Getting started
Start with two or three apps you use constantly. A small set of memorable shortcuts is more useful than filling the keyboard at once.
Install HyperSwitcher
Section titled “Install HyperSwitcher”HyperSwitcher requires macOS 15 or later. Download the signed and notarized disk image from the HyperSwitcher website, drag the app into Applications, then open it.
If you use Homebrew, you can install the same app from Terminal:
brew install --cask SwiftedMind/cli/hyperswitcherThe first launch walks you through the initial setup. You can skip it and configure HyperSwitcher directly in Settings. To run it again later, use Settings → Advanced → Restart Onboarding.
Choose your Hyper key
Section titled “Choose your Hyper key”Hyper is the modifier layer behind every HyperSwitcher shortcut. By default it means Command + Control + Option (⌘⌃⌥), mapped to one physical key.
Choose who provides it:
- Let HyperSwitcher turn Caps Lock or Right Command into Hyper.
- Choose External app if Karabiner-Elements, Hyperkey, Raycast, or another utility already creates it.
If the external tool sends Command + Control + Option + Shift (⌘⌃⌥⇧), turn on App shortcuts include Shift key in General settings.
The built-in key requires Accessibility, which also enables window switching and layouts. It may pause while you are typing in a password or another secure-input field. See Permissions and macOS privacy for details.
Create the first shortcuts
Section titled “Create the first shortcuts”Open Settings → Apps, choose an app, and press the base key you want to assign. HyperSwitcher adds the Hyper modifiers automatically.
If a key cannot be used, check Conflicts and Unavailable in Apps settings. Limited Mode supports four active app shortcuts; additional assignments stay saved but inactive.
Window access
Section titled “Window access”Accessibility lets HyperSwitcher focus individual windows, cycle between them, restore minimized windows, and use the layout tools. If an external app provides Hyper, basic app launching and activation still work without it. You can change access at any time in Settings → Permissions.
Core gestures
Section titled “Core gestures”| Gesture | What it does |
|---|---|
| Hyper + app key | Launches or focuses the app. |
| Repeat the same shortcut | Moves to another window from that app. |
| Hold Hyper, press an arrow, release Hyper | Places the focused window in the selected Quick Layout region. |
To switch and place a window in one motion, release the app key but keep holding Hyper, then press an arrow.
More options
Section titled “More options”Read App and window shortcuts when you want to change how windows are selected, or Quick Layout when you are ready to arrange them. The defaults are a good place to start.