What this app does
Jiggler is a free macOS utility from Stick Software that fakes mouse movement to keep a computer awake. It prevents the display from dimming, the screen saver from launching, or the machine from entering sleep mode when background tasks are running. The app runs quietly and uses very little system resources.
How it works
Using Jiggler is straightforward: enable the tool when you need the screen to stay active and disable it when you no longer do. It can emulate subtle cursor motion without physical input, so apps and services that require an active session continue uninterrupted.
Configuration options
- Set rules so the simulator runs only while a specific application is open (for example, a media player or backup utility).
- Configure it to activate during defined working hours or other time windows.
- Enable it to start when particular services (such as a music player) are running, or add other simple triggers.
Other tools you might consider
- Move Mouse — a more feature-rich option for users who want advanced scheduling and remote control capabilities.
- Mouse Jiggler — a straightforward alternative with a lightweight footprint that echoes physical mouse movement.
- LazyMouse — a simpler utility that may offer a trial or limited free tier depending on the developer.
Strengths and limitations
Jiggler’s main advantages are its simplicity, zero cost, and minimal CPU usage. It covers the basic need of keeping the screen awake without fuss. On the downside, it does not include some of the sophisticated scheduling, remote activation, or advanced behavior options that competing products provide.
Recommendation
If your goal is just to stop the display from sleeping during unattended tasks, Jiggler is an easy, no-frills solution that will suit most users. If you need more advanced control or automation, review the alternatives listed above to find one that matches those requirements.
Technical
- Mac
- Free