Switchman vs Finicky
Finicky is an open-source router you configure in code. Switchman is a native app you configure with clicks and a picker.
| Switchman | Finicky | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Routing core free; Pro $9.90 one-time | Free, open source (MIT) |
| Latest | 1.7.3 | v4.2.2 stable (2025-10-03); 4.4.0-alpha in testing |
| Setup | Native settings window; or tick "remember" in the picker | JavaScript / TypeScript file (~/.finicky.js) |
| Picker | Number key per browser (1–9); Pro adds the Ring panel, a radial picker at the pointer | None; the README points to other apps for a picker |
| Rules | Domain + subdomains, exact address, source app | Glob, regex or function; opener app; modifier keys |
| Profiles | Any browser incl. private windows; Chromium Profiles + Arc Spaces (Pro) | Chromium profiles in config |
| Rewriting | Tracking parameters stripped automatically, free (utm_, fbclid, gclid and ~30 more) | rewrite rules, e.g. remove tracking parameters |
| Privacy | None in the app: no analytics, no crash reports, no link log | Not stated; update check on by default |
Sources: GitHub repository and README; Releases; Configuration (v4).
Where they differ
- Setup. Finicky's rules live in a JavaScript or TypeScript file. Switchman's rules are made in a settings window, or by ticking "remember" in the picker.
- Asking vs routing. Finicky only routes by rule. Switchman follows a rule when one matches, and asks with a one-key picker when none does.
- Tracking cleanup. In Finicky you write a rewrite rule. In Switchman it is on out of the box.
- Price. Both are free for routing. Switchman Pro is $9.90 once for Profiles, Arc Spaces, short-link unfolding and iCloud sync.
When Finicky is the better fit
- You want routing in code — regex, functions, rewrites, a config you keep in version control — and prefer open source. Finicky is built for that.
FAQ
Do I need to write code for Switchman?
No. You create rules in a native settings window, or tick "remember" in the picker.
Can Switchman ask me instead of routing silently?
Yes. When no rule matches, Switchman can show a picker with a number key for each browser.
Is Switchman open source?
No. It is a free native app; its privacy page lists every network request it makes.
Download free for macOSSee what Pro adds
Other comparisons: Choosy · Velja · OpenIn.
Competitor details were checked on each developer's official site on September 23, 2026. Prices and features change — check their site for the current version.