IkunaIkuna vs Spencer
Both save and restore Mac workspaces by profile. The split is how complete the restore is, and whether you want focus analytics on top.
Spencer and Ikuna are the most similar tools on this list — both save window layouts and let you switch between named work profiles. The differences are mostly about depth. Spencer restores window positions and hides/shows apps across Spaces; its own documentation states it cannot restore browser tabs, individual files, or closed windows. It is also listed as incompatible with Stage Manager. Ikuna restores browser tabs as part of a saved context and runs alongside Stage Manager, and adds a focus-analytics dashboard and Focus Shield distraction blocking. Spencer is a simpler, cheaper one-time-purchase tool that does one job well. Ikuna costs more (subscription) and covers more ground.
Side by side
| Ikuna | Spencer | |
|---|---|---|
| Save & restore window layout | Yes | Yes |
| Named profiles / modes | Yes — contexts ('Ikunas') | Yes — Work, Meetings… |
| Restores browser tabs | Yes | No (per their own docs) |
| Restores closed apps | Yes | Hides/shows running apps |
| Multi-monitor restore | Yes — Device Link | Yes |
| Works with Stage Manager | Yes | No — listed as incompatible |
| Focus analytics dashboard | Yes | No |
| Distraction blocking | Yes — Focus Shield | No |
| Rituals (wallpaper, sound) | Yes | No |
| Mobile continuity | Coming Q3 2026 (Trigger) | No |
| Pricing | Free tier · Pro €9/mo | $19.99 one-time |
| macOS requirement | 13+ | 13+ |
Where Ikuna has the advantage
Browser tabs are part of the restore
Spencer restores window positions and hides/shows apps, but explicitly states it cannot restore browser tabs, individual files, or closed windows. Ikuna reopens browser tabs as part of a saved context.
Works with Stage Manager; Spencer doesn't
Spencer's own documentation lists Stage Manager as incompatible. Ikuna runs alongside Stage Manager.
Focus analytics and distraction blocking
Spencer is a layout saver — it has no insight into how you work. Ikuna's Focus Intelligence dashboard shows your context-switching patterns, and Focus Shield blocks specific apps when you're in focus mode.
Where Spencer has the advantage
One-time price, no subscription
Spencer is $19.99 once. Ikuna Pro is €9/month. If you'd rather pay once, Spencer is meaningfully cheaper over time.
Simpler tool, simpler setup
Spencer does exactly what it says: saves and restores window positions across Spaces, with profiles. No analytics layer, no notifications, no extra complexity.
Supercharged Cmd+H shortcut
Spencer's enhanced Command+H handles positioning, Space-switching, hiding and minimising in one gesture — a fast keyboard habit for users who live in that workflow.
The bottom line
Spencer is a clean, affordable workspace saver. It does its job well and the one-time price is genuinely attractive. The honest gaps are tab restoration, Stage Manager compatibility, and any kind of focus analytics or distraction blocking — Ikuna covers all three. Which tool makes more sense depends on whether those gaps matter in your workflow.
Frequently asked questions
What's the main difference between Ikuna and Spencer?
Both save and restore Mac workspaces by profile. Spencer restores window positions and hides/shows running apps, but cannot restore browser tabs, files, or closed apps. Ikuna restores the full context including tabs, works with Stage Manager, and adds a focus dashboard and distraction blocking.
Does Spencer restore browser tabs?
No. Spencer's own documentation states it cannot restore browser tabs, individual files, or closed windows. Ikuna does reopen browser tabs when restoring a saved context.
Is Ikuna or Spencer better value?
That depends on how long you keep the tool. Spencer is $19.99 once — it's cheaper than a year of Ikuna Pro (€9/mo). Ikuna covers more functionality (tab restore, analytics, Focus Shield, Stage Manager compatibility) and has a free tier. The right answer depends on which features you'll actually use.
Does Spencer work with Stage Manager?
No — Spencer lists Stage Manager as incompatible. Ikuna is designed to run alongside Stage Manager.