12 Powerful Mac Apps You Should Always Launch at Startup
Want to boost productivity, enhance system control, or streamline your macOS experience? While disabling unnecessary login items can speed up your Mac, there are a few essential apps that deserve a spot in your startup list. These tools improve how your Mac functions from the get-go. Here are 12 top-tier Mac apps worth having ready as soon as your system boots up:
1. Maccy – Clipboard Manager That Saves Time
Maccy records everything you copy and stores it for easy access. From pasting text and files to pinning favorites, Maccy is a must-have for writers, developers, and anyone who multitasks. Price: $4.99+ (or $9.99 on the App Store).
2. Rectangle (or Magnet) – Window Control Made Simple
While macOS now includes basic window snapping, Rectangle adds advanced controls, shortcuts, and app-specific layouts. Prefer a paid option? Try Magnet for $4.99.
3. TripMode – Take Control of Mobile Data
Ideal for hotspot users, TripMode blocks unwanted background apps from using cellular data. It tracks bandwidth use and restricts syncing to conserve every MB. Price: Free trial, $17 license.
4. Ice – Clean Up Your Menu Bar
Replace Bartender with Ice, an open-source menu bar organizer that lets you hide clutter and keep key icons accessible. Bonus: No privacy concerns thanks to transparent development.
5. Hyperkey – Remap Keys for Productivity
Turn your Caps Lock into a super-shortcut key with Hyperkey. It unlocks new combo options like Cmd+Opt+Ctrl+Shift in one press, perfect for power users. Free to use.
6. Command X – Cut Files Like on Windows
Tired of macOS’s clunky file movement? Command X brings the familiar “cut and paste” behavior from Windows to Finder—no more Option+Cmd+V.
7. SideNotes – Sticky Notes Evolved
Keep markdown-friendly, customizable notes pinned to your screen’s edge. SideNotes is ideal for jotting ideas or organizing quick thoughts. Price: $19.99.
8. Amphetamine – Keep Your Mac Awake
Prevent your Mac from sleeping during long tasks or downloads. Amphetamine offers deep options for awake time, app-based triggers, or activity-based conditions. Free.
9. NotchNook – Make Your Notch Useful
Turn your MacBook’s display notch into a productivity space with widgets, shortcuts, and more. Alternatives include Boring.Notch and MediaMate. Price: $25 or $3/month.
10. Raycast – A Smarter Spotlight Alternative
This all-in-one launcher replaces Spotlight with clipboard tools, window snapping, AI support, and extensions for everything from Slack to Spotify. Basic use is free; $8/month for Pro features.
11. BetterTouchTool – Redefine How You Interact
Customize gestures, mouse clicks, and keyboard shortcuts to trigger any action—app launches, window movement, or scripts. Price: $12/year or $24 lifetime.
12. Itsycal – A Lightweight Menu Bar Calendar
Want a quick look at your month? Itsycal offers a mini calendar with event previews, perfect for those who find the default Calendar app too bulky. Free.
Final Tip:
To ensure these apps launch automatically, go to System Settings > General > Login Items, and add your favorites using the “+” button.
