Apple unveiled some truly impressive updates this time around — from Apple Intelligence, the company’s powerful on-device AI system, to new built-in features across macOS 16 and iOS 26. But with all the innovation came a familiar pattern: Apple once again Sherlocked a number of popular third-party apps.

For the uninitiated, “Sherlocked” is a term that describes what happens when Apple builds features into its OS that directly replicate the functionality of existing third-party apps — often rendering those apps less relevant, if not obsolete.

So, is it time to uninstall your favorite tools and just go all-in with Apple’s built-ins?

Not so fast.

What got sherlocked at WWDC 2025?

Here’s a quick look at some standout areas where Apple introduced native features that suspiciously resemble beloved indie tools:

While these features are certainly welcome for everyday users, they also raise a question for power users and productivity pros: Are Apple’s “good enough” tools actually enough?

Still sweet: third-party apps that go further

At TheSweetBits, we’ve always believed in discovering tools that bring more depth, customization, and delight to your Mac experience. And while Apple has done a solid job integrating basic versions of popular features, many third-party tools are still worth holding onto — if not upgrading to.

Here’s why:

1. CleanShot X vs. macOS Screenshot Tool

Apple’s screenshot tool is now more capable, with better markup and quick sharing. But CleanShot X? It’s in a different league.

• Scrollable screenshots
• Instant cloud sharing
• Built-in screen recorder and webcam overlay
• Annotations that actually feel pro-level

Why it still wins: Ideal for content creators, educators, and remote teams.

2. Day One vs. Apple Journal App

Apple’s Journal app added AI-powered reflections, mood logging, and suggested journaling prompts. But Day One has been doing all that — and more — for years.

• Multiple journals
• Custom templates
• PDF export and printing
• End-to-end encryption across platforms

Why it still wins: More polished, flexible, and built for real journaling habits.

3. Otter AI vs. Apple Transcripts

Apple’s call recording and transcription are neat additions. But what about:

• Speaker detection?
• Team collaboration?
• Real-time captions and meeting summaries?
• Otter AI is still far ahead.

Why it still wins: For professionals and teams who rely on detailed, shareable transcripts.

4. Grammarly vs. Apple Writing Tools

Sure, Apple Intelligence can suggest edits in Mail and Notes, but it lacks:

• Cross-platform support
• Context-aware tone suggestions
• AI rephrasing, shortening, or expanding

Why it still wins: Grammarly adapts to how you write, not just your typos.

5. 1Password vs. iCloud Keychain

Apple now offers password autofill and even 2FA — great! But if you need:

• Secure sharing
• Password auditing
• Cross-platform syncing (especially with Windows or Android)
• Team management
• 1Password is still unmatched.

Why it still wins: Security without compromise, beyond Apple’s walled garden.

TextExpander vs. Apple’s Quick Snippets

Apple’s new text expansion via Spotlight and Shortcuts is handy for simple inserts. But when it comes to real productivity, TextExpander still plays in a whole different league.

• Dynamic snippets with fill-in fields, optional sections, and dropdown menus
• Team sharing and collaboration features
• Real-time sync across Mac, Windows, iOS, and Chrome
• Built-in statistics and snippet usage tracking
• Auto-corrections, templates, and rich formatting support

Why it still wins: Perfect for teams, support reps, writers, and anyone who types a lot — TextExpander doesn’t just save keystrokes, it scales communication.

One-size-fits-all? Not quite.

Apple’s updates in macOS 16 and iOS 26 are fantastic for the average user. But if you’re someone who:

• Needs deeper customization
• Works cross-platform
• Values advanced workflows
• Prefers premium support and updates

Then third-party apps still matter — a lot.

In many cases, Apple takes inspiration from the best apps out there. But it rarely outdoes them in flexibility or power. That’s where the indie developer spirit shines: creating apps with personality, purpose, and professional-grade features.

What’s next for developers?

WWDC 2025 wasn’t just about new features — it was a loud reminder to developers: If you build something great, Apple might just build it, too.

But that doesn’t mean the story ends there.

Standing out in the post-sherlock world

If you’re an indie dev or small team, here’s how to stay competitive:

• Go deeper, not broader. Apple’s features tend to be shallow but polished. Build rich features power users love.
• Double down on cross-platform. Apple stays within its ecosystem — your edge is freedom across macOS, Windows, Android, and the web.
• Build with Apple — not just beside it. Use new frameworks like App Intents, Swift Assistants, and Apple Intelligence integrations to offer something Apple can’t (or won’t).
• Tell your story. Users love knowing who’s behind the tools they use. Indie passion is a feature, not a footnote.

“When Apple copies you, it means you’re doing something right. When users stay with you, it means you’re doing something better.”

Keep innovating with community & feedback

If there’s one advantage indie devs have, it’s speed and closeness to users. Iterate fast. Listen more. And keep building what people actually want — not just what’s easy to ship at scale.

Final thoughts: the real sweet spot

Apple may “Sherlock” apps, but it rarely kills them. In fact, it often validates their importance.

If Apple’s new features work for you — great. But if you want to go further, the sweet picks are still out there. And we’ll keep finding them for you.

Check out our Sweetness Directory for apps that push your Mac beyond the defaults.

Got a favorite app that’s still better than Apple’s version? Or building something new in the Apple Intelligence era? Let’s talk. We’d love to feature it.

<p>The post Sherlocked, Not Replaced: Mac Apps That Hold Their Ground After WWDC 2025 first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

Two giants dominate this space: Google Calendar and Outlook Calendar. Both are powerful, both are popular — but they serve different types of users and workflows. And as someone who has spent time living in both ecosystems (shoutout to my days switching between Gmail and Microsoft 365 accounts), I know firsthand that neither system gets everything right.

That’s where Reclaim.ai enters the picture — not as a replacement, but as a smart assistant that sits on top of your existing calendar and transforms it into a productivity engine.

Let’s explore how Google and Outlook stack up — and how Reclaim.ai beautifully bridges the gap.

Google Calendar: simple, clean, and great for personal productivity

Google Calendar is the go-to for freelancers, small teams, and just about anyone deep in the Google ecosystem. It’s lightweight, fast, and integrates seamlessly with Gmail, Google Meet, Tasks, and beyond.

Strengths:

• Clean and intuitive UI
• Easy to share and manage multiple calendars
• Great for personal appointments, tasks, and quick scheduling
• Integrates with tons of third-party apps

Where It Falls Short:

• Manual time blocking becomes a chore
• Doesn’t automatically prioritize or defend time for focus work
• No built-in AI or optimization — it’s smart, but not intelligent

If your workday is flexible and you like tweaking things manually, Google Calendar is a dream. But when things get messy (and they will), you’ll wish for more automation.

Outlook Calendar: built for business, sometimes at a cost

Outlook Calendar is the corporate default. Most enterprise teams and organizations running on Microsoft 365 rely on it daily. It’s tightly integrated with Microsoft Teams, OneDrive, and the broader Office suite — making it a solid choice for business users.

Strengths:

• Enterprise-ready with powerful admin controls
• Excellent for scheduling meetings across departments
• Strong Microsoft Teams integration
• Feature-rich for corporate workflows

Where It Falls Short:

UI/UX can feel dated or overly complex

• Less intuitive for personal or task-based time blocking
• Lacks native AI capabilities for proactive scheduling

Outlook is a powerhouse — but often feels like a tool you work for, rather than a tool that works for you.

The productivity gap: what both calendars are missing

Here’s the thing: both platforms are great at keeping track of events. But neither is great at protecting time to actually get work done.

In the age of notifications, Slack pings, and constant meetings, it’s not enough to have a calendar — you need a calendar that defends your time.

That’s exactly the gap Reclaim.ai fills.

Reclaim.ai: the smart layer your calendar’s been missing

I started using Reclaim.ai a few months ago, and honestly, it changed how I manage my week. Instead of manually dragging blocks of “Focus Time” across my week, Reclaim takes care of that for me — intelligently.

Here’s what stands out:

• Focus Time: Set a weekly goal (say 10 hours of deep work), and Reclaim automatically blocks time around your existing meetings. No micro-managing.
  
• Smart Scheduling: It prioritizes tasks, habits, and events so you’re never overwhelmed or overbooked.
• Now with Outlook Support: This is big. Reclaim originally only worked with Google Calendar, but as of now, it officially supports Outlook Calendar too. That opens the door to millions of new users who rely on Microsoft 365.
  

Why Outlook support changes everything

Let’s be real — Outlook dominates the business world. Adding Outlook support doesn’t just widen Reclaim’s reach — it amplifies its potential.

Fun fact from Reclaim: Business/work users (often on Outlook) convert to paid Reclaim plans at 6x the rate of personal users.

Now, whether your team uses Outlook or you personally prefer Google Calendar, Reclaim.ai lets you unify and optimize your schedule — no switching required.

Who Reclaim.ai is perfect for

• Busy professionals juggling meetings, tasks, and heads-down work
• Remote teams who want to create a healthy, focused work culture
• Hybrid workers bouncing between Google and Outlook environments
• Managers who want to help their teams protect focus time at scale

You can even set up Team Focus Time if you’re managing a group — here’s a great guide on that: How to set up Team Focus Time

Final thoughts: calendars are evolving

Google and Outlook have been reliable workhorses for years. But with the rise of AI productivity tools, we’re entering a new era where your calendar does more than remind you — it works with you.

Reclaim.ai is a prime example of this shift. It’s not trying to replace the tools you already use — it’s making them smarter.

So whether you’re a Gmail loyalist or an Outlook diehard, Reclaim offers the AI scheduling superpowers your calendar’s been missing.

Ready to reclaim your time?

Try Reclaim.ai for yourself — and finally give your calendar the upgrade it deserves.

<p>The post Google Calendar vs. Outlook for Productivity — And How Reclaim.ai Bridges the Gap first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

That’s where dedicated PDF editors for Mac come in. We tested over 20 options—from lightweight free tools to professional-grade suites—to help you find the perfect fit, no matter your budget or needs.

Quick summary

• PDFelement – Best Overall
• PDFgear – Best Free
• EaseUS PDF Editor – Most Versatile Toolkit
• PDF Expert – Best Apple Experience
• Nitro PDF – Best for Business
• ABBYY FineReader PDF – Best for OCR
• Foxit – Best for Official Docs

Best Mac PDF editing software in 2025

We tested more than 20 PDF editors on an M2 MacBook Air running macOS Sequoia. Our goal? To find tools that balance usability, editing power, and value. We prioritized intuitive UI, robust text/image/media editing, OCR, AI capabilities, and price fairness. The result: 7 top picks that work across a variety of needs and budgets.

#1 PDFelement: Best Overall PDF Editor with AI

After testing over 20 PDF editors in the market, PDFelement turned out to be the best overall PDF editor for Mac. Thanks to the latest updates, PDFelement lets you do almost everything you want with a PDF. Similar to other tools on this list, PDFelement packs some excellent AI features as well.

Our Testing

We really liked the UI design, which keeps everything accessible through Tabs. For instance, you can use the Organize tab to add/remove/edit pages on a PDF document. Similarly, the Tools tab has a number of utilities like OCR, Compare, Compress, Merge, etc. The Form and Security functions from PDFelement are also great.

The editing experience is robust and comprehensive. You get the standard options to add, remove, edit, or replace a variety of content, including text and images. PDFelement lets you add audio/video elements to the PDF document, too. Some extra features include background removal and Header/Footer management.

The PDF editor allows you to convert PDF documents into a wider variety of other formats, including HTML and EPUB. The app has made all these functionalities available in Batch mode as well. For instance, you can convert, OCR, compress, watermark, encrypt, add background, and translate PDF documents in bulk.

AI Features

PDFelement packs a well-designed and optimized AI assistant as well. We could use it to chat with the PDF document, translate on-page content, check for grammar errors, and detect AI-generated content in a file. It is convenient to use all these features without converting the PDF document into another format.

Pricing

PDFelement for Mac offers a limited free version and a 7-day free trial for the Premium version. If you want the complete feature set, you can get a subscription that costs $79.99 per year or 129.99 for a one-time purchase. Both options give you 100GB of cloud storage space. You have to pay another $39.99/year for the AI features, though.

Pros

• User-friendly interface with clean design
• Comprehensive PDF editing tools for text, image, and media
• Supports batch processing for efficiency
• A fully-fledged AI assistant for summary and more
• It packs form creation and digital signatures

Cons

• Advanced features require a paid subscription
• Can be resource-intensive on older systems
• Limited cloud integration compared to some competitors

Overall, PDFelement caters to almost every PDF-related requirement. From simple file conversion to super-secure digital signature, the document management features of the tool are impressive, indeed. Considering how much you pay, PDFelement offers a lot of value.

#2 PDFgear: Best Free PDF Editor for Mac

We don’t always find free tools that work as well as paid/freemium ones. PDFgear is an exception in that the app does better than many paid PDF editors we’ve come across. PDFgear for Mac might as well be the best free PDF suite you can use for reading, annotating, editing, and interacting with PDF documents.

