Fluid
Todd Ditchendorf
Fluid lets you create a Real Mac App (or Fluid App) out of any website or web application, effectively turning your favorite web apps into desktop apps.
User Sentiments
Top Likes
- Easy to create SSBs (Site Specific Browsers)
- Dedicated windows for web apps
- Reduces browser clutter
Top Dislikes
- Limited features in the free version
- Some websites don't work perfectly as Fluid apps
- Can consume more resources than browser tabs
Popular Comments
Mac App Store User - Jdubbs77
2023-11-15
I use Fluid for several web apps and it works great. It's a simple way to keep web apps separate from my main browser.
Mac App Store User - DigitalDJ
2022-05-03
Fluid is a fantastic app. It is simple to use and does exactly what it says. It allows me to use my favorite web apps in their own dedicated window, which is a huge productivity boost. Highly recommended!
Mac App Store User - mr.macpro
2021-09-21
Does what it says. Simple and effective.
Reddit User - u/Efficient-Ad-8428
2024-03-08
Fluid is great for turning web apps into standalone apps. It's a bit basic, but it gets the job done.
MacRumors Forum User - MacUser123
2020-12-01
I've been using Fluid for years and it's been a lifesaver. I use it for all my essential web apps. It's so much better than having dozens of tabs open.
Detailed Review
Fluid is a handy utility for macOS that allows users to create standalone applications (SSBs or Site Specific Browsers) from any website. This effectively transforms web applications into dedicated desktop apps, complete with their own dock icon and window. This can be beneficial for decluttering browser tabs, improving focus, and providing a more app-like experience for frequently used web services. While the free version allows for creating a single app, Fluid Unlimited offers the ability to create multiple apps and includes features like user agent switching, full-screen mode, and separate cookie stores.
Standout Features
- Easy App Creation: Quickly create SSBs by simply entering a website URL and name.
- Dedicated Windows: Run web apps in their own separate windows, improving organization and focus.
- Dock Integration: Fluid apps appear in the dock like regular applications.
- User Agent Switching (Unlimited): Emulate different browsers for compatibility testing and other purposes.
- Separate Cookie Stores (Unlimited): Manage cookies independently for each Fluid app.
Conclusion
Fluid is a valuable tool for users who heavily rely on web applications and desire a more streamlined desktop experience. It's particularly useful for separating work-related web apps from personal browsing or for creating dedicated apps for services that don't offer native desktop clients. While the free version is sufficient for basic usage, Fluid Unlimited provides additional features that enhance the experience for power users. However, users should be aware that Fluid apps essentially wrap websites within a browser window and may not offer the same performance or integration as native applications. Alternatives like Nativefier, WebCatalog, and Unite offer similar functionality and are worth considering for comparison.