Spencer saves and restores complete window arrangements, taking a different approach to window management compared to grid-snapping tools like Rectangle or Magnet. The app captures exact window positions, sizes, which applications are open, which are hidden, and which macOS space they occupy.
Users create profiles for different work contexts. Example configurations include a deep work profile with code editor and terminal across multiple displays, a meetings profile that hides everything except video conferencing and notes, or a casual browsing profile with specific applications visible. Switching between states requires a single menu bar click.
Key features include the ability to launch applications that are not currently open and hide applications that should not be visible in the current context. This prevents accidental screen sharing of sensitive content during video calls. The app handles multiple display configurations by adjusting window positions proportionally based on available screen space, maintaining sensible layouts when switching between multi-monitor setups and single-display scenarios.
Requirements include macOS 10.15 Catalina or newer. The app works with Stage Manager. Resource usage is approximately 1% CPU and 100MB memory. Spencer is a paid utility available from the developer website at macspencer.app.
Limitations include imperfect restoration for applications that do not respond well to AppleScript window positioning. PDF readers and some non-standard applications may require manual adjustment after profile activation. The app requires accessibility permissions to manage window layouts.
Alternative window management tools include Rectangle (grid-snapping), Moom (hybrid approach), and Raycast window management extensions.
Suitable for users who juggle multiple workflows and want dedicated workspace contexts rather than individual window snapping functionality.
