Top 10 BEST Mac Apps For Productivity: M1 & M2

Are you looking for the best Mac apps to boost your productivity? With so many options available, it's easy to get overwhelmed. In this article, we will explore the top 10 Mac apps that are not only useful but also highly recommended. Whether you're a software developer or simply someone who wants to make the most of your Mac, these apps will definitely enhance your workflow.

1. Alfred

Alfred is like a supercharged version of the Spotlight tool. It allows you to search for files, folders, and applications on your computer. What sets Alfred apart is its ability to search externally as well. You can search the web, find products on Amazon, or even search for videos on YouTube. Alfred is a game-changer for productivity. Download Alfred

2. Hand Mirror

If you spend a lot of time in Zoom meetings, Hand Mirror is a must-have app. Instead of opening Photo Booth to check your webcam before a meeting, you can simply click the mirror icon in your menu bar. It opens a preview of your webcam instantly. Download Hand Mirror

3. Rectangle

Max's built-in split-screen view can be clunky and limiting. Rectangle is a powerful app that allows you to use hotkeys to split your screen in any way you want. Whether it's left to right, top to bottom, or four corners with four different screens, Rectangle gives you the freedom to organize your screen as per your needs. Download Rectangle

4. Hidden Me

For those who want a clean-looking desktop, Hidden Me is perfect. It gives you a menu icon that temporarily hides all the files and folders on your desktop. This is especially useful during screen shares in Zoom meetings or if you simply prefer a minimalist desktop. Please note that this is a paid app. Download Hidden Me

5. Bartender 4

Do you want to declutter and organize your menu bar? Bartender 4 is the app for you. It lets you rearrange, hide, or show menu bar icons according to your preferences. You can also create custom menus, search for specific items, and access hidden icons easily. Bartender 4 comes with powerful features that give you ultimate control over your menu bar. Please note that this is a paid app. Download Bartender 4

6. Tempbox

Tempbox is a useful app that generates fake email addresses. It's perfect for signing up for websites that require email addresses without bombarding your personal inbox with marketing emails. You can create separate fake email addresses to better organize the files you receive from sign-ups. Tempbox is a free and open-source app. Download Tempbox

7. Dropzone 4

Dropzone 4 is a game-changer for file sharing and organization. It allows you to drag and drop files into its menu bar icon, acting as a storage container. You can then combine multiple files into a single shareable file and easily transfer it to messaging apps or platforms like Dropbox. Download Dropzone 4

8. CheatSheet

Boost your productivity with CheatSheet. This nifty app provides quick access to keyboard shortcuts for any application. Simply hold down the command key to see all the available shortcuts for the active app. Save time and effort by using keyboard shortcuts effectively. CheatSheet is a free app. Download CheatSheet

9. Monitor Control

If you use external monitors, Monitor Control is a must-have. It allows you to adjust the brightness of multiple monitors from the menu bar. No need to navigate through different settings. Simply click the drop-down button inside the menu bar icon and set the brightness level according to your preference. Monitor Control is a free and open-source app. Download Monitor Control

10. App Cleaner

When you uninstall an application, App Cleaner not only removes the app itself but also scans your system for any leftover files associated with that app. It ensures a thorough clean-up and prevents clutter in your system. Easily delete unwanted files and free up valuable storage space. App Cleaner is a free app. Download App Cleaner

These top 10 Mac apps will undoubtedly enhance your productivity and make your workflow more efficient. Give them a try and experience the difference they can make in optimizing your Mac experience.

Keywords

Alfred, Hand Mirror, Rectangle, Hidden Me, Bartender 4, Tempbox, Dropzone 4, CheatSheet, Monitor Control, App Cleaner

FAQ

Q: Are these apps compatible with both M1 and M2 Macs? A: Yes, all the apps listed are compatible with both M1 and M2 Macs.
Q: Are these apps available for free or do they require a payment? A: Most of the apps are free, but some do have paid versions or additional paid features. Please check each app's website for more information.
Q: Can I customize the settings of these apps? A: Yes, most of the apps allow you to customize settings according to your preferences. Explore the settings within each app for more details.
Q: Are these apps available on the App Store? A: Some apps are available on the App Store, while others need to be downloaded directly from the app's website. Links to download each app have been provided in the article.
Q: Are these apps limited to specific use cases or can they be used by anyone? A: These apps are designed to enhance productivity and can be used by anyone who wants to optimize their workflow on a Mac.
Q: Can I uninstall these apps easily if I no longer need them? A: Yes, all the apps can be uninstalled like any other application on your Mac. App Cleaner, in particular, helps you remove apps completely, including any leftover files.
Q: Will installing these apps slow down my Mac? A: These apps are designed to be lightweight and shouldn't significantly impact the performance of your Mac. However, it's always a good idea to keep your Mac clean and organized to maintain optimal performance.
Q: Do these apps require any specific system requirements? A: The system requirements may vary for each app. Please refer to the respective websites or app descriptions for detailed information on system compatibility.
Q: Can I use these apps on older Mac models? A: Most of the apps listed should work on older Mac models as well. However, it's advisable to check the system requirements for each app to ensure compatibility with your specific Mac model.
Q: Are there alternatives to these apps? A: Yes, there may be alternative apps available for specific purposes. These recommendations are based on their popularity and positive feedback from users. Feel free to explore other options based on your specific requirements.