Scopo vs AltTab
AltTab is the app most people reach for when they want true window switching on macOS. It is free, open source, deeply configurable, and shows a thumbnail of every open window so you can Alt-Tab the way you would on Windows.
Scopo and AltTab agree on the core idea: Cmd+Tab should switch windows, not just apps. Where they differ is focus. AltTab is built to show you everything; Scopo is built to show you only the project you are in right now, treating each Space as a project boundary.
| Feature | Scopo | AltTab |
|---|---|---|
| Scoped to your current Space / project | Optional setting | |
| Window-level switching (not just apps) | ||
| Cross-Space navigation from the keyboard | ||
| Per-project shelf for files, links & text | ||
| Client / context profiles | ||
| Search across windows | ||
| Live window previews | ||
| Window tiling / snapping | Coming soon | |
| Price | Free trial, then subscription | Free, open source |
| Open source |
Where AltTab shines
- Completely free and open source, with a large community.
- Extremely configurable: shortcuts, appearance, and filtering.
- Rich window thumbnails and a familiar Windows-style feel.
Where Scopo is different
- Project-aware by default: the switcher is scoped to your current Space, not just optionally filtered.
- Goes beyond switching with a per-project shelf, client profiles, and move-window tools.
- Designed around the idea that one Space equals one project, so focus is the default, not a setting.
Choose AltTab if
You want a free, open-source, highly customizable window switcher and you are happy seeing every window across every Space.
Choose Scopo if
You juggle several projects at once and want the switcher to quiet everything except the project you are working on.