Our Testing

Compared to other tools on this list, PDFgear has a not-so-modern UI design. It isn’t really tricky to navigate, but we’d appreciate an overhaul sometime soon. Spread across eight tabs, several dozen features are added to the app, making it a comprehensive tool for managing PDF documents.

PDFgear checked all the boxes when it comes to editing and annotation. You can pick the appropriate tool, select the content, and edit the document however you want. You get a separate tab to manage all pages as well. We also loved the form-filling capabilities, especially the Preview option.

Other tools on PDFgear include Splitter, Merger, and OCR. While OCR is not the best, you get to extract text from local files and screenshots. We tried using PDFgear to extract text from some archival texts, and the experience was smooth. In the Protect tab, you get options for Password and Redaction.

AI Features

PDFgear has added AI features to the latest version. As of now, the PDF editor allows you to chat with your document. You can ask the AI to summarize the PDF, create a slide, or take other actions like compressing the document. Surprisingly, the free version offers 50 messages per file per day.

Pricing

PDFgear is entirely free to use, and you can download all versions from the official site. PDFgear is available for Windows, iOS, and Android in addition to macOS. You can also access these features through its website.  

Pros

• Completely free with no hidden charges or watermarks
• User-friendly interface ideal for quick edits
• Built-in AI assistant for summarizing and chatting with PDFs
• Supports PDF conversion, merging, splitting, and annotation
• Fast performance even with large files

Cons

• Advanced editing features are somewhat limited
• Lacks cloud storage or syncing functionality
• No option for digital signatures or form creation

Sure, PDFgear is not as feature-rich as the other top picks, but it offers a reliable PDF editing experience on a Mac. We cannot forget that this app is free to use and does not bother users with ads or those crappy pop-ups. You even get plenty of AI credits, too.

#3 EaseUS PDF Editor: Versatile PDF Toolkit

EaseUS PDF Editor is a new entry in the world of Mac PDF editors. But it packs so many features that it could very well be the most versatile PDF toolkit on the market. It combines an intuitive UI design, powerful tools, and wider system integration to offer a complete PDF management experience.

Our Testing

While it does not have the most modern-looking UI design, it felt effortless to navigate EaseUS PDF Editor. It lets you either launch a specific tool (say, OCR or bulk editing) from the homepage, or you can open a PDF document. This tool also lets you customize which tools appear on this Quick Access panel.

The PDF editing interface looks quite similar to the one we saw in Wondershare PDFelement. However, this app from EaseUS packs more features under each tab. For instance, you get more customization options for redacting the text and adding digital/existing signatures.

We liked the smoothness of the editing process as well. EaseUS PDF Editor is quick to recognize the objects and show relevant properties on the side pane. The OCR function also offers advanced options for controlling what appears. Some additional features, like Image Extractor, add extra value too.

AI Features

Unfortunately, EaseUS PDF Editor does not pack any AI-powered features. It is likely to be using AI for OCR features, but it does not have an AI Copilot or Assistant feature. So, if you want to summarize the PDF, you may need another tool.

Pricing

You can get EaseUS PDF Editor for Mac through a one-time purchase of $89.99. The purchase offers lifetime upgrades. We also loved that EaseUS offers a 24-hour free trial, during which you can explore all the features of the PDF editor.

Pros

• It packs a broader variety of PDF editing tools.
• An intuitive yet professional UI design
• Exemplary system integration and speed
• Customizable home page with quick access
• Built-in utilities for OCR and image extraction

Cons

• No AI integration
• Lacks cloud-based collaboration
• No free version

Overall, EaseUS PDF Editor delivers on all fronts of PDF editing and management. Though it lacks AI assistants and cloud collaboration features, the entire experience is versatile. The tool’s performance has also been quite reliable.

#4 PDF Expert: Easy PDF Editing with AI

PDF Expert is a popular PDF editor that is available for Mac, iPad, and iPhone. It lets you annotate, edit, scan & OCR, and export PDF documents efficiently. This comprehensive PDF editor is the best choice when you need a user-friendly PDF editing experience across macOS, iOS, and iPadOS.

The Smart Scan feature from the OCR module is also a great option for selecting text from a scanned image. You can count on the AI features of PDF Expert when it comes to summarizing or chatting with PDFs. In the end, it delivers quite a lot for the price you pay.

Pros

• Syncs across Mac, iPhone, and iPad
• Comprehensive editing and annotation tools
• User-friendly, intuitive interface
• Fast performance and affordable pricing

Cons

• Only available on Apple devices
• Must pay for new features if using a lifetime license

PDF Expert for Mac is available for $79.99 per year or $139.99 for the Lifetime license. However, the Lifetime license does not offer AI features, which is a bummer.

#5 Nitro PDF Pro: Best PDF Editor for Business

If you use PDF documents extensively for business purposes, you should check out Nitro PDF Pro. This super-advanced PDF editor offers one of the broadest feature sets we have seen. The form and security tools make it easy to deal with a variety of business documents.

Because Nitro PDF Pro is an enterprise-focused software, you get additional features like integration with DMS and user-intuitive OCR options. You can also choose between a variety of subscription plans that fit your needs. Its integration with tools like Google Drive and other cloud services adds value as well.

Pros

• Massive feature set for editing, conversion, and security
• Excellent annotation and form tools
• Integrates with Microsoft 365, Google Drive, and other cloud services
• Strong security and document protection features

Cons

• Expensive compared to competitors
• Can be slow with large or multiple PDFs

Nitro PDF Pro costs a whopping $275 per license, which is out there. However, you can use a single license to access Nitro PDF Pro on multiple platforms.

#6 ABBY FineReader PDF: Best for OCR on PDF

You must check out ABBY FineReader PDF if you need a PDF editor that can handle OCR and scans well. It uses one of the best AI-powered algorithms for OCR technology, offering the best results. You’d notice this extra optimization while scanning complex archival documents.

Even when we keep the OCR module aside, ABBY FineReader is an excellent PDF editor. It does a great job of converting PDF documents to different formats and vice versa. We must add that ABBY FineReader PDF takes a toll on system resources, especially while running the OCR module.

Pros

• Industry-leading OCR accuracy
• Powerful PDF editing and conversion features
• Exports to many formats and supports multiple languages
• Perpetual license available, no subscription required

Cons

• Lacks full-text multi-file indexing for fast search
• Learning curve can be steep for new users

You can get ABBY FineReader PDF for Mac by paying $69 per year, with some additional discounts if you go for a three-year plan.

#7 Foxit PDF Editor: Best for Official Documents

You may want to check out Foxit PDF Editor if you spend more time dealing with official PDF documents. For starters, it provides all the editing features you need, from combining pages to content extraction. It takes on the likes of Adobe Acrobat, offering state-of-the-art security and collaboration tools as well.

We also love that Foxit PDF Editor packs some intuitive AI features, allowing you to interact with all your PDF documents. Its strong features for OCR, digital signature, and document tracking are great, and offer a lot of room for customization.

Pros

• Full-featured editing, collaboration, and security tools
• Fast performance and lightweight compared to Adobe
• Strong OCR and export options
• Robust digital signature and document tracking features

Cons

• The interface can be cluttered and hard to navigate
• Some features are repetitive or hidden in menus

Foxit Editor for Individuals costs $110.04/year, but you can explore other packages as well. All the tools from the Foxit PDF Editor suite are available as part of the 7-day free trial.

Best PDF editors for Mac compared

Tool	Platform	AI Features	OCR	Batch Edit	Free Version	Best For
PDFelement	macOS, iOS				(Limited)	Overall editor
PDFgear	macOS					Free PDF tasks
EaseUS	macOS					Versatile editing
PDF Expert	Apple only					Apple ecosystem
Nitro	Cross-platform					Business use
ABBYY	macOS		(Advanced)			OCR-focused use
Foxit	Cross-platform					Office/enterprise

FAQs

What is the best free PDF editor for Mac?

PDFgear is the best free PDF editor for Mac we’ve tested. It offers an impressive suite of features—including editing, annotation, page management, OCR, and AI-powered summarization—all without watermarks or upsells. It’s ideal for casual users or students who want full control over PDFs without paying a dime.

Which PDF editor supports batch processing?

PDFelement, EaseUS PDF Editor, and ABBYY FineReader PDF all support batch processing. This allows users to convert, compress, watermark, OCR, or encrypt multiple PDFs at once—saving hours for professionals dealing with bulk documents.

Is Adobe Acrobat the only professional PDF tool?

Not at all. While Adobe Acrobat Pro DC remains a gold standard, several alternatives like PDFelement and Foxit PDF Editor offer comparable professional features—often at a lower cost. These tools provide advanced editing, form handling, digital signatures, collaboration, and strong security.

Which PDF editor has the best AI features?

PDFelement stands out for AI capabilities. It allows you to chat with your document, summarize content, translate text, and even detect AI-generated content. PDFgear also offers AI-assisted summarization in its free version, which is impressive for a no-cost tool.

What‘s the best PDF editor for Apple Silicon Macs?

Most modern PDF editors now run natively on M1, M2, and M3 chips. PDF Expert, PDFelement, and EaseUS PDF Editor are optimized for Apple Silicon, offering snappy performance and energy efficiency. PDF Expert is especially well-integrated across macOS, iOS, and iPadOS.

Can I fill out and sign PDF forms with these editors?

Yes, most editors on our list—including PDF Expert, PDFelement, and Foxit PDF Editor—support form filling and digital signatures. Some even let you create fillable forms from scratch and offer drag-and-drop field editing.

Do free PDF editors leave a watermark?

Many do—but PDFgear and the trial version of PDFelement do not leave watermarks for basic functions. However, advanced features (like OCR or exporting) may prompt upgrade notices in free tiers.

Wrapping up

So, these are the best Mac PDF editors you can find today. We have tried to suggest PDF editors that work well for particular needs. We hope it helps you choose the right one.

If you are looking for advanced PDF editing features and a powerful AI, you should stick to PDFelement from Wondershare. But if you can compromise on the UI and features, PDFgear is a sweet, free option.

On the other hand, if you want more features and impressive integration, the new player, EaseUS PDF Editor, is a great choice.

<p>The post Best PDF Editors for Mac: 2025 Buyer’s Guide first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

Let’s say you need to paste your full signature frequently — instead of typing it out every time, you just type sign, and boom — the full signature (with credentials) appears.

That’s the magic of text expansion software.

It lets you create shortcuts that automatically expand into longer bits of text. Whether it’s a repetitive paragraph, a form response, or formatted data, you save time and typing effort.

No wonder 86% of people surveyed say that workflow automation helps them work more efficiently and productively, according to Smartsheet.

Bottom line? You type less and do more.

Best Text Expansion Tools for Mac

Instead of giving you random selections, we tested the most popular text expansion tools on macOS Sequoia for a week.

We needed two levels of testing before we could choose these 10 options. First, we tested a pool of 20+ text expansion utilities for reliability, efficiency, and value. The idea was to check whether the apps were reliable on a regular basis.

After thorough testing, we shortlisted the 10 best apps (plus a bonus) based on what they offer uniquely.

• TextExpander – Best overall cross-platform text expander
• Typinator – Best one-time purchase alternative
• Rocket Typist – Best for simplicity and affordability
• Espanso – Best open-source and developer-friendly option
• Text Blaze – Best for chrome users and cloud-based snippets
• aText – Best for rich text and cost-effective expansion
• PhraseExpress for Mac – Best for teams and enterprise use
• TypeIt4Me – Best for fast, direct text expansion
• Keyboard Maestro – Best for advanced macros and automation
• Alfred – Best for power users via universal search
• Bonus Pick: Snippety – A fresh take on native-looking text expansion

#1 TextExpander

TextExpander is a go-to text replacement and keyboard shortcut solution on Mac, and it appears to stand its ground. It packs a bunch of features that help you enable text expansion across devices and collaborate with your team while you are at it. We found that the latest version of TextExpander has brought many refinements as well.

Something we liked in the beginning is that TextExpander doesn’t require a hefty setup. Instead, you can set things up by installing the macOS app and enabling the Accessibility permission. After this point, you can use TextExpander to its fullest.

As far as basics are concerned, TextExpander makes it easy to set up plain text, rich text, and even script-based expansions. You can also insert images and links using abbreviations. You get the standard set of features like delimiters and macro support.

This means you can insert variables like time, date, special characters, and scripts into a snippet. However, if you don’t have to customize these things, you can download pre-made snippet collections from the official TextExpander site. There is one called Past and Future Dates that we love, as it lets us insert dates quickly.

It’s also convenient that all this data is tied to your account. When you set up TextExpander on your Windows PC or Chrome web browser, you can access these snippets easily. We also found the menu bar interface and search function of TextExpander handy.

Price

TextExpander uses a subscription system that lets you access the service via different devices and platforms. You can get the Individual plan for $3.33 per month, whereas the Team plan with collaboration features will set you back at $8.33 per month. TextExpander also offers a Growth plan at $10.83 per month.

