Big Weather is a minimalist Mac weather app designed exclusively for the menubar, offering quick-glance forecasts without cluttering your screen. It sources data from reliable APIs like Apple Weather and WeatherAPI, providing hourly and 10-day forecasts. With a generous free tier and a clean design, it’s ideal for users who prioritize convenience and aesthetics.
Key Features Analysis
Ease of Setup
Installation is seamless via the Mac App Store, and the free tier allows basic use without upfront payment. The one-week trial for premium features helps test functionality.
Accuracy
Data comes from trusted sources, including Apple Weather (formerly Dark Sky), ensuring reliable updates on temperature, rain, UV, and wind. Forecasts cover 10 days and global locations.
Design
The interface is praised for its “hand-crafted” minimalism, with Dark Mode support and customizable layouts (graphical/textual).
Menubar Integration
Exclusive to the Mac menubar, it reduces friction with instant temperature visibility and UV alerts. Custom units (Celsius/Fahrenheit) are supported.
User Feedback Summary
Users on MacUpdate and Product Hunt highlight:
- Pros: Saves time, elegant design, “just works” reliability.
- Cons: Paid subscription needed for advanced features; limited to Mac.
Performance Analysis
Reliability
Real-time updates are consistent, with no reported lags or crashes. Apple Weather integration ensures stable data.
Speed
Instant menubar access outperforms full apps like AccuWeather, which require window switching.
Usability
Keyboard shortcuts and one-click access streamline checking forecasts—ideal for productivity-focused users.
Pricing Analysis
- Free Tier: Covers basics like current conditions and 24-hour forecasts.
- Premium: Requires subscription after a 7-day trial (price unspecified). Competes with free alternatives like Apple Weather but offers better menubar integration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Big Weather free?
Yes, but advanced features require a paid subscription after a 7-day trial.
2. Does it work offline?
No, it requires an internet connection to fetch live data.
3. Can I customize the menubar display?
Yes—choose between Celsius, Fahrenheit, or both, and enable UV alerts.
4. How accurate is the weather data?
Very; it uses Apple Weather and WeatherAPI, trusted by major providers.
5. Is Dark Mode supported?
Yes, and it adapts to system settings.
6. Does it show air quality?
Not mentioned in current features; focuses on core metrics like temperature and rain.
7. Can I use it on iPhone?
No, it’s macOS-exclusive.
8. How often does it update?
Real-time, with intervals likely matching Apple Weather’s refresh rate (~15–60 mins).
9. Are widgets available?
No—it’s menubar-only for minimalism.
10. What’s the subscription cost?
Unspecified, but the free trial lets you test premium features.
Final Verdict
Pros: Sleek design, ultra-convenient menubar access, reliable data, free tier.
Cons: Subscription unclear, limited to Mac, no widgets.
Ideal For: Mac users who want glanceable weather without app clutter. Try the free version first!
