GroupShelf
Claim this toolOrganize any macOS app's windows into unified, tabbed shelves
Paid plans only, free trialVisit WebsitePaidVisit Website
Tracked since2026
The Bottom Line
- Price
- Paid plans only, free trial. Compare plans
Key facts
- Group any app windows into tabbed shelves with shift-drag, supporting Finder, editors, terminals, browsers, and more.
- Native macOS app built with AppKit, lightweight, no Electron, minimal battery impact.
- One-time purchase with lifetime license, 30-day free trial, and covers up to 3 Macs.
Pros
- Lightweight and native, no Electron lag or battery drain
- Simple drag-and-drop grouping with intuitive keyboard navigation
- Lifetime license with no subscription, free updates
Cons
- Requires a recent version of macOS, excluding older macOS versions
- Not available on the Mac App Store; relies on Accessibility permission for window management
What is GroupShelf?
GroupShelf is a native macOS utility that brings tabbed window management to any application. Instead of juggling scattered windows, you can group related windows, from Finder, editors, terminals, browsers, and more, into unified shelves. Grouping is done by shift-dragging one window onto another, and you can split groups by dragging tabs out. Each shelf can be given a custom name and accent color for quick visual identification. Keyboard shortcuts allow switching between tabs without touching the mouse. Built with AppKit, GroupShelf is lightweight and battery-friendly, with no Electron overhead. It offers a 30-day fully featured trial and a lifetime license for a one-time purchase, covering up to 3 Macs.
Key Features
- Group windows from any app into tabbed shelves via shift-drag
- Customizable shelf names and accent colors for easy identification
- Keyboard shortcuts (Control+Option+Arrow keys) to switch tabs, configurable in Settings
- Unlimited number of shelves—one per project or task
- Native AppKit implementation for performance and low resource usage
- Supports macOS 15+ on both Apple Silicon and Intel Macs
- Installable via Homebrew or direct download
- 30-day fully featured trial with no locked features
Pricing Plans
Free TrialPricing checked Sep 29, 2026
| Plan | Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Lifetime License | $7.49 one-time |
|
Is GroupShelf worth the price?
Great value
At $7.49 one-time for up to 3 Macs, GroupShelf is exceptionally affordable compared to typical one-time window management tools that charge similar or more for a single license.
The 30-day free trial and free 1.x updates add further value. This pricing is best for users who want a low-cost, permanent solution across multiple Macs.
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GroupShelf FAQ
How does the shift-drag grouping work exactly?
To group windows, hold the Shift key (configurable in Settings) and drag one window onto another. They merge into a tabbed shelf. To split a group, drag a tab out of the shelf. This works with any app window, including Finder, editors, terminals, and browsers.
Can I rename or recolor shelves after creating them?
Yes, each shelf can be given a custom name and accent color. You can change these at any time via the shelf's settings, making it easy to identify groups for different projects or tasks.
Does GroupShelf work with full-screen or maximized windows?
GroupShelf works with standard resizable windows. Full-screen apps (that take over a desktop space) may not be compatible, as they operate outside normal window management. The tool is designed for floating, resizable windows common in productivity workflows.
What happens to my groups when I quit an app or restart my Mac?
GroupShelf remembers your shelf configurations across sessions. When you reopen an app, its windows will rejoin their assigned shelves automatically, as long as the app supports standard window restoration.
Can I use GroupShelf with multiple monitors?
Yes, GroupShelf works across multiple displays. You can create shelves on any monitor and move windows between them. The keyboard shortcuts operate on the shelf you are currently focused on.
Is there a way to temporarily disable grouping without uninstalling?
GroupShelf does not have a built-in disable toggle, but you can quit the app from the menu bar icon to stop all grouping. When relaunched, your shelves and settings are preserved.
How does GroupShelf compare to the Windows app Groupy 2?
GroupShelf is designed as a native macOS equivalent to Groupy 2 on Windows. It offers the same drag-to-tab workflow but rebuilt using AppKit for optimal performance on Mac. Users coming from Windows will find the interaction model instantly familiar.
Does GroupShelf affect system performance or battery life?
GroupShelf is built with AppKit and is extremely lightweight. It uses minimal CPU and memory, and has negligible impact on battery life—unlike Electron-based alternatives. The developer states it is 'barely a blip on your battery.'
Source: group-shelf.com