# Keep Spotlight and CubbyPad on separate shortcuts

Command–Space can remain Spotlight while Shift–Command–Space opens CubbyPad. Test each route before changing the system assignment.

By [Rudra Satani](https://cubbypad.com/about/), maker of CubbyPad · 26 October 2026

## Make the two actions easy to distinguish

A general search tool and a visual app grid can both be useful on the same Mac. Giving them different shortcuts makes the intended action explicit rather than hoping one utility wins a conflict every time.

## Use the existing automatic choice first

1. Leave Spotlight’s Command–Space assignment enabled in macOS.

1. Open CubbyPad Settings › Opening and choose Automatic.

1. Read the displayed combination.

1. Test both shortcuts from a normal work application.

## Treat F4 as another separate decision

CubbyPad’s F4 key toggle controls whether that physical key opens the grid while the launcher is running. It does not require giving up Command–Space. You can use F4 for the familiar app-browser action and retain Spotlight’s typed search route.

If you record a custom combination, choose one your everyday apps do not already need. Keep a Dock or menu bar entrance while testing the recording.

## Diagnose the assignment before the layout

When the wrong interface opens, inspect which program owns the key combination. A shortcut conflict does not mean folders were lost or the installation is corrupt. Confirm that CubbyPad runs, test its visible icon entrance, then change only the conflicting assignment.

Published by CubbyPad’s maker. See [about CubbyPad](https://cubbypad.com/about/) for the author and product details. For corrections, [get in touch](https://cubbypad.com/contact/).

## Put it into practice.

[Guide

### Choose how to open the app grid

Set up the keyboard shortcut, F4, a three-finger pinch, a hot corner, or the Dock and menu bar icons.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/opening/)[Guide

### When CubbyPad does not open as expected

Check the installation, license and opening controls before changing your layout or reinstalling the app.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/troubleshooting/)

## More on search and keyboard.

[### Use CubbyPad with an external keyboard and mouse

A keyboard shortcut, hot corner and mouse page buttons can replace a trackpad-heavy routine at your desk.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/mac-app-launcher-external-keyboard-mouse/)[### Arrange your app grid without dragging icons

CubbyPad supports keyboard picking, selection, movement, naming and grouping so a precise pointer drag is not the only editing route.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/keyboard-only-app-grid-organization/)[### Why Escape sometimes closes a folder instead of the grid

CubbyPad uses Escape to back out of the current interaction before closing the whole launcher.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/escape-key-in-app-launcher/)

## Make room for your apps.

Every feature. One-time purchase. Made for macOS 26.

[Find your plan](https://cubbypad.com/pricing/)

Source: https://cubbypad.com/blog/keep-spotlight-and-cubbypad-shortcuts/