Sidebar 2.0.8 for Mac Free Download
Sidebar 2.0.8 for Mac Dock is fine for casual use. However, if you run multiple monitors, manage many apps, or simply want more from your workspace, it quickly shows its limitations. There are no window previews on hover, no per-screen controls, and no built-in app launcher. Sidebar solves all of these problems. You can also download Downie 4 for Mac Free Download.
Sidebar is a native macOS application developed by Oliver at sidebarapp.net. It replaces the Apple Dock entirely with a vertical panel that sits on the edge of your screen. It is not a browser sidebar tool. Instead, it is a complete Dock replacement built specifically for macOS power users.
Sidebar for Mac Free Download
The setup experience is one of the best in its category. The onboarding process walks you through every permission and preference using a clean and guided interface. Within minutes, Sidebar is up and running. The original Dock hides automatically, while your apps, folders, and spaces remain exactly where you placed them.
The interface feels completely native to macOS. Icons render sharply, hover states are smooth, and the panel can either float above your windows or lock to the screen edge while reserving screen space. This ensures that no application window slides underneath it. Both modes work exceptionally well, depending on how you prefer to use your display.
Sidebar for macOS Download
What truly makes Sidebar stand out is how well it adapts to your workflow without introducing a steep learning curve. Hovering over an app icon instantly displays live window previews. Clicking a folder opens FolderPeek, allowing you to browse its contents without launching Finder. Pressing the Start menu button gives you instant access to all installed applications. Every feature feels purposeful and works exactly as expected.
Sidebar also respects user privacy. It collects absolutely no usage data, analytics, or telemetry. Only license information is exchanged. For users working with sensitive data on their Mac, this level of privacy is extremely valuable. Overall, Sidebar is one of the most capable and customizable Dock replacements available for macOS in 2026.
Features of Sidebar for Mac
- Replaces the default macOS Dock with a fully customizable vertical panel
- Supports multiple monitors with individual per-screen layouts, icons, colors, and themes
- Displays live window previews on hover for every running application
- Includes a built-in Start menu for instant access to all installed applications
- FolderPeek allows browsing folder contents without opening Finder
- WindowSnap saves and restores complete window layouts for projects and tasks
- Multimedia controls allow you to play, pause, and manage audio from any app directly within Sidebar
- Reserves screen space so application windows never overlap the panel
- Clear View instantly hides all application windows to reveal the desktop
- Customizable notification badges with adjustable size and shape
- Drag-and-drop sorting for app icons and window groups
- Line spacers and blank spacers for cleaner visual organization
- Supports custom app icons for individual applications
- Customizable animations for transitions and hover effects
- Lock and unlock the Sidebar position at any time
- Collects and transmits zero usage data
Sidebar for Mac Download
Technical Details
Software Name: Sidebar
Software File Name: Sidebar_2.0.8_Fix.dmg
Version: 2.0.8
File Size: 15 MB
File Extension: DMG
License Type: Premium
Developer: Sidebar
System Requirements
Operating System: macOS 10.13 High Sierra or later
Processor: Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3, M4, M5) or Intel Core 64-bit
RAM: 8 GB minimum, 16 GB recommended
Storage: 500 MB free disk space
Best Alternatives to Sidebar for Mac
Sidebar is one of the best Dock replacements for Mac users who want complete customization and per-screen control. If you need something different for a specific workflow, here are some strong alternatives.
uBar
uBar is a popular horizontal Dock alternative that closely resembles the Windows taskbar layout. It is ideal for Windows users switching to macOS. It also offers excellent keyboard shortcut support. However, Sidebar provides significantly greater visual customization and multi-monitor flexibility.
ActiveDock 2
ActiveDock 2 replaces the Apple Dock while maintaining a more native macOS appearance. It includes useful app grouping features and a clean interface. It is an excellent choice for users who want improvements without drastically changing the overall look. Sidebar, however, offers deeper customization and more advanced window management features.
ExtraDock
ExtraDock takes a different approach by adding additional Docks to your screen instead of replacing the original one. It works perfectly alongside Sidebar since both applications do not conflict with each other. If you prefer to keep the default Dock while adding extra panels, ExtraDock is an excellent solution.
DockFlow
DockFlow is designed primarily for keyboard-focused users. It allows you to assign almost any action to custom keyboard shortcuts, making it ideal for those who prefer not to rely on a mouse. However, it cannot match Sidebar in terms of visual customization or multi-monitor capabilities.
HiDock
HiDock is a newer Dock alternative featuring a lightweight floating Dock design. It is simple, minimal, and ideal for users looking for a modest enhancement rather than a complete Dock replacement.
Each of these alternatives serves a different purpose. Sidebar stands out for Mac users who want a complete, private, and highly customizable Dock replacement with multi-monitor support and built-in window management capabilities.