With a single run, the app applies changes permanently, allowing you to fit more apps into the menu bar. Reverting the changes is just as simple, done within the app.

WARNING

This no longer works on macOS 27 as Apple rewrote the menu bar and did not include the required hidden settings to adjust spacing. There is nothing I can do about this, unfortunately.

WARNING

Because of a macOS 26 bug, third-party menu bar apps need to be relaunched before they show the correct spacing.

The app includes a Shortcuts action, enabling automated spacing adjustments for various scenarios.

The app only needs to be run once to set the spacing and can then be uninstalled. The settings persist.

This app can potentially replace Bartender/Ice for some users. It also lets you fit more of my menu bar apps in your menu bar.

TIP

You may also like my Spaced app for grouping menu bar items.

Frequently Asked Questions

I have a feature request, bug report, or some feedback

Click the feedback button in the app or send it here.

I can already do this from the command-line, why should I use this app?

This app makes it simpler and it also makes it possible to see the changes without having to restart your computer first.

Is it dangerous?

No. The changes are easily reversible in the app.

Do I need to keep the app running?

No. You only need to run the app once to apply the changes.

Is this a replacement for Bartender or Ice?

It depends on your needs. If you primarily use those apps to fit more items in the menu bar, this app is a good alternative.

iStat Menus disappeared when I moved the slider

Menu Bar Spacing needs to relaunch all menu bar items for changes to take effect. iStat Menus may take a while to relaunch. If it doesn’t reappear, try moving the slider again. Restarting your computer will definitely fix it.

Can you add more features?

No. This app is intentionally simple and focused.

Can it have per-app configurations?

No. It applies globally only.

Can I have different spacing for when I’m using the built-in display and when using a connected larger display?

No, not in the app. However, the app comes with an action for Shortcuts, so you could automate it. Create a shortcut for each display that uses the “Set Menu Bar Spacing” action. Then use Shortcuts automations to run them when a display connects.

NOTE

The setting is global. Changing it will interrupt any ongoing screen recording or sharing, as it restarts some system processes to apply changes immediately.

Why is this not on the App Store?

The app works by changing hidden system settings, which is not allowed on the App Store.

Can you localize the app into my language?

I don’t plan to localize the app.

More FAQs

Older Versions

1.1.0 for macOS 15+
1.0.1 for macOS 14+

Menu Bar Spacing