The best macro software for PC and Mac

Imagine automating your workday or gaming sessions with a single keystroke. That’s the power of macro software. These tools take repetitive tasks, like formatting spreadsheets or executing complex commands, and turn them into effortless actions, saving you time and boosting precision. Today, macro software has evolved to suit everyone, from office pros streamlining reports to gamers perfecting combos, making it a must-have for efficiency seekers.

This guide rounds up the top macro tools available today, from recorders that record mouse movements and keyboard inputs to scripting tools and text expanders. We’ll explore standout tools like Automator, Macro Recorder, and TextExpander, which computer each one runs on, and which one fits your goals.

What is macro software?

Macro software is designed to execute repetitive tasks with a single command. It records or scripts a sequence of actions, like clicking, typing, or formatting, and replays them instantly whenever you need. From filling out forms in seconds to chaining game moves, this software cuts down manual effort across applications.

In an office, it might mean auto-populating data in Excel. For gamers, it could trigger a multi-step combo with one key. AutoHotkey scripts custom sequences, a mouse recorder replays clicks exactly as you made them, some recorders save a macro as an EXE file you can run on another PC, and TextExpander inserts the text you reuse.

The benefits stack up fast: you’ll finish tasks quicker, sidestep errors from manual repetition, and free up focus for bigger priorities. Whether you’re a professional managing spreadsheets, a coder automating scripts, or a beginner testing the waters, macro software delivers efficiency at your fingertips. Today, these tools are more accessible than ever, ready to simplify your day with smart, streamlined automation.

How we picked the best macro software

We used a clear set of standards to find tools that balance power with practicality. Here’s how we made the call.

• Usability came first. Top tools need to be approachable, whether you’re a beginner who wants to record macros for a simple task or an expert scripting complex sequences. We favored tools with an intuitive interface that let you create macros quickly.
• Features were next. Key features such as macro recording, a macro editor for editing recorded steps, and flexible macro playback set the winners apart.
• Compatibility mattered too. We noted whether each tool runs on Windows, Mac, or both, and whether it works in web-based apps.
• Cost also factored in: Free tools like AutoHotkey offer value, while TextExpander pairs a free plan with paid plans that add more features for individuals and teams.
• Reliability: software had to perform consistently without glitches.

We pinpointed leaders like AutoHotkey, Keyboard Maestro, Macro Recorder, and TextExpander, each excelling in specific scenarios.

Top Windows macro software

For Windows users, a good macro tool takes repetitive tasks and routine tasks off your plate on any PC, from keyboard macros to recorded mouse clicks. Whether you need keyboard shortcuts, mouse automation, or text expansion, these are the top macro tools for Windows.

1. TextExpander: Best for text automation

TextExpander saves the replies, templates, and details you reuse as Snippets, short abbreviations that expand into full text wherever you type. It suits professionals who send the same emails, support responses, or code snippets every day. See text expander for Windows.

• Best for: Writers, customer support teams, and professionals who reuse the same wording through text expansion.
• Sync Snippets to every device on every plan, including Free.
• Use fill-in fields for the details that change, such as a customer name.
• Share Snippets with your team so one update reaches everyone.

2. AutoHotkey: Best for custom scripting

AutoHotkey (AHK) is a free, open-source Windows tool for creating keyboard shortcuts, keyboard macros, and custom scripts. Power users can control any Windows application, automate tasks, and create hotkeys, such as Ctrl + Alt + N to open Notepad.

• Best for: Advanced users who want full control over automation.
• Create custom keyboard shortcuts and hotkeys.
• Automate repetitive tasks with mouse and keyboard scripts.
• Compile a script into an EXE file with Ahk2Exe so it runs on a computer without AutoHotkey.

3. Macro Recorder: Best for mouse & keyboard automation

Macro Recorder works as a mouse recorder and keyboard recorder in one: it captures mouse movements and keystrokes and replays them with a single command. It runs on Windows and Mac, with a freeware edition and paid editions, and it handles repetitive clicks, data entry, software testing, and system maintenance without coding knowledge.

