AltTab brings the Windows Alt-Tab switcher to macOS. Command-Tab switches between apps; AltTab lists every window instead, including several windows of the same app, and shows a preview of each one before you switch.
The default shortcut is Option-Tab, so it does not clash with the built-in switcher, and you can change it to Command-Tab. Minimized windows, hidden windows and windows on other Spaces still appear in the list, with a badge that shows where they are. The free version includes live thumbnails, windows across Spaces and screens, dark mode and trackpad gestures. AltTab Pro adds search by window title or app name, App Icons and Titles styles, auto-sized thumbnails and up to 9 shortcuts.
It suits people coming from Windows, and anyone who keeps many windows of one app open at once. It works with Stage Manager, although thumbnails can look small or distorted there; the App Icons and Titles styles display normally.
The source code is GPL-3.0 on GitHub, and the website says there is no tracking or telemetry. AltTab needs Accessibility permission to switch windows and Screen Recording permission to draw thumbnails. Without Screen Recording it still switches windows, just without previews. It needs macOS 12 or later and has native builds for Apple silicon and Intel.
Frequently asked questions
Is AltTab free?
The core app is. Window switching, previews and shortcut settings are free with no time limit. AltTab Pro is an optional one-time purchase, $9.99 for the current major version or $24.99 for lifetime updates, and every Pro feature can be tried free for 14 days after install. When the trial ends, the free features keep working.
Is AltTab safe and open source?
Yes. The code is GPL-3.0 on GitHub, and you can build it yourself. The Pro licence covers the pre-built, signed and notarized app, not the source. The website says AltTab has no tracking or telemetry, works offline after activation, and never locks the app if a licence check fails.
How do I install AltTab?
Download it from alt-tab.app, or with Homebrew run brew install --cask alt-tab. Then grant Accessibility and Screen Recording in System Settings, Privacy & Security. Updates install in the background, and you can check manually from the menu bar icon.
What macOS version does AltTab need?
AltTab needs macOS 12 Monterey or later. It runs natively on Apple silicon and Intel Macs.
How does AltTab compare to Witch and Contexts?
Witch and Contexts are paid window switchers for Mac. AltTab's window switching and previews are free and open source. Its paid Pro upgrade adds search and extra styles, which is the part to compare if you rely on typing to find a window.
Can AltTab replace Command-Tab?
Yes. AltTab uses Option-Tab by default so it sits alongside the built-in switcher, but you can set its shortcut to Command-Tab in its settings if you want it to take over.
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