Clipboard managers are essential tools for Mac users who want to access more than just their last copied item. These apps store your clipboard history, allowing you to retrieve previously copied text, images, and links. After extensive testing, here are the top 7 clipboard managers for Mac, focusing on privacy, security, and regular updates.
Maccy: Lightweight and free
Maccy is an excellent choice for users seeking a free, lightweight clipboard manager for basic copy/paste needs on Mac.
Key features:
- Stores text, images, and hyperlinks
- Keyboard shortcut support
- Privacy settings to exclude sensitive apps
- Customizable storage limits, appearance, and behavior
- Pinned items with hotkeys for quick access
- Open-source for transparency and customization
Maccy is available as a pay-what-you-want app from their website, or for a small fee on the Mac App Store.
CopyClip: Simple and straightforward
CopyClip is a no-frills, free clipboard manager that’s perfect for users who prefer simplicity.
Main features:
- Accessible from the Menu Bar
- Stores plain text only
- Privacy option to exclude specific apps
- User-friendly interface
While limited in features, CopyClip is completely free and ideal for basic clipboard management needs.
Paste: Cross-device syncing
Paste offers seamless clipboard syncing across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices, making it ideal for users deeply invested in the Apple ecosystem.
Notable features:
- Sleek, pop-up interface
- Unlimited clipboard history
- Secure iCloud syncing
- Powerful search functionality
- Organizational tools for clipboard items
- Keyboard shortcut support
- Custom rules for app exclusion
- Siri shortcuts integration
Paste is available through the App Store with a 7-day free trial, followed by a subscription model. It’s also accessible through Setapp, a bundle of Mac apps.
PastePal: Affordable universal solution
PastePal offers similar functionality to Paste but with a one-time purchase model instead of a subscription.
Key features:
- Flexible UI with customizable placement
- Secure iCloud syncing across Apple devices
- Advanced organization and search capabilities
- Paste stack for bulk copy/paste operations
- Privacy settings for sensitive apps
- Comprehensive context menu options
PastePal offers a basic free version, with a lifetime license available for full functionality at around $15.
Raycast: Productivity powerhouse
Raycast is more than just a clipboard manager; it’s a comprehensive productivity tool with an impressive clipboard feature set.
Standout features:
- Integrated launcher for quick access
- Sophisticated clipboard history management
- 3-month clipboard history storage (free plan)
- Filtering options for different data types
- Image search based on text content
Raycast’s clipboard manager is available in the free plan, along with various other productivity tools. A Pro subscription unlocks additional features.
Alfred with Powerpack: Customizable workflows
Alfred is a versatile productivity app that includes a robust clipboard manager with its Powerpack upgrade.
Key features:
- Stores and searches various data types
- Snippet creation for frequently used items
- Extensive workflow customization options
The clipboard manager is part of the Powerpack upgrade, which costs approximately $40 for a single license.
Monarch: Promising newcomer
Monarch is a recent addition to the productivity app scene, offering a powerful clipboard manager alongside other features.
Highlights:
- App launcher and command runner
- Comprehensive clipboard management
- Storage for all data types
- Application-based filtering
- Unlimited clipboard history
Monarch requires a one-time license purchase, currently available at a discounted price of $20 for early adopters.
Each of these clipboard managers offers unique features to suit different user needs. Consider your specific requirements, budget, and desired level of integration with other productivity tools when choosing the best option for you.