Keyboard Maestro

Active

Country: United States (US)
Founded: 2002
Developer: Stairways Software
Pricing: One-time purchase
Open source: No
Platforms: macOS

Indexes

Automation Clipboard Managers Keyboard Customization Launcher/Spotlight Alternatives

Overview

Keyboard Maestro is a macOS application for creating and executing custom macros triggered by hot keys, application events, typed strings, or other conditions. It supports clipboard history management, application and window switching, launching apps, and actions like sending notifications, opening files, or simulating keystrokes. Designed for Mac users seeking workflow automation, it stands out with its extensive trigger-action system and integration with macOS features.

Key Features

Custom Macros - Record or design macro shortcuts activated by hot keys, typed strings, or application events.
Clipboard History - Maintains history of copied items with Clipboard History Switcher for later access.
Named Clipboards - Stores unlimited named clipboards for images or text.
Application Switcher - Cycles through running applications, supporting closing, hiding, and launching.
Window Switcher - Navigates open windows with actions like resizing or moving.
Application Launcher - Quickly launches applications via triggers.
Notifications - Sends alerts via email, SMS, iMessage, or notification center.
MIDI Actions - Sends MIDI notes, control changes, or packets.

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Standard License	One-time purchase (upgrades available)	Full macro creation, clipboard management, switchers, and automation features.

Platforms & Requirements

Runs exclusively on macOS as a background engine that launches at login. Compatible with macOS versions supporting its features, such as those with Sonoma for certain integrations. No support for other platforms like Windows or iOS.

Integrations & Ecosystem

macOS System Preferences
1Password bookmarks
Web applications
MIDI devices
Notification Center
Email and SMS
Stream Deck profiles
Browser profiles (Safari, Chrome)

Alternatives

App	Difference
BetterTouchTool	Focuses more on trackpad gestures and window management than full macro automation.
Alfred	Emphasizes launcher and workflow extensions with less depth in macro triggers.
Hazel	Specializes in file and folder automation rules rather than keyboard-driven macros.
Automator	Built-in macOS tool with simpler workflows lacking advanced triggers and clipboard features.

Reputation

Keyboard Maestro is regarded as a powerful macOS automation tool among power users for its flexible macro system and reliability.¹³ Users praise its clipboard history and switchers for daily productivity gains.⁴ Some note a steep learning curve for beginners due to the extensive feature set.⁵

Sources (8)