Close All Finder Windows in 3 Quick Steps
To close all open Finder windows instantly, use a keyboard shortcut or menu command. This avoids manually closing each window and works across all versions of the system. The fastest method is Option + Command + W, but alternatives exist for custom workflows.
Fastest Methods to Close All Finder Windows
- Keyboard Shortcut: Press Option + Command + W to close all open Finder windows at once. This is the default shortcut and works immediately.
- Menu Command: Click File in the Finder menu bar, then select Close All Windows (or hold Option to reveal the option).
- Terminal Command: Open Terminal and run
osascript -e 'tell app "Finder" to close every window'for scripted control.
Comparison of Methods
| Method | Speed | Ease of Use | Customizable | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Keyboard Shortcut (Option + Command + W) |
Instant | Very Easy | No (fixed shortcut) | Daily use, quick cleanup |
| Menu Command (File > Close All Windows) |
Fast | Easy | No | Users who prefer mouse navigation |
| Terminal Command (AppleScript via Terminal) |
Moderate | Advanced | Yes (scriptable) | Automation, power users |
Troubleshooting
- Shortcut Not Working? Check if Finder is the active application (click its Dock icon first). Conflicts with other apps may override the shortcut.
- Windows Reopen on Launch? Disable this in Finder > Settings > General and uncheck Restore windows when quitting and reopening apps.
- Terminal Permission Issues? Ensure Terminal has automation permissions in System Settings > Privacy & Security.
Bonus: Prevent Accidental Closures
- Enable "Ask to keep changes when closing documents" in System Settings to prompt before closing unsaved files.
- Use Mission Control (F3) to preview windows before closing all.
- Create a custom shortcut in System Settings > Keyboard > Shortcuts > App Shortcuts if the default conflicts.