If you have been using Mac for a while, you may have noticed that the menu bar automatically hides when you are not using it. Some users like to have the menu bar constantly visible for various reasons. In this article, we will discuss the challenge of always showing the menu bar on Mac, things you should prepare for, and three different methods to achieve this.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Always Showing the Menu Bar on Mac:
The menu bar with different app functions is a critical part of the Mac user interface. It has always been auto-hidden since the introduction of Mac OS X. This feature allows users to have more screen space and avoid visual clutter. While this may be useful for some users, others may prefer to have the menu bar displayed all the time. This challenge comes when users want it to be shown all the time, regardless of whether or not you’re using it.
Things You Should Prepare for:
Before you start this process, you should have a Mac device and be familiar with the settings. You should ensure that you are running the latest version of the Mac operating system. Additionally, you should know how to navigate the system preferences on your Mac.
Method 1: Using System Preferences
If you want to show the menu bar on Mac, you can use the System Preferences panel. Here is how you can do it:
1. Click on the "Apple" icon in the top left corner of your screen.
2. Select "System Preferences" and click on "General."
3. In the "Appearance" section, check the box next to "Automatically hide and show the menu bar."
4. The menu bar will now be visible at all times.
Pros:
– It’s an easy and simple method to show the menu bar on Mac.
– This is not a third-party app or a complex process.
Cons:
– You will always see the menu bar, whether you want it or not.
– It takes up more space on your screen.
Method 2: Using Terminal Commands
Another way to show the menu bar on Mac is by using Terminal commands. This is a slightly more technical solution than Method 1 but is still easy to follow.
1. Open the "Terminal" application from the Applications folder or use Spotlight search.
2. Type the following command: `defaults write -g _HIHideMenuBar -bool false`
3. Press the "Enter" button on your keyboard.
4. The menu bar should now be visible.
Pros:
– It’s a quick and easy method if you’re comfortable with Terminal.
– This method is reversible.
Cons:
– You may make a mistake with the command, causing potential issues.
– Not everyone is comfortable with using Terminal.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps
There are several third-party applications that allow you to show the menu bar on Mac. We recommend one called “Bartender” because it offers a variety of features to customize the menu bar.
1. Download and install “Bartender” on your Mac.
2. Once installed, open the app and click on the “Get Started” button.
3. Bartender will ask you for permission to control your computer, click on "OK."
4. Drag-and-drop the apps you don’t need to see in the menu bar, into the Bartender app.
5. You can now customize and arrange the order of your remaining menu bar apps by moving them around the Bartender app.
6. Finally, you can set the Bartender app to display when you click on a specific button on the menu bar.
Pros:
– You will be able to personalize the menu bar to your needs.
– You can have additional control of the menu bar items.
Cons:
– You have to pay full price to buy the application “Bartender.”
– You must maintain and update the third-party app.
Why Can’t I Always Show the Menu Bar on Mac?
1. Misunderstanding the “Automatically hide and show the menu bar” function.
If the menu bar is always hidden on your Mac device, you should check the setting of the menu bar function in the System Preferences.
Fix: Uncheck the "Automatically hide and show the menu bar" option in Appearance.
2. Technical Glitch on the Mac OS X
If the system preferences are not working to display the menu bar on your Mac, there may be a technical issue with the operating system.
Fix: You may need to try re-installing macOS.
3. System Preferences Not Saved
Sometimes users may not have saved the changes that are made in the System Preferences assignment.
Fix: Make sure to save and apply the changes in the System Preferences.
Additional Tips:
1. Consider your screen size and the importance of the apps in the menu bar you need for work.
2. Change or eliminate the apps in the menu bar that you rarely or never use.
3. Customize the position of the apps in the menu bar to your preference.
5 FAQs about Always Showing the Menu Bar on Mac:
Q1. Will showing the menu bar on Mac impact the performance of my device?
A1. No, it will not affect your device’s performance.
Q2. I am having trouble getting the menu bar to always display, what can I do?
A2. There may be an issue with your system preferences. You can try to reinstall the system preferences or reset the PRAM/NVRAM.
Q3. Can I undo the changes and hide the menu bar again on Mac?
A3. Yes, you can go to the "System Preferences" and disable the "Automatically hide and show the menu bar" option under the "General" setting to go back to the default.
Q4. Can I still use the third-party menu bar apps if I show the menu bar on Mac?
A4. Absolutely, you can still use third-party menu bar apps and customize their location in the menu bar.
Q5. Is it safe to use third-party apps to show the menu bar on Mac?
A5. Yes, as long as you are downloading from a reputable source, it is safe to use third-party apps. Make sure you read reviews and do research on the app before downloading it.
In Conclusion:
Showing the menu bar at all times on Mac is a personal preference. Whether it’s for aesthetic purposes or a functional requirement, there are several methods to achieve this. You can use the System Preferences, Terminal commands, or third-party apps such as “Bartender.” Remember to consider your screen size and the importance of the apps you use in the menu bar. You can also customize the menu bar’s position and eliminate the apps that you rarely use. With these methods, you can see the menu bar on Mac, no matter what.