Rectangle
Ryan Hanson
Rectangle is a free and open-source macOS app based on Spectacle, designed for managing windows with keyboard shortcuts and snap areas, enhancing productivity through efficient window resizing and positioning.
User Sentiments
Top Likes
- Free and open-source
- Easy to use and set up
- Customizable keyboard shortcuts
- Enhances window management on macOS
- Lightweight and stable
Top Dislikes
- Pro version is paid
- Some users may find the number of shortcuts overwhelming initially
- Basic version might lack advanced features for some power users
Popular Comments
Softpedia
2023-07-05
Rectangle is so good that Apple could integrate it into macOS unchanged, and it wouldn't raise any eyebrows. Even a simplified version of this app would make Mac window management much easier than it is today, and the fact that such an amazing utility is available for free is a testament to the value of the open-source community.
MacUpdate User - silentknightt
2025-02-04
Rectangle is the new standard in Window Manager apps. Move and resize windows with keyboard shortcuts and snap areas.
YouTube - AnsonAlex
2024-01-31
Rectangle for Mac is a free open-source window management and snapping app... Using Rectangle, you can snap windows to the top of the screen to maximize them in your display - just like in windows.
Reddit User - u/NoMoreMrNiceGuy_
2022-05-28
No… because I manage over 100 mac devices and we use to deploy magnet because it was only 99 cents. But I can't fathom spending over $700 now just for the app. So discovered rectangle and it's free.
Hacker News User - bartread
2024-02-03
Rectangle itself is great, but it's discernably a patch over a bad window management paradigm, and the awkwardness underneath pretty regularly shows through.
YouTube - Chelsea Makes Codes
2023-12-27
This is the Rectangle app, which helps you manage your windows and move them around using either recommended or custom keyboard shortcuts. It is a great way to spend more time on the keys and less time fiddling around with the sizing of windows using the mouse.
Detailed Review
Rectangle is a highly recommended, free and open-source window management application for macOS that addresses the lack of built-in window snapping features. Inspired by Spectacle, it allows users to efficiently move and resize windows using keyboard shortcuts and snap areas. Rectangle enhances productivity by streamlining window arrangement, similar to the Windows Snap feature but with added customization. The base application is completely free and provides a comprehensive set of window actions, including snapping to halves, quarters, thirds, and full screen. For users seeking more advanced features, Rectangle Pro is available as a paid upgrade.
Standout Features
- Window Snapping: Easily snap windows to screen edges and corners for efficient multitasking.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: Move and resize windows using customizable keyboard shortcuts, promoting keyboard-centric workflows.
- Snap Areas: Offers various snap areas including halves, quarters, thirds, and full screen for precise window placement.
- Open Source and Free: Being free and open-source makes it accessible to all users and benefits from community contributions.
- Customization: Allows users to customize hotkeys and various behaviors to match their workflow preferences.
- Rectangle Pro (Paid): Offers advanced features like window throw, snap targets, configurable snap panel, custom sizes and positions, workspace arrangement shortcuts, and iCloud sync.
Conclusion
Rectangle is an essential utility for Mac users looking to improve their window management and multitasking efficiency. Its free version offers robust features that significantly enhance macOS's window management capabilities, making it a valuable tool for everyday use. The optional Pro version caters to power users with advanced features for even greater control and customization. It is praised for its stability, ease of use, and the fact that it is free and open source, making it a compelling alternative to paid window management apps. While the basic version is sufficient for most users, Rectangle Pro provides additional functionalities that can further streamline workflows for those who require more advanced window management options.
