yabai

6.7easy start · #10 of 64
in Window Management Software

Free to practise onyes
Free trialnot on record
Well documentedyes
Runs where you worknot on record

Runs on Mac.

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yabai is ranked #10 of 64 in window management software on The Geeks Club. It runs on macOS. There is a free plan.

yabai plans and pricing

All plans

yabai Free macOS only · MIT licensed github.com · 4 Oct 2026

Compared on window management software

Free plan: Yes
Platforms: macOS
Application rules: Yes
Virtual desktop controls: Yes

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The record

Purpose: yabai is a tiling window manager for macOS that automatically arranges windows using binary space partitioning.
Controls: Its command line interface lets users control and query windows, spaces, and displays.
Window features: It includes focus follows mouse, space switching animation controls, and the ability to create spaces beyond the limit of 16.
Window layouts: Users can choose between binary space partitioning and floating layouts, and configure padding, gaps, and split ratios.
Automation: Commands can be used in scripts, and yabai supports automation through rules and signals.
Integrations: The project documents integration with skhd for keyboard shortcuts and Übersicht or Sketchybar for custom status bars.
Installation: The maker documents installation using a codesigned binary installer script or Homebrew from the asmvik/formulae tap.
Supported systems: The project lists macOS Big Sur 11 or later for Intel and macOS Monterey 12 or later for Apple Silicon, including Tahoe 26.
Permissions: yabai requires Accessibility permission, and Screen Recording permission when window animations are enabled.
Advanced access: Partially disabling System Integrity Protection is optional but required for many advanced features that inject a scripting addition into Dock.app.
Security caveat: The maker cautions that disabling System Integrity Protection carries potential risk and provides no recommendation on whether users should disable it.
License: yabai is distributed under the MIT License.
Support: The project provides installation and configuration documentation through its GitHub wiki and asks users to review requirements before filing issues.
Known limitation: The wiki warns that native macOS tabs in applications such as Terminal and Finder do not behave correctly when creating tabs.
Price from: Free

Where it ranks on The Geeks Club

Best Window Management Software in 2026#10 of 64

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Sources

github.com/asmvik/yabai· checked 4 Oct 2026
github.com/asmvik/yabai/wiki/Configuration· checked 4 Oct 2026
github.com/asmvik/yabai/wiki/Commands· checked 4 Oct 2026
github.com/asmvik/yabai/wiki/Installing-yabai-%28l· checked 4 Oct 2026
github.com/asmvik/yabai/wiki· checked 4 Oct 2026