Written by the CommandSmith team. Comparison checked September 11, 2026.
What is different?
Keyboard Maestro is a paid automation app with a trial and a one-time license purchase. CommandSmith is free and centers direct keyboard shortcuts for recurring actions, with a palette for additional commands. It is an alternative for that narrower need.
Try it on a task you do often
Bind a key to launch or focus an app, open a frequently used folder, or paste a recent clipboard entry. Open the palette and type t 5m to start a timer. These built-in actions do not require assembling a multi-step macro.
These are default shortcuts. You can adjust your setup in Settings. Pasting files depends on the receiving app accepting them.
When Keyboard Maestro may fit better
Choose Keyboard Maestro when you need branching logic, loops, macro recording, or complex sequences across apps. CommandSmith is not a drop-in replacement for that macro engine and does not import Keyboard Maestro macros.
What does CommandSmith cost?
CommandSmith is free to download and use, with no app subscription. Launching apps and folders, clipboard history, Downloads paste, and timers do not require an AI API key. Optional AI providers and connected services may charge separately.
Requirements and ongoing development
CommandSmith runs on macOS 14 (Sonoma) and later and requires Accessibility permission for global shortcuts and window actions. Home Assistant needs your instance URL and token; GitHub needs your account token.
A small team actively maintains the app and expands its integrations. We welcome new integration requests. Read the release notes for shipped changes, explore the features, or follow the first-launch guide.
Sources for this comparison
Other products change over time. Check their official pages for current features and terms.