Amethyst

At a glance

• Editor score
  8.4 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Mac users wanting free tiling with custom layouts
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Layout presets
  Yes
• Facts checked
  19 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • Built-in Tall, Wide, Fullscreen, Column, and BSP layouts
  • App rules can assign applications to float or tile
  • Move windows across screens and Spaces; customize layouts with JavaScript

• Where it doesn't

  • Available only for macOS 10.15 or later
  • Configuration through YAML or JavaScript may require extra effort
  • No window groups for organizing related windows

Our verdict on Amethyst

Amethyst automatically arranges application windows on macOS, making it a fit for people who want tiled layouts rather than manually positioning each window. Its free, open-source distribution includes built-in layouts such as Tall, Wide, Fullscreen, Column, and BSP, alongside keyboard shortcuts for focus, resizing, swapping, and layout selection. It is aimed at Mac users who want control over how windows are arranged, with the option to define how particular applications behave.

The layout and navigation options are its main strength. Users can set application-based rules to float or tile windows, move windows between screens and Spaces, and use mouse options for focus, swapping, and resizing. YAML configuration files offer another way to configure the manager, while custom JavaScript layouts provide a route to layouts beyond the built-in selection. Homebrew Cask is one distribution option, and the project is also available through GitHub releases. This flexibility suits users willing to adapt their window workflow; those seeking an interface centered on window groups should look elsewhere.

Amethyst is free and open source, and the vendor says it will always be free; there are no paid tiers to compare. The published requirements specify macOS 10.15 or later, so it is not a fit for users on other operating systems or older macOS versions. Choose it for free automatic tiling, configurable layouts, and screen or Space movement on a compatible Mac. If YAML or JavaScript configuration feels like unnecessary overhead, or if window groups are central to your workflow, a different window manager may suit you better.

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Amethyst pricing

All 1 Amethyst plans and prices →

Amethyst fact sheet

Amethyst integrations

Amethyst lists 1 integrations on its own site.

• Homebrew Cask

Alternatives to Amethyst

• i3A configurable X11 window manager for Linux users who want precise tiling and workspace control.9.4
• SwayA free, open-source Wayland compositor for configurable window layouts and i3 users.9.3
• HyprlandA flexible Linux building block for users who want to configure their own desktop.9.2

See all Amethyst alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

Amethyst is listed in our Window Management Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update