BetterTouchTool
Tool to customise input devices and automate computer systems
Quick Take: BetterTouchTool
BetterTouchTool remains the gold standard for Mac input customization in 2026. No other utility matches its breadth—encompassing trackpad gestures, mouse automation, keyboard customization, window management, floating menus, and now AI-assisted configuration. The native Logitech support eliminates the need for problematic manufacturer software, and h@llo.ai represents a genuine innovation in automation creation. The learning curve is steep, and the interface can feel overwhelming, but users who invest time in configuration are rewarded with a Mac experience tailored precisely to their workflow. The pricing model is fair, with a generous trial and reasonable upgrade path. For anyone frustrated by macOS's rigid input conventions, BetterTouchTool is not just recommended—it's essential.
Best For
- •Power users who want comprehensive input device customization
- •Logitech device owners seeking alternatives to Options+/G HUB
- •Creatives and developers with complex multi-app workflows
- •Users transitioning from Windows who miss extensive mouse/keyboard customization
- •Anyone seeking to replace multiple single-purpose utilities with one integrated tool
What is BetterTouchTool?
BetterTouchTool (BTT) is the Swiss Army knife of Mac automation—a comprehensive utility that transforms every input device into a programmable control surface. Developed by Andreas Hegenberg and distributed through folivora.ai, BTT has evolved since 2009 from a simple Magic Mouse enhancer into a complete automation ecosystem for macOS. In 2026, it stands as the most versatile tool for users who want to customize trackpads, mice, keyboards, Touch Bar, Notch Bar, Stream Deck, and even MIDI devices to work exactly as they envision. What distinguishes BetterTouchTool in the crowded Mac utility space is its unmatched breadth of customization options. While dedicated apps like Rectangle focus solely on window management or Karabiner-Elements handles keyboard remapping, BTT integrates these capabilities into a unified platform with visual scripting, floating menus, AI assistance, and hundreds of predefined actions. Version 6.485 (released May 2026) introduced revolutionary features including h@llo.ai—an integrated AI assistant powered by Claude and Codex CLIs that can create automations through natural language commands. BetterTouchTool operates through a trigger-and-action architecture: users define input triggers (trackpad gestures, keyboard shortcuts, mouse buttons, device events) and assign them to actions ranging from simple window snapping to complex multi-step workflows involving scripting, app launching, system control, and even drawing gesture recognition. The 2026 releases added circle gestures on trackpads, long-touch gestures, edge swipe gestures on all four sides, and a completely redesigned floating menu system with customizable widgets. For power users frustrated by macOS's rigid input conventions, BTT offers liberation through a visual configuration interface that requires no coding for most automations, while still accommodating advanced users with JavaScript, AppleScript, and Swift plugin support.
Install with Homebrew
brew install --cask bettertouchtoolDeep Dive: BetterTouchTool's Automation Architecture
Understanding how BetterTouchTool intercepts and processes input events reveals why it can achieve automation feats that other macOS utilities cannot.
Key Features
Advanced Trackpad & Mouse Gestures
BetterTouchTool offers the most sophisticated gesture engine available on macOS. Users can configure multi-finger trackpad gestures (up to five fingers), Magic Mouse touch gestures, and normal mouse button combinations. The 2026 update introduced revolutionary gesture types: circle gestures (draw clockwise or counter-clockwise circles to trigger actions), edge swipe gestures (one and two-finger swipes along all four trackpad edges with continuous triggering), and long-touch gestures (hold fingers stationary for configurable durations). Drawing gestures allow freeform shapes to trigger actions. Mouse users benefit from scroll modifiers that can make any mouse scroll smoothly like a trackpad, with options for zooming, rotating, and space switching. Each gesture supports advanced trigger conditions based on active app, window title, or time of day.
Comprehensive Window Management
BTT includes a full-featured window manager that rivals dedicated apps like Rectangle and Magnet. It supports snapping windows to halves, thirds, quarters, and custom snap areas via keyboard shortcuts or drag-to-snap functionality. The window switcher displays live previews and supports filtering by app or window state. Advanced features include 'Move Window to Space' for Mission Control integration, 'Save/Restore Window Layout' for preserving workspace arrangements, and conditional window actions based on app or screen position. The 2026 releases improved Spaces detection reliability on macOS 15+ and added options for showing only hidden and minimized windows in the switcher. Users can also set specific windows to float on top of others or pin them to specific positions.