Pros

• Easy setup and maintenance
• Multiple customization options
• An impressive template collection

Cons

• No one-time purchase option

Our Take

Considering how easy TextExpander makes it to expand, replace, and correct text, it’s a great addition for all professionals and teams. We could think of hundreds of ways the app can help you increase individual/team-level productivity. It would be nice for TextExpander to offer a one-time purchase option, though.

#2 Typinator

You should check out Typinator if you need a text expansion app without the hassle of a subscription. For one, the app does better than most text expansion/correction utilities out there. In fact, Typinator can work with other apps and extensions to improve your overall typing productivity.

As we expected, setting up Typinator was like a breeze. The installation takes only a few minutes, and you’ll be able to use the Typinator app right away. We noticed that Typinator also follows the UI design that we’ve seen with TextExpander. You can see the abbreviation collections on the left and abbreviations on the right.

At the bottom side, you get a full preview of the abbreviation that you can edit. You also get to control some settings like case sensitivity and matching conditions for expansion. Typinator also lets you download a set of abbreviations, which makes the text expansion experience superb.

Among them are TIDBITS Autocorrection, Product Names, and AutoCorrect engines for French and Deutsch. We also found some interesting ones like Inline calculation, which lets you do simple calculations within the text input. The statistics function always provides data on how much time you have saved using Typinator.

Though Typinator lets you share your snippet collections via Dropbox, collaboration features are limited. We also felt the program could offer advanced customization options. You should also remember that Typinator is available only on macOS devices.

We also wanted to mention that Typinator stores all your snippets/abbreviations on local storage. It means your data does not get to the cloud. This might be an appealing feature if you want to insert some sensitive content through these abbreviations.

Price

One great thing about Typinator is its one-time purchase option, which lets you get the latest version for just $29.99. This license lets you use Typinator on up to 2 computers, and you will get minor updates. Typinator also offers a trial version.

Pros

• Versatile expansion, including calculation and dynamic content
• Reliable performance with ample technical support
• A good collection of extensions and snippet collections
• Secure text expansion with local data storage

Cons

• The UI could be better

Our Take

Overall, Typinator for Mac offers incredible value and a smooth text expansion experience. Though the app lacks collaboration features, other features are impressive, indeed. Though its macro options are somewhat limited, the ones included are great.

#3 Rocket Typist

Rocket Typist is a text expansion app that offers all the necessary features for boosting your productivity at an affordable price. If you need a budget-friendly alternative to Typinator or TextExpander, Rocket Typist is worth considering.

We were pretty much impressed with what Rocket Typist had to offer. For starters, it lets you easily create snippets and use them across your Mac. One thing to note here is that Rocket Typist prioritizes an easy way to insert snippets instead of abbreviation expansion.

Rocket Typist integrates pretty well with macOS. You can search for snippets and pick one, and the app will paste the original content into any text field. The macro function lets you create easy-to-use boilerplates for needs like legal forms. You can easily customize these macros to your needs.

You can assign a short series of letters to a snippet, and Rocket Typist will expand it to the original phrase. We found it a little complex to access the abbreviation point, and it can be confusing for new users. But you get a clear way to change how an abbreviation works once you access the UI.

We also noticed that Rocket Typist has added new features to the latest version. For instance, we loved the Smart Snippet function, which uses OpenAI’s tech to create adaptive snippets. However, you need an OpenAI API key to use this feature.

Price

Rocket Typist is available for macOS, iOS, and iPadOS, offering a uniform experience. There is a free version that lets you access basic features, but you need Rocket Typist Pro to get the full set. The macOS version will cost $19.99, whereas the iOS/iPadOS app costs $9.99. You can set it via Setapp as well.

Pros

• It packs versatile text expansion options
• Packs new features like Smart Snippets with AI
• Affordable one-time purchase plus a free option

Cons

• No pre-made abbreviation collections

Our Take

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still includes all the necessary text replacement features, Rocket Typist is an excellent choice. Though the UI could use some work, its one-time purchase option is also great. Surprisingly, the free version works fine, too.

#4 Espanso

We wanted to have only three top picks for the article, but Espanso was too good to exclude. For starters, it is not like the other text expansion apps we have featured. For one, Espanso does not have a GUI for creating or modifying snippets or abbreviations. Instead, you need to use coding skills.

We didn’t know what we were jumping into when we installed Espanso on our Mac. And we won’t lie: we were quite surprised about what we came across. However, we gradually figured out the power that Espanso offers when it comes to managing snippets and other preferences.

At its core, Espanso is a powerful text expansion app that works on both Windows and macOS. It can enhance your typing experience with custom snippets and other integrations and helps you type multiple sentences quickly. However, you need to use macOS Terminal or a text editing app to define these abbreviations.

Because it’s an open-source setup, you get the benefits of a powerful community. It means you can use the Espanso Hub to explore packages. You also get ample options with Shell and Script, along with form support. Once you set up a configuration file, you can use it across platforms like Windows, Linux, and macOS.

We also loved the super-detailed Documentation page from Espanso, as it lets you know everything about the text expansion suite. So, if you are ready to explore the power of full control over snippets and how they work, there is nothing out there better than Espanso.

Price

Espanso is completely free to use and is available on Windows, Linux, and macOS. Because it deals with YAML configuration files, you can sync these with different devices as well.

Pros

• It offers advanced customization and flexibility
• Cross-platform compatibility and open-source
• Transparent code that you can always verify

Cons

• Steep learning curve and requires basic coding skills

Our Take

Sure, we wouldn’t recommend Espanso to everyone out there. You should have the patience and technical expertise to use Terminal and text editors. But if you can do that, Espanso is better than every text expansion tool we’ve come across.

#5 Text Blaze

Text Blaze is not a dedicated text expansion software for Mac. Instead, it is available for Chrome-based web browsers. So, if you use something like Google Chrome, Arc, or even Microsoft Edge on your Mac, you can use this tool to expand text and correct it when you’re typing something on the web.

For what it’s worth, the tool gives you access to dynamic templates, which make it easy to fill out forms and other documents. You also get an incredible set of sharing and collaboration features, which is great if you’re working across teams. So, you can think of Text Blaze as a more powerful autocomplete tool.

Text Blaze offers a free plan with limited snippets. If you need more, you can pay $2.99 for the Pro plan.

Pros

• It works great with Chrome-based browsers
• All your snippets are stored in the cloud
• You get a free-tier plan with decent features

Cons

• Offline support should be better.

#6 aText

aText is a simple text expansion tool available for macOS and Windows. You also get a standard set of features such as support for rich text, auto-correction, cloud synchronization to Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, or iCloud Drive, and a number of built-in snippets that allow you to work out of the box.

We also loved the aText UI very much. It easily lets you go through the multiple snippets you have, and the fully-fledged editing system allows you to craft beautiful signatures or rich text content that will come in handy multiple times.

Because aText is available across Windows and macOS, you can synchronize your snippets easily. However, we think the synchronization options could be better. Overall, however, aText offers sufficient value for the amount you pay.

aText is also the most cost-effective option, as its macOS license costs $4.99 per year.

Pros

• Cost-effective pricing plans
• Support for advanced features
• Regular maintenance and updates

Cons

• Synchronization features could be better

#7 PhraseExpress for Mac

You should check out PhraseExpress for Mac if you are looking for an enterprise-grade text expander and text template manager. Because it is designed for enterprise users, you get a whole lot of customization options when it comes to managing snippets.

It also offers synchronization options between Windows, iPhone, and iPad so that all the snippets that you create on your Mac will be available on all devices. The folder categorization options and reusable auto-text functions are something that we loved in this application.

You can use macro functions to perform math calculators and string operations on text fields. It is also great that you can control how PhraseExpress works with different apps. It integrates well with macOS and offers migration tools for shifting to other apps.

The best thing? The base version of PhraseExpress is free for personal use. Paid ones start at $100.

Pros

• Works great for advanced macro functions via AI
• You can customize how it works with different apps
• Migration tools for transitioning

Cons

• The UI is subpar compared to competitors

#8 TypeIt4Me

Typeit4Me is another affordable option that we can recommend without a doubt. Compared to other tools we have covered, TypeIt4Me has a minimal interface design. It calls itself the original text expander for Mac, and it delivers to a great extent, too.

As we said, the interface is minimal, and adding and managing snippets is super easy. You can access all these snippets from the menu bar interface as well. You also get the standard customization options such as setting triggers, expansion patterns, and AutoCorrect.

In addition to iCloud-based sync, Dropbox and Google Drive can also be used as the syncing platform. In this aspect alone, TypeIt4Me offers more flexibility than other tools we have come across. However, you might miss some advanced customization options.

You can try TypeIt4Me through the free trial, but a full license will cost $19.99.

Pros

• Quick and reliable text expansion
• Support for iCloud Sync
• One-time purchase option

Cons

• Customization options are limited

#9 Keyboard Maestro

Keyboard Maestro is another tool that you can use for text expansion, correction, etc. However, you should keep in mind that this is a completely powerful macro tool for macOS. So, using that only for text expansion would be a waste of resources.

But if you already have Keyboard Maestro, you don’t need another app to expand text or corrections. The setup could be a little complex in that you have to insert custom macros as per your needs. Unlike other tools we have covered here, we can’t export or bulk-add macros into the system.

On the bright side, you get some wonderful automation access. For instance, if you want the snippet to be copied once you have done a calculation-based expansion, you can ask Keyboard Maestro to do that for you.

You can get Keyboard Maestro by paying $36 for the latest version.

Pros

• Works better as an overall automation tool
• You can connect other automation with snippets
• Great for highly flexible workflows

Cons

• It can be an overkill for text expansion alone

#10 Alfred

Alfred is a universal search utility that people use instead of Spotlight. It packs many utilities, and the collection includes a text expander as well. However, you should have a Powerpack subscription to access the snippet management function.

Once you have set it up, Alfred works just like a fully-fledged snippet manager. You can set up the hotkey and snippet keywords and do things based on the trigger. However, it works most easily with text-based snippets. That is, you don’t get as many macro options as you would on other tools we have covered.

Though Alfred is free to use, the Powerpack will cost you 34 GPB.

Pros

• Integrates snippet management into universal search
• Easy to search and find all the snippets
• You get system-wide search options and automation

Cons

• Not a good investment if you only need text expansion

Special Mention: Snippety

We believe Snippety, a new app, requires a special mention when it comes to expanding and replacing text on Mac. You can use Snippety to create snippets that work on both macOS and iOS, and it lets you go a long way when it comes to custom snippets.

You get a set of features, including advanced support for scripts and text expansion, along with automation and collaboration features. For instance, the smart placeholder feature is great when you want to insert a variable kind of data into the text field.

You can also use the AI assistant built into the application to correct your text or perform actions like summarizing and translation. We also loved how it integrates very well with the shared menu of both macOS and iOS.

You can purchase Snippety for $29.99. Unfortunately, there is no free trial or free plan.

Pros

• Most features are great for developers and Pro users
• The universal option for managing and adding snippets is great
• Synchronization is super-smooth across devices

Cons

• It lacks a free trial or free version.

FAQs

What are text expanders and how do they work?

Text expanders are tools that let you assign short keywords (called snippets or abbreviations) to longer blocks of text. When you type the shortcut, the expander replaces it instantly with the full text — like magic.

For example, typing addr can expand to your full mailing address, or sig might drop in your email signature with links and all.

It all starts with a trigger — a short, memorable abbreviation that you set up. That trigger is linked to the full text you want to appear. Once you type the trigger, the expander kicks in and replaces it with the content you’ve assigned.

So instead of retyping your phone number or your favorite email reply over and over, you just type a few characters, and boom — it’s done.

Does macOS have a built-in text expander?

In essence, macOS does have built-in text replacement features found under Settings > Keyboard > Text Replacement. They work in apps like Notes, Mail, and Messages and sync with iOS and iPadOS.

While handy for simple use, it’s limited — no rich text, no smart macros, and no broad app support. If you’re a power user, social media manager, or just someone who loves shaving time off daily tasks, third-party text expanders offer far more functionality.

Text Expanders, Snippets, and Shortcuts: what’s the difference?

These terms are often used interchangeably, but here’s a quick breakdown:

• Text Expander: The app or tool that makes it all happen. It monitors your typing and triggers the expansions.
• Snippet: The content you want to insert — a word, phrase, paragraph, or even a formatted email.
• Shortcut (or Abbreviation): The short piece of text you type to trigger the snippet. Think of it as the “key” to unlock the longer text.

In short: you use a shortcut to trigger a snippet using a text expander tool.

Are text expanders like Espanso.org considered safe and private?

Yes — tools like Espanso are generally considered safe and private. Espanso is open-source, so its code is fully transparent and can be audited by anyone. It does not log keystrokes and only temporarily stores a few recent characters (by default, the last 5) to detect triggers.

That said, snippets are stored in plain text on your local system. So if you’re using sensitive data (like passwords or personal info), it’s best to avoid including that in snippets — or protect the config directory with encryption or strict access controls.

Is text replacement (text expander) actually useful?

