Related article: Comparing Raycast and Magnet: A Detailed Look at Two Window Management Tools
The software introduced by Handsome Daddy today: Raycast, can not only completely replace the “Spotlight” of macOS but also can achieve more functional expansion through script commands. In the recent version of the update, Raycast continues to enrich the default integrated functions, of which the window adjustment function that surprised me the most, can basically completely replace Magnet.
Magnet is a very easy-to-use window adjustment software on macOS. I bought it in the Mac App Store and thought it was a great value. Of course, there is also a good free alternative-Rectangle, which can quickly adjust the window arrangement through shortcut keys.
But when Raycast added similar functions, I ruthlessly abandoned Magnet. After all, on macOS Big Sur, there is not much space in the status bar.
Raycast has added two default function extensions in the v.1.3.0 version update, dictionary, and window management, which can be manually turned on/off as needed.
Raycast window adjustment integrates 20 window arrangement modes. Compared with Magnet, there are even more adjustment methods, such as maximizing height, maximizing width, half-screen centering, etc., but it also lacks the “window restoration” in Magnet. In contrast, the open-source Rectangle is the master, including all the adjustment methods of the previous two, and even 1/6 split-screen, which is slightly abnormal, and it is probably only available on ultra-wide screens.
Combining with my own usage habits, the only four I use most often are “left half screen”, “right half screen”, “maximize” and “window centered”. Occasionally, it may require 1/3 of the screen. Click the icon in the status bar or drag it manually (after all, it doesn’t need to be so precise).
On Raycast, using the window adjustment function, if you don’t set the shortcut keys, it will not be more convenient than Magnet. You need to call out the Raycast search box, enter the desired window adjustment method, such as “Left half”, and click the corresponding function option to adjust the currently active window to the corresponding area.
You can add “Favorites” to the frequently used ones, so that after you call out the Raycast search box directly, you can see it in the top area without manually searching for function items.
Of course, the most convenient way is to use shortcut keys directly. Raycast supports adding shortcut keys for specific functions. If you used Magnet, Rectangle or other similar tools before, you can set several commonly used functions to the same shortcuts. Key to continuing the same experience.
The actual effect is very good. The windows are arranged with one key. It is recommended to set the shortcut keys only for the most commonly used ones. One is easy to remember, and it is also reserved for new functions.
The window adjustment of Raycast is still very friendly to Magnet users and can basically be switched seamlessly. However, some good features of Magnet cannot be replaced by Raycast, such as the window alignment function and the aforementioned window restoration.
In addition to window adjustments, during this time I have started to use Raycast to quickly set some system functions, such as switching dark mode, displaying hidden files, viewing clipboard history, including many functions implemented by command scripts provided by third-party users. Raycast can gradually develop into a treasure chest.
