Working with Multiple Databases in Separate Windows

I’m using Devonthink 4.1.1 on Mac.

Question: Is there a way to work with multiple databases in separate windows?

Scenario: I open Devonthink. App opens with the database I last was working on (Database 1). Now, I want to work concurrently with Database 2, without having to toggle between the two databases via Side Bar. Instead, I’d like to have Database 2 have its own separate dedicated window.

Is that possible?

I recognize that there are ways of working with multiple files within a database via Tabs. But I need a solution at the inter-Database level.

Thank you!

For reference, here is the screenshot of my Menu Bar “Window” :

How about calling multiple times Menu: File → New Window → [on each launch pick another database]. This work for what you want?

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Perhaps this is useful…

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Oh, I hadn’t realized that there was this option.

Thank you! It worked.

Noted and bookmarked; thank you. 2026 will be the year for achieving simplicity – in DEVONthink, as in life. :slightly_smiling_face:

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You can open any group, smart group or database in a new main window :slight_smile: Right-click one in the sidebar and notice the first command: New Window.

For closed databases in the “Recent Databases” section: Open Database turns into Open Database In New Window when you press the option key.

In the item list: Right-click > Open opens a group in a new window.

You can even save the current setup of windows and databases as a “workspace” preset. (Check Go > Workspaces in the menu)

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Great comment.

Workspaces are super undervalued - this is one of the super powerful UI features in DT! Best for the optimization of highly flexible but potentially overwhelming UI, depending on the use-case and current use.

I use workspaces to transform DT into super flexible but also super minimalistic writing app - focus on one db, no left UI console. When I need full power and multiple dbs, I use another workspace, with all UI capabilities like inspectors.

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Misson Control shows all visible windows in the current space.

I’m a bit confused. Why don’t you close windows if you don’t want to see them?

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I don’t think that this request is related to DT at all, as it (nor any other app) can’t influence what Apple’s window manager does. You probably have some kind of software installed on one machine that groups the windows for your (or perhaps that’s a global macOS preference somewhere) and this software is not on the other machine (or you have a different global preference there).

chrillek, Thanks for the response. That probably explains why changing DT settings seemingly has no effect.

Global preferences, Desktop & Dock, Mission control:

The setting in the middle: “Fenster nach Programm gruppieren”

And thanks for showing me that that’s possible!

Settings: Desktop & Dock: Mission Control: Group windows by application: ON

This solved the issue/problem I was experiencing on my MacBook Air. THANK YOU!

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