Floating Menus & Notch Bar Replacement
BetterTouchTool's floating menu system allows users to create persistent on-screen controls that can replace or extend the macOS menu bar. These customizable menus support multiple widget types including the Notch Bar (a powerful Touch Bar replacement for modern Macs), Now Playing widgets with album artwork, Weather widgets with forecasts, Drawer widgets for file collection, and App Switcher widgets. Menus can be positioned anywhere on screen, remain visible on the lock screen optionally, and support sub-menus and interactive controls. The 2026 update added liquid glass effects, new positioning modes, horizontal/vertical alignment options, and the ability to dynamically control menu appearance via scripts. Users can create multiple floating menus with different visibility conditions for various contexts.
AI Assistant (h@llo.ai) & Smart Automation
Introduced in early 2026, h@llo.ai is an integrated AI assistant that brings natural language automation creation to BetterTouchTool. Powered by Claude Code CLI, Codex CLI, and OpenCode CLI backends, it allows users to describe desired automations in plain English and have the AI generate the appropriate triggers, shortcuts, and floating menus. The AI assistant supports persistent memory with on-device embedding fallback, custom skills and prompt blocks, scheduled AI tasks, and a model browser with live pricing across providers. Users can create 'Ask AI' configuration assistants for natural language trigger creation. This feature is in beta as of May 2026 and is fully optional, disabled by default for privacy-conscious users.
Native Logitech Device Support
A standout 2025-2026 addition, BetterTouchTool now offers native support for Logitech mice and keyboards through direct HID++ 2.0 protocol implementation—completely replacing the need for Logitech Options+ or G HUB software. This became particularly valuable when Logitech's official software experienced certificate issues in early 2026. Supported devices include MX Master 3/3S/4, MX Anywhere series, MX Vertical, MX Ergo, various G-Series gaming mice (G502, G903), and keyboards like MX Keys (all variants), MX Keys Mechanical, and MX Keys Mini. BTT provides Logitech-specific actions including toggling ratchet mode, haptic feedback (MX Master 4), DPI adjustment, and host switching. This integration offers lower latency and more reliable operation than Logitech's official software.
Keyboard Shortcuts & Key Sequences
BTT provides extensive keyboard customization beyond what macOS natively allows. Users can remap any key, create multi-key sequences (typed strings that trigger actions), and define shortcuts with advanced conditions. The key sequence system supports snippets and text expansion with import from CSV, JSON, Espanso YAML, and AutoHotkey files. Modifier-only shortcuts allow actions to trigger based on how long a modifier key is held. The 'Hyper Key' workflow (typically Caps Lock as Shift+Control+Option+Command) is fully supported. BTT handles secure input gracefully and offers options for key-down-only or key-up-only triggering. The 2026 update improved modifier key release handling to prevent stuck states after secure input.
Clipboard Manager & Snippets
BetterTouchTool includes a capable clipboard manager that stores text, images, HTML, and file paths in a searchable history. The clipboard manager supports pinning frequently used items, searching by content or source application, and previewing before pasting. Integration with BTT's action system allows clipboard contents to trigger workflows automatically. Snippets functionality provides text expansion—type a short abbreviation and BTT expands it into full text, with support for dynamic placeholders. The 2026 update added scripting functions to retrieve clipboard items via AppleScript/JavaScript and improved UI interactions with focus rings and sidebar toggling.
Who Should Use BetterTouchTool?
1The Multi-Device Power User
A developer uses a MacBook Pro with an external Logitech MX Master 4 mouse, MX Keys keyboard, and Stream Deck. With BetterTouchTool, they configure the MX Master 4's side scroll wheel to switch between VS Code tabs when in the editor, but to horizontally scroll Excel spreadsheets when in Office apps. The thumb button triggers Mission Control on a quick press, but activates window snapping mode on hold. They use BTT's native Logitech support instead of Options+, getting more responsive performance and avoiding Logitech's software issues. Their Stream Deck integrates with BTT to trigger complex multi-app layouts with one button.
