Window Management

rectangle

Rectangle is the definitive utility for snapping windows on macOS. It replaces the need for paid apps like Magnet by offering identical functionality for free and open-source. It supports dragging windows to edges to snap them (half, quarter, maximize) and offers a comprehensive list of customizable keyboard shortcuts. It is lightweight, optimized for Apple Silicon, and respects your privacy completely.

alt tab

Alt-Tab fixes one of the longest-standing frustrations for power users: the macOS Command-Tab switcher. Unlike the native switcher, which only cycles through apps, Alt-Tab cycles through individual open windows and shows visual thumbnails of each, mimicking the superior window switching behavior found in Windows and Linux. It is essential for users who keep multiple browser windows or terminal instances open simultaneously.

raycast

While primarily a launcher, Raycast includes a powerful built-in window management extension that allows you to control window size and position using natural language commands or custom keyboard shortcuts. Type 'Left Half' or 'Top Right Quarter' and Raycast executes instantly. It eliminates the need for a separate window manager if your needs are moderate, but pairs perfectly with Rectangle for advanced users who want both command-based and shortcut-based control. Raycast also replaces Spotlight with a significantly faster, extensible interface that integrates clipboard history, snippet expansion, and thousands of community-built extensions.

amethyst

Amethyst is for the keyboard purist who wants zero manual window arrangement. It is a tiling window manager that automatically arranges your windows in a non-overlapping grid as soon as you open them. Heavily inspired by xmonad from the Linux world, it removes the need to drag or snap windows entirely. You focus on opening apps, and Amethyst handles the geometry using layouts like Tall, Wide, Fullscreen, and Column. It is the best entry point into tiling window management without the complexity of disabling System Integrity Protection (SIP) required by alternatives like Yabai. Configuration is handled through a simple preferences panel or a dotfile for advanced users.