If you want your Mac workspace to open hands-free, ClapSnap is the one built for it: a double clap or snap opens your apps. Apple Shortcuts is the free choice if a hotkey or Siri is fine, Raycast and Alfred are keyboard launchers, Keyboard Maestro is for complex macros, and Login Items opens apps at every login.
Every tool on this page can open your apps. They differ in what starts them, how much setup they ask for, and what else they do. Here is how they compare for the one job of getting your workspace on screen.
At a glance
| Tool | What starts it | Cost | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| ClapSnap | A double clap or snap, no touch | One-time, from €8 | Opening your workspace hands-free |
| Apple Shortcuts | Hotkey, menu bar, Spotlight or Siri | Free, built in | A free, simple app launcher |
| Raycast | Keyboard command | Free, paid Pro plan | Keyboard-first people who launch everything |
| Alfred | Keyword or hotkey | Free, paid Powerpack for workflows | Long-time Mac power users |
| Keyboard Maestro | Many triggers, mostly keyboard | Paid licence | Complex, conditional macros |
| Login Items | Logging in | Free, built in | Apps you want open all day, every day |
When ClapSnap is the right pick
- You want to start your day without touching the keyboard, or your hands are often busy.
- You switch between setups: clap for your work apps after lunch instead of keeping them open at login.
- You also want a hand-tracking cursor: Air Mouse is included.
- You want everything on-device, with no account and no subscription.
When something else is better
- You only need apps open at login. macOS Login Items does it for free. See every way to launch apps automatically.
- You live on the keyboard. Raycast or Alfred will feel faster for one-off launches. ClapSnap can sit beside either.
- You need logic. Keyboard Maestro handles conditions, variables and window placement that ClapSnap does not try to do.
Side-by-side comparisons
Try ClapSnap. Double clap or snap to open your whole Mac workspace, and steer the cursor with your hand. Pay what you want, minimum €8, one-time purchase, with a 14-day refund. Get ClapSnap