Docky

Docky replaces (or runs alongside) the macOS Dock with something more configurable: a custom layout engine, live window-switcher previews, built-in widgets, a fullscreen Launchpad, custom icons, and scripted actions — all native Swift, no Electron overhead.

Why it makes the list

Apple hasn't meaningfully changed the Dock in years, and third-party replacements are rare and often paid. Docky is a free, open-source rethink of what the Dock could be, unified into one native app that feels like it belongs on macOS instead of a stack of separate utilities bolted together.

Standout features

• Configurable layout — position, size, and grouping, your way
• Live window switcher with real-time previews, not just icons
• Fullscreen Launchpad replacement
• Built-in widgets for at-a-glance info in the Dock itself
• Custom icons and folders for a fully personalized layout
• Scripted actions for triggering shortcuts and automations

Pricing

Completely free and open source (GPL-3.0).