Moving to Omarchy from Windows or macOS
Map Start, Spotlight, Alt-Tab, Command, virtual desktops, and file habits into Omarchy's keyboard-driven workflow.
The fastest migration is not memorizing every shortcut. Map the four or five actions you repeat all day. Super is normally the Windows key. On an Apple keyboard it is commonly the physical key marked Command, although the actual result depends on your keyboard mapping.
Check the installed key map first
Omarchy defaults evolve. The table builds a mental model; verify current bindings in the built-in hotkey help or official manual before relying on them.
Move from “apps” to windows and workspaces
Windows and macOS switchers emphasize applications. Tiling window management emphasizes the current window, direction, and workspace. Begin with a stable assignment:
- workspace 1: browser and communication;
- workspace 2: editor;
- workspace 3: terminals and logs;
- workspace 4: documentation or media.
You then go directly to the task rather than cycling through every window. Keep the numbering unchanged for the first week; muscle memory is more reliable than memorizing dozens of bindings.
Keyboard concepts
| Windows / macOS | Omarchy model |
|---|---|
| Windows key / Command | Super modifier |
| Start / Spotlight | application launcher |
| taskbar / Dock | launcher, workspaces, and focused window |
| virtual desktops / Spaces | numbered workspaces |
| maximize | fullscreen or a one-window workspace |
| drag to split | automatic tiling and directional movement |
Files and applications
Migrate verifiable data before copying an entire old home directory. Preserve the structure and timestamps of documents, projects, and photos. Use the supported export or recovery path for browsers, password managers, and developer credentials. Do not overwrite Linux configuration with a browser profile directory or system keychain from another OS.
Validate replacements one workflow at a time. Browsers and editors are usually straightforward; Microsoft Office macros, Adobe plug-ins, corporate VPNs, peripheral tools, and anti-cheat games need individual testing. Retain dual boot or another device when a critical workflow has no proven replacement.
Your first week
- Learn only the launcher, terminal, close-window action, and workspaces;
- keep hotkey help easy to reach;
- add one group per day, such as moving windows or taking screenshots;
- learn the default before remapping it to an old habit;
- record failed shortcuts and verify both keyboard layout and current configuration.
Continue with the complete keyboard shortcut guide, organized by task rather than key name.
Dual Boot Omarchy and Windows Safely
Plan an Omarchy and Windows dual boot with clear BitLocker, Fast Startup, partition, and UEFI boot safeguards.
Omarchy Keyboard Shortcuts for Windows and Workspaces
Learn Omarchy shortcuts by task: the Super key, window control, workspaces, launching, and troubleshooting a keyboard shortcut that fails.