In an era where digital minimalism gains traction and clutter-free workspaces trend on social media, there’s something wonderfully indulgent about embracing the full breadth of software the Mac ecosystem has to offer. Though minimalists may scoff at your overflowing Applications folder, the following list of 20 Mac apps not only proves that sometimes *more is more*, but also showcases that each tool can boost efficiency, creativity, and joy. Here’s our round-up of the top Mac apps designed for users who unapologetically love their digital superpowers.
1. Alfred
One of the most powerful productivity tools for macOS, Alfred replaces and expands on Spotlight with custom workflows, hotkeys, and clipboard history. Once customized, it can save hours of time each week.
2. Raycast
An elegant alternative to Alfred gaining rapid attention, Raycast is an all-in-one launcher for developers and productivity nerds alike. From managing GitHub issues to toggling system settings, it does it all with flair.
3. CleanShot X
Forget the native screenshot tool. CleanShot X offers advanced screen capturing, video recording, and annotation features in a UI that feels natively Mac.
4. Bartender
If you’ve got so many menu bar apps they’re spilling across the screen, you’ll love Bartender. It helps organize and hide menu bar icons for a cleaner, more focused interface.
5. BetterTouchTool
Remap your gestures, keyboard shortcuts, and window actions like never before. For power users who love customization, BetterTouchTool offers unparalleled control.
6. Magnet
Simple but effective, Magnet makes window management as easy as dragging and dropping to screen edges, making split-screen multitasking intuitive and fast.
7. Hazel
A digital housekeeper for your files, Hazel monitors folders and applies rules like renaming, moving, or trashing files automatically. It’s automation for digital packrats.
8. Setapp
Rather than buying dozens of individual apps, why not subscribe to hundreds at once? Setapp is like the Netflix of Mac apps—pay once, get access to professionally curated tools across categories.
9. 1Password
Secure, reliable, and feature-rich, 1Password is the password manager many professionals swear by. With biometric support and a clean interface, it’s one of the best ways to stay safe online.
10. Notion
All-in-one note-taking, database, and productivity workhorse, Notion is as versatile as your imagination allows. It’s perfect for journaling, project planning, or even managing large teams.
11. Things 3
One of the most beautifully designed task managers on macOS, Things 3 makes organizing projects and goals feel intuitive and pleasant.
12. iStat Menus
Curious about your system’s status? iStat Menus lives in your menu bar and gives a meticulous breakdown of CPU, memory, disk usage, and much more.
13. Superhuman
This luxury email client claims to be the fastest in the world. With blazing shortcuts, thoughtful design, and a hefty price tag, Superhuman is for those who treat their inbox like a Formula 1 cockpit.
14. Typora
For Markdown lovers, Typora offers a seamless live preview edit mode that keeps distractions low while maximizing output.
15. Carbon Copy Cloner
Reliable backups give peace of mind, and Carbon Copy Cloner makes cloning your drive and automating backups painless.
16. Parallels Desktop
Need to run Windows apps on your Mac? Parallels lets you switch between macOS and Windows with exceptionally fluid transitions and speedy virtualization.
17. Pixelmator Pro
A cost-effective Photoshop alternative, Pixelmator Pro offers strong image editing capabilities with native macOS integration and machine learning-powered tools.
18. Fantastical
Ditch Apple’s default calendar. Fantastical combines beautiful design with natural language input and integrations to simplify scheduling and planning.
19. Obsidian
A favorite in the Zettelkasten and knowledge management communities, Obsidian lets you build a network of interconnected notes using Markdown and visual graphs.
20. VLC Media Player
The Swiss Army knife of media software, VLC plays nearly every video or audio format under the sun. It’s lean, stable, and indispensable for handling stubborn media files.
There’s no shame in loading up on tools that improve your work and play on the Mac. While some may find comfort in minimal toolkits, this curated arsenal of outstanding Mac apps makes even digital maximalism feel organized and empowering. Embrace the bloat—or rather, the brilliance.