• Best for: Users who want a no-code solution for automating repetitive actions.
• Record mouse and keyboard actions, then review each step in the macro editor.
• Adjust playback speed, timing, and repeat count.
• Smooth mouse movements into curved or linear shapes, which the developer says eliminates visual distractions in screencasts.

4. Pulover’s Macro Creator: Best free macro tool with a GUI

This no-cost Windows tool is built on AutoHotkey. Its graphical interface lets beginners create macros without writing code.

• Best for: Users who want the power of AutoHotkey with an easy-to-use GUI.
• Record mouse movements, clicks, and keyboard inputs.
• Export macros as working AutoHotkey scripts.

5. Microsoft Power Automate: Best for enterprise automation

Microsoft Power Automate (formerly Flow) is a business automation tool for robotic process automation (RPA). Power Automate for desktop comes preinstalled on Windows 11 with a recorder and 400+ prebuilt actions, while sharing, cloud triggers, and AI Builder need a paid license.

• Best for: Businesses automating processes across Microsoft 365 and third-party apps.
• Build flows with a no-code/low-code designer.

Which Windows macro software is right for you?

• AutoHotkey: Best for advanced users who want scripting flexibility.
• Macro Recorder: The best mouse recorder for simple, no-code automation.
• TextExpander: Perfect for reusing the text you type most.
• Pulover’s: Ideal for beginners who want a GUI.
• Power Automate: Best for enterprise process automation.

Whether you’re looking for basic automation, text expansion, or enterprise-level workflows, these tools help Windows users save time and reduce repetitive work.

Best macro software for Mac

Mac users have a variety of macro tools available to automate tasks, streamline workflows, and boost productivity. Whether you need text expansion, keyboard shortcuts, or complex system automation, these are the top macro software options for Mac.

1. TextExpander: Best for text automation

TextExpander keeps the answers you use most ready wherever you type, as Snippets that expand into full phrases, templates, or dynamic content. Learn more about text expander for Mac.

• Best for: Reusing saved text across apps and devices.
• Expand abbreviations into full text anywhere on your Mac.
• Use fill-in fields, date/time macros, and JavaScript for dynamic Snippets.
• Sync and share Snippets across Mac, Windows, iPhone, iPad, and Chrome.

Scripting support is where TextExpander overlaps with traditional macro tools, as one software engineer explained:

When there are certain strings of text that are needed repeatedly for various tasks, the ability to type a memorized shortcut instead saves time in the moment. The ability to also manipulate the clipboard content using JavaScript can also allow for some powerful utility that would otherwise require one or more macros of some sort. A simple use case could be to sort and remove duplicate values from a list of strings merely by copying them and then typing a TextExpander shortcut.

Justin S., Software Engineer, Novi AMS

For launching programs and arranging windows, the next tools go further.

2. Keyboard Maestro: Best all-in-one automation tool

Keyboard Maestro is a Mac-only automation tool, sold as a one-time purchase, that lets you create multiple macros with custom triggers and keyboard shortcuts to automate repetitive tasks. From opening apps to managing clipboard history, it’s one of the most versatile options on the Mac and rivals dedicated hotkey software.

• Best for: Power users who want highly customizable automation.
• Build keyboard macros that launch programs, manage windows, and type keystrokes.
• Trigger macros with hotkeys, a program launching, or a time of day.
• Run AppleScript, JavaScript, and shell scripts.

3. Automator: Best built-in Mac automation tool

Automator is Apple’s built-in tool to create macros, called workflows, that automate common tasks, such as renaming files, resizing images, and organizing documents.

• Best for: Basic automation without third-party software.
• Drag-and-drop interface for building workflows.
• Works with AppleScript and shell scripts.

4. BetterTouchTool: Best for trackpad and input customization

BetterTouchTool (BTT) is a Mac customization tool for gestures, shortcuts, and automation on trackpads, mice, and keyboards. It’s a paid license, with a 45-day trial before you buy.

• Best for: Users who want custom Mac gestures and input automation.
• Snap and manage windows.
• Run AppleScript or JavaScript from any trigger.

