If You're Itching to Spend that Christmas Cash on Some Software, Here's the Second Megalist and some Free Advice

Paid Mac Apps – Power User Index

If you got some cash or gift cards for Christmas and want to try out some new software, you can try a few of these apps. I've installed and tested them all at some point. The links will take you to a short review with download information. If you find a broken link or an app is no longer viable, let me know and I'll make a quick edit. If you're a developer, drop me a DM and I will be glad to check out your work and possibly feature you on AppAddict if it has some unique features the community would appreciate.

Note - In almost all cases, I've listed the purchase and/or subscription price at the time I reviewed the app. Some have undoubtably changed, so make sure you check the current price before purchasing. None of these are affiliate links, they lead to wherever the developer markets his app. This is my hobby, not my part time job.

🗂 File Management, Backup & Disk Utilities

• DaisyDisk — Visual disk usage analyzer for quickly reclaiming storage.
• SuperDuper — Reliable disk cloning and bootable backup utility.
• Backup Loupe — Inspects Time Machine backups for errors and missing files.
• Backup Status — Monitors Time Machine health and backup success.
• Parachute Backup — Backup solution designed specifically for iCloud and Photos.
• Path Finder — Finder replacement with advanced, multi-pane workflows.
• QSpace — Keyboard-driven, multi-pane file manager for power users.

📝 Writing, Notes & Knowledge Management

• Drafts — Automation-first text capture and processing environment.
• iA Writer — Minimalist writing environment focused on clarity and structure.
• EagleFiler — Long-standing personal information manager for local archives.
• Thoughts — Inspiration and idea manager for creative thinking.
• Quotemarks — Personal quote collection and reference notebook.
• Bebop — Lightweight quick-notes app for rapid capture.
• Scratchpad — Floating notes app designed for temporary thoughts and fragments.

⚙️ Automation, Launchers & Power Tools

• BetterTouchTool — Deep customization and automation for input devices.
• PopClip — Contextual text actions available anywhere on the system.
• Raycast — Keyboard-driven launcher and automation hub.
• Shortery — Automation bridge between macOS events and Shortcuts.

🎨 Media, Images, Audio & Video

• CleanShot X — Best-in-class screenshot and screen recording utility.
• Acorn — Affordable, capable image editor without subscriptions.
• Permute — Simple, powerful media converter for audio, video, and images.
• Downie — Video downloader with broad site support.
• SoundSource — Advanced per-app audio routing and control.
• Swinsian — Music player designed to avoid feature bloat.

🖥 Interface, Window & Workflow Enhancements

• Better Display — Advanced control over display scaling and external monitors.
• Witch — Multi-featured app and window switcher for keyboard users.
• Wins — Window snapping and management utility.

🔐 Security, Privacy & System Protection

• EtreCheckPro — Deep system diagnostics and troubleshooting reports for complex Mac issues.
• Sensei — System monitoring and maintenance tool aimed at advanced users.
• NextDNS — Network-level privacy, tracking, and malware protection with granular controls.
• CleanMyMac X — All-in-one cleanup and monitoring suite with notable trade-offs.