The 30 Best Mac Apps of 2026

There’s no denying that Macs are excellent computers. As great as their hardware is, you’ll have to get the right software to make the most of it. Given the sheer size of the Mac App Store, you have countless options for productivity, entertainment and more. Here are the 30 best Mac apps in 2026.

Mac Apps to Enhance Productivity

Productivity apps on Mac continue to update, offering smarter ways to manage tasks and making daily workflows easier. From all-in-one workplaces to focused planning tools, these apps help users stay efficient while adapting to different work styles.

1. Todoist

To-do lists are crucial for productivity, and Todoist is the best to-do list app. Its user-friendly interface lets you create and organize tasks for the day. You can also set recurring reminders for things like weekly assignments or bills.

Todoist works with tools like Gmail, Google Calendar and Slack, so you can keep everything organized. The base version of the app is free, but you can also upgrade it for $60 a year. This pro version includes features such as full reporting history and custom task reminders.

2. Fantastical

Staying on top of a busy schedule starts with the right calendar, and Fantastical is perfect for managing events and tasks. It keeps everything easy to navigate, while natural-language input lets users create entries instantly by typing simple phrases.

The app connects smoothly with platforms like Google Calendar and iCloud to keep schedules up to date across devices. Fantastical offers a free version for core scheduling needs, while the premium plan adds advanced features such as Apple Watch support and custom notification sounds.

3. MindNode

Ideas often come in fragments, and MindNode helps turn them into clear, structured visuals. It helps you build mind maps and connect concepts without distraction. Flexible layouts and simple gestures allow ideas to expand naturally as they develop.

The app supports seamless syncing across Apple devices, so notes stay accessible whether working on a phone, tablet or desktop. Visual tags and focus mode help break down complex topics into manageable parts. MindNode offers a free version for basic mind mapping, while the premium plan unlocks enhanced export options for deeper planning.

4. Hazel

Noodlesoft’s Hazel is an automatic organizing tool to help you keep your files in order. You can control how Hazel organizes items on a granular level, giving you countless options for sorting everything. Once you set up your preferences, Hazel will apply them automatically, even sorting new downloads based on your system.

Hazel can also handle your trash, deleting files as your trash folder grows too big. The latest version of the app, Hazel 4, is available for a flat fee of $42. If you want more than one copy, you can get a license for up to five people for $65.

5. Grammarly

Whether it’s on your Safari or Chrome browser, or you download the app right to your Mac, Grammarly is one of the best proofreading apps out there. It will catch errors and suggest ways to improve your writing. You can get Grammarly for free or upgrade to Premium for $30 per month, or $12 per month when billed annually.

6. Dropzone

Learning and mastering keyboard shortcuts can help you save time. What’s even better is creating your own shortcuts, which is what Dropzone is all about. Dropzone also lets you file documents, copy items, shorten URLs and upload files just by dragging and dropping them.

With Dropzone, you can upload to Google Drive, YouTube and more without opening their apps. You can get Dropzone for free, and a lifetime Pro license is also available for $35.

7. Notion

Notion brings notes, tasks and databases into one flexible workspace. Its block-based editor allows users to build pages and customize layouts without needing multiple tools. Content can take many forms, from simple notes to detailed project dashboards.

The app integrates with Google Drive and Slack to help teams keep information connected. Templates and collaboration tools support personal planning and complex team workflows. Notion offers a free plan with generous features, while paid tiers unlock larger file uploads and team-focused capabilities for scaling productivity.

8. Magnet

If you need to do a lot of multitasking, Magnet lets you organize separate windows into different configurations with the press of a button. Windows will snap into place immediately, eliminating the time it would take to drag them to the correct size.

You can resize windows so they take up a half, third or quarter of your screen. Between these options, you can create near-countless combinations and orientations. Magnet costs just $4.99 and comes with free updates.

9. PDF Expert

When you work with a PDF, it may become frustrating that you can’t edit it. However, PDF Expert lets you annotate, highlight, edit, underline and share right from the app. Plus, with Apple’s Handoff feature, you can continue your work on another Apple device. 

