MacOS is an efficient and stable operating system, but it might sometimes feel half-baked. Stock Apple applications may lack the functionality you might expect from other programs. Therefore, getting the most out of your Mac system means exploring beyond the pre-installed applications. Here’s a list of some of the must-have third-party apps that can make your life so much easier.
1. Airmail 3
Do you abhor the macOS Mail app’s design? If so, you don’t have to continue using the native application. Airmail 3 is a great alternative, and it offers a Gmail-style interface. The app has some outstanding features, such as Touch Bar support. The customizable interface feels like the native Mail app but with a visual overhaul.
There are other options like Newton, Edison Mail, and Spark, but Airmail is the most reliable and geared toward users.
2. Keysmith
macOS Monterey has introduced the Shortcuts feature, but it may not serve your purpose. Thanks to Keysmith, you can create shortcuts for any of your actions. The app records your clicking and typing and creates macros tailored to your requirements.
The app is well-known for its remarkable ability to record your steps and monitor your work. Of course, it would help if you hit the record button while performing an action, and the steps will be turned to macro by the application. What’s more, you can personalize the recorded steps to suit your needs.
Moreover, Keysmith features a Spotlight-like search bar and saves users from remembering a bunch of new hotkeys. Download the app by clicking https://setapp.com/apps/keysmith.
3. AppCleaner
An essential part of desktop maintenance is cleaning your Mac. In addition, it would help eliminate unwanted programs and applications to improve your system’s performance. That’s where AppCleaner comes in handy. It is a donation-based, free application used to uninstall apps or software you don’t use anymore.
4. Alfred 4
Alfred 4 is an upgraded version of the popular Alfred. The application launcher and search tool have significant updates, such as a robust workflow debugger, a theme editor for creating bespoke looks for the Alfred menu, etc.
If you’ve never used Alfred before, it resembles a superpowered Spotlight that allows users to personalize endless keyboard shortcuts for searching the web, launching apps, etc. The app takes care of automating pretty much anything you need in your desktop workflow.
5. Bear
The Apple Notes application works fine, but if you seek something well-designed, clean, and user-friendly, you can try Bear. It is a Mac-only note-taking application with a fantastic iOS companion app. The software isn’t overstuffed with features, and you’ll never feel overwhelmed.
The app offers simple and elegant features, such as markdown and note pinning support, three-column layout, editor, etc. In addition, the premium version allows cross-device syncing. However, the only drawback is it doesn’t have any web version.
6. VLC Media Player
The VLC Media Player is continually supported, and even though it was introduced in 2001, it is a must-have app. The app works with varied codecs and file formats. You can even convert from one type of file to another. Moreover, the app offers a range of video and audio compression methods so you can create smaller files out of larger or raw ones.
If you download lots of videos, using this app is a no-brainer. What’s more, it is an open-source product.
7. Ulysses
Ulysses’ clean interface and plain text feature make it an ideal app for writing long stories. In addition, the app is perfect for novels, short stories, scripts, and poetries. The software does away with all the unnecessary buttons, icons, and settings to solely focus on their work. There’s a subscription fee, but you can use the trial version to get the hang of it. You’ll get the iOS application bundled with the macOS version if you subscribe.
8. Magnet
Managing the desktop space is an in-built feature of the Windows operating system. On the other hand, Mac users find window management a nightmare. That is why there is a robust third-party ecosystem for helping Mac users get the window organizational and snapping features you will natively find on Microsoft’s operating system. Magnet is one of the best applications for window management. It lets users snap windows flush to the screen’s edges and into preconfigured layouts allowing you to save across applications. The app also supports keyboard shortcuts. Therefore, Magnet is a must-have organizational tool for Mac users.
Wrapping up
These are some of the must-have Mac apps that can boost the productivity of your system. It can help you make the most out of your macOS and improve your workflow. You can go through the features of the apps and download the ones that fit your requirements. Then, once you start using them, you won’t live without them.