VoyagerMoonlanderErgodox EZ

ZSA

The people who use our boards.

401 interviews since 2018

Arthur

Dufour
Full-Stack Developer

Who are you, and what do you do? What do you like to do outside of work?

My name is Arthur. I’m French, 25 years old, and I live in Lyon. I work as a full-stack web developer at 365Talents, a French startup that was recently acquired by Docebo.

I’m genuinely passionate about programming. I especially enjoy building web applications with a strong focus on user experience. I love when something feels smooth, intuitive, and just “right.” There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning an idea into a polished product that people actually enjoy using. It’s a bit like digital craftsmanship.

Outside of work… well, I keep coding (yes, I know 😅). I enjoy building side projects, experimenting with tools, and optimizing my workflow just for fun. I also spend time with my girlfriend and try to occasionally step away from my screens. Though my keyboard tends to miss me when I do.

Arthur Dufour's motorcycle, parked
Glad you're okay, Arthur! We hope this bike's new owner enjoys it in good health

I used to ride my motorcycle a lot, but I recently decided to sell it after a small accident (don’t worry, I’m perfectly fine!). I guess that’s what becoming a responsible adult looks like… slightly less adrenaline, slightly more ergonomic keyboards 😎

Arthur Dufour's desk
A simple setup meets Arthur's needs (but check out the fun lighting!)

What hardware do you use?

My setup is fairly simple and minimal. I use a 14” MacBook Pro (M4 Pro chip, 48GB of RAM) connected to two external monitors (both 27”, 4K, 165Hz).

I used to run a three-screen setup, but I realized that mastering keyboard shortcuts was actually more efficient than constantly turning my head left and right. My neck thanks me.

And what software?

I’m a big fan of using my keyboard as much as possible; I try to avoid touching the mouse unless absolutely necessary. My workflow is heavily shortcut-driven.

Arthur Dufour's motorcycle in motion
These days, Arthur enjoys speeding things up with keyboard shortcuts instead

For window management, I use AeroSpace, and I rely heavily on Raycast for launching apps, running scripts, searching for things, and automating small tasks. One app I use every day as a developer that deserves more recognition is Gitify, which delivers GitHub push notifications directly to my Mac.

On a day-to-day basis, I use VS Code as my main editor. I like keeping it clean, fast, and customized just enough to stay efficient without turning it into a plugin jungle.

My motto is: “If there’s a way to automate it or bind it to a shortcut, I’ll probably do it.”

Arthur Dufour's setup
Arthur hasn't gone all-out with accessories—yet

What’s your keyboard setup like? Do you use a custom layout or custom keycaps?

I like that my setup is very minimal—it’s basically just my keyboard on a desk 😅 No crazy accessories (yet). I might eventually get something to tent it a bit more than the default magnetic feet, just for extra comfort and better ergonomics.

As for my layout, it’s mostly custom. I removed the base number row and shifted all my letters up. There are two reasons for that:

  1. I’m two meters tall and have pretty large hands, so the extra spacing feels much more natural.
  2. It gives me a much-needed third thumb key, and once you discover the power of thumb keys, there’s no going back.

I honestly spent a loooot of time refining my layout when I got the Voyager. There were many iterations, lots of tweaks, and a few “what have I done?” moments. But now I’m both comfortable and fast with it, and it feels completely natural, which makes all that experimentation worth it.

Arthur Dufour's office
Arthur's dream office expands on the big windows of his current office

What would be your dream setup?

My dream setup would definitely include huge windows with a great view, lots of natural light during the day, maybe a cozy carpet instead of a hard floor, and warm lighting in the evening. Basically: minimal, calm, and inspiring.

I’m actually about to move because I’d like to buy my own place, and the office is the first room I’m thinking about setting up properly (even though my girlfriend might disagree on the order of priorities 😄).

But let’s be honest: If you work on a keyboard all day, investing in your workspace isn’t a luxury… it’s a survival strategy.

Arthur Dufour's portrait
Thanks, Arthur! Your new place sounds great—as long as your cat, Turbo, approves!