Squad Certified Refurbished 10.5-Inch iPad Pro with ...
Accessories
i've been using this for more than 6 months now. i like that it is simple and does the job! also love that it doesn't sound like a “normal keyboard” if you know what i mean. compatible with my macbook pro 16"
Rii RK907 Ultra-Slim USB Wired Keyboard
i use this keyboard when i want that clickity clack clack typing with a colorful dancing background light if you know what i mean :p
Redragon K668 RGB Wired Mechanical Keyboard
this is on my wishlist but isn't she pretty??? aahh i will have you one day! but i'll gladly stare at this soft pink keyboard for now :)
YUNZII B75 PRO 75% Wireless Mech Keyboard
this is on my wishlist because i still get confused with how this ergonomic mouse works i keep on pressing the wrong button lol. but this soft pink logitech mouse is definitely something i'll get in the future.
Logitech Lift Vertical Ergonomic Mouse Wireless
Love this mouse! I've been using this for years and so far it gets the job done. i like that it is lightweight and easy to use. it works on any surface with or without a mousepad. i also love that it also has a backlight which is a fun feature to hav...
M727 Capo 50 Mouse
where my fellow armies at?? i've been using this ever since i got it from Korea last 2021. I love it so much! it makes me happy. I do want a bigger and longer deskpad version :)
BT21 JELLY CANDY & MY LITTLE BUDDY SERIES Mouse Pad
this is not an essential but a want! haha! :)
BT21 MY LITTLE BUDDY SERIES Desk Mat
i love my belkin multi-port adapter! keeps me connected to all the devices i need to hook in my laptop :P
this laptop stand is a game changer! keeps my vision on eye level so there is less strain on my eyes and on my neck. it also keeps my laptop cool as it provides better ventilation and airflow especially when working on media heavy projects.
Nulaxy C3 Aluminum Detachable Laptop Stand
keeps all the files protected and organized :)
Seagate Expansion 2TB External USB 3.0 Portable Hard ...
i love cleaning my devices! i believe that's the secret to making it last and keeping it looking brand new :)
Keyboard Cleaner Kit for Laptop, MacBook, iPad
keeps my desk and space organized! i love how it's really sturdy. i've stored 2 ipads, 1 kindle and 2 phones all at the same time and it didn't tip over :)
Vaydeer Vertical Laptop Stand, Dual Slots
gotta keep our eyes protected from the screen glare. i haven't gotten any headaches since using this last 2021. definitely a game changer! :)
Madison Avenue 2 Pack Vintage TR90 Blue Light Readers 2.0
love this wireless headphones! i mainly use them during meetings. :)
JBL Tune 510BT Bluetooth Headphones Black
yes, i still use wired earbuds! i loooove this especially when i need to edit long form videos. helps with tension on the ears and on the head. bonus that it has a mic feature!
Skullcandy Jib Wired Earbuds w/ Mic & Controls
absolutely love using my loop earplugs when i am on focus mode. keeps the noise out while still aware of my surroundings :)