Forget the Multiple Monitors – Why I Went Back to a Single Screen
You know, when I first heard about this whole “multiple desktop” thing, I’ll admit I was a bit skeptical. I mean, why would anyone need more than one screen? Isn’t that just overkill? Well, let me tell you, I’ve been there, done that, and I’m here to tell you why I ultimately ditched the multiple monitor setup and went back to a single screen.
Back in the day, I was one of those folks who thought having multiple monitors made me look like a total computing badass. I had this giant 34-inch ultrawide screen that I thought was the bee’s knees. But you know what they say – sometimes more really is less. After a few weeks of using that mammoth of a display, I found myself constantly fiddling with window placement, trying to decide what should go where. It was like a never-ending game of digital Tetris, and let me tell you, it got old real fast.
As a developer, I spend a lot of my time writing code and reading documentation. And you know what I realized? I really only need to focus on one thing at a time. Having all those potential distractions – email, social media, that random YouTube video that caught my eye – constantly visible was just killing my productivity. I’d find myself constantly getting sucked into checking this, that, and the other thing, instead of actually, you know, getting work done.
The Power of Virtual Desktops
So, I ditched the multiple monitor setup and went back to a single, reasonably-sized 24-inch 4K display. And let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer. With virtual desktops, I can now have the same level of organization and focus as I did with the multiple screens, but without all the distractions.
Here’s how it works: I have my browser always on the far left virtual desktop, my code editor in the middle, and any other apps I need on the right. With a quick three-finger swipe, I can instantly jump between these different “workspaces” without ever having to turn my head or refocus my eyes. It’s like having an unlimited number of virtual monitors, all perfectly organized and ready to go.
And when I’m working remotely, say from a coffee shop or the beach (yes, the beach – how’s that for a humble brag?), my workflow doesn’t skip a beat. All my windows and apps stay exactly where I left them, no matter where I am. No more having to rearrange everything every time I undock my laptop. It’s seamless, and it’s made my life so much easier.
The Benefits of a Single, High-Quality Display
But it’s not just the virtual desktops that have transformed my setup. I also made the switch to a single, high-quality 4K display, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer. The increased pixel density means text and images are razor-sharp, which reduces eye strain and makes it easier to focus for long periods of time.
And let’s talk about the size for a minute. Sure, those giant 34-inch screens might look impressive, but in reality, they’re just overkill. At 24 inches, my display is large enough to comfortably view a single application in full-screen mode, or to split the screen and run two apps side-by-side. But it’s not so large that I have to constantly move my head and eyes to see everything.
Plus, with the help of some handy window management tools like BetterTouchTool on Mac or just the good ol’ Windows key + Arrow shortcuts, I can easily resize and arrange my windows exactly how I want them. No more wasted time fiddling with window placement.
Staying Focused and Productive
And you know what else? This setup has actually helped me stay more focused and productive throughout the day. With a single screen in front of me, I can easily maximize my apps and block out all those pesky distractions. No more temptation to check my email or social media every five minutes.
In fact, I even started using a treadmill desk. I know, I know, it sounds a bit crazy, but hear me out. Walking while I work keeps me energized, focused, and alert – no more of that “comfy chair” drowsiness that used to plague me. And the best part? The treadmill rolls out of the way when I’m ready to sit down and really dig into a task.
So, if you’re still on the fence about this whole multiple desktop thing, let me give you a piece of advice: ditch the extra screens and go back to a single, high-quality display. Trust me, your productivity (and your sanity) will thank you. And hey, if you really need to see multiple things at once, just fire up those virtual desktops. It’s the best of both worlds, without all the distractions.
Oh, and one more thing – if you’re in the market for a new computer or need some help with your setup, be sure to check out ITFix. Those guys really know their stuff when it comes to computers and tech, and they’re always happy to lend a hand.
