Command backtick not switching windows on your Mac? Why, and how to fix it

Command backtick cycles through one app's windows, but a different keyboard layout, minimized windows or other desktops can stop it. Each cause and its fix.

Guide · Updated 16 October 2026

What does Command backtick do on a Mac?

It moves to the next window of the app you are in. Keyboard Shortcuts lists it as Move focus to next window, under Keyboard. Add ⇧ to go the other way.

Why is Command backtick not working?

  1. The key is elsewhere on your layout. On many non US keyboards the backtick sits on a different key, or only types after a second key press. Try the key above Tab and the key left of Z, or set a shortcut of your own. Our Mac used the ABC India layout.
  2. The other windows are minimized or on another desktop. It only cycles windows on the current desktop that are not minimized.
  3. The shortcut was changed or taken. Check System Settings, Keyboard, Keyboard Shortcuts, Keyboard, Move focus to next window.
  4. The app has one window. There is nothing to switch to.

How do I set a different shortcut to switch windows?

Open System Settings, Keyboard, Keyboard Shortcuts, Keyboard. Double click the shortcut next to Move focus to next window and press the keys you want.

Related: Command Tab not working and switching between windows of one app.

Checked on 16 October 2026 on a MacBook Air (M1) running macOS 27.0.1, by reading its settings and the labels in System Settings. Nothing was changed.

Questions

Why doesn't Command backtick work on my Mac?

On many non US layouts the shortcut uses a different key. It also skips minimized windows and windows on other desktops.

Where do I change the switch windows shortcut on Mac?

System Settings, Keyboard, Keyboard Shortcuts, Keyboard, Move focus to next window.

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