Hammerspoon for Mac

macOS automation you can shape

Hammerspoon is a free automation utility for macOS that lets you tailor your desktop behavior. It exposes macOS features through a flexible API and uses the Lua scripting language so you can build precise, programmatic workflows that match how you work. The result is a highly customizable environment for reducing repetitive work and streamlining common tasks.

What it can do for you

• Define system-wide hotkeys to launch actions, scripts, or sequences with a single keystroke.
• Resize, move, and manage application windows automatically to keep your screen organized.
• Adjust system settings and interact with macOS services programmatically.
• Automate repetitive sequences and chain application behaviors to save time.
• Control applications by sending commands, monitoring state, or integrating with their APIs.

Scripting and customization

At its core, Hammerspoon is a script-driven platform. Lua scripts give you the freedom to compose small utilities or full-featured workflows. Because scripts are plain text, they’re easy to version, share, and refine. Typical uses range from simple hotkey bindings to intricate automation that reacts to system events or application changes.

Learning resources and community

There’s an active user base and extensive documentation to help you get started and grow more advanced. You'll find examples, modules, and community-contributed extensions that expand Hammerspoon’s capabilities, making it easier to discover patterns and borrow solutions for common automation needs.

A frequently suggested alternative

CheatSheet — a free macOS utility — is often recommended as a lightweight complement or alternative when you mainly want quick access to application shortcuts rather than full scripting. It doesn’t replace Hammerspoon’s flexibility, but it can be handy for users focused on learning and using hotkeys quickly.