BetterStageFrequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about BetterStage.
What is BetterStage?
BetterStage is a native macOS workspace manager that combines named virtual desktops (called stages), automatic BSP window tiling, and snap zones in a single lightweight app. Unlike macOS Stage Manager, BetterStage stages span all your monitors simultaneously and switch instantly via keyboard shortcuts.
Does BetterStage require SIP to be disabled?
No. BetterStage works without any changes to System Integrity Protection (SIP). It uses the macOS Accessibility API to manage windows, which only requires granting Accessibility permission in System Settings. Unlike yabai, there is no need to partially disable SIP.
What permissions does BetterStage need?
BetterStage requires only the Accessibility permission in macOS System Settings. This allows it to read window positions, move windows between stages, resize windows for tiling layouts, and manage window visibility during stage switches. No other permissions (Input Monitoring, Screen Recording, etc.) are required.
Does BetterStage work with multiple monitors?
Yes. BetterStage stages span all your monitors at once. When you switch to Stage 1, every monitor shows its Stage 1 windows simultaneously. You can also exclude specific monitors from staging so they stay constant across all stages — useful for keeping a reference display unchanged.
What macOS version does BetterStage require?
BetterStage requires macOS 14 (Sonoma) or later. It is a 100% native app built with Swift and AppKit, designed to be lightweight on system resources.
Is there a free version of BetterStage?
Yes. The free tier includes 3 stages, snap zones, keyboard shortcuts, and full multi-monitor support. Every download also includes a 10-day free trial of Pro, which unlocks all 9 stages, Bento Box auto-tiling, Snap Wheel, and monitor exclusion.
How much does BetterStage Pro cost?
BetterStage Pro is available as a monthly subscription ($2.99/mo), annual subscription ($10.99/yr — save 69%), or a one-time lifetime purchase ($24.99). The lifetime license includes all future updates.
How many stages can I have?
The free tier supports 3 stages. BetterStage Pro unlocks all 9 stages. Each stage is a named workspace (e.g., Dev, Design, Comms) that spans all your monitors and switches instantly with Opt+1 through Opt+9.
Does BetterStage support automatic window tiling?
Yes. BetterStage Pro includes Bento Box, a BSP (Binary Space Partitioning) auto-tiling engine. When enabled for a stage, every window is automatically arranged into a non-overlapping grid. You can also manually retile at any time or use the 14 snap zones and Snap Wheel for quick layouts.
How is BetterStage different from macOS Stage Manager?
macOS Stage Manager gives you 4 unnamed window groups on a single monitor with a sidebar that takes up screen space. BetterStage gives you 9 named stages spanning all monitors, instant keyboard switching (Opt+1-9), zero UI overhead, and built-in BSP auto-tiling — none of which Stage Manager offers.
How is BetterStage different from Rectangle?
Rectangle is a window snapping utility — it resizes and positions individual windows but doesn't manage workspaces. BetterStage includes 14 snap zones (comparable to Rectangle) plus named workspaces, automatic BSP tiling, a radial Snap Wheel, and instant stage switching. It's a complete workspace manager, not just a snapping tool.
How fast is stage switching?
BetterStage switches stages in under 16ms. There are no sliding animations or delays. Press Opt+1 and your entire desktop transforms immediately across all monitors.
Is there a free trial?
Yes. Every download includes a 10-day free trial of Pro — all 9 stages, Bento Box auto-tiling, Snap Wheel, and monitor exclusion. After the trial, you keep the free tier (3 stages, snap zones, keyboard shortcuts) or subscribe to Pro.
Does BetterStage work alongside Spaces or Mission Control?
Yes. BetterStage operates independently of macOS Spaces. You can keep using Mission Control and Spaces as normal — BetterStage manages its own workspaces without interfering. Most users find they no longer need Spaces once they start using stages.
What happens to my windows if BetterStage crashes or I uninstall?
All your windows are restored automatically. BetterStage includes crash protection that unhides every window on unexpected exit. If you uninstall, simply quit the app first and all windows return to their normal positions. No windows are ever permanently hidden.
Can I use BetterStage on my work and personal Mac?
Yes. Yearly licenses cover 2 devices and Lifetime covers 3, so you can use BetterStage on both your work and personal Mac. Monthly and Free plans are limited to 1 device.
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