GridMove: The Ultimate Window Tiling Tool for Power Users

GridMove Alternatives: Faster Ways to Snap and Arrange WindowsEfficient window management is essential for productivity. GridMove has long been a favorite for users who want to snap windows into predefined layouts, but there are several alternatives that offer different feature sets, modern interfaces, and faster workflows. This article compares the best GridMove alternatives, shows how they speed up window snapping and arranging, and gives practical tips for choosing and configuring the right tool for your workflow.

Why consider alternatives to GridMove?

GridMove is powerful but can feel dated and requires manual configuration for complex workflows. Alternatives can offer:

• Quicker setup and presets for common layouts.
• Keyboard-driven workflows for near-instant window placement.
• Better multi-monitor support and DPI-aware scaling.
• Built-in workflows like tiling, snapping, and window management macros.
• Active development and community plugins for ongoing improvements.

Top GridMove alternatives

Below are the most notable alternatives, each with strengths that may suit different users.

1. Microsoft PowerToys — FancyZones

FancyZones is part of Microsoft PowerToys and provides a modern, integrated snapping experience for Windows.

• Key features:
  • Create and save multiple custom zone layouts with an interactive editor.
  • Hold Shift (or a configurable key) while dragging to show zones and drop windows into them.
  • Per-monitor layouts and DPI-aware zones.
  • Support for keyboard shortcuts to move windows between zones.
• When to choose FancyZones:
  • You want tight Windows integration, regular updates, and an easy visual editor.
  • You prefer quick setup and reliable behavior across Windows updates.

2. AquaSnap

AquaSnap offers flexible snapping with advanced options and window tiling features.

• Key features:
  • Edge snapping, docking, and stretching.
  • Tiling mode that arranges multiple windows easily.
  • Keyboard shortcuts and multi-monitor support.
  • Lightweight and highly configurable.
• When to choose AquaSnap:
  • You need finer control over snapping behaviors (e.g., window stretching) and advanced tiling without deep configuration.

3. DisplayFusion

DisplayFusion is a full-featured multi-monitor management tool with strong window management capabilities.

• Key features:
  • Custom window snapping and scripted functions.
  • Monitor profiles, taskbars on multiple monitors, and remote control features.
  • Triggers to automate window placement when applications launch.
• When to choose DisplayFusion:
  • You work with multiple monitors and want an all-in-one solution for monitor profiles and window placement automation.

4. Rectangle / Magnet / BetterSnapTool (macOS)

For macOS users, these apps make window snapping intuitive and keyboard-friendly.

• Key features:
  • Drag-to-snap and keyboard shortcuts for presets (halves, thirds, corners).
  • Customizable snap areas and shortcuts.
  • Lightweight and responsive behavior.
• When to choose these:
  • You’re on macOS and want quick, consistent window snapping integrated with macOS behaviors.

5. WinSize2 and AutoHotkey scripts

For users who prefer complete customization, WinSize2 or AutoHotkey (AHK) scripts can recreate and extend GridMove-like behavior.

• Key features:
  • Full scriptability and automation of window positions.
  • Create launch-time or hotkey-triggered window layouts.
  • Very lightweight; runs as user scripts.
• When to choose scripting:
  • You need extremely specific behavior not offered by GUI apps, or you want automated workflows triggered by app launches or conditions.

Comparison table

Speed tips — get faster snapping and arranging

• Learn and use keyboard shortcuts. Moving windows by hotkeys is consistently faster than dragging.
• Create per-monitor layouts to avoid resizing when docking across screens with different DPI.
• Use application triggers (DisplayFusion) or startup scripts (AutoHotkey) to automatically position apps at launch.
• Save multiple presets for different workflows (coding, design, meetings) and switch quickly.
• Combine tools: e.g., FancyZones for layout + AutoHotkey for specific edge cases.

Example workflows

1. Simple programmer setup (single monitor):

   • FancyZones with a 3-column layout; use keyboard shortcut to move code editor, browser, and terminal into columns.

2. Designer with two monitors:

   • DisplayFusion profile: left monitor 2×2 grid for resource panels; right monitor single large zone for canvas. Trigger profile on docking.

3. Power user with custom rules:

   • AutoHotkey script that launches apps and snaps them to predefined coordinates, then toggles virtual desktops depending on task.

Choosing the right tool

• Pick FancyZones if you want a free, polished experience with minimal setup.
• Choose AquaSnap for nuanced snapping behavior and tile modes.
• Use DisplayFusion if you need robust multi-monitor management and automation.
• Opt for AutoHotkey/WinSize2 when you require absolute control and automation beyond GUI tools.
• On macOS, use Rectangle, Magnet, or BetterSnapTool for native-feeling behavior.

Conclusion

GridMove remains useful for people who like manual grid-based layouts, but modern alternatives offer faster, more integrated, and often automated ways to snap and arrange windows. The best choice depends on your platform, how much automation you want, and whether you need multi-monitor features. Configure keyboard shortcuts, save layouts, and automate placement to make window management nearly instantaneous.