Amethyst review

Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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.

Amethyst pros and cons

• 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

Amethyst fact sheet, pricing and score →

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update