AltTab vs Witch
Live thumbnails and open source versus deep configurability.
Verdict
Witch is the most configurable switcher here, and the closest to AltTab on features: it switches apps, windows, and tabs, supports multiple custom switchers, shows app or document icons, and handles minimized windows and all Spaces. What it does not do is show live thumbnails of your windows, and it costs $14. AltTab matches Witch’s breadth (multiple shortcuts, an icon view, search, dark mode, VoiceOver) and adds a thumbnail grid and auto-sizing, while being free and open source. Witch’s edge is deeper tab and document switching.
AltTab is our app. We have kept this comparison to verifiable facts so it stays useful even if you choose the other one.
| Feature | AltTab | Witch |
|---|---|---|
| Free tier | ✅ | ❌ |
| Paid tier | $9.99 | $14 |
| 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 | ✅ | ✅ |
| Maintenance | Active | Active |
AltTab is free and open source. There is also AltTab Pro, with a 14-day free trial for everyone.
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Frequently asked questions
Is AltTab a free alternative to Witch?
Yes. AltTab is free and open source, and it switches between every window, including minimized and hidden ones, across all Spaces. Witch adds tab and document switching and deeper configuration, which AltTab does not focus on.
Does Witch show window thumbnails?
Witch shows a list of window titles and icons, with an optional preview of the selected window. AltTab shows a grid of live thumbnails for every window at once.
Does Witch work across Spaces?
Yes, if you enable listing windows from all Spaces. Witch needs you to visit each Space once so it can see the windows there. AltTab lists windows from every Space without that step.
Is Witch on the Mac App Store?
No. Witch is sold directly by Many Tricks. macOS window switchers need Accessibility access, which the Mac App Store does not allow, so AltTab is distributed outside the App Store too.