Xee for Mac

Xee is a Mac-based image viewer and organizer that offers a streamlined experience for users who want quick access to their image collections.

Unlike macOS’s default Preview app, which is more generalized, Xee for macOS is designed with efficiency in mind, allowing users to view images in various formats while maintaining a simple, intuitive interface.

The software is lightweight, making it an excellent choice for users who frequently browse and manage large photo libraries without unnecessary features slowing them down.

Key Features

Wide Format Support – Supports multiple image file types, including JPG, PNG, GIF, BMP, TIFF, RAW, and even Photoshop PSD files.

Fast Image Browsing – Quickly loads images without lag, even for large file sizes.

Folder Navigation – Browse through image folders without manually opening each file.

Lightweight Performance – Consumes minimal system resources while providing a smooth experience.

EXIF Data Viewing – Displays metadata information, including camera details, exposure settings, and GPS data.

Keyboard Shortcuts – Navigate through images efficiently with customizable keyboard commands.

Basic Editing Tools – Crop, rotate, and resize images within the app.

Dual-Screen Support – Works efficiently with multiple monitors for a better viewing experience.

User Interface

One of Xee’s strong points is its clean and minimalistic UI. Upon launching the application, you are greeted with a simple, distraction-free window that focuses solely on displaying images. The toolbar is neatly arranged, providing quick access to essential functions such as zoom, rotation, and navigation.

Unlike feature-heavy software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop, the app prioritizes a lightweight and straightforward experience, making it an excellent choice for users who need a fast and efficient way to view their images.

Installation and Setup

Download the software – Get the latest version from the official website, FileHorse.com or the Mac App Store.

Install the app – Drag the downloaded file into the Applications folder.

Launch this app – Open the application and grant any necessary permissions for folder access.

Set it as your default viewer – If you prefer Xee over Preview, right-click an image file, select Get Info, then set this app as the default application.

How to Use

Opening Images – Simply drag and drop an image or folder into Xee’s window.

Navigating Images – Use arrow keys or swipe gestures to move between images in a folder.

Viewing EXIF Data – Press Cmd + I to access metadata.

Basic Editing – Crop, rotate, or resize images using the toolbar options.

Organizing Files – Move, delete, or rename images directly within the app.

FAQ

Is Xee free to use?
No, this program is a paid app available on the Mac App Store, though it is affordably priced.

Does Xee support RAW image files?
Yes, it supports most RAW file formats, making it a good option for photographers who need quick previews.

Can I use Xee to edit images?
It offers basic editing features like cropping, rotating, and resizing, but it is not meant to replace a full editing suite.

Is Xee compatible with macOS Ventura and newer versions?
Yes, the latest versions of this software have been updated to support macOS Ventura and beyond.

How does Xee compare to Preview?
This app is faster, supports more formats, and provides better navigation than macOS’s built-in Preview app.

Alternatives

Lyn – A powerful and lightweight image browser with tagging and organization features.

XnView MP – Multi-platform viewer with powerful batch processing tools.

Preview (Default macOS App) – Free and built into macOS, but lacks advanced browsing features.

Pricing

This app is available on the Mac App Store for approximately $3.99 (pricing may vary by region).

Given its feature set, this is a reasonable one-time payment compared to subscription-based alternatives.

System Requirements

• OS Compatibility: macOS 10.12 or later (Ventura supported)
• Processor: Intel or Apple Silicon (M1/M2) compatible
• RAM: 2GB minimum (4GB recommended)
• Storage: ~50MB free space for installation

PROS

• Lightweight and fast performance
• Supports a wide range of file formats
• Clean and minimalistic interface
• Efficient folder navigation
• Affordable pricing

CONS

• Lack of official support and updates
• Lacks advanced image editing features
• Not free (unlike macOS Preview)
• No cloud integration options
• Limited batch processing tools

Conclusion

For Mac users who need a fast, efficient, and lightweight image viewer, Xee for Mac is a solid choice. It stands out for its smooth navigation, wide file format support, and minimalistic UI, making it perfect for those who frequently browse large photo libraries. While it lacks advanced editing capabilities, its affordability and efficiency make it a worthwhile investment.

Note: 30 days trial version. Requires 64-bit processor.