Collection
Free Mac apps good enough to skip the paid version
Each app here costs $0 to download, and its free version handles the main job on its own with no trial clock attached. Open source apps have their own collection, so these are the free picks from commercial developers.
10 apps10 free to startMac, iPhone, iPad
What gets an app in: An app gets in when it is free to download and its free version is useful on its own with no time limit; open source apps and time limited trials stay out.
- 1
HyperkeyCosts nothing and turns Caps Lock into the starting key for every shortcut you add later.Free - 2
MosSmooth mouse scrolling for free, a job Mac Mouse Fix charges $2.99 for alongside its gestures.Free - 3
ClopCompression happens on its own in the background, and the core app is free to download.Free to start - 4
OnyXA free toolbox that puts Terminal maintenance commands behind checkboxes anyone can use.Free - 5
LM StudioRunning AI models on your own Mac usually takes setup, and this free app does it in a chat window.Free - 6
rcmdThe free version already replaces Command Tab and jumps between Spaces by number.Free to start - 7
Notion CalendarMerges Google, Outlook and iCloud calendars into 1 view without charging for it.Free - 8
BetterDisplayIts free tier covers brightness, volume and virtual screens before you ever look at Pro.Free to start - 9
MacWhisperThe free version handles file transcripts, call recordings and subtitle export with no upload.Free to start - 10
AppCleanerClears app leftovers for free, one of the jobs CleanMyMac charges $39.95 a year for.Free
