TabLift for Mac

Product Snapshot

TabLift is a lightweight macOS utility that improves how minimized windows are handled during application switching. It runs unobtrusively and extends the default Cmd+Tab and Cmd+` behaviors so minimized applications become part of the switcher, returning windows to the same Space and display where they were left.

How it alters app switching

• Integrates minimized applications into the usual app-switch commands so you can select and restore them without first visiting the Dock.
• Restores windows to their previous positions and Spaces, preserving multi-display and multi-Space layouts.
• Makes window selection feel more native by including minimized items in the switch flow rather than hiding them from quick navigation.

Notable capabilities

• Very low resource footprint — designed to work quietly in the background without slowing your Mac.
• Option to run from the macOS menu bar or operate completely silently, depending on the workflow you prefer.
• Hover previews for Dock icons so you can visually identify minimized windows before restoring them.
• An intra-app window switcher that speeds up navigation between multiple windows belonging to the same application.

Customization and behavior options

• Choose to bring back only the most recently minimized window for rapid access.
• If no minimized window exists, you can configure TabLift to open a new window for that app instead of doing nothing.
• Controls to tailor which shortcuts include minimized apps, letting you keep standard shortcuts unchanged if desired.

Compatibility and intended users

TabLift targets macOS power users who need consistent window behavior across Spaces and displays. It works with Mission Control and supports macOS 13 and later.

Alternative suggestion

• kubenav — Free: a recommended alternative for users looking for a different toolset or a free option with related window-management convenience.