⌥⇥ PRO
Switch apps on multiple displays
With more than one display, the app switcher belongs where you’re looking. Option opens on the display you’re working on, and This display only keeps the list to the apps that are actually there.
Free on the Mac App Store · macOS 14 or later · No permissions needed
Turn on This display only
Open Option’s Settings.
Click Option in the menu bar and choose Settings.
Turn on This display only.
It’s part of Option Pro. You can try it free during setup.
Press ⌥⇥ on each display.
Each display now lists only the apps with windows on it.
Why it helps
- No looking across the desk: the switcher opens right where you are.
- A shorter list, so the app you want is nearer.
- The caption tells you how many apps it’s showing from this display.
- Works with any number of displays.
Keyboard shortcuts
- ⌥⇥
- Open the switcher on the display you’re using
- ⌥⇧⇥
- Move left
- ⌘`
- Move between windows of the current app
Free or Pro?
This is an Option Pro feature: a one-time purchase, no subscription. Try it free during setup, with your own apps.
Questions and answers
Which display does the switcher open on?
The one you’re working on: the display that holds the frontmost window, otherwise the one under the pointer. That’s free in every version of Option.
What does This display only leave out?
Apps without a window on the display you’re using. Your pinned apps stay in the list. Turn it off to see every app again.
Does it work with Spaces?
Option counts the windows on the current Space. Windows on other Spaces aren’t counted.
More guides
How to switch apps on a Mac with the keyboard
Hold ⌥, tap Tab, let go: the whole gesture, step by step, and the keys that make it quicker. Read the guide ⌥⇥How to Alt‑Tab on a Mac
The Alt key on a Mac is the Option key. Here’s how to make Alt‑Tab work the way your hands remember. Read the guide ⌥A–ZType to jump: switch to any app by typing its name
Keep holding ⌥ and type a few letters of an app’s name to go straight to it. Read the guide ⌥1–9Pinned apps: your favorite apps, one key away
Give your favorite apps a number. Press 1–9 in the switcher to go straight there. Read the guide ⌥⇧⇥Option keyboard shortcuts: every key in the switcher
Every key in the switcher, from ⌥⇥ to Esc, plus how to choose your own shortcut. Read the guide
Some things are worth getting back.
Hold ⌥. Tap Tab. You’re there.