5. Macro Recorder: Best for mouse and keyboard automation

The Mac version of Macro Recorder lets you record mouse and keyboard actions and replay them, so you can automate repetitive tasks such as software testing without scripts.

• Best for: Users who want simple automation without scripts.
• Adjust playback speed and delay.
• Merge the mouse movements between two clicks into one move, or skip mouse movements during macro playback.

Which macro software is right for you?

• Keyboard Maestro: Best all-around Mac automation.
• TextExpander: Ideal for reusing text across devices.
• Automator: Best built-in option.
• BetterTouchTool: Perfect for custom gestures.
• Macro Recorder: Great for simple mouse and keyboard automation.

Best free macro software

If you’re looking for free macro tools, there are powerful options available for Windows, Mac, and the web. Whether you need text expansion, keyboard shortcuts, or task automation, these tools cut repetitive work at no cost, from a free macro recorder to a full scripting language.

1. AutoHotkey (Windows): Best for custom scripting

AutoHotkey is free and open source, and its lightweight scripting language can run keyboard macros and automate mouse clicks in any Windows application. You create scripts by hand, so expect to write code.

2. Pulover’s Macro Creator (Windows): Best free GUI macro tool

Built on AutoHotkey, this tool adds a graphical interface for macro recording, so beginners can record mouse movements and keyboard actions and adjust them in a visual macro editor without coding knowledge.

3. Automator (Mac): Best built-in Mac automation tool

Automator comes with every Mac. It handles file management, resizes images, batch-processes tasks, and runs AppleScript, with no download needed.

4. Macro Recorder (Free Version) (Windows & Mac): Best for mouse/keyboard automation

The free version works as a basic mouse recorder and keyboard recorder, with recording, editing, and playback for routine tasks. It caps repeat playback at 10 loops, while a paid license raises the limit.

5. Google Sheets Macros (Cloud-based): Best free online macro tool

Sheets lets you record macros of spreadsheet actions and replay them. Choose Extensions > Macros > Record macro, then pick absolute references (the macro always acts on the same cells) or relative references (it acts on the cell you select).

• Best for: Cloud-based spreadsheet automation.
• Edit macros in Apps Script (JavaScript-based).
• Automate data entry, calculations, and formatting.

Which free macro software is right for you?

• AutoHotkey: Best for scripting repetitive tasks.
• Pulover’s: Ideal for beginners who want a GUI.
• Automator: Best for built-in Mac automation.
• Macro Recorder (Free): The simplest free macro recorder for mouse and keyboard actions on Windows and Mac.
• Sheets macros: Great for online spreadsheet automation.

How to make a macro on the Mac

Creating a macro on a Mac lets you automate repetitive tasks and routine tasks without manual effort. Whether you want to automate keystrokes, launch applications, or insert text, Mac users have multiple tools available. Here’s how to create a macro using Automator, TextExpander, Keyboard Maestro, and Macro Recorder.

1. Using Automator (Built-in macOS tool)

Best for: Simple automation like renaming files, resizing images, or automating repetitive actions in macOS apps.

1. Open Automator (Go to Applications > Automator).
2. Choose File > New, select a type such as Workflow, Quick Action, or Application, then click Choose.
3. In the Library, find an action (e.g., Rename Finder Items or Open Finder Items).
4. Drag the action to the workflow area, or double-click it to add it.
5. Click Run to test your macro.
6. Choose File > Save to keep it for easy access.

✅ Example use: Create a workflow to resize multiple images in a folder automatically.

2. Using TextExpander

Best for: Reusing email templates, standard replies, and dynamic Snippets.

How to create a macro with TextExpander

1. Open TextExpander and click New Snippet.
2. In the Content field, enter the text or template you want to expand.
3. Assign an abbreviation (e.g., tyemail to expand into a full email response).
4. Save the Snippet and test it by typing the abbreviation in any text field.

✅ Example use: Type addr to instantly insert your full mailing address.

