How to Prevent macOS from Bringing All Windows to the Front When Switching to an App
The Problem
By default, macOS brings all windows of an app to the front when you switch to that app. This behaviour can be problematic in a multi-display setup for a few reasons:
- Disruption of Workflow: If you're writing on one display and using reference material on the other, switching to an app can cause your reference material to be covered by the app windows from the other display.
- Unnecessary Clutter: Bringing all windows to the front can create unnecessary clutter, making it harder to focus on the task at hand.
This issue persists even if you have set your displays to have separate Spaces in macOS.
The Solution: AltTab
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Window Preview | See all windows before switching |
| Individual Window Control | Switch to specific windows without affecting others |
| Multi-Display Support | Better handling of windows across displays |
| Customizable Shortcuts | Configure keyboard shortcuts to your preference |
Installation Steps
- Install using Homebrew:
brew install --cask alt-tab - Launch AltTab
- Configure preferences in System Settings
- Set up keyboard shortcuts
Additional Tips
- Use Command + ` to cycle through windows of the current app
- Configure display settings in System Settings > Displays
- Consider using Spaces for better window organization
- Explore AltTab's advanced settings for more customization