Looking for an always on top app for your Mac? You're not alone. Many Mac users need to keep important windows visible while working on other tasks. In this comparison, we'll review the top always on top apps for macOS to help you make the right choice for your workflow.
Quick Comparison Table
| App | Price | Rating | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| TopWindow | Freemium | ⭐ 4.8/5 | Most users |
| Hyperfine | Free | ⭐ 4.2/5 | Basic needs |
| Afloat | Free | ⭐ 3.9/5 | Developers |
| Window Magnet | Paid | ⭐ 4.1/5 | Power users |
Detailed Reviews
TopWindow
FreemiumEditor's ChoiceModern, lightweight always on top app designed for productivity and ease of use.
Key Features
- Keyboard shortcuts (customizable)
- Menu bar integration
- Multiple window pinning
- Per-space support
- Dark mode support
- Low resource usage
- Native macOS integration
Pros
- +Intuitive and easy to use
- +Highly customizable
- +Excellent performance
- +Great customer support
- +Regular updates
- +Works with all apps
Cons
- -Paid app after trial
Hyperfine
FreeSimple and straightforward always on top utility for Mac.
Key Features
- Basic always on top
- Menu bar icon
- Lightweight
Pros
- +Completely free
- +Simple interface
- +Low resource usage
Cons
- -Limited features
- -No keyboard shortcuts
- -No customization
- -No longer maintained
Afloat
Free (with donation)Window management toolkit with always on top as one feature.
Key Features
- Always on top
- Transparency control
- Window resizing
- Center windows
- Roll up windows
Pros
- +Free and open source
- +Many window management features
- +Actively developed
Cons
- -Complex setup
- -Inconsistent reliability
- -Requires SIMBL installation
- -Can break with macOS updates
Window Magnet
PaidComprehensive window management app with pinning capabilities.
Key Features
- Always on top
- Window snapping
- Screen edge management
- Window tiling
- Multiple monitor support
Pros
- +Feature-rich
- +Powerful window management
- +Good multi-monitor support
Cons
- -Expensive
- -Overkill if you only need always on top
- -Steep learning curve
- -Heavier resource usage
Why Choose TopWindow?
While all these apps offer always on top functionality, TopWindow stands out for several key reasons:
- Balanced features: Not bloated with unnecessary features, but comprehensive enough for professional use
- Excellent performance: Lightweight and efficient - won't slow down your Mac
- Great support: Responsive customer service and regular updates
- Fair pricing: Try before you buy with a generous 7-day free trial
Bottom Line
If you need a reliable, easy-to-use always on top app for your Mac, TopWindow is the best overall choice. It combines the essential features you need with excellent performance and support, all at a fair price.
Hyperfine is a good free alternative if you have very basic needs and don't mind limited features. Afloat works for developers comfortable with technical setup, and Window Magnet is best if you need comprehensive window management (not just always on top).
Try TopWindow Risk-Free
Download TopWindow and see why it's the most popular always on top app for Mac. 7-day free trial - no credit card required.
Download for macOSFree 7-day trial • No credit card required • Compatible with macOS 12+