TextExpander is a robust macro environment in which I can define anything from quick shortcuts to complex forms using the intuitive builder. These easy-to-implement templates help me write emails, execute complex CLI commands, and provide my customers with consistent and timely support. And with shared snippets, it becomes a scalable team collaboration and productivity tool, ensuring we’re all working off the same playbook. Their customer support goes above and beyond to solve problems. It’s no wonder I have a streak of using TextExpander for over 400 consecutive weeks!

Ken G., Senior Technical Project Manager, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

3. Using Keyboard Maestro

Best for: Advanced Mac automation, including keyboard shortcuts, system actions, and program automation.

1. Open Keyboard Maestro and click the + button to create a new macro.
2. Set a Trigger (e.g., hotkey, app launch, or time-based trigger).
3. Click New Action and select an action (e.g., Open a specific app, paste text, or move the mouse).
4. Save the macro and test it by using the assigned trigger.

✅ Example: Press Cmd + Shift + W to automatically open Safari, Mail, and Slack at once.

4. Using Macro Recorder

Best for: No-code automation, using a keyboard recorder and mouse recorder that captures keystrokes and mouse movements for macro playback.

How to create a macro with Macro Recorder

1. Open Macro Recorder and click Record.
2. Perform the mouse movements and keyboard inputs you want to automate (e.g., opening a program, clicking buttons).
3. Click Stop Recording and save the macro.
4. Click Play to replay actions automatically, and adjust playback speed if needed.

✅ Example: Automate form-filling by recording your keystrokes and playing them back.

Which method is right for you?

• Automator: Best for built-in, no-cost Mac automation.
• Keyboard Maestro: Best for advanced system-wide automation.
• TextExpander: Best for text-based automation and shortcuts.
• Macro Recorder: Best for recording and replaying keystrokes/mouse actions.

How to choose the best macro software

Finding the best macro software for your needs comes down to a few smart considerations. Tailor your pick to your goals, and you’ll land on a tool that fits like a glove. Here’s how.

• Define your purpose. Gamers might lean toward AutoHotkey for its scripting power to nail complex combos. Office pros automating Excel reports could pick Jitbit Macro Recorder for its precise recording, and QA teams doing software testing often start with a macro recorder. TextExpander suits text-heavy tasks like email responses, while TinyTask handles quick, one-off jobs.
• Ease of use is key. Beginners thrive with TinyTask’s no-fuss simplicity. If you’re comfortable with tech, AutoHotkey’s flexibility rewards tinkering. Try free plans, like TextExpander’s, to feel out the interface.
• Consider budget. Free options like AutoHotkey and TinyTask deliver without cost, while one-time buys (JitBit, Macro Recorder) or paid plans (TextExpander, which also has a free plan) offer premium perks for serious users.
• Check platform fit. AutoHotkey, Pulover’s, Jitbit, and TinyTask run on Windows; Keyboard Maestro, Automator, and BetterTouchTool run only on a Mac. Macro Recorder and TextExpander cover both, which suits anyone who switches between a PC and a Mac.
• Plan for sharing. Jitbit Macro Recorder and TinyTask can save a recording as an EXE file for another PC, though recorded clicks depend on screen resolution. For shared wording, TextExpander for teams keeps everyone on the current Snippets.

Align purpose, usability, cost, and compatibility with your workflow, and you’ll choose a tool that fits the way you work.

Conclusion

Macros are one of the most effective ways to automate repetitive tasks, improve efficiency, and streamline workflows, whether you’re working with spreadsheets, documents, emails, or system commands. Today, the best macro software options cater to a wide range of needs, from simple text expansion to complex multi-step automation.

For text, TextExpander keeps the answers you use most ready wherever you type, with fill-ins for the details that change and shared Snippets that keep a team current. Keyboard Maestro remains the most versatile Mac automation tool, Automator lets you create macros without extra software, and Macro Recorder is ideal when you want to record mouse and keyboard actions and replay them.

Choosing the right macro tool depends on your workflow needs. Whether you’re automating keystrokes, expanding text, or controlling system functions, these tools help you save time and increase productivity.