yabai: A Tiling Window Manager for macOS

Summary
yabai is a powerful tiling window manager designed specifically for macOS. It extends the operating system's built-in window manager, offering advanced control over windows, spaces, and displays via a command-line interface. Utilizing a binary space partitioning algorithm, yabai automatically arranges windows to maximize screen real estate and minimize distractions, fostering a more focused work environment.
At a glance
- Last analyzed
- December 28, 2025
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Introduction
yabai is a powerful tiling window manager designed specifically for macOS. It acts as an extension to the operating system's built-in window manager, providing users with advanced control over their windows, spaces, and displays. Utilizing a binary space partitioning algorithm, yabai automatically arranges windows to maximize screen real estate and minimize distractions, fostering a more focused work environment. Beyond its core tiling functionality, it offers features like focus-follows-mouse, disabling space-switching animations, and the ability to create more than 16 spaces.
Installation
Getting started with yabai is straightforward. Comprehensive installation instructions, including various methods and uninstallation guides, are available on the official yabai wiki. Users can also define custom keyboard shortcuts using skhd or other third-party software to enhance their workflow.
Examples
To help users configure yabai, a collection of sample configuration files can be found in the examples directory within the repository. These examples serve as a great starting point for customizing yabai to fit individual preferences and workflows. Further detailed information is available in the documentation.
Why Use yabai?
yabai is an excellent choice for macOS users seeking to optimize their desktop experience and boost productivity. Its automatic tiling capabilities eliminate the need for manual window resizing and positioning, allowing users to concentrate on their tasks. The extensive command-line interface provides granular control, making it highly customizable for power users. By streamlining window management, yabai helps create an efficient and distraction-free workspace on macOS.
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Source repository
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