Deskback
Deskback vs Stay
Stay costs nothing and is a good idea. Deskback was built around the things Stay users keep asking for.
Updated October 22, 2026
Side by side
| Deskback | Stay | |
|---|---|---|
| Restores per display combination | Yes, automatic | Yes, automatic or on demand |
| Several windows of the same app | Matched one by one | A common complaint in reviews |
| Sizes across different screens | Restored, not squashed | Height issues mentioned in reviews |
| Spaces | Current Space now, others when you visit them | Reviews report trouble |
| Progress dialog on every change | Never | Shown; users ask to hide it |
| macOS | 14+ | 14.6+ |
| Price | $9 once (launch), then $14.99 | No cost (Mac App Store) |
| Rating | Not released yet | 2.7★ from 64 ratings |
Stay details from its Mac App Store page and reviews, version 1.5.1, checked October 2026. Some review complaints are from older versions.
When Stay is enough
If you have one external monitor, a few windows, and Stay restores them correctly for you — keep it. There’s no reason to pay for something that already works.
When Deskback is worth $9
If you work with several windows of the same app, move between screens of different sizes, use Spaces, or just want nothing popping up when your screens change, Deskback was built for exactly that. And there’s a 14-day money-back guarantee, so you can compare on your own desk.
Deskback is launching soon. Disclosure: we make it.
Get early access — $9 launch price
FAQ
Is Deskback a paid version of Stay?
No. It’s a different app by a different developer.
Can I use Deskback and Stay at the same time?
It isn’t a good idea: both would move the same windows. Pick one.
Does Deskback show a window when it restores?
No. At most, the menu bar icon changes for a moment.
Related
Why your Mac moves windows after sleep · External monitor rearranges your windows · Stay alternatives · Deskback vs WinPin · Deskback vs Stay · Clamshell mode · Two monitors · Home and office