Bartender Alternatives for macOS: Privacy-Focused Options

Bartender has long been the go-to app for managing Mac menu bar icons. But it’s not the only option, and recent changes have prompted many users to explore alternatives. Here’s a look at what’s available.

What Bartender Does

Bartender, developed by Surtees Studios, lets you hide menu bar icons and reveal them on demand. Key features include:

  • Hide icons in a secondary bar
  • Show hidden icons by clicking the Bartender icon or hovering
  • Rearrange icons freely
  • Search for icons
  • Trigger layouts based on conditions

It’s a mature app that’s been around since 2013 and has a large user base.

Why Look for Alternatives?

People seek Bartender alternatives for several reasons:

Privacy Concerns

Some users prefer apps that don’t require network access or collect any usage data. When evaluating any utility app, it’s worth understanding what data it accesses and whether it communicates externally.

Cost

Bartender is a paid app. Some users want free or lower-cost options for basic menu bar management.

Simplicity

Bartender has accumulated many features over the years. Some users want something simpler that just handles the basics.

Different Workflow Preferences

Not everyone works the same way. Some prefer different interaction models for showing and hiding icons.

Free Alternatives

Hidden Bar

A free, open-source menu bar manager available on the Mac App Store. It’s simple: icons to the left of a separator stay visible, icons to the right are hidden until you click to expand. No frills, but it works.

Pros:

  • Free and open-source
  • Simple to understand
  • Low resource usage

Cons:

  • Very basic feature set
  • No search functionality
  • No automation or presets

Vanilla

Another free option that works similarly to Hidden Bar. Provides basic show/hide functionality for menu bar icons.

Pros:

  • Free
  • Simple setup

Cons:

  • Limited features
  • Less actively maintained

Ice

A newer menu bar manager that’s gained attention. Offers a clean interface with features like:

  • Multiple menu bar sections
  • Icon rearrangement
  • Customizable appearance

Considerations:

  • Evaluate its privacy practices and permissions
  • Check if features match your needs

Bar Bar Jinks

A privacy-first menu bar organizer with a focus on simplicity and zero data collection.

Key Features:

  • Three-tier visibility (always visible, collapsible, hidden)
  • Preset system for saving different layouts
  • Automation triggers (time, active app, connected displays)
  • Quick search with keyboard shortcut (Cmd+Shift+B)
  • Works entirely offline

Privacy Approach:

  • No data collection whatsoever
  • No analytics or telemetry
  • No network connections
  • Everything stays on your Mac

Pros:

  • Strong privacy stance
  • Automation features for different contexts
  • Quick search to find any icon instantly

Cons:

  • Coming soon (not yet available)

What to Consider When Choosing

Privacy and Permissions

Menu bar managers can potentially see which apps you use based on their icons. Consider:

  • Does the app require network access?
  • What permissions does it request?
  • Is there a clear privacy policy?
  • Is it sandboxed (Mac App Store apps are)?

Features You Actually Need

Don’t pay for features you won’t use. Consider:

  • Do you need presets for different situations?
  • Is automation important to you?
  • Do you need to search for icons?
  • How often do you rearrange your setup?

Reliability and Support

  • Is the app actively maintained?
  • How quickly are macOS compatibility issues addressed?
  • Is there a way to get support if needed?

Price Model

  • One-time purchase vs. subscription
  • Free tier limitations
  • Upgrade policies

Making the Switch

If you’re switching from Bartender or another manager:

  1. Document your current setup — Note which icons you keep visible vs. hidden
  2. Export settings if possible — Some apps allow configuration export
  3. Test the new app thoroughly — Make sure it handles all your icons correctly
  4. Give yourself adjustment time — Different interaction models take getting used to

Conclusion

The best menu bar manager depends on your priorities. If privacy is paramount, look for apps with clear no-data-collection policies and offline functionality. If you need advanced features, ensure the app supports your specific workflows. If cost is a concern, Hidden Bar provides basic functionality for free.

Whatever you choose, a well-organized menu bar reduces visual clutter and helps you focus on your work.