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.
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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.
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.
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 |
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