Bunch
Free Mac app that launches sets of apps, files and settings from plain-text lists.
- Verified facts
- 4 of 4
- Alternatives ranked
- 4
- Approved reviews
- 0
- Visits sent from here
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About Bunch
Bunch is a macOS automation tool by Brett Terpstra for switching between work contexts. Each 'Bunch' is a plain-text file listing what to open or change, such as apps, documents, websites, Do Not Disturb, dark mode, wallpaper, Dock visibility or audio devices, and Bunch puts every file in a menu so you can toggle a whole setup with a click or keystroke. Closing a Bunch can quit those apps and put settings back, which makes it handy for things like preparing to record a screencast or switching coding projects. Bunch files can also run shell scripts, AppleScript, Automator workflows and Shortcuts, use variables and conditional logic, and be scheduled. It works alongside tools like Keyboard Maestro, Alfred, Raycast and Hammerspoon. Bunch is free (donations welcome) and Mac only. The stable release has not changed in some time, with newer work published as betas.
Best for: Mac users who want one click to set up a whole work mode of apps and settings.
Pros and cons
What works
- Plain-text files are easy to write, sync and version
- Reverses its changes when a Bunch is closed
- Free, and integrates with scripts, Shortcuts and other automation apps
Why people leave
- Mac only
- Stable version has not been updated in a while; recent work is in betas
- No visual editor; you learn its text syntax
Top Bunch alternatives
See all 4- 1KeKeyboard Maestro68.8
Far more capable macro engine with a visual editor for any trigger and action.
- 2
Hammerspoon64.8Free, scriptable in Lua, and can build the same context switches plus window layouts.
- 3
Alfred52.6Workflows can open groups of apps and files from a keyboard launcher.
- 4
Raycast51.2Free launcher with scripts and extensions for opening sets of apps and links.
Why people left Bunch
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Reviews
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Bunch: common questions
Is Bunch free?
Yes, Bunch is free to use.
Is Bunch open source?
No, Bunch is not open source. Open-source alternatives include Hammerspoon.
What platforms does Bunch run on?
Bunch is available for macOS.
What are the best alternatives to Bunch?
The highest-ranked Bunch alternatives right now are Keyboard Maestro, Hammerspoon and Alfred. See the full ranked list for pricing, platforms and verified facts.