Open the Start Menu: Windows vs Mac
On Windows, tap the Windows key (or Ctrl+Esc) to open the Start menu and search or launch apps. macOS has no Start menu; its app launcher is Spotlight (Cmd+Space), and system actions live under the Apple menu (Ctrl+F2).
| Action | Mac | Windows | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open the Start menu / app launcher | ⌘+Space (Spotlight) | ⊞ Windows · Ctrl+Esc | |
| Open the main menu bar / system menu | Ctrl+F2 (Apple menu) | ⊞ Windows | |
| Open the apps grid | Launchpad (F4 / trackpad pinch) | ⊞, then All apps |
The direct answer
Tap the ⊞ Windows key to open the Start menu. No Windows key? Ctrl + Esc does the same thing on any keyboard.
Mac has no Start menu
macOS never had a Start menu. To launch apps the way you would from Start, press ⌘ + Space for Spotlight and type the app name. For a full grid of apps, open Launchpad (the rocket icon, or F4 on many keyboards).
System actions (shut down, settings)
The Windows Start menu also holds power and settings. On a Mac those live in the Apple menu (the in the top-left); you can open it from the keyboard with Ctrl + F2, then arrow to it.
FAQ
What key opens the Start menu?
The Windows key (⊞) opens the Start menu. Ctrl+Esc does the same on keyboards without a Windows key.
What is the Start menu equivalent on a Mac?
There is no Start menu. Use Spotlight (⌘+Space) to launch apps and Launchpad for a full app grid; system actions are in the Apple menu.
How do I open Start without a Windows key?
Press Ctrl+Esc. It opens the Start menu on any Windows keyboard.