Sick Picks
What are Sick Picks?
Inspired by the Syntax.fm podcast, Sick Picks are recommendations for anything, not necessarily related to technology. The hosts of Syntax end each episode by sharing their picks.
🎧 Overcast - Podcast Player
Overcast is my podcast player of choice. It focuses on the audio and listening experience above all else.
What makes Overcast special is Smart Speed - it dynamically shortens silences in podcasts without affecting the natural cadence of speech. With other audio players I can listen at 1.3x to 1.5x, with Overcast I can comfortably listen to the same content at 1.6x to 1.8x.
Overcast is refreshingly focused on being the best listening experience possible. No social features or unnecessary complexity - just a beautifully designed app that prioritizes audio quality and playback control. Every feature is designed to enhance how you listen to podcasts, not distract from it.
Fun fact: Syntax.fm has also featured Overcast as a sick pick, recognizing it as one of the best podcast apps available.
🚁 DJI Neo - Compact Drone
The DJI Neo is an ultra-lightweight drone that operates with no remote control required. Even in its protective case, it easily fits in any backpack, making it perfect for spontaneous aerial photography and video.
Key features:
- No remote needed: Palm takeoff and landing with gesture controls for complete hands-free operation
- Backpack-friendly: The entire kit including case fits easily in any bag
- 4K video: Professional quality footage in an incredibly small package
- AI subject tracking: Automatically follows you for hands-free filming
- Under 250g: No registration required in many countries
- Protective guards: Built-in propeller guards make it safer for indoor flying
Perfect for travel, hiking, or any time you want aerial footage without the bulk of a traditional drone or the hassle of a controller.
🔦 Wurkkos TS10 & HD10 - EDC Flashlights
The Wurkkos TS10 and HD10 are enthusiast-grade everyday carry (EDC) flashlights that punch way above their weight class.
Why they're exceptional:
- Anduril 2 firmware: Open-source firmware with incredible customization options
- Auxiliary LEDs: Configurable RGB LEDs for battery indication or locating in the dark
- 14500 Li-ion battery: TS10 uses replaceable batteries, HD10 has built-in USB-C charging
- Right-angle design (HD10): The HD10's 90-degree head makes it perfect for hands-free use as a headlamp or work light, while also making room for USB-C charging, repositioning the button for easier access, and incorporating a magnetic tailcap for versatile mounting
- Compact size: Smaller than your thumb but outputs up to 1400 lumens
- Enthusiast features: Ramping brightness, candle mode, lightning storm mode, and more
I love the orange color aluminum options - they're bright, fun, and easy to spot in a bag. For those who want something more premium, the fancy metals like titanium and copper are gorgeous and develop unique patinas over time.
Color temperature is crucial for a pleasant light. I prefer the 4000K option which provides a warm, natural light that's easy on the eyes. Even better is the 3000K temperature (only available with the copper version) which gives an incredibly warm, candle-like glow that's perfect for evening use.
Available Options:
- TS10 V2 in Orange (4000K)
- TS10 V2 in Titanium (4000K)
- TS10 V2 in Copper (3000K) - The warmest, most candle-like option
- HD10 in Orange (4000K) - With USB-C charging and magnetic tailcap
These flashlights have ruined all other flashlights for me. Once you experience the power and flexibility of a proper enthusiast light, there's no going back.
🔦 Olight Oclip Pro - Clip-On Flashlight
The Olight Oclip Pro in Orange is the perfect hands-free lighting solution that clips directly to your backpack strap.
What makes it great:
- Versatile clip design: Securely attaches to backpack straps, belts, or pockets
- Hands-free operation: Perfect for hiking, camping, or working in dark spaces
- Compact and lightweight: You'll forget it's there until you need it
- Multiple brightness levels: From subtle pathway lighting to bright task illumination
- USB-C rechargeable: Convenient charging with modern cables
This is the flashlight that's always with you because it lives on your backpack strap - no more fumbling in pockets or forgetting to bring a light.
🛹 Onewheel GT - Electric Board
After falling in love with my Pint, upgrading to the Onewheel GT was inevitable. Mine is decked out with the highlighter yellow accessories from the launch event - impossible to miss and looks incredible.
Why the GT is exceptional:
- Powerful performance: The increased power helps go up inclines with confidence. I can even stand on it together with a kid and it handles the extra weight without breaking a sweat
- 20 MPH top speed: The sweet spot for speed - fast enough to be thrilling, but not overwhelming. The 14 MPH limit on the old Pint just wasn't enough
- Adult-sized footpads: Finally, a board big enough for adult feet to not hang over the edges
- Sensitive footpad: The footpad is so responsive that even children can easily activate it, making it better for kids despite the board's hefty weight
- No ghosting issues: I never replaced the recalled front footpad (which was too sensitive and caused ghosting) - the current sensitivity is perfect
Have a suggestion for a sick pick? Feel free to open an issue on GitHub!