2The Trackpad Gesture Enthusiast
A designer relies heavily on trackpad navigation. Using BTT, they configure a five-finger tap to toggle fullscreen mode in any app. A clockwise circle gesture increases brush size in Photoshop, while counter-clockwise decreases it. Two-finger edge swipes from the left edge cycle through recent apps. Long-touch with three fingers triggers a custom floating menu with their most-used design tools. Four-finger swipes control media playback globally. These gestures work consistently across all their creative applications, reducing the need to remember app-specific shortcuts.
3The Automated Workflow Professional
A consultant uses h@llo.ai to describe automations naturally: 'When I connect to my office Wi-Fi, open Slack, move it to the right third of my external monitor, and set my status to online.' The AI generates the appropriate triggers and actions. They have similar automations for client sites that launch specific app combinations and arrange windows based on location. A custom floating menu provides one-click access to meeting setups, document templates, and time tracking. BTT's conditional activation groups ensure these automations only trigger in appropriate contexts, preventing interference with personal use.
How to Install BetterTouchTool on Mac
BetterTouchTool can be installed via Homebrew Cask for easy updates, or downloaded directly from folivora.ai. The app requires significant system permissions to function correctly as it intercepts input events and controls windows.
Install via Homebrew
Open Terminal and run: brew install --cask bettertouchtool. This installs the app and sets up automatic updates through Homebrew.
Grant Required Permissions
Launch BetterTouchTool and navigate to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Accessibility to enable BTT. Then go to Privacy & Security > Input Monitoring and enable it there as well. These permissions are essential for BTT to intercept input events and control windows.
Configure Initial Triggers
Open BetterTouchTool's preferences and start with the 'All Apps' section. Try adding a simple trackpad gesture (like three-finger tap) and assign it to 'Maximize Window'. Test the gesture to confirm everything is working.
Pro Tips
- • Disable 'Displays have separate Spaces' in System Settings > Desktop & Dock > Mission Control for more reliable window management across multiple monitors.
- • If using Logitech devices, uninstall Logitech Options+ and G HUB to prevent conflicts with BTT's native Logitech support.
- • Start with a few simple triggers and gradually add complexity as you learn the interface—BTT's power can be overwhelming at first.
Configuration Tips
Use Conditional Activation Groups
Instead of setting up the same gestures repeatedly for different apps, create Conditional Activation Groups based on app, window title, or even time of day. This allows you to define context-specific behaviors—for example, the same trackpad gesture can trigger different actions depending on whether you're in a browser or a code editor.
Master the 'Named Trigger' System
Create reusable 'Named Triggers' for common action sequences. Instead of duplicating a complex 5-step workflow across multiple shortcuts, create it once as a Named Trigger, then reference it from various input methods (keyboard, trackpad, menu bar). This makes maintenance easier and keeps your configuration organized.
Backup Your Configuration
BetterTouchTool configurations can become complex and valuable. Regularly export your settings via File > Export (creates a .bttpresetzip file) and store it in cloud storage. For advanced users, the configuration files live in ~/Library/Application Support/BetterTouchTool/ and can be version controlled.
Alternatives to BetterTouchTool
While BetterTouchTool offers unmatched breadth, specialized alternatives may better suit users with specific, focused needs. Here are the closest alternatives in the bundl.run catalog.
Hammerspoon
Karabiner-Elements
Rectangle
Magnet
AltTab
Pricing
BetterTouchTool offers two license tiers: Standard License (~$18 regular, ~$14 on sale) and Lifetime License (~$37 regular, ~$24 on sale). The Standard License provides 2 years of free updates from purchase date, after which the app continues working but new updates require renewal. The Lifetime License includes all future updates permanently. Both licenses cover all your personal Macs. There is a generous 45-day free trial with full functionality. Educational discounts are available upon request. BTT occasionally runs sales (25-35% off) during Black Friday and other periods. The license is tied to your email and can be transferred between machines.
