Top Tools I Use as a Freelance Web Developer 🔧
Freelancing as a web developer means wearing many hats—from design and development to project management and client communication. Over the years, I’ve tested dozens of platforms, plugins, and apps. In this blog post, I’ll share the top tools I use as a freelance web developer that help me stay efficient, productive, and profitable.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your toolkit, these are my daily go-to’s.
1. 🖥️ Visual Studio Code (VS Code)
Category: Code Editor
This lightweight but powerful code editor is the heart of my development workflow. With extensions like Prettier, Live Server, and GitLens, VS Code keeps my projects clean, synced, and fast.
✅ Why I use it:
- Fast and customizable
- Built-in Git integration
- Tons of helpful extensions
2. 🌐 Local by Flywheel
Category: Local WordPress Development
For developing WordPress sites locally, nothing beats Local by Flywheel. It lets me spin up new WordPress installs in seconds, test changes safely, and push to staging when ready.
✅ Why I use it:
- One-click site creation
- SSL support and database access
- MagicSync for deployment
3. ⚛️ Figma
Category: UI/UX Design
I use Figma to design web layouts and collaborate with clients visually. It’s web-based, real-time, and easy to share.
✅ Why I use it:
- Client collaboration
- Pixel-perfect design previews
- Easy developer handoff
4. 💬 Trello / Notion
Category: Project Management
Depending on the client, I use either Trello or Notion to manage tasks, deadlines, and assets. Both help me keep projects organized and transparent.
✅ Why I use it:
- Custom boards and templates
- Great for solo or team workflows
- Integration-friendly
5. 📦 GitHub
Category: Version Control
All my codebases live on GitHub. It’s essential for version control, collaboration, and backups. For private client projects, I use private repos.
✅ Why I use it:
- Safe version tracking
- Branching and pull requests
- Open-source contribution
6. 💨 Tailwind CSS
Category: CSS Framework
For building custom layouts quickly, Tailwind CSS is a game-changer. Combined with Elementor or React, it speeds up styling and reduces custom CSS bloat.
✅ Why I use it:
- Utility-first workflow
- Responsive out of the box
- Minimal code repetition
7. 📈 Yoast SEO
Category: SEO Optimization
If I’m working with WordPress, Yoast SEO is my go-to for structuring on-page SEO. It helps me optimize content for keywords, meta data, and readability.
✅ Why I use it:
- Focus keyphrase tracking
- Meta title & description editor
- Content analysis tools
8. 📤 Upwork / Fiverr / LinkedIn
Category: Client Acquisition
As a freelancer, lead generation is half the battle. These platforms help me connect with clients, showcase my portfolio, and land consistent work.
✅ Why I use them:
- Visibility for my services
- Direct client messaging
- Ratings and reviews boost trust
🎯 Final Thoughts
Choosing the right tools is critical to delivering high-quality work and staying productive as a freelance web developer. Whether it’s writing clean code, managing tasks, or closing deals—these tools help me stay one step ahead.
If you’re freelancing (or planning to), try integrating a few of these into your workflow. It’s not just about the tools—it’s how you use them.