Command+` not working on your Mac?

Command+` moves between windows in the frontmost app. If nothing happens, check which app is active, which key produces a grave accent on your keyboard, and whether another keyboard shortcut uses it.

Last reviewed: October 12, 2026

Try these checks in order

1. Bring the app you want to the front. Command+` cycles windows in the current app. First click or switch to the app, then press Command and the key that types a grave accent (`) on your keyboard.
2. Check your keyboard layout. Apple notes that the grave-accent key is commonly above Tab and to the left of 1, but its position or character can vary by keyboard and input source. Use the key that produces ` for your active layout rather than relying only on its label.
3. Check for a shortcut conflict. Review System Settings → Keyboard → Keyboard Shortcuts. Apple shows a warning icon beside conflicting shortcuts; if you see one, change the assignment and try again. The exact category depends on which shortcut is in conflict.
4. Confirm these are separate windows. Command+` switches app windows; it does not move between tabs inside one window. If you are trying to reach another browser tab, use the browser’s tab shortcut or tab overview instead.

What the shortcut covers

It stays within one app

Once the right app is active, Command+` is the built-in way to cycle through that app’s open windows. To switch between apps, use Command-Tab. For Apple’s overview of open windows and Spaces, see Apple Support’s window guide.

If you regularly reach the right app but still have to cycle through many windows to find one exact window, CmdTab is an optional private preview designed for that search. You can also read our broader switching between windows on Mac.

Private preview

Still hunting for the window you meant?

If this is a regular part of your Mac workflow, request access to the CmdTab private beta.

Request private-beta access

Apple reference

Shortcut details from Apple

Mac keyboard shortcuts — Apple Support

For conflict indicators and reassignment steps, see Apple’s guide to changing a conflicting shortcut.