Helium for Mac

Keep a web window visible while you work

Helium is a lightweight floating browser that stays on top of your other apps so web content remains accessible as you switch between tasks. Its adjustable translucency helps you glance at videos, notes, or tutorials without completely blocking what's behind the window.

Notable capabilities

• When set to translucent, the floating window won’t capture mouse clicks, letting you interact with the apps underneath without moving or resizing the browser.
• Avoid constant window juggling — Helium eliminates the need to resize or rearrange other application windows to keep media in view.
• Play video, follow along with tutorials, or stream content while you write code, edit documents, or use design tools.
• Use it as a reference panel: read documentation, keep chats or collaboration apps visible, or monitor live streams while you focus on a primary task.
• Built with developers and other multitaskers in mind, it’s ideal for workflows that need a persistent, unobtrusive web view.

To return focus to the browser, click its icon in the dock (or use your system’s window switcher).

Trade-offs and a quick comparison

Helium’s pared-down interface — for example, it omits a traditional address bar — reduces visual clutter but also removes some standard browser conveniences. Alternatives such as Fluid include a menu bar, access to favorites and history, and standard navigation buttons (back, forward, refresh). Fluid also hides its toolbar when it loses focus so only the media remains visible.

Despite fewer builtin controls, Helium is an effective, minimal option for keeping web content in view while you concentrate on coding or other primary tasks.