Command-Tab
Switch between open applications
Hold Command and press Tab to move through open applications. Release Command when the application you want is selected. This is the quickest built-in method when app-level switching is enough.
CmdTab
macOS window switching
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Mac guide
How to switch between windows on a Mac
The right method depends on whether you are choosing an application, another window in the current app, a visual Space, or one exact window from everything open.
Last reviewed:
The built-in Command-Tab shortcut cycles applications, while Command-` cycles windows in the current application. Mission Control provides a visual overview. CmdTab is an optional third-party path when you want individual windows from different apps in one searchable recent-use sequence.
Need to find one exact window?
CmdTab puts eligible windows in a searchable, recent-use list. It is in private preview; request access and we’ll email you when it opens.
Four methods
Choose the smallest tool that solves the problem
Command-`
Cycle windows in the current application
Hold Command and press the grave-accent key repeatedly to cycle through windows belonging to the current application. This is useful after the correct app is already active.
If Command+` is not working, try these checks →Control-Up Arrow
Use Mission Control for a visual overview
Mission Control displays open windows and Spaces so you can choose visually. It is useful for orientation, but it temporarily takes over the screen rather than acting like a compact keyboard switcher.
CmdTab
Use one list of individual windows
CmdTab replaces the app-only switcher with separate eligible windows, exact-window recent-use ordering, previews, search, and configurable Space and display scope.
Decision table
Match the shortcut to your intent
| What you need | Best starting method |
|---|---|
| I only need to move to another app | Use macOS Command-Tab |
| I am already in the right app and need its next window | Use Command-` |
| I need to inspect all visible windows and Spaces | Use Mission Control |
| I want one ordered list of exact windows across apps | Use CmdTab |
| I know part of the app or window title | Use CmdTab Command Palette |
Primary sources
Apple documentation used for native behavior
Private preview
Still looking for the window you meant?
If you reach the right app but still have to cycle through its open windows, CmdTab is being built to help you get back to the one you meant.