Get Windows-Style Window Snapping on Mac OS X
Window Snapping Comes to macOS: A Long-Awaited Feature
Apple has recently revealed that the forthcoming OS X release, El Capitan (version 10.11), will at last incorporate the functionality to snap windows to the screen's edges.
This capability has been a standard feature for Windows operating system users since 2009.
Understanding Window Snapping
For those in the Mac ecosystem unfamiliar with this concept, a brief explanation is in order. The Snap feature was initially introduced with Microsoft Windows 7.
It allows users to easily reposition and resize windows by simply dragging them to any screen edge.
For instance, dragging a window to the right border will cause it to automatically resize, occupying half of the screen's width.
Similarly, dragging a window to the top edge will maximize its size, filling the entire screen vertically.
Apple's Approach and a Current Solution
Previously, Apple had chosen not to integrate this feature into macOS.
While this omission may not have significantly impacted long-time Mac users, it could feel noticeably lacking for individuals transitioning from Windows or those who regularly utilize both platforms.
The arrival of El Capitan is poised to address this, however, users who are unable to upgrade to version 10.11, or desire immediate access to window snapping, have an alternative.
We recommend exploring Window Tidy as a solution to gain this functionality right now.
Enhanced Window Management with Window Tidy
Window Tidy is a utility available for download through the Mac App Store. It is priced at $7.99, a cost that may appear significant considering a future release will offer the functionality at no charge. However, the additional features provided are considered to justify the expense.
This is particularly true for users who are not currently running, or do not intend to upgrade to, El Capitan.
The application features a menu bar icon, offering both rapid access to controls and entry to its configuration settings.
Users can implement a "Quick Layout" by visually defining the desired position and dimensions for a selected window.
This allows for precise window placement, achieving a size that is both noticeable and functional.
An alternative option, accessible via the menu bar, facilitates moving the active window to the current display. However, this functionality is already achievable through the use of "Command + #" keyboard shortcuts, as previously detailed.
Window snapping within Window Tidy is initiated by selecting a window’s title bar. Subsequently, an overlay is displayed, enabling the user to drag the window to its preferred location and size.
To prevent the overlay from appearing with every drag action, its behavior can be modified. It can be configured to only appear when the title bar is selected and the "Option" key is held down. This setting is adjustable within the application’s preferences.
Harnessing the Potential of Window Tidy Preferences
The Windows Tidy preferences offer a significant degree of customization. We will examine each tab, outlining its functionality in a concise manner.
The initial tab allows for the creation and arrangement of window layouts. Consider how the current setup is configured within the preferences, and then observe its appearance when the overlay is activated, as shown in the following screenshot.
The order in which layouts are arranged within the preferences dictates the appearance of your overlay. Therefore, ensure that layouts intended for snapping windows to the left and right edges are positioned adjacently in the layout sequence.
It is anticipated that a substantial portion of your time within the Window Tidy preferences will be dedicated to layout adjustments. Double-clicking each layout enables detailed refinement of its behavior, size, and the assignment of a rapid activation shortcut. This level of control significantly enhances the application’s utility.
The "Options" tab, subsequently, presents a multitude of beneficial settings for review. The majority of these options are intuitively understandable.
Within the "Positioning" tab, you have the ability to choose between horizontal or vertical arrangement of the layout icons. Furthermore, this tab controls their placement on the screen.
A dedicated tab is provided for the "Quick Layout" feature, previously discussed. Here, a global shortcut key can be assigned for access to Quick Layouts without utilizing the menu bar icon. Additionally, the size, location, and dimensions of the Quick Layout overlay can be modified.
Whether you are a committed Mac user, a long-standing Windows user, or someone who frequently alternates between the two operating systems, window snapping is undeniably a valuable feature.
The snap functionalities being introduced in the forthcoming OS X release are expected to be well-received and widely adopted. However, if you require this functionality immediately, or desire an exceptional level of control over the user experience, we suggest considering Window Tidy for OS X.
We invite your feedback. As a Mac user, do you find the concept of snapping windows beneficial, or is it unremarkable? Share your thoughts, questions, and comments in our discussion forum.