AltAppSwitcher is a lightweight, portable utility that brings a macOS-inspired app-switching experience to Windows. It introduces two intuitive hotkeys to streamline multitasking: Alt+Tab allows users to switch between active apps, while Alt+~ cycles through the windows of the currently active app. For instance, if multiple Windows Explorer windows are open, you can use Alt+~ to navigate through them, but Alt+Tab lets you switch between Windows Explorer and other apps, offering a more focused workflow.
Key Features of AltAppSwitcher
AltAppSwitcher is fully portable, requiring no installation. After extracting the contents of the downloaded file, simply run AltAppSwitcher.exe, ideally with administrator privileges for optimal performance. The application runs in the background, enabling the use of its unique hotkeys immediately.
For managing the program, it comes with a bunch of batch scripts. To close the app, run CloseAltAppSwitcher.bat. For automatic startup with Windows, use AddToStartup.bat, and to disable the auto-startup, execute RemoveFromStartup.bat.
Pros of AltAppSwitcher
- Easy to use: By separating app and window switching, AltAppSwitcher simplifies multitasking, especially for users managing multiple windows of the same app.
- Portability: With no installation required, users can quickly set up and use the utility on different machines.
- Auto-startup: The inclusion of batch scripts makes it easy to configure the app for automatic startup without diving into complex settings.
Cons of AltAppSwitcher
- Lack of GUI: The absence of a graphical user interface may deter less tech-savvy users from utilizing or configuring the app.
- Dependence on batch scripts: While functional, using batch files for basic operations like closing the app or managing startup behavior feels outdated and less user-friendly.
- Overlap with Windows Features: Windows 10 and 11 already provide robust multitasking tools like Win+Tab and Alt+Tab, which offer features such as virtual desktops, app previews, and timeline integration. AltAppSwitcher may feel redundant for many users.
- Administrator requirement: Running the app as an administrator might pose security concerns or inconvenience for some users. Some antivirus products may even frown at this prospect.
Potential Users of AltAppSwitcher
AltAppSwitcher is ideal for users transitioning from macOS who appreciate its app-centered multitasking. It is also suited to power users who frequently work with multiple windows of the same application and desire a simple, focused way to switch between apps. However, the tool might not appeal to those satisfied with Windows native multitasking options or who prefer a more polished, GUI-driven experience.
Conclusion
AltAppSwitcher is a niche utility with potential to enhance productivity for specific workflows, but its lack of GUI and reliance on batch scripts may limit its appeal to a broader audience.
You can download AltAppSwitcher from https://github.com/hdlx/AltAppSwitcher.