Pros
- ✓Unmatched breadth of input device customization—trackpad, mouse, keyboard, Touch Bar, Notch Bar, Stream Deck, and more
- ✓Visual configuration interface requires no coding for most automations
- ✓Native Logitech device support eliminates need for problematic Logitech software
- ✓h@llo.ai brings natural language automation creation via Claude/Codex integration
- ✓Floating menu system with customizable widgets extends beyond simple window management
- ✓Hundreds of predefined actions covering virtually every macOS automation need
- ✓Active development with frequent updates and responsive developer support
- ✓One-time purchase options with generous trial period and reasonable upgrade pricing
Cons
- ✗Significant learning curve due to overwhelming number of options and features
- ✗Requires multiple system permissions (Accessibility, Input Monitoring) that some users find intrusive
- ✗Can conflict with other input-modifying software like Karabiner-Elements or Logitech Options+
- ✗UI can feel cluttered and dated despite 2026 interface updates
- ✗Documentation, while extensive, can be difficult to navigate for complex features
- ✗Standard License requires renewal for updates after 2 years
- ✗Some advanced features (AI assistant, plugin system) are still in beta as of 2026
Community & Support
BetterTouchTool maintains an active, engaged community centered around the official discussion forum at community.folivora.ai. The forum hosts thousands of users sharing preset configurations, troubleshooting issues, and requesting features. Developer Andreas Hegenberg is visibly active, frequently responding to bug reports and feature requests directly. The community has created extensive preset libraries including optimized setups for specific apps (Photoshop, Final Cut, Xcode) and device combinations. GitHub hosts the open-source BTT preset sharing platform where users can browse and download community configurations. Documentation is available at docs.folivora.ai with detailed guides for specific features. While there's no official Discord or Slack, the forum's search functionality provides solutions to most common issues. Users report generally responsive email support for license-related questions.
Frequently Asked Questions about BetterTouchTool
Our Verdict
BetterTouchTool remains the gold standard for Mac input customization in 2026. No other utility matches its breadth—encompassing trackpad gestures, mouse automation, keyboard customization, window management, floating menus, and now AI-assisted configuration. The native Logitech support eliminates the need for problematic manufacturer software, and h@llo.ai represents a genuine innovation in automation creation. The learning curve is steep, and the interface can feel overwhelming, but users who invest time in configuration are rewarded with a Mac experience tailored precisely to their workflow. The pricing model is fair, with a generous trial and reasonable upgrade path. For anyone frustrated by macOS's rigid input conventions, BetterTouchTool is not just recommended—it's essential.
About the Author
Productivity & Workflow Analyst
Related Technologies & Concepts
Related Topics
Mac Input Device Customization
Mac Input Device Customization — related to BetterTouchTool
Window Management & Tiling
Window Management & Tiling — related to BetterTouchTool
macOS Automation & Scripting
macOS Automation & Scripting — related to BetterTouchTool
Sources & References
Fact-CheckedLast verified: May 7, 2026
Key Verified Facts
- BetterTouchTool Standard License costs approximately $18 (or ~$14 on sale) and includes 2 years of free updates. Lifetime License costs approximately $37 (or ~$24 on sale) with permanent updates.[cite-1]
- BetterTouchTool version 6.485 was released in May 2026 with full macOS 26 Tahoe support and h@llo.ai beta integration.[cite-2]
- BetterTouchTool provides native Logitech device support through HID++ 2.0 protocol implementation, replacing Logitech Options+ and G HUB software.[cite-3]
- The h@llo.ai assistant integrates Claude Code CLI, Codex CLI, and OpenCode CLI for natural language automation creation.[cite-4]
- BetterTouchTool requires Accessibility and Input Monitoring permissions to intercept input events and control windows.[cite-5]
- 1BetterTouchTool Pricing and Purchase
Accessed May 7, 2026
- 2BetterTouchTool Release Notes
Accessed May 7, 2026
- 3Logitech Device Support Documentation
Accessed May 7, 2026
- 4h@llo.ai AI Assistant Documentation
Accessed May 7, 2026
- 5BetterTouchTool Community Forum
Accessed May 7, 2026
- 6BetterTouchTool Main Website
Accessed May 7, 2026
Research queries: BetterTouchTool pricing 2026 license cost; BetterTouchTool version 6.485 features changelog; BetterTouchTool macOS Tahoe Sequoia compatibility; BetterTouchTool Logitech native support HID++; BetterTouchTool h@llo.ai Claude Codex integration