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BetterTouchTool for Mac

  • Free

  • In English
  • V 4.442
  • 3.8

    (147)
  • Security Status

Softonic review

Kristina Schulz
Kristina SchulzUpdated 4 days ago

Customize your trackpad gestures

BetterTouchTool is a personalization application developed by Andreas Hegenberg for Mac users. Free to download and use, this tool allows users to customize different types of gestures in their trackpads. With it, you can modify the trackpad operation for their whole system or individual applications.

However, users will find that the BetterTouchTool is not for inexperienced users. Unlike Swish, which is quick and simple, this app is difficult to interpret outside the main menu. It also does not help that it lacks instructions for first-time users. Although, once you get the hang of it, assigning functions will be easier.

Wide array of impressive features

For average Mac users, the trackpads default functioning is sometimes frustrating. Some find it not particularly flexible, while others think it lacks essential features. Luckily, there are a chock-full of great Mac apps that can elevate your daily computing life. Among the growing list of utility apps is BetterTouchTool. As mentioned, this tool allows users to customize and configure their trackpad gestures completely. It even lets you create your own.

One of the things you will appreciate about the app is the range of input devices it lets you control. The app centers around input methods, assigning trigger sets to common items, such as a trackpad, Magic Mouse, or regular mouse, keyboard, and Touch Bar. Moreover, it also accepts input from paired Siri Remote, MIDI triggers, and key sequences. Even better, it also comes with a BTT remote, offering a way to receive remote input through a free Apple device app.

BetterTouchTool also allows users to create any shortcut by recording newly expanded shortcuts for any device. You can also dream up unusual key sequences, movement gestures, and even drawings to replace default options. Moreover, you can specify which app the shortcuts will apply to and which will be disabled. This tool also comes with an integrated clipboard manager to copy multiple items at once. It also comes with a screenshot tool allowing you to adjust images on the fly.

Not for the inexperienced

Available as freeware, BetterTouchTool is easy to download and install. However, after initial startup, it will attempt to access all of the computers on the test network. Users will also notice the lack of instructions, which is a pity since understanding all its functions is not that simple. Additionally, the features are a little difficult to interpret outside the main menus. And although the overall interface is good, it can be a little confusing.

Users should also note that some modifications require system preferences changes. Additionally, the shortcuts you set up occasionally stop working. If that's the case, restarting the app from the menu bar should do the trick. However, you will be happy to know that the app comes in a lightweight package and works fast. It is also low maintenance and does not need constant updates.

A good app to improve productivity

Overall, BetterTouchTool is a must-try if you wish to improve your Mac computer's organization. The app functions well and gives users control of their device's gestures. It is also lightweight and does not require too much maintenance. However, understanding how each function works may be challenging for inexperienced users. It also does not help that the app lacks instructions, and there isn't that much information about the app available. 

PROS

  • Gives users control over their device's gestures
  • Wide selection of functions
  • Allows users to create their own shortcuts
  • Works with both Magic Trackpad and Magic Mouse

CONS

  • High learning curve
  • Some shortcuts stop working occasionally
  • Requires changes to the system preferences

Program available in other languages


BetterTouchTool for Mac

  • Free

  • In English
  • V 4.442
  • 3.8

    (147)
  • Security Status


User reviews about BetterTouchTool

  • Anonymous

    by Anonymous

    Almost perfect..
    It can occasionally close itself and require relaunch, but overall is is reliable and has greatly enhanced my efficiency on the More

  • Anonymous

    by Anonymous

    Great, but stop with the almost daily updates..
    I like it very much... but the nearly-daily updates are getting to be a bit much. How about onc More

  • Anonymous

    by Anonymous

    Windows Magnet 100 times better.
    I used all of them, but i prefer Windows Magnet 80cents at appstore, simple the best of them !!! its more elega More

  • Anonymous

    by Anonymous

    Lion, BTT and SMART notebook don't work together. .
    Lion, BTT and SMART notebook don't work together. I had to remove BTT to make SMART function More

  • Anonymous

    by Anonymous

    It's a great utility, but....
    ... when I had BTT running last time, I began to have my window scrollbars move without touching. Mostly, the win More

  • Anonymous

    by Anonymous

    Makes life so much easier.....
    Very good tool for adding a couple of missing features to touchpad/magic mouse, for example:
    I don't know if More


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