AltTab vs Raycast

A dedicated, customizable switcher versus Raycast’s built-in one.

Verdict

Raycast is a launcher with a window switcher bolted on; AltTab is a dedicated one. Raycast’s Switch Windows is a free text list you filter by typing, which is handy if you already live in Raycast. But it shows no thumbnails, no App Icons or Titles styles, no auto-sizing, and only one switching shortcut, and its handling of minimized windows and other Spaces is undocumented. AltTab does all of that, is built only for switching, and is open source. If Raycast is already your launcher its switcher may be enough; if you want to see your windows, AltTab is far richer.

AltTab is our app. We have kept this comparison to verifiable facts so it stays useful even if you choose the other one.

FeatureAltTabRaycast
Free tier✅✅
Paid tier$9.99$8/mo
Open source✅❌
Window thumbnails✅❌
App-icon view✅❌
Titles view✅✅
Search (type to filter)✅✅
Multiple custom shortcuts✅❌
Dark mode✅✅
Accessibility (VoiceOver)✅❌
Auto-size thumbnails✅❌
Minimized & hidden windows✅❌
Spaces support✅❌
MaintenanceActiveActive

AltTab is free and open source. There is also AltTab Pro, with a 14-day free trial for everyone.

Download 7.8M downloads

Frequently asked questions

Does Raycast have a window switcher?

Yes. Raycast’s Switch Windows command lists your open windows and lets you filter them by typing. It is part of the free tier.

Is Raycast’s window switching free?

Yes. Switching windows and the built-in Window Management presets are free. Raycast Pro (from $8/month) adds AI, cloud sync, and custom commands, not the basic switcher.

Does Raycast show window thumbnails?

No. Raycast’s Switch Windows is a text list of window titles and app names. AltTab shows a grid of live thumbnails for every window.

Can I use AltTab and Raycast together?

Yes, and many people do. Keep Raycast as your launcher and use AltTab on Option-Tab for window switching. They do not conflict.

More FAQ

English