If you’re a Mac user who’s ever wished Apple’s app switcher (Command + Tab) was a little more powerful, then you’re in for a treat. Enter AltTab — a simple app that gives you a Windows-style Alt-Tab experience on macOS, and so much more. Whether you’re juggling ten apps or working across multiple desktops, AltTab makes navigating your workflow super smooth.
TL;DR
AltTab is a must-have Mac app that replaces the default app switcher with a faster, more customizable one. It lets you switch between windows (not just apps), has a beautiful interface, and includes great features like search, shortcuts, and preview thumbnails. It’s perfect for power users and everyday users alike. Basically, it makes multitasking on your Mac way more awesome.
1. Switch Between Individual Windows
The default Mac app switcher only lets you switch between apps, not their individual windows. That’s a bit limiting if you’re running multiple docs or browser tabs.
AltTab changes that. It shows every open window, not just the app icon. So now, if you’ve got five Safari tabs open in separate windows, you can hop between them quickly.
This makes window management much more intuitive. It feels like you’re getting a bird’s-eye view of your digital workspace.
2. Gorgeous Thumbnail Previews
Ever switched back to an app and realized it wasn’t the window you wanted? Yeah, annoying.
AltTab gives you a preview thumbnail of every window. That means you can actually see the content of each window before selecting it.
No more guessing. Just pick the window you want based on what it shows — not just its name.
3. Super Quick Search
If you’re the kind of person who keeps 24 things open at once (no judgment), AltTab helps you stay sane. It has a built-in search bar right in the switcher.
Just start typing and boom — your list of windows filters down instantly.
Example: Typing “email” could instantly pull up your Mail app window. Fast. Clean. Effortless.
4. Customizable Shortcuts
Hate using Command + Tab? Want something fancier? AltTab lets you choose your own hotkeys.
Set it to whatever combo your fingers love: Option + A? Control + Tab? Go wild. You can also have different shortcuts for switching apps vs windows if you’re really into fine-tuning.
5. Multiple Layout Options
Some people like lists. Others prefer a horizontal grid like Windows. AltTab gets that.
You can choose from several layouts, including:
- Classic Horizontal Strip – Like Windows 10 Alt+Tab
- Vertical List – Ideal if you like scrolling
- Grid View – Shows everything neatly tiled
It’s your workspace — make it look how you want.
6. Multi-Display & Spaces Support
If you’re using a second monitor or Mission Control Spaces, you’ll love this.
AltTab recognizes all your displays and desktops. So you can decide whether to switch between windows on this space only or across all spaces.
It even plays nice with Stage Manager (for macOS Ventura and up). Smooth and smart.
7. App Blocking
Don’t want certain apps to show up in your switcher? No problem.
AltTab lets you block apps from appearing altogether. That means you can hide background apps like Spotify or helper tools you rarely interact with.
This keeps your switcher list clean and focused.
8. Floating Window Mode
Now here’s a cool one: AltTab has a Floating Mode that keeps the switcher visible while you move your cursor.
You can browse windows not just by tabbing, but also by clicking on them. It’s basically like turning the switcher into a mini-task manager right on your screen.
9. Theme and Appearance Settings
Love dark mode? Prefer a bright UI? AltTab lets you style the switcher with custom themes.
You can change:
- Background color
- Window border
- Thumbnail size
- Fonts & Spacing
It’s not just about looks — customizing the switcher can also make windows easier to spot.
10. Lightweight and Fast
Despite all its bells and whistles, AltTab is incredibly fast.
It runs quietly in your menu bar, using minimal system resources. You won’t even notice it’s running — until you need it. Then bam, smooth switching at lightning speed.
11. Hide Minimally Used Features
If you’re a minimalist, you’ll love this. AltTab lets you trim down the interface.
You can toggle off window previews, search bars, or shortcut hints — whatever you don’t use, you can hide. This keeps your switcher super sleek and distraction-free.
12. Open Source Friendly
AltTab isn’t some closed, shady app. It’s open source — you can view its code on GitHub.
This means it’s more transparent, trustworthy, and maintained by a community of developers. Plus, it’s completely free. What’s not to love?
Bonus Tip: Use with Better Touch Tool or Keyboard Maestro
If you’re using Better Touch Tool or Keyboard Maestro, you can integrate AltTab’s shortcut keys into your automation flows.
That means you can create custom gestures or macros that launch AltTab with specific behaviors. It’s like giving your Mac a superpower.
Why You’ll Love It
Let’s keep it real — macOS is great, but its default app switching is a bit meh.
With AltTab, you take control. It’s faster, smarter, and way more useful. You’ll spend less time fumbling between apps and more time getting stuff done.
And hey, it actually looks good too.
Final Thoughts
AltTab for Mac is a simple upgrade that makes a big difference.
Whether you’re a creative, programmer, student, or just someone who always has 27 Chrome windows open — AltTab makes life easier. Its killer features and clean interface are why so many Mac users who try it never go back.
Best of all? It’s free and open source. So give it a spin, customize it to your liking, and level up your multitasking game.
Your Mac deserves it.
