GlideTab vs Contexts
A sidebar you can always see, or a grid you summon.
| Feature | Contexts$9.99 | |
|---|---|---|
| Switches between windows | Yes | Yes |
| Hold a key, tap to move | Yes | Yes |
| Live previews | Yes | No |
| Search by typing | Always on | Yes |
| Browser tabs | Yes | No |
| Open source | MIT | No |
Pick Contexts if you want a sidebar of windows that's always there.
As of October 2026, from each developer's website. A dash means the feature isn't offered or isn't documented. Prices in US dollars. Spotted a mistake? Open an issue.
How they differ
Contexts takes a different approach from most switchers. Its main feature is a sidebar that stays on the edge of the screen listing every window, so you can click any of them at any time. It also has a ⌘Tab-style panel and a search you reach with a shortcut, and it costs $9.99.
GlideTab doesn't have a permanent sidebar. It appears when you hold Option and press Tab, shows every window with a live preview, and disappears when you let go. Typing while it's open searches window titles, app names and browser tabs.
If you like having the list on screen all the time, Contexts is built for that. If you'd rather keep the screen clear and call the switcher up with a key, GlideTab is the free option that also shows what each window looks like.
Pick Contexts if
You want a sidebar of windows that's always there. Contexts's website has the details.
Pick GlideTab if
You want every window with a live preview, you'd like to type a name instead of tabbing through the list, you want browser tabs in the same place, and you'd rather not pay. It needs macOS 14 or later. See every feature, or read the source.
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Try GlideTab
Version 1.0.6 for macOS 14 or later.
Free, about 5 MB.