Yes — and if you type a lot, it can be a total game-changer. Here’s why text replacement is worth it:

• Save Time: Why type out “Best regards, [Your Name]” every time? Just create a shortcut like /brg and let the expander do the work.
• Fewer Typos: Using predefined snippets means you’re typing less and making fewer mistakes. Everything stays consistent and accurate.
• Fully Customizable: Whether it’s email templates, coding snippets, or common replies, you can create shortcuts for just about anything.

If you spend a lot of time at the keyboard, text replacement isn’t just useful — it’s essential.

Final Thoughts

We hope this roundup of the best text expansion tools for macOS has helped you narrow down your choices. Each tool we included is reliable, feature-rich, and aimed at helping you boost your productivity by cutting down repetitive typing.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, cross-platform solution with team collaboration features, TextExpander is hard to beat. It’s ideal for professionals, writers, and teams who need powerful control and syncing across devices.

Prefer a more minimalist, code-friendly experience? Espanso is perfect for tinkerers and developers who love open-source flexibility and keyboard-driven workflows.

Not a fan of subscriptions? Typinator offers a great one-time purchase model with advanced features like macro support and downloadable snippet sets — a solid pick for solo users or small businesses.

And if you’re new to text expansion and want something lightweight and easy to use, Rocket Typist provides a great entry point without overwhelming you.

Ultimately, the best text expander for you depends on your workflow, preferences, and whether you value simplicity, power, or flexibility. Try a couple out — many offer free trials — and see which one clicks with your typing habits.

Happy expanding!

READ ALSO

• 25 Mac Apps for Students – Productive Study Guide
• The Best Font Manager Apps for Mac
• The Best Clipboard Manager for Mac
• Top Productivity Apps for Working From Home
• Top Sites for Free and Premium Fonts Online

* Readers like you help support TheSweetBits. When you buy something through the links in this article, we may get a small commission at no extra charge to you.

<p>The post Type Faster: The Best Text Expanders for Mac (2025) first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

Writing an engaging piece of tech tutorial is not only about lucid style and expertise. Your content would fail to do its job if you do not have the best screenshots.

I am talking about screenshots that offer as much value as the information you share.

A little backstory

Before we go further, I need to provide some context.

I have been working as a technical writer for more than a decade, for most of which I have used a Mac. In the past years, I have covered hundreds of tutorials and reviews for the Mac audience and the Apple user ecosystem in general. It means a random full-screen screenshot of the Mac does not cut it. It often fails to convey the point—a click, a process, or an idea.

For what it’s worth, macOS has had a decent screenshot utility for a few years. It lets you capture not only full-screen but also window-based screenshots. There is also an option to record screen videos. While it’s all great, I have, as a content creator, always needed more control over how a screenshot turns out. As I said earlier, it is about conveying an idea.

After years of testing free and paid screenshot tools, I came across CleanShot X. And it essentially changed how I capture great screenshots for the web. In this guide, I shall talk about how CleanShot X helped me master the Mac screenshots game.

About CleanShot X

CleanShot X is a feature-packed screen capture app for Mac. It is designed for professionals and enthusiasts alike, but I will be sharing my experience with CleanShot X as a technology writer. I came across CleanShot X as a part of the Setapp package, which also brought plenty of other apps onto the table. Since installing this screenshot app on my Macs, I have never had to use the built-in screenshot utility.

Likewise, It is impressive that the app has always been updated for the latest Mac ecosystem. Even during the transition to Apple Silicon, I never had to worry about how the screenshot features worked. In total, CleanShot X has always been a reliable option for taking screenshots on Mac.

But, as I said, reliability and integration with macOS take you only up to a point. You need powerful features to get the job done. And, here is where CleanShot X made all the difference.

Master Mac’s screenshot with CleanShot X

As a seasoned technical writer, I’ve discovered that CleanShot X is an indispensable tool for creating engaging and professional screenshots. Here are some expert tips to elevate your screenshot game:

UI and setup

As someone who checked hundreds of apps every year, I understand the crucial nature of intuitive UI. While I have a different idea about the learning curve for professional tools, I expect great apps to have an intuitive UI design. In this case, it was easy to depend on CleanShot X.

Once you have set up CleanShot X, the whole process of taking screenshots is overtaken by this application. Of course, you need to provide some accessibility settings and permissions, but that is part of the package. So, the next time you use one of the typical screenshot commands on your Mac, CleanShot X will do the job, and show an easy-to-access overlay on the left side of the screen.

For starters, I can simply copy the screenshot or delete it in a single click. Alternatively, I can double-click on the overlay to launch the built-in editor/annotation tool for screenshots. Now, this editor/annotation utility is one of the most optimized tools I have seen.

Edit and annotation

I have come across screenshot utilities that are either annoyingly heavy with features or too minimalistic. But CleanShot X makes the right cut out of both the worlds, offering a set of features that you most definitely need when you need to create engaging screenshots for your content. The selection of features is practical as well, from a content creator’s perspective.

Let’s say that you want to highlight a part of the screenshot or remove something sensitive from the screenshot. You can use the dedicated buttons to get this job done. There are also options to introduce steps, connectors and other elements that will make your content more engaging. At the end of the day, you also get the traditional editing features.

I use these features regularly because I mostly create content that is tutorial in nature. So, when I have to explain a particular task or a step in a more understanding way, these features of CleanShot X are beneficial.

I also use the built-in options for cropping the screenshot and adding a custom background. The second feature is great when you want to create a new form of screenshots that go in sync with the website where you’re publishing your content. For instance, you can choose from a variety of built-in gradients, solid colors, or even use your own wallpaper, you can also adjust the padding, inset, shadow, corners, and you can even use the auto-balance feature in which the app will do its best to align the screenshot according to the ratio.

It’s also time-saving that I can use presets to make tasks easier.

Customizations and settings

I said this earlier: you cannot have a great screenshot tool without room for customization. And I have always how CleanShot X brings a great balance in this aspect.

The Settings panel of CleanShot X lets you customize all aspects to fine-tune every aspect of your screenshot and screen recording experience. Here’s how I’ve tailored the tool to suit my needs:

• Screenshot & Video Settings: You can define how screenshots and screen videos are captured, including file formats (PNG, JPG, etc.), resolution, and dimensions. You can even adjust how keyboard shortcuts work to fit your workflow.
• Quick Access Overlay: When capturing a screenshot, CleanShot X gives you a customizable overlay for quick access to actions like copying, deleting, or opening the built-in editor. You can adjust where this overlay appears on your screen and how it behaves, which makes for a smooth, distraction-free experience.
• Retina Scaling: When working with Retina screenshots, CleanShot X provides an option to scale them down to 1x, reducing file size for web usage without sacrificing quality. This is particularly useful when sharing images online or in emails.
• Text Recognition & Other Advanced Settings: CleanShot X can automatically detect and extract text from screenshots, making it easier to search through your captures. Additionally, you can choose how the tool behaves after a capture—whether it launches the editor, copies to clipboard, or saves to a specific folder.
• File Naming Template: In particular, I love the option very much. It allows to create a file naming template using placeholders for elements like your current project, company name, or even the app you’re capturing. This level of customization is a huge time-saver, as it automatically generates organized, consistent filenames. Plus, you can enable an auto-increment feature to avoid file name duplication.

The level of customization here means you can adjust CleanShot X to fit any type of content creation, whether it’s for quick blog tutorials or detailed, multi-step guides.

Video recording and GIF creation

The video and GIF recording features in CleanShot X are some of the most useful for creating dynamic, engaging content. Here’s how I use these features on a regular basis:

• Screen Recording: With CleanShot X, recording your screen is simple and customizable. You can record specific app windows, or the entire screen, with adjustable resolution settings. I typically set it to 720p to keep the file size manageable while still ensuring clear, high-quality footage for tutorials.
• GIF Creation: CleanShot X makes creating GIFs effortless. When I need to demonstrate a quick action or create a short loop, switching to “Record GIF” mode is quick and easy. The best part is that you can adjust the quality and frame rate of the GIF to balance file size and clarity. This feature is perfect for embedding short, looped content directly into blog posts or tutorials.
• Self-Timer: The 5-second countdown timer gives me just enough time to position myself before the recording begins, ensuring I’m always prepared.
• Do Not Disturb Mode: Recording uninterrupted is crucial when creating professional content. CleanShot X’s “Do Not Disturb” feature automatically silences notifications, so you never have to worry about pop-ups ruining your video or GIF.
• Capture History: A recently added feature I’ve found invaluable is Capture History, which lets you restore lost recordings. If you forget to save a recording or accidentally delete it, you can simply retrieve it from the history. This has saved me from re-recording entire videos!

After recording, the built-in editor allows me to trim videos, add annotations, or even edit GIFs before I share them. Once I’m happy with the final result, I can upload it to CleanShot Cloud with just one click and generate a shareable link to send to clients or collaborators.

CleanShot Cloud and share

I’ve grown to appreciate in CleanShot X is its seamless integration with CleanShot Cloud. This service not only helps declutter my desktop by storing screenshots and recordings in the cloud but also makes sharing them incredibly easy.

Here’s how I use it:

• After capturing a screenshot or recording, I simply click the Cloud button on the overlay menu.
• Then I will be prompted to log into CleanShot Cloud. From there, I can download files, tag them for organization, or copy sharing links directly from the app.

What I love most is the ability to generate instant shareable links. This feature has been a lifesaver when I need to share screenshots quickly, especially in situations where file uploads aren’t supported. For example, I once had to share screenshots with a support team via a chat window that didn’t allow attachments. CleanShot X’s cloud links saved the day!

Additionally, I can adjust the expiry time for my uploads, which is useful for sensitive information. The default is 7 days, but I can set it to expire sooner or never.

With CleanShot Cloud Pro, I can even protect my shared links with passwords, ensuring that sensitive captures remain private.

The final words

As a content creator, I proactively have to invest in tools that make things easier. So, from that perspective, CleanShot X is a meaningful investment for most content creators.

Moreover, because CleanShot X is included in the Setapp package which I already have, it feels nice to have this powerful screenshot tool at my disposal at all times.

As for the pricing, you can get the premium version and the basic cloud plan for $29. But I much recommend the subscription plan, which sets you back at $8 per month. It offers unlimited features and resources as well.

Keep learning:

• Our full review of CleanShot tool
• How to Use Snipping Tool on Mac
• CleanShot X vs Xnapper: Which screenshot tool is best?
• How to Take a Screenshot on Mac
• How to Take a Screenshot on Windows 11/10
• How to Record Screen on Mac
• All-in-One Screen Recorders & Video Editors

<p>The post How CleanShot X Transformed My Mac Screenshot Game first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

TheSweetBits: Setapp has revolutionized how Mac users access apps with its subscription model. What is the core mission of Setapp?

Setapp: “At our core, Setapp strives to simplify how Mac and iOS users discover and distribute apps. By prioritizing value for both users and developers, we’re constantly working to offer an experience that aligns with market demands and the needs of our customers.”

How has Setapp influenced the Mac software ecosystem since its launch?

“When MacPaw launched Setapp in 2017, our goal was to revolutionize the Mac software ecosystem. Since then, we’re proud to say we’ve reshaped how users access software and how developers distribute their apps.

Before Setapp, Mac users faced frustration with endless app searches, limited trials, and multiple subscriptions. We changed that by introducing an “all-you-can-eat” model, offering over 260 curated, premium apps for a single monthly or annual fee – two years ahead of Apple Arcade. This provided users with full access, no in-app purchases or ads.

The cost-effectiveness has been a game-changer, with many users saving money and discovering new tools they didn’t know they needed. Setapp also created a new ecosystem for developers, allowing them to reach a broader audience and earn based on app usage rather than individual sales. This is especially helpful for developers transitioning from perpetual licenses to subscription models.

Setapp also supports developers by helping them monetize occasional app usage, while also attracting new users. In doing so, we’ve created a more user-friendly, developer-friendly approach to software distribution.”

What are some of the standout features of Setapp that users find most valuable?

“Our users consistently highlight the great value for money as the top benefit of Setapp. Several features contribute to this value.

First, our discovery process is designed to address the needs and challenges of our target audience. We’ve structured the app categories in a way that makes it easy to find what users need, and our intelligent search allows them to search by app name, problem, feature, or use case. To further educate our users, we offer built-in app guides and how-to articles to help users get the most out of their Setapp subscription.

Additionally, our business development team’s deep knowledge of the Mac app market allows us to go beyond simply offering the right app for a task. We carefully curate apps that influence and improve users’ daily workflows, ensuring our collection is not just useful but impactful.”

Can you explain how AI-powered recommendations work and how they enhance app discovery within Setapp?

“At Setapp, we view AI as an essential technology for products in 2025 and aim to integrate it in the most impactful ways for our users. We’re focused on leveraging AI through two key features: smart search and a special assistant.

Search is a universally familiar feature, and using AI here has allowed us to deliver a more diverse set of results and improve the app installation rate.

