Save and restore a Mac display arrangement

What gets saved—and what must match

A setup contains the relative arrangement of your displays, each screen's resolution and refresh rate, and the main display assignment. You choose its name, such as “Desk” or “Studio.”

The connected display set must match the saved set exactly. A saved display setup is not a window layout: it does not store app positions or Spaces.

Save the current arrangement

1. Press Control–Shift–D (⌃⇧D) to open DeskCommit.
2. Select the display to move and use an arrow key to place it to the left, right, above, or below another display. Use Shift–Arrow to align edges or centers.
3. Choose the resolution, refresh rate, and main display. Review the pending changes and press Return to apply them.
4. Press Command–S, enter a recognizable name, and save the setup.

You can rename or remove saved setups in DeskCommit Settings.

Restore a saved setup

1. Connect the same displays used by the saved setup.
2. Open DeskCommit with Control–Shift–D, then press Command–P.
3. Use ↑ and ↓ to select a matching setup.
4. Press Return to apply its arrangement, resolution, refresh rate, and main display assignment together.

You choose when to restore the settings; reconnecting the hardware is not enough to apply them.

When to use macOS settings instead

In System Settings → Displays, use Arrange to position connected screens and select the available resolution and other options for each display. The controls vary by Mac and display, as explained in Apple's guide to Displays settings.

That is the built-in route for adjusting the screens connected now. DeskCommit, a macOS menu bar app, adds named setups for settings you want to use again. See the product page for its display controls and demo.

Limits and recovery

A saved mode must still be available for the connected Mac and display. DeskCommit cannot make an undetected screen appear or repair a cable, dock, adapter, DisplayLink, or bandwidth problem.

Changes that include a Low Resolution (LoDPI) mode require Option–Return and a confirmation within 15 seconds. Without confirmation, the previous mode is restored. With the palette open, Command–Z undoes the last applied display change.

Check compatibility before buying

DeskCommit supports Apple silicon and Intel Macs running macOS 13 Ventura or later. Available modes depend on the complete connection, including the cable and dock. Review the product demo and purchase terms before buying.