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KeyboardHolder vs XKey

Side-by-side comparison for macOS

KeyboardHolder

6.5
Utilities

Switch input method per application

XKey

8.0
Utilities

Vietnamese input method engine

Metric KeyboardHolder XKey
Category Utilities Utilities
AI Score 6.5 8.0
30-day Installs 53 204
90-day Installs 129 464
365-day Installs 505 464
Version 1.14.8 1.2.21,20260504.1
Auto-updates No Yes
Deprecated Yes No
GitHub Stars 1.5K 357
GitHub Forks 37 40
Open Issues 9 -
License MIT
Language Swift
Last GitHub Commit 6mo ago 1mo ago
First Seen Jun 20, 2021 Feb 7, 2026

Reviews

KeyboardHolder

KeyboardHolder is a unique app that allows users to switch input methods per application, making it ideal for those who frequently switch between different languages or input systems. It offers a lightweight solution for managing input preferences across various apps.

KeyboardHolder switches input methods based on the application currently in use.

Pros

  • + Solves a specific and useful problem for users managing multiple input methods
  • + Lightweight and focused on its primary function
  • + Regular updates indicate active maintenance

Cons

  • - No auto-updates feature
  • - Some open issues suggest potential instability

XKey

XKey is an open-source Vietnamese input method engine for macOS, providing a lightweight and effective way to type Vietnamese. It supports multiple keyboard layouts and integrates seamlessly with macOS, benefiting users who need to input Vietnamese regularly.

Enables users to input Vietnamese characters on macOS with support for various keyboard layouts.

Pros

  • + Open-source with active maintenance
  • + Supports multiple keyboard layouts
  • + Seamless macOS integration
  • + Auto-update feature

Cons

  • - Name may cause confusion with NSA's XKeyscore
  • - Specialized for Vietnamese input