Our AI assistant offers a popular and user-friendly way of interacting with software through chat. It’s built to not just recommend apps, but to also solve problems. Users can easily find the right app for the task, while also receiving helpful guidance on how to use it effectively.”

With such a diverse range of apps available, what criteria do you use to select which apps are included in Setapp?

“Our selection process starts with listening to our community. We collect and analyze thousands of user queries, forum discussions, and support tickets to identify unmet needs within the Mac community. While we can’t add every suggestion, we use this feedback to guide our discoveries.

Each app goes through four key evaluations:

• Functionality: Does it solve a real problem better than existing solutions?
• Performance: Is it reliable and free of crashes?
• Design: Is the interface intuitive and aligned with Apple’s Human Interface Guidelines?
• Security: Apps undergo a thorough review to detect malware, validate permissions, and ensure no hidden harmful features.

At the end of the day, our community feedback plays a crucial role. We track usage and satisfaction, and if an app falls below a 70% rating, it enters a probation phase for potential improvements. If no progress is made, we remove the app – this happened for 12% of candidates last year.”

How does Setapp balance offering a curated selection of high-quality apps while still providing enough variety to meet the diverse needs of all users?

“For us, there’s no such thing as “enough.” The app market is always evolving, and so are we. We add new apps every month to meet user needs and expectations, while also removing apps if the vendor doesn’t support it. These ongoing updates ensure we stay aligned with market trends.”

How does Setapp cater to different user types, such as casual users, power users, or even businesses? Are there any specific features or tools that address the needs of these different groups?

“We recognize that users have different needs, and our goal is to provide a unified experience for everyone. For businesses, we offer Setapp for Teams, which is designed for small to medium-sized teams. It includes features like user and device management, along with the ability to restrict app usage at the team level.

For casual users, who typically use just 1-2 apps, our basic Setapp subscription is sufficient. For power users, we offer more advanced plans, such as adding extra Mac or iOS devices. One example is the AI+ offer, which gives access to multiple AI models in one place, eliminating the need for additional subscriptions while delivering real value from AI tools.”

How does Setapp manage app updates and versioning for users? Are updates automatic, or must users handle them manually?

“All app updates on Setapp are automatic, ensuring users always have the latest features and security patches without any effort on their part. When developers release updates, they submit them to Setapp for review. Once approved, updates are pushed to users in the background without interrupting their workflow. If a user is active when an update is available, it’s queued and applied the next time they reopen the app.

We also keep a record of all versions, allowing us to quickly roll back to a previous version if needed – though this is rarely required.”

Setapp offers an alternative to the Mac App Store, which has its own set of guidelines and restrictions. How do you address concerns that Setapp might be seen as less selective or reliable compared to the App Store?

“This is a common misconception. While Setapp differs from the Mac App Store in some ways, it is just as selective and reliable, if not more so.

First, all Setapp apps are Apple Notarized, ensuring they meet security standards, including checks for malicious code. This is the baseline for security, whether the app is on the App Store or not.

However, Setapp offers more flexibility than the App Store, especially with regards to features like sandboxing. While sandboxing enhances security, it can limit functionality for certain apps, such as utilities or developer tools, which need more access to system resources.

Setapp’s review process is also highly thorough. With fewer apps to review, we can focus more on each one, ensuring quality and addressing issues quickly. We maintain strong relationships with developers and continuously monitor app performance.

Our approach is more selective than the App Store’s, focusing on a curated selection of high-quality apps that fill specific needs. By combining Apple’s notarization with our own vetting and ongoing monitoring, we can ensure that Setapp offers a reliable and safe collection of apps.”

Looking ahead, what future developments or features can users expect from Setapp?

“Stay tuned! We have some exciting things to share this year.”

Footnotes

Setapp’s journey is far from over! With its user-focused approach and dedication to cutting-edge tech, Setapp is set to redefine how you experience Mac apps.

Whether you’re a casual user, a power user, or a business professional, Setapp offers a unified experience designed to enhance your daily workflows and unlock new possibilities.

Join the community enjoying 260+ apps for just $9.99/month. Go to setapp.com and start your free trial today.

<p>The post Inside Setapp: How MacPaw Reinvents App Discovery and Usage first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

If you are new to macOS, you may not know how to use the familiar snipping tool on Mac. On Windows, you search for an app called Snipping Tool, but things are a little different on macOS.

Worry not, though. We shall share how to use snipping tools on Mac, and these options are available on macOS Sequoia.

Using the built-in snipping tools on Mac

As I said, Macs are shipped with a built-in snipping tool, and it has improved drastically in the last few years. So, if you quickly need a screenshot of an app or the entire screen, you don’t have to wait for a third-party app.

Moreover, based on your requirements, you can use three methods to access the built-in snipping tool on Mac.

#1 Quick Key Shortcuts

Because the Screenshot utility is built into the OS, you can use a few keyboard shortcuts to snip the screen or an app window. These shortcuts are enabled by default.

But if they don’t work, you can navigate to System Settings > Keyboard > Keyboard Shortcuts > Screenshot. Make sure that these options are turned on. After that, fire away with the following shortcuts:

• Shift + Command + 3: Use this to capture the entire screen. If you have two displays, it will capture the active display.
• Shift + Command + 4: This shortcut lets you capture a portion of the screen. A crosshair will appear, and you can use it to capture a specific area.
• Shift + Command + 4 + Space: This keyboard shortcut lets you snip a specific window. It makes use of the previous shortcut, but you can select a window and press Space to capture the screenshot.
• Shift + Command + 6: This keyboard shortcut lets you capture the Touch Bar of your MacBook Pro.

Another impressive feature is the auto-copy option. While using any of the mentioned shortcuts, you can press the Control button to copy the screenshot to the clipboard.

#2 Built-in Screenshot.app

macOS also comes with a dedicated app called Screenshot. It is basically the same screenshot tool that we just used. However, you get more options and control. You can launch this app in two ways:

1. Using Launchpad, where you can search for Screenshot
2. By pressing Shift + Command + 5

Once you see the overlay, you can choose from a variety of Screenshot options. As you can see in the image below, the Screenshot app lets you snip the whole screen, window, or menu bar. It also offers a few options to record the screen.

You can customize these options to a small extent. However, as always, there are some limits that you would come across.

#3 The Touch Bar

If you have a MacBook Pro with the Touch Bar, you can use it to access the Screenshot utility.

First, you need to access Touch Bar settings and add the Screenshot button to the Control Strip. You can do it by going to System Settings > Keyboard > Touch Bar Settings > Customize Control Strip.

After this, you can tap the Screenshot button on the Touch Bar, and the overlay will appear. You can select an option from the Touch Bar itself or use the on-screen buttons.

Using third-party snipping tools for Mac

As you may have noticed, these options with the built-in snipping tool on macOS are limited. Though it is well integrated with macOS, you need more features for advanced needs—say content for a website or social media.

If you need better-looking, professional screen captures, you need to rely on third-party snipping/screenshot tools for Mac. Fortunately, you can choose between various options, including free and paid ones. Here is a quick overview of the best snipping tools you can get on macOS Sequoia.

#1 CleanShot X

CleanShot X has been our favorite macOS screenshot utility for years—for great reasons. It brings together a bunch of optimized features and an intuitive User Interface. So, regardless of your experience, you can create good-looking screenshots.

Some amazing features of CleanShot X include OCR, editing presets, rich annotation, cloud sync, and native performance. Because it integrates so well with macOS, CleanShot X is the perfect alternative to the built-in snipping tool on your Mac. You can easily pick this if you need an all-in-one screenshot app.

You can get CleanShot X for $29 (one-time payment), $8/month (subscription), or Setapp. When you get it via Setapp, you get cloud-sharing options too.

#2 Monosnap

We completely understand if you don’t want to spend on a snipping tool. In that case, you should check out Monosnap. It is a lightweight yet feature-rich app that performs better than the built-in snipping tool. You can get it for Windows and Chrome as well.

Sure, it does not offer advanced editing features, but LightShot makes it easy to share screenshots via the web. It can instantly upload your screenshot and give you a shareable URL. You get 2GB of storage space and support for file formats like PNG, MP4, MOV, and WEBP.

You can use Monosnap free of cost for non-commercial use. However, enterprise plans are available, and they offer advanced collaboration features.

#3 Xnapper

Xnapper is a strong contender to CleanShot X and lets you create stunning screenshots for all needs. You get an amazing set of customization options, background, and preset dimensions. So, you can create that Twitter image or Facebook cover picture without worrying about the right ratio or resolution.

We also love how well Xnapper integrates with macOS. After setup, you can create good-looking screen snips in a few seconds. Though it is not as feature-rich as CleanShot X, Xnapper still packs options like redaction of sensitive content. It could use some more annotation tools, though.

Xnapper is available for free (with a watermark), but the premium plan starts at $29.99. Setapp is another way to get it.

#4 Snagit

Many tools we have covered so far offer a screen recording option. However, they are not enough when you want to create professional documentation or videos. In this case, you should check out Snagit by TechSmith. It also offers advanced options for audio recording and other presets.

The interface of Snagit is simple and intuitive for most people. You can always use it as a simple screenshot tool. TechSmith has added a few AI-powered features, such as OCR, Simplify UI, and element recognition. It makes a huge difference if you deal with a lot of images from different parts of your Mac.

You can get a personal subscription to Snagit for $39 per year, and the perpetual license will cost $62.99 per user. TechSmith offers discounts for education and government alongside its free trial.

#5 Droplr

Sometimes, you need a snipping tool that works great on other platforms as well. If you work for a team of such nature, you should check out Droplr. Droplr is an all-in-one screen recording software that lets you work with audio and video capture options.

Droplr focuses more on seamless collaboration and sharing than it does on annotation features. However, it offers the same set of features on Windows, macOS, and Chrome. We’d recommend Droplr for those who need maximum control over their screengrab elements.

Droplr is a paid tool, and the initial subscription for individuals will start at $6 per month. Enterprise versions are costlier, but you can check out its 3-day free trial.

#6 Shottr

Shottr is another worthwhile addition to this list because of its lightweight nature. While it offers an amazing set of features, it doesn’t consume system storage or resources. Instead, you can access Shottr from the menu bar and enjoy its multiple screen capture methods.

You get some amazing options like scrolling screenshots, OCR, QR, resizing options, markup tools, and newly added backgrounds. These features make it easy to create stunning screenshots on your Mac. You can use it as a screen ruler or editor as well. More so, Shottr receives regular updates.

You can get the full license of Shottr for just $12 or join the Friends Club for $30 and try experimental/beta features. There is a 30-day free trial, too.

Comparing the snipping tool options on Mac

Here’s a quick table to help you decide what works for you:

Final words

And there you have it! Whether you’re using macOS’s built-in tools or going all out with a third-party app, you’re now ready to capture your screen like a pro. Happy snipping!

<p>The post How to Use Snipping Tool on Mac (incl. Sequoia) first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

At TheSweetBits, we heavily depend upon screenshots, especially for preparing the best how-to content and reviews for our readers. It also means we have to use the best screenshot apps available for macOS. And we thought we should recommend some of these tools to those in need.

Key takeaways

• CleanShot X is the best all-in-one screenshot and screencast app for Mac.
• Xnapper offers a quick way to turn screenshots into share-worthy images.
• LightShot is a great free screenshot app that packs standard features.
• Snagit for professionals who need screenshots and video recordings.

Read along if you want to know how exactly these apps made it to the top!

About built-in macOS screenshot.app

Again, you can access the native screenshot utility on Mac using some keyboard shortcuts.

• You can press Shift + Command + 3 to capture a screenshot of the entire screen.
• You can press Shift + Command + 4 to capture a screenshot of a select area.
• You can press Shift + Command + 4 + Space Bar to capture the screenshot of a specific window.

The Good

By default, macOS will save the screenshots to the Desktop. But, of course, you can change the location through the Screenshot app settings. You can also use the app to record a video of the screen. Apple has integrated a timer into the Screenshot app as well. So, it’s all a piece of cake.

The Bad

Despite all these standard features, the native screenshot utility is not enough when you want to take better screenshots. For instance, there are no options for enhanced annotation or editing. You cannot customize the entire workflow and enable the cloud-sharing, either.

The Worse

Also, you cannot use the native screenshot utility everywhere. For instance, it does not let you capture the content from Apple TV. These issues might come your way if you have to take professional screenshots regularly.

On the bright side, most third-party screenshot apps can help you overcome these issues! They also offer multi-device syncing, scrolling screenshots, and advanced editing tools.

But you should know what’s best for your needs.

Best screenshot apps to snip on Mac

We tested over 20 screenshot apps for Mac and chose the best four options (Read the full rundown of how we select tools to feature on TheSweetBits blog). More importantly, we have recommended the best apps for particular needs. For instance, if you need ultimate editing options, we have one recommendation. On the other hand, if you want something straightforward, there is something else.

#1 CleanShot X — Best overall screenshot app

Even after years, CleanShot X remains the best overall screenshot app for Mac. It packs all the core features you would expect from a screenshot/screencast utility. By any level of comparison, CleanShot X is way better than the built-in macOS screenshot app.