10. Google Drive

Though widely available online, Google Drive also has a Mac app you can download. This app is valuable when you don’t have internet access but want to continue working. The browser version of Google Drive would disconnect you, but the app keeps going! You’ll get 15 GB of free storage with your download.

The Best Mac Apps for Security

Macs are famous for their remarkable security, but you can never be too careful. Given how prevalent cybercrime is today, you should take every precaution to keep your files and information safe.

11. 1Password

Password management is a leading cybersecurity concern, as many people reuse passwords across multiple accounts. Password managers like 1Password can help you avoid that habit. 1Password stores all your passwords in a single, secure database so you don’t have to remember them.

In addition top password management, this app can store credit card information and securely store documents. 1Password costs $3.99 per month for an individual plan and $5.99 per month for a family plan. There are also options for teams and businesses, costing $19.95 and $7.99 a month, paid annually, respectively.

12. Cryptomator

Cryptomator gives you a simple way to secure data before it reaches the cloud. A clean interface lets you create encrypted vaults quickly, while files stay accessible through a virtual drive for everyday use.

The app works with services like Dropbox, Google Drive and OneDrive, so files remain protected across platforms. Cryptomator is free and open source, with optional paid versions on some platforms that support ongoing development and added convenience features.

13. ExpressVPN

Public Wi-Fi is available everywhere today, but it’s not always secure. You can use these networks safely with a VPN, and ExpressVPN is one of your best options. ExpressVPN hides your IP address and encrypts your data, so you stay private from anyone else on the network.

With one ExpressVPN subscription, you can use the app across all of your devices. Some VPNs have speed limits, but not ExpressVPN. At roughly $100 a year, it’s not the cheapest VPN out there, but its features make it worth it.

14. Sophos Home

Macs have built-in antivirus protection, and you can enhance it with third-party services. One of the best Mac apps for that is Sophos Home, which offers more than just antivirus features. Sophos Home includes parental controls and protection from known dangerous sites.

If you buy the premium version for $59.99 a year, you’ll also get ransomware prevention and more features. Sophos Home Premium will also block applications and websites from using your webcam or microphone without your permission. If you go with the free version, you’ll still get plenty of useful security features.

15. Arq Backup

With Arq Backup, you can secure your files through automated backups and strong encryption. The interface remains simple to navigate, simplifying scheduling and managing storage without added complexity.

Flexible backup destinations include Google Drive, Dropbox and other cloud providers, so your data stays accessible across platforms. A one-time purchase model gives you long-term value, with optional updates that expand features and improve reliability.

Entertainment Apps for Macs

Not all apps have to serve a serious purpose. Macs are great machines to use for having fun, too, so here are the best entertainment Mac apps of 2026.

16. Spotify

Apple Music may be the go-to music app for Mac users, but Spotify is a worthy competitor. Apart from its vast library of songs and podcasts, Spotify comes with plenty of social features. You can see what friends are listening to, listen to others’ playlists and more.

Spotify also uses machine learning to suggest custom playlists and recommendations for you. If you pay the $12.99 a month for Spotify Premium, you’ll also get ad-free playback and the option to listen offline. It’s not hard to see why this app continues to be one of the most popular music streaming services year after year.

17. Tweak Photos

Looking for new and creative ways to edit photos right from your Mac? The Tweak Photos app gives you all the filters, frames, color controls, aesthetics, and editing tips and tricks you need to create unique photos. 

18. REKK

If you have many out-of-town friends, you probably use video chatting services. With REKK, you can record those virtual hangouts to share with other friends or watch later when you’re feeling sentimental. The app even features a voice recognition service that can transcribe your conversations.

REKK works with just about any video chatting platform you can think of, from FaceTime to Zoom. The app costs $39.99 a year, which is a good deal if you video chat often.

19. Teleparty

Watching shows becomes more interactive with Teleparty, which lets you sync video playback and chat with friends in real time. A built-in group chat keeps conversations flowing alongside your favorite movies and series.

You can use it with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu and more streaming services, which makes it easy to host virtual watch parties from anywhere. Teleparty is free to use, with optional premium features that add customization and enhanced chat options.

