Side by side
macCurrent vs PatchShepherd
Both stand on software update tools. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Mac
macCurrent brings update discovery, install guidance, backups, and history together for supported Macs. Some updates may still need a handoff, and the maker says the privileged install path has not completed an independent external security review.
Visit macCurrent
Free plan Windows
Choose PatchShepherd if you use Windows and want to manage updates from multiple package managers in one dashboard at no cost. Its broad source list and scheduled scans are useful reasons to consider it. Look elsewhere if you need a version for Mac, iPhone, or iPad.
Visit PatchShepherdThe facts
| macCurrent | PatchShepherd | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | maccurrent.com | roxykovu.com |
| On software update tools | #10 of 29 | #14 of 29 |
macCurrent: what it does well
- Finds updates across several sources
- Keeps inventory details locally on the Mac
- Can back up eligible direct replacements
- Per-app history includes restores and failures
- Analytics are opt-in
What to know first
- Requires macOS 15 or later
- Cannot verify every vendor updater end to end
- Independent review of privileged install path is incomplete
PatchShepherd: what it does well
- Combines updates from WinGet, Store apps, Chocolatey, Scoop, and other sources.
- Shows installed apps beside their latest available versions.
- Supports bulk updates and bulk uninstall.
- Scheduled background scans and searchable action history are included.
- Offers 10 themes, 20 languages, and right-to-left language support.
What to know first
- Windows only; there is no Mac, iPhone, or iPad version.
- Installing updates and removing software require administrator rights.
- Feedback diagnostics include a log attachment checked by default.
Alternatives to macCurrent Alternatives to PatchShepherd The whole list