Accessing CleanShot X is a breeze, either through the menu bar or keyboard shortcuts. You can capture screenshots in various modes, including area selection, full screen, individual windows, and scrolling shots. A built-in timer helps schedule your captures precisely. We regularly use the options for OCR screenshots as well as screen recordings.

Editing is effortless with CleanShot X’s extensive annotation tools. Crop, highlight, redact, draw, mark, and add shapes and text to tailor your screenshots perfectly. Sharing is equally convenient – upload with a single click and copy the link to your clipboard. Advanced features like team management and self-destruct control ensure secure and efficient collaboration.

It is also impressive that you can customize almost every aspect of a screenshot. For instance, you can select the background for the image or how it interacts with other graphical elements. We use CleanShot X as an annotation utility for images from other apps as well.

Pros

• An intuitive and productive UI
• It integrates so well with macOS
• It offers advanced editing options
• Suitable for content creators

Cons

• Many features are limited to the paid version

Pricing: You can use the basic features of CleanShot X for free. But the paid version costs $29 (one-time payment) or $9.99 per month per user of Setapp subscription.

Also: read our full CleanShot review here.

#2 Xnapper: Best for quick and beautiful screenshots

Xnapper is probably one of the most underhyped screenshot apps for Mac. It allows you to capture stunning screenshots and share them in a jiffy. While doing it, you do not have to worry about how it looks on target platforms, either.

It packs many features that make our lives easier. For instance, you can use automatic balancing to get optimized screenshots in a click. Similarly, social media templates can save time when preparing screenshots in bulk. We loved how you can use multiple presets to save your preferences for later. Once done, you can select a preset to make specific changes.

We also loved the annotation tools from Xnapper. Even though some of these features are in the beta stage, you can count on them. In the end, you can easily annotate the screenshots based on your needs. For us, it is convenient to add tutorial elements like highlights and instruction graphics. It also brings the standard set of features for drawing and markup.

An area where Xnapper needs improvement is sharing. Unlike CleanShot X, Xnapper does not offer options for built-in sharing. It does not have a cloud storage option, either. Considering how share-worthy Xnapper screenshots are, we would love to see such features in the package.

Pros

• Instant, share-worthy screenshots
• Plenty of social media templates
• Auto-balancing and presets

Cons

• No built-in cloud sharing options

Pricing: While a free trial is available, unlocking the full potential requires a one-time purchase of $24.99, or $9.99 per month per user from a Setapp subscription.

#3 LightShot: Best free screenshot app for Mac

LightShot is the best free screenshot app for Mac by all means. Before I shifted to CleanShot X, LightShot was my go-to option for great screenshots. So, if you do not want to spend money on a screenshot tool, you can check out LightShot.

Setting up and using LightShot does not take more than a minute. You can capture screenshots of the selected area with just two clicks. Once you have captured an area, you can access the annotation/editing tools from the integrated widget.

Though not a lot, the editing tools from the LightShot package are sufficient for most users. You can add a variety of elements and annotate the screenshot. You can also add text boxes and shapes to the image. It also features an integrated sharing interface that helps you instantly upload and share screenshots with ease.

You will receive a notification once the file has been uploaded. Then, you can copy the link and share it with others. Unlike Snagit, LightShot does not consume a lot of system resources. So, you can use the screenshot function even while running heavy-duty apps. Once you have set up the hotkeys, you won’t even know the presence of LightShot.

Pros

• A simple and lightweight design
• It does not consume many resources
• You can easily upload and share screenshots
• You get standard editing options

Cons

• It lacks multiple screen capture modes.

Pricing: LightShot is free to use and does not contain any ads. You can download it from the official website, and the app is also available for Windows, Chrome, Opera, and Firefox.

#4 Snagit: Best for screenshot & screen recording

Snagit is often called the best screen capture software for professionals. We think this fully-fledged tool from TechSmith deserves a place on this list. We recommend you consider this app if you need advanced editing and screen recording capabilities.

Snagit’s core features are designed for optimal results. For example, you can record video and audio when you capture the screen — a suitable approach for recording tutorials and presentations. Beyond standard all-in-one and scrolling screenshot options, Snagit offers support for creating animated GIFs and recording screens from your macOS and iOS devices.

Despite its feature set, we found the editing options on Snagit to be smarter and easier to use. For instance, the ‘Step Tool’ simplifies creating informative tutorials, while the ‘Grab Text’ tool seamlessly extracts text from screenshots. Additionally, pre-made layouts and templates expedite the creation of polished videos and GIFs.

You can easily share your screenshots with other platforms as well. For instance, Snagit easily integrates with Google Drive, Dropbox, Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Word. By the way, you can also capture screenshots or record videos from most apps.

Pros

• Snagit enables a professional workflow
• Advanced features for editing videos
• It supports video and audio recording
• Excellent tech support and community

Cons

• It does not offer a free version

Pricing: You can purchase Snagit 2024 for a yearly subscription of $39.99, which is reasonable enough. You can explore education/enterprise discounts as well.

Read our full Snagit review here.

Other candidates

Here are some of the other screenshot apps we looked at:

#5 Droplr: Best for cloud-based workflows

Droplr is a comprehensive screenshot tool compatible with both Mac and Windows. It primarily caters to business and enterprise users, offering high-resolution screen capture capabilities along with cloud storage and enhanced security features, all available through a monthly subscription. It seamlessly integrates with platforms such as eBay, Mailchimp, Intercom, Slack, and more.

Once your screenshot or recording is complete, it’s automatically saved to your Droplr cloud account, with a link conveniently copied to your clipboard for instant sharing with your team. While it offers the option to record videos in 4K resolution, there are limited video editing capabilities, primarily limited to trimming the video length.

Pricing: Droplr is starting at $6/month. A free trial is available.

#6 Monosnap: Best for business use

We recommend you check out Monosnap if you are looking for additional features for sharing screenshots within your business. Even though it packs the standard editing/annotation features, the better focus is on how easily you can create a workflow with screenshots.

Though Monosnap does not have as many features as CleanShot X, there are ample ways to annotate or edit your screenshot. You can use tools like highlighter, blurring, shapes, and text. You can also export the image to your desired photo editor app.

You can do more with the enterprise plan from Monosnap. It will give you access to awesome features like team management, quality control, custom sharing, and enterprise-grade security. You can also get tailor-made workflows.

Pricing: You can get a limited free version, which gives you 2GB of cloud storage and supports most formats. If you want additional features, the non-commercial and commercial plans cost $2.50 and $5, respectively.

#7 Gemoo Snap: Best multipurpose screenshot app

Gemoo Snap is a new, free and easy-to-use snipping app for taking quick screenshots for any kind of project. It can also recognize text (OCR) for grabbing unreadable text from the image.

We love the Screenshot & Beautify feature as it allows us to capture screenshots and beautify them by adding annotations, arrows, text, shapes, and numbers. The core editing tools from Gemoo Snap still save more time for video creators, marketers, and project managers. It is impressive that you can set up hotkeys for almost all types of screenshot needs.

Pricing: Gemoo Snap is free and it is compatible with both Mac and Windows OS. There is also a Chrome Extension that helps take screenshots from the web page.

#8 MarkupHero: A free option for markups

MarkupHero is another free screen capture and annotation tool for macOS. You can use the app on not only Mac but also Windows, Linux, and Chrome. As its name suggests, the app delivers an experience focused on annotating your screenshots.

We also love how integrated MarkupHero is with the web platform. It means you can share your annotations and ideas with others. Furthermore, you can edit your notes on the go. The app offers some collaboration-oriented features in the enterprise plan.

Pricing: You can get a free version of MarkupHero, which is excellent.

#9 Shottr: Free & lightweight screenshot App for Mac

Shottr is a killer choice if you have an old Mac! The app weighs only 1.5MB but delivers several cool features. For instance, you can get scrolling screenshots and markup screenshots on your Mac. In addition, the app lets you zoom in on pixels as well.

What’s more, you get advanced options like OCR and M1-optimized performance. It even comes with a color picker, a feature we have not found elsewhere. Overall, the package looks okay. However, it could use better integration with macOS.

Pricing: Shottr is a free app, but it is regularly maintained and updated.

#10 Skitch: For simple and straightforward

Skitch is a straightforward screenshot app for Mac, and it comes from Evernote. So, if you use Evernote for your note-taking needs, Skitch will easily integrate with your workflow. The User Interface is simple, and you can quickly add shapes and text content to the image.

More importantly, you can share your screenshots with Evernote with a single click. But, of course, there are options to share the screenshot with third-party apps. However, we thought the performance aspect could be better.

Pricing: Skitch is available for free, though.

#11 Awesome Screenshot

Awesome Screenshot is not technically a Mac snipping tool. On the other hand, it lets you create beautiful screenshots and recordings from your web browser. You can get this extension for popular browsers, such as Google Chrome and Edge.

Despite being a browser extension, Awesome Screenshot packs ample features for capturing video content and screenshots. You can resize the screenshot, set it up to share the content with people online as well. You can use the extension to capture windows other than the browser too.

Awesome Screenshot is free to use for the most part, but some features may require upgrades. But it works great for in-browser screen capture.

Bonus option: TextSniper

If you have been looking to capture a small portion of the screens to save text, images, videos, and files that are impossible to copy-paste, then the TextSniper app is worthy of mention here. TextSniper is a Mac snipping tool that helps capture and copy text from images, PDF files, videos, or any other digital sources that contain text.

The app is quite simple and easy to use, it uses OCR technology, you simply select ‘Capture Text’ from the menu bar,  and the text inside the selection will be quickly recognized and copied to the clipboard. This is a convenient and effective technology that extracts and recognizes any text that is non-editable and non-searchable on your Mac’s screen. Read our full review of TextSniper here.

Pricing: TextSniper starts price at $7.99, you will have a 7-day money-back guarantee, and you can also download and give the app a try.

Choosing the best screenshot-taking app

Here’s the thing about our coverage of the best screenshot apps for Mac.

You can expect a better screenshot-capturing experience, no matter which app you choose. However, if you want to know our opinion, here is what we think.

We recommend CleanShot X as the best screenshot app for macOS for apparent reasons. It packs almost all the features you need to take professional screenshots. At the same time, it does not stress out your Mac, either. It offers a free plan, but we think the premium upgrade is a worthy investment.

Equally impressive is Xnapper, which has become our favorite recently. Xnapper makes it effortless to create screenshots and turn them into something worth sharing. In our daily lives, Xnapper is a time-saver that does not compromise quality.

You may also check our comparison article: CleanShot X vs Xnapper: Which screenshot tool is best?

But, hey, feel free to check out other options (including the free ones) if you have specific needs.

* Readers like you help support TheSweetBits. When you buy something through the links in this article, we may get a small commission at no extra charge to you.

<p>The post The Best Screenshot Apps for Mac (Free and Paid) first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

Sure, we can use the built-in screenshot utility on macOS, but it rarely gets the job done.

So, unsurprisingly, we turn to third-party screenshot apps.

I’m sure you can relate to this situation if you are in the business of content creation. We have relied on over 10 different screenshot tools over the past years, but two have stood their ground: CleanShot X and Xnapper.

I’d also assume that you need to make the difficult choice between CleanShot X and Xnapper if you also need the best screenshots from your Mac. But, even if you compare all their features, things can be difficult.

Well, our showdown of CleanShot X vs Xnapper will help.

Meet CleanShot X and Xnapper

Let’s first have an overview of CleanShot X and Xnapper.

CleanShot X is a fully-fledged screenshot and screen recording utility for Mac. It is optimized for Apple Silicon and macOS Sequoia, making it an easy choice for all users. From annotation to cloud sharing, over 50 features are part of this package. Over the last few years, CleanShot X has become a reputed screenshot utility among creators.

Xnapper is another popular screenshot utility for Mac, and it focuses on creating shareable screenshots. The app markets itself as an easy way to create stunning screenshots, thanks to many automatic features and social media presets. Like CleanShot X, Xnapper has also become a reliable option for many creators across the globe.

How We Test and Compare

As I said, TheSweetBits deals with software reviews and how-tos all the time. We wanted to see how CleanShot X and Xnapper can integrate with our workflow and improve our productivity.

To ensure a fair trial, we used CleanShot X and Xnapper exclusively for a week. They helped us create many screenshots for our website, social media pages, and other platforms. All the while, we evaluated how great these tools were.

We tested the paid version of CleanShot X (full review) and Xnapper on an M2 MacBook Air running macOS Sequoia. We create tens of screenshots/media elements per week, and this is what we think.

Feature Comparison

Both CleanShot X and Xnapper let you take good screenshots. However, that is barely enough for advanced professionals and creators.

So, we have compared their features from sections like capturing, annotations, sharing, integration, etc.

# Capture options: CleanShot X is flexible, while Xnapper is simple

With CleanShot X, you get a variety of options when it comes to capturing the screen. You can choose options like All-in-One, Area Capture, Full-screen Capture, Window Capture, Scrolling Capture, Text Capture (OCR), and Record Screen.