20. OpenEmu

Relive classic games with OpenEmu, which organizes your library in a clean, console-style interface. Games sort automatically by system, so everything stays easy to browse and launch.

You can play titles from multiple retro platforms in one place, with support for gamepads, save states and customizable controls. OpenEmu is free and open source, which gives you a flexible way to enjoy vintage gaming without extra setup.

21. IINA

Enjoy a smoother media experience with IINA, which delivers a modern interface built specifically for macOS. Playback feels seamless, with support for a wide range of video and audio formats right out of the box.

IINA offers picture-in-picture, gesture controls and subtitle customization to tailor viewing to your preferences. The app is free and open source, offering a polished alternative to traditional media players without added complexity.

Miscellaneous Mac Apps

Some apps don’t fit well into other categories but deserve mention. Here are five more of the best Mac apps you can get in 2026.

22. Parcel

Stay on top of deliveries with Parcel, which keeps all your shipments organized in one place. Tracking updates appear in real time, so you always know where each package stands.

You can monitor orders from major carriers like DHL, FedEx and UPS without jumping between websites. Parcel offers a free version with basic tracking, while the premium plan unlocks support for more shipments and enhanced notifications.

23. AirBuddy

If you often use your AirPods with your Mac, AirBuddy is a necessity. AirBuddy lets you use your AirPods with your Mac the same way you use them with your iPhone. You’ll see an iOS-style dialog box when you open your AirPods case near your Mac, enabling you to connect them with one click.

AirBuddy also provides a widget that shows the battery life of your AirPods. This widget includes how much time you have left before your AirPods run out of juice. You can download AirBuddy for just $20.

24. Pocket

If you’ve ever seen an article, wanted to read it later, but never gave it another glance, then it’s time to download Pocket. This Mac app lets you save all the articles and posts you want in one place. Then, you can share them all with your friends after reading. 

25. NetNewsWire

Catching up on all the latest news can take a while, so NetNewsWire shortens that process. This app gives you a single feed for all the articles from your favorite websites that you haven’t read. You can switch between different websites or look at all of your unread posts, so you don’t have to visit all these sites individually.

Most social media sites have algorithms that can get in the way of you seeing recent or unread articles. NetNewsWire gives you control again, so you can see what you want. Best of all, the app is free.

26. Beeper

Keep all your conversations in one place with Beeper, which brings multiple messaging services into a single, organized inbox. A clean layout helps you manage chats without switching between apps.

You can connect platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Slack and more, so you can stay on top of personal and work messages. Beeper offers free access with core features, while premium options expand integrations and enhance the overall messaging experience.

27. Bartender

If you have many apps on your computer that you use simultaneously, consider Bartender. It consolidates all your apps into a menu bar for greater organization. The clean interface lets you customize the menu and instantly search for specific platforms. You can get it today for $20 or purchase a Mega Supporter license for $60 with lifetime free upgrades.

28. CARROT Weather

A simple weather check can now be more engaging than ever. The CARROT Weather app brings you stunning aesthetics and accurate readings. Its standout feature is the comical messages it provides with each forecast. Start the day with a good laugh and prepare for the weather outside. CARROT Weather is available for $14.99.

29. The Unarchiver

Your Mac comes with a built-in extraction feature, but The Unarchiver is far more versatile. The Unarchiver can extract archived file types like zip, RAR and even some EXE files. You can even extract a file with this app straight from Finder without opening it first.

If your filenames aren’t in the Latin alphabet, that’s no problem. The Unarchiver can read various foreign alphabets and characters. On top of being fast and reliable, The Unarchiver is also free.

30. Steam

For any video game lovers or anyone who just wants to find some new forms of entertainment, Steam is your best bet. This platform consolidates video games of all kinds, from all consoles, into one accessible place. Simply search, purchase and download your games to your library. Then, play online with your friends whenever you’d like. 

Best Mac Apps 2026

With the best Mac apps of 2026, you can use your device to its fullest ability, getting more than your money’s worth. No matter what your budget is or what you use your Mac for, there’s an app or two out there that can make things easier. To further optimize your Mac, check out our guide to dark mode on MacOS.

Original Publish Date 09/03/2020 — Updated 05/01/2026