Each of these features offers unique subsets. For instance, the Record Screen feature lets you create content for multiple platforms, and you can choose between video and GIF. It can easily replace a screen recording tool on any day.

Similarly, Scrolling Capture and OCR Capture features mean you don’t need separate apps or extensions. In the end, versatile capture options on CleanShot X make it a better choice for professionals.

Xnapper, on the other hand, focuses on simplicity. You get only three capture options: Full-screen, Window, and Area capture. However, Xnapper can automatically detect text from captured images, thanks to its OCR module.

As soon as you capture a screenshot, Xnapper will launch its editing/annotation interface. This is where most of the magic happens. We understand that Xnapper wants to focus on speed, allowing users to create great screenshots without spending so much time.

While we recognize and appreciate the element of simplicity, Xnapper could add more features to the app. Scrolling capture could be a great start, for that matter.

# Editing and annotation: comprehensive vs minimal

CleanShot X offers a comprehensive set of editing and annotation options as well. You can launch the editing interface as soon as you capture a screenshot. There, you get options for cropping, resizing, annotation, and editing.

The resizing window lets you quickly crop images and make them work for different needs. Each set offers additional customization options as well. For instance, we regularly use the options to redact, highlight, and mark different elements on screenshots.

Once you have made the necessary annotations, you can use the background management section, where you can choose backgrounds, padding, shadow, ratio, alignment, etc. Once you get the flow, you can make use of Presets to optimize your productivity.

With Xnapper, however, you get a minimal set of editing/annotation features. Xnapper will open its editing pane as soon as you capture a screenshot. However, this editing window does not have any options to resize or crop the screenshot.

Meanwhile, it offers plenty of options for making the screenshot look good. You can adjust aspects such as padding, inset, roundedness, background, and shadow. A feature we loved is its presets for media platforms like YouTube, Twitter, and LinkedIn. These make it easy to create content for these platforms.

While Xnapper offers some additional features like sensitive data redaction, I believe professionals will need a few more tools. It seems a little too minimal at this point. However, I must appreciate the built-in options for OCR and content redaction—it’s a real time-saver.

# Sharing andintegration: collaboration made easy

CleanShot X seems to take the lead in terms of sharing and integration. As I mentioned, the screenshot tool integrates well with macOS, offering advanced controls. For instance, the quick-access panel and clipboard integration can boost the efficiency of your workflow.

When it comes to content sharing, the app doesn’t disappoint. You can always sign in to CleanShot Cloud, which lets you share screenshots and screen recordings with ease. CleanShot X also enables you to set up custom sharing URLs if you get an enterprise-focused plan.

Even better, CleanShot X makes it easy to automate the sharing options. For instance, you can set it up to automatically upload all screenshots and copy the URL.

Xnapper, however, does not offer many options in this department. It lets you save the screenshots to your Mac or copy them to the clipboard using shortcuts, but that’s about it. So, if you were expecting advanced sharing capabilities, Xnapper may disappoint you.

On the bright side, the developers say they are building a cloud-sharing feature for Xnapper.

# Unique features: aesthetic enhancements and more

Though CleanShot X and Xnapper focus their advertisement campaigns on different aspects, both allow you to make aesthetically pleasing screenshots. You also get a bunch of unique features from both apps.

Creating stunning screenshots using CleanShot X and Xnapper is easy, but CleanShot offers more room for customization. For instance, you can choose between multiple colors, gradients, backgrounds, etc. You can also make use of features like watermarking and presets. If we are to compare the list of features from both apps, CleanShot X will surely win.

More importantly, CleanShot X lets you customize how it works. For instance, you have more control over what happens after you capture a screenshot. Similarly, you can control different aspects like Recording and Annotation. These options come in handy when you have a complicated workflow that you need to improve using a screenshot utility.

You may argue that Xnapper keeps things simple, but it also means you need other tools to get a decent screen capture/recording experience on your Mac.

User Experience

That brings us to our take on the overall User Experience.

# Navigating CleanShot X’s advanced interface

CleanShot X definitely has an advanced User Interface. It means two things. First, you may need some time to tailor CleanShot X for your specific workflows. Two, you always have the option to keep it simple. I have always loved scalability, and it remains the case with CleanShot X.

All the while, CleanShot X retains its intuitive User Interface design. Once you give permission, you can get tips and guides to get the best out of this screenshot utility.

# Streamlined simplicity with Xnapper

On the other hand, Xnapper has optimized its interface for simplicity. The process is streamlined and hits no learning curve. So, as soon as you install the app, you can keep creating beautiful screenshots. And you get to do that without interfering with other apps on your Mac.

So, if you need a straightforward way to take stunning screenshots, Xnapper has the perfect UX for you. Yet, it often hits a point where you need additional functionalities.

Pricing Breakdown

Let’s see the pricing options for CleanShot X and Xnapper.

# CleanShot X: investment in versatility

CleanShot X is a worthwhile investment for those who need a versatile screenshot utility.

You can grab the app and basic cloud features through a one-time purchase worth $29. This option offers you free updates for a year too. However, if you need features like unlimited cloud storage, custom domain branding, team management, etc., CleanShot X and Cloud Pro will cost $8 per user per month.

At $29, CleanShot X offers all the core features, including powerful OCR. In the end, you get a fully-fledged screen capture and recording tool that you can use across macOS. By the way, CleanShot X has a 30-day money-back guarantee, too.

# Xnapper: affordability with style

Xnapper is also an affordable option for those who need stylish screenshots.

You can always use the free version of Xnapper, but it will have the Xnapper watermark. So, I don’t think it is an excellent option for many. The premium plan costs $29.99, and it gives you access to 1 macOS device. Like its contender, Xnapper also offers free updates for a year, after which you can renew at a 40% discount.

By spending $29.99, you get a simple utility that brings you stunning screenshots for sure. However, you may miss features like screen recording, advanced annotation, and customization options. In other words, you’d wish for better versatility.

By the way, you can get both CleanShot X and Xnapper via a Setapp subscription.

Conclusion

Now that we have compared how CleanShot X and Xnapper fare in different areas,

Which tool fits your workflow?

If you have a simple workflow that requires speed and aesthetics, Xnapper is the better option. You also get social media presets that make the job easier. You can have the perfect screenshot in a few clicks.

On the other hand, CleanShot X is perfect for those who need maximum control over their workflow. Though it takes some time to learn the ropes, you end up with a fantastic screen capture utility.

Final thoughts on CleanShot X and Xnapper

In the end, choosing between CleanShot X and Xnapper is easy, especially considering their identical cost.

You should go for CleanShot X if customizability and versatility matter to you. This screenshot utility delivers on both fronts. You also get a great bunch of cloud-based collaboration options.

Xnapper is an equally impressive option if you prioritize simplicity over additional features. While Xnapper can give you aesthetic screenshots in the end, you may need other tools for a total workflow.

Keep learning:

• How to Take a Screenshot on Mac
• How to Record Screen on Mac
• Top Free Screen Recorder Alternatives to Quicktime
• How CleanShot X Transformed My Mac Screenshot Game
• All-in-One Screen Recorders & Video Editors
• How to Take a Screenshot on Windows 11/10

<p>The post CleanShot X vs Xnapper: Which screenshot tool is best? [2025] first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>

What we are saying is this: fonts are essential. Picking the wrong font for even the right design can ruin the design altogether. But, how do you collect and manage the various fonts out there? You’re in the right place if you use a Mac for your design workflow.

TL;DR: the best Mac font managers right now

• Typeface 3
• FontBase
• Extensis Connect Fonts
• RightFont
• FontAgent
• Webfont
• flipping typical
• Fontcloud
• Monotype Fonts

Basics on macOS fonts

Just like every other Operating System, macOS requires many fonts to function.

The system ships with various fonts belonging to different categories. However, only some of them are the most essential for the OS and most third-party apps to function correctly.

The list includes fonts like AppleGothic, Arial, Comic Sans, Georgia, Impact, Tahoma, Times New Roman, Verdana, etc. However, if you use the iWork suite, you need more fonts like Chalkboard, Optima, Baskerville, Papyrus, Futura, etc. As you can guess, these are some of the cleanest-looking fonts too.

So, on an ideal day, you should not remove the mentioned fonts from macOS. Of course, you can’t remove most of them if you use macOS Catalina or later. But, as a designer or developer, these fonts are not enough. You can’t make the best design using these fonts alone. Apple recommends developers use fonts other than the standard ones we mentioned.

Well, that’s why macOS allows you to install third-party fonts on your Mac. According to Apple,

macOS supports TrueType (.ttf), Variable TrueType (.ttf), TrueType Collection (.ttc), OpenType (.otf), and OpenType Collection (.ttc) fonts. macOS Mojave adds support for OpenType-SVG fonts.

So, if you have a font with the extensions mentioned above, you can install it on macOS. Double-clicking on the font file will handle the installation for you. Quite simply, if you ask us.

But, you don’t always need all the fonts. You may have to disable, group, and manage fonts in general.

That’s why you need a font manager.

What about Apple’s own Font Book?

So, macOS ships with a decent utility called Font Book.

Font Book is the native font manager for macOS, offering you a platform to access/manage the fonts installed on the Mac. As you can see, the latest version of Font Book brings a lot of handy features.

You can see the list of System and User-installed fonts and categorize them. When you select a single font, it also shows a preview of how it looks. You can also create smart collections using this utility. At first look, you may think the Font Book is enough.

But, then, you should understand that a designer needs to handle hundreds of fonts at best. It’s when you’d start noticing some severe limitations with the Font Book utility. For instance,

• Font Book lacks many smart organization and customization options.
• It offers fewer options to compare and contrast two different fonts/variations.
• You also get limited options while trying to manage an individual macOS font.
• Font Book does not work with web-based font libraries such as Google Fonts.

These are some reasons why many professionals prefer using a third-party font manager on Mac.

It’s just that you should have the best of the best.

The 9 best font managers for Mac

Let’s look at some of the best font managers available for Mac. Don’t worry; we have hand-picked options from different categories.

How we evaluate and test apps

Our testing environment was simple. We had a moderately fast Mac mini with M1. To keep everything straight, we hand-tested more than 20 apps from the market and tried to use almost all the features. Based on our testing sessions, we’ve found the following 9 options of your dreams. (Read the full rundown of how we select tools to feature on TheSweetBits blog.)

#1 Typeface 3 (best overall)

Typeface 3 is a dedicated font manager for Mac and our favorite. We can easily recommend Typeface 3 for anyone needing complete font management experience. The latest version, Typeface 3, packs many features you cannot find on Apple’s Font Book or many other font managers.

Intuitive UI

Even if you are entirely new to fonts, Typeface 3 can help you navigate your way through. The UI allows you to focus on the specific aspect of the font(s) you consider. For instance, you can either have an overview of the font or explore how each character looks.

Font Compare

You can explore various font organization features in the Typeface 3 package. We are talking about additions like font filters, synced directories, multi-tagging, duplicate removal, tag export, etc. Its advanced “font compare” toggle lets you preview and compare two fonts side by side, you can also preview a font in different scenarios, like body text layouts.

Focused Management

If you deal with thousands of fonts, you will love the font management features on Typeface 3. For instance, you can enable specific font groups and use them as you want. In addition, the program integrates so well with macOS that it does not even feel like a third-party app.

Incredible Compatibility

Typeface 3 works great with other tools and platforms. First, you can easily import and manage fonts from Google and Adobe Fonts. It even comes with a drag-and-drop font activation feature for your favorite apps. You can seamlessly use it with Adobe CC and MS Office suite.

Pros

• Built and optimized for macOS (Apple Silicon, native)
• It packs font compare and many other features for professionals
• A lightweight app packed with productivity-focused options
• Advanced font management features and compatibility

Cons

• It does not offer a free version; only a free trial is available

Pricing: Typeface 3 offers a free trial, after which you need to pay $39.99. Alternatively, you can get the app via a Setapp subscription.

#2 FontBase (best free)

We recommend FontBase to designers who need to manage multiple fonts for free of charge. Compared to other tools we have mentioned, FontBase is a simpler option. At the same time, the program offers a clear overview of all the fonts you have installed.

Straightforward UI

Instead of adding so many options, FontBase has chosen a simple look. On the sidebar, you can find different categories and collections. On the right-hand side, you can see a representative list of fonts. So, when you search for fonts, you can see how they look in real-time.

Google Fonts Support

Like other options, FontBase also offers support for Google Fonts. It can easily download and install all the fonts from the Google Fonts library. In addition, you won’t have trouble organizing these fonts, thanks to features like nested folders and universal search.

Made for Beginners

Altogether, FontBase has been made and optimized for beginning designers. The core features allow you to organize and discover new fonts you need for projects. While the core app is free, a FontBase Awesome subscription offers additional features like auto-activation, multiple views, tag support, etc.

Pros

• A straightforward User Interface design with a sidebar
• Full support for Google Fonts and OpenType features
• Its features are made and optimized for beginning designers
• Advanced categorization and searching options for fonts

Cons

• Many features require the FontBase Awesome subscription
• FontBase lacks font comparison options for the most part

Pricing: FontBase is free; You can get additional features with the FontBase Awesome package, which costs $3 per month.

#3 Extensis Connect Fonts (best cloud-based)

Extensis Connect Fonts, formerly known as Suitcase Fusion, has undergone significant transformations since its integration into Monotype’s ecosystem. This cloud-based font management solution is designed to streamline the workflow of designers and creative professionals by providing advanced features that enhance font organization and usage.

Cloud-Based Management

Connect Fonts allows you to manage the font libraries in the cloud, ensuring easy access from multiple devices. This feature is particularly beneficial for teams working remotely or across different locations, as it facilitates seamless collaboration on projects.

AI-Recommended Font Pairings

One of the standout features of Connect Fonts is its AI-driven font pairing recommendations. When a user selects a font, the system suggests complementary fonts that work well together, streamlining the design process and enhancing aesthetic coherence in projects.

Collaboration Tools

You can create shared libraries of fonts and creative assets, ensuring that all team members have access to the same resources and maintaining consistency across projects. This is particularly useful for teams using Adobe Creative Cloud and other popular design tools.

Pros

• Automatic font pairing suggestions
• Intuitive font search functionality
• Auto-activate fonts in Adobe apps and Sketch

Cons

• The interface might not be as modern

Pricing: 15-day free trial is available, Connect Fonts is $9 per user per month; you can also purchase digital asset manager Connect Assets with separate subscriptions.

#4 RightFont

RightFont is another great choice for those who need a neat font manager for macOS. In many aspects, this app is similar to Typeface 3. However, some differences may appeal to specific purposes. For instance, RightFont offers a better layer of integration with professional apps.

Professional UI

The User Interface of RightFont is optimized for professional needs. It makes the best use of screen space to give you a neat overview of multiple fonts. In addition, the sidebar comes in handy more often than you think, mainly if you deal with thousands of fonts.

Better Integration

RightFont integrates itself better with macOS and other professional apps. For instance, the app can enable specific fonts when you open documents. Similarly, you can easily switch between fonts when using software suites like Adobe Creative Cloud and Affinity Publisher.

Powerful Search

The search function within the RightFont app is quite impressive for most people. It helps you search by the name and filter based on criteria such as category, weight, format, activation status, etc. Once again, if you use hundreds of fonts for a project, you can count on this feature.

Pros

• It offers better integration with macOS and professional apps
• You can sync with online font libraries like Google Fonts and Adobe Fonts
• It provides optimized performance for Apple Silicon-based Macs
• You get a reliable and space-optimized User Interface

Cons

• It lacks options for comparing different fonts
• It would be nice to see a tag-based categorization system

Pricing: Free trial available; individual license costs $59 and offers free updates for 12 months. You can also avail of discounts if you buy multiple licenses.

#5 FontAgent

FontAgent is an enterprise-centric font manager for Mac. The app has an old-school UI compared to other tools, and some people may struggle to get started. However, from an industrial point of view, you get some advantages.

Maximum Performance

FontAgent 10 has been optimized for Apple Silicon-based Macs. Therefore, you can enjoy better previewing and activation options within the package. The developer Insider also offers cloud-native solutions in an integrated and flexible font management platform to organize, distribute and control your fonts in your private cloud or the Insider Cloud.

Metadata Management

Compared to its contenders, FontAgent has better options for metadata management. This feature will come in handy if you deal with different aspects of fonts during design. You can also integrate tags and categories to organize the content better.

Catalog Management

You can enjoy additional features in catalog management as well. For instance, you can track where you are using a specific font. Similarly, there are options to detect duplicates and manage them better. In the end, the complicated UI becomes helpful in some situations.

Pros

• It is designed and optimized for enterprise needs
• FontAgent offers advanced metadata management
• Catalog management options are rich and effective
• It creates a suitable environment for collaboration

Cons

• The User Interface is old-school and complex
• The setup requires a lot of time

Pricing: A free trial is available; a Standard license of FontAgent 10 for Mac costs $99, but it does not provide upgrades.

#6 Webfont

Webfont is different from the other macOS font managers we have mentioned. This app lets you organize, maintain and share custom icon fonts and SVG sprites. You can also use its collaboration features if you work with icon fonts.

Complete Control

Webfont provides you with maximum control when it comes to custom font management. You can quickly import icons, customize the font, export them and use them for everyday needs. You would not have trouble with the steps, either.

Integrated Sharing

The Webfont app for macOS makes it easy to share custom icon fonts and SVG sprites with other apps and platforms. You can select the font and click on the Share button, and that’s it. This feature will be helpful if you work as a team where you need to manage multiple icon fonts.

Collaboration

Despite being a simple app, Webfont offers excellent collaboration features. You can invite designers to your team and share the collection with them. If you bring developers to the discussion, they can copy the CSS code directly and start working.

Pros

• A lightweight app with a pleasant User Experience design
• Suitable for individual and organization-level use-cases
• Optimized for managing custom font collections with ease
• Webfont makes it easy to create custom fonts and export them

Cons

• It does not work with standard fonts
• It lacks font comparison and metadata options

Pricing: Webfont is free to use, but you can have only 16 icons per project. You can get the Pro version for $9.99 per year if you want more icons in a project.

#7 flipping typical

If you are looking for a simple way to give you a WYSIWYG heads up of your fonts right in your browser, Flipping Typical may be the right thing for you. It’s a web browser font management tool that offers a quick font comparison on their website – where basically you can type any text and see the result with all the classic typefaces in real time – Pretty cool!

You can simply visit flippingtypical.com, type in some words and they instantly display in the typefaces you have installed. We like it because it’s good for brainstorming a quick font choice.

Pros

• have a quick overview of your fonts
• View fonts in bold and italics
• Direct and simple interface

Cons

• Only on browsers

Pricing: completely free!

#8 Fontcloud

Fontcloud, designed by Creative Fabrica, offers an simple font management solution within its all-in-one design tools ecosystem. As a creative professional, we found Fontcloud to be a valuable resource for storing fonts in the cloud and exploring a wide range of typefaces through its lightning-fast user interface with intelligent search capabilities.

One of the standout features of Fontcloud is its exceptional ease of use. Sorting through multiple font options becomes a smooth process, and the ability to view all characters within a font with a simple click is a time-saver during the design phase.

Fontcloud offers a secure backup service that is entirely free to use. However, for access to the platform’s unique features, such as graphic assets, distinctive fonts, and embroidery designs, a subscription purchase is necessary.

Pros

• User-friendly interface.
• Convenient font sorting and quick access from any location.
• Effortless preview of all font characters with a single click.
• Free secure backup service for added data protection.

Cons

• Subscription required to access exclusive features.

Pricing: It’s FREE.

#9 Monotype Fonts

Monotype Fonts happens to be the last option that you may need a font subscription service. As you may know, Monotype discontinues their FontExplorer X family of traditional font management products. With access to one of the world’s largest font libraries, designers can choose from thousands of fonts suitable for various use cases.

The platform not only provides a wide selection of fonts but also enables you to experiment with different styles and typography sets. Its user-friendly interface allows for the creation of countless prototypes. The Monotype Studio feature included in the subscription allows for easy categorization of fonts and a preview of how they will appear in different formats before the design process begins. Additionally, premium fonts can be tested before purchase.

Pros

• Vast selection of thousands of fonts
• Simplified activation and deactivation of fonts
• Extensive library for efficient font organization

Cons

• Pricing may be considered steep for some users
• Font comparison can be challenging

Pricing: starting at $99 per year for an individual user.

Tips for picking a font manager

So, you have seen the best font managers for Mac. But how do you pick the right one for your needs? Well, here are a few tips that can help you. We have made these tips into a few questions you can answer — and decide.

• What kind of designer are you?

Your expertise in design matters a lot when choosing a font manager. For example, if you’ve just started and need a place to organize your font collections, you’re better off with something like RightFont or FontBase.

On the other hand, if you want to delve into the world of fonts and customize every detail, you have to choose an advanced font manager. In that case, we recommend something like Typeface 3.

• Which software do you use?

Every design process has a preferred set of software for its workflow. Anyway, you have to consider the flow while picking a font manager. If you didn’t know, many font managers could integrate with software suites like Adobe Creative Cloud and iWork.

So having a font manager that can work with these tools on-demand is a huge relief.

• How many fonts do you have?

The size of your font collection — or the potential collection — also plays a role in deciding which is the best font manager for your needs. Because not all font managers are made alike, some can handle heavy-duty tasks better than others.

So, if you have a vast collection of 2000+ fonts, you need an advanced manager. On the other hand, if you have a well-curated collection, you can survive with minimal alternatives.

• Do you use web-based platforms?

If you use web-based platforms, such as Google Fonts or Adobe Fonts, you need a font manager that offers support for both. For instance, both Typeface 3 and Extensis Connect Fonts can work with several online font libraries, including paid ones.

Typeface 3, our top pick, has a one-click import option to download all the fonts from Google Fonts. If you value these features, you should ensure the support first.

• (How much) Do you want to pay?

This article covers both free and paid font managers for Mac. Even in the paid section, you can find products that vary between $20 and $150. You can pick any font management tool depending on your style and features.

The right font manager can boost your productivity like anything, just like an underpowered font manager can slow you down. So, we recommend understanding your needs and choosing the product accordingly.

On top of all these, you should also consider basic concepts like security, privacy, and reliability. You can do this by choosing products from trusted developers, which is the case for all software suites we’ve recommended above.

Tips for managing fonts on Mac

If you have found the right manager, here are some font management tips for Mac that you can follow.

• You should always try to refine your collection of fonts. While it’s good to have thousands of fonts on your Mac, they also add load on the system. Also, finding the right font may take time, even when you have tens of categories.
• Making the best use of smart collections is a great way. Most font managers have an option to create a smart collection, to which fonts are automatically added. This way, even if you forget to put fonts into categories, you will benefit from a well-organized font library.
• Using web font libraries is also an excellent way to keep font management under control. For example, a simple sync with Google Fonts can give you a comprehensive collection of suitable fonts. This is way better than downloading and installing individual fonts from the web.
• Instead of using the predetermined directories on macOS, transfer your fonts to a new folder. It will help you in the smooth management of fonts, even without a dedicated manager. Even in the worst case, you can open up this folder and delete the files — thereby removing the fonts.

We hope these tips help you manage fonts well on your Mac.

The future of typography

The future of typography is brimming with exciting possibilities, driven by technological advancements, changing user preferences, and a continuous search for meaning and expression. Here are some key trends and predictions shaping the typographic landscape:

• Variable fonts become the norm, flexibly adapting across screens and devices.
• AI-powered tools generate diverse and adaptable typefaces.
• Personalized font choices emerge with generative design, shaped by user preferences and context.
• Open-source collaboration leads sustainable font development.

FAQs

• How do I manage my fonts on Mac?

Managing your fonts is easy, and all you need to do is run the Font Book app on your Mac or go to the library folder and look for the “Fonts” folder, or you can also use any other third-party app such as Typeface to manage all your fonts quickly.

• Where do fonts go on a Mac?

All your fonts are stored in the library folder. You can view the folder by holding the “Option” key and clicking on Library. Finally, look for (Library/Fonts), and you will see all the available fonts.

• Do fonts slow down my Mac?

Fonts are small files that don’t impact your Mac’s performance. However, if you have many fonts, it can get a little choppy as all your apps need to scan through many fonts to select the one to use.

• What font does Apple use?

Apple uses their proprietary “San Francisco” or SF font, first released in 2015. It is present across all your Apple devices, making the experience consistent and easy to remember.

• How do you download fonts on a Mac?

Downloading fonts on Macs is as easy as downloading the font from your browser, going to the download folder, running the .ttf file, and installing the fonts by clicking on the “Install Font” button. Finally, just use a font manager and select the font as default.

• How do I turn off protected fonts on a Mac?

You can remove or disable all the protected fonts on your Mac. Just run the Font Book app and then click on a font. Now, click the “Disable” or the “Remove” button to turn off the protected fonts.

Conclusion

We have shared everything that helps us effectively manage and use fonts on macOS. We have made even the product picks based on our months-long experience. And we have been using many of these programs for years. So here are some quick recommendations based on what we have discussed above.

• Typeface 3 is the best option for most people; it provides a seamless font management experience on Mac, thanks to its brilliant features.
• If you need a simple font manager, you can check out FontBase, which is entirely free to use and excellent to manage.
• On the other hand, if you have custom enterprise and cloud needs, you can get Extensis Connect Fonts, which comes with customization and digital assets management.

As we have said, always choose a font manager that suits your needs. Getting an advanced font manager by paying more than $100 doesn’t make you a Pro at fonts. Understanding this, you must select a font manager that suits your requirements.

* Readers like you help support TheSweetBits. When you buy something through the links in this article, we may get a small commission at no extra charge to you.

<p>The post Best Font Manager Apps for Mac (and a Few Tips) first appeared on TheSweetBits.</p>