Tapbots has released Pastebot 3, the first major version update to its Mac clipboard manager since December 2016. The new version requires macOS 26 Tahoe and introduces several useful features alongside a pricing structure designed to work for both one-time buyers and subscription-averse users.
The release comes with a note from Tapbots: a family member was diagnosed with cancer the previous year, which hit the company financially and halted development. Instead, the team used that period to rethink Pastebot from the ground up.
What’s new in Pastebot 3
The main additions address real workflow gaps in clipboard management:
- Powerful Filters: Create custom filters and apply them before pasting, so you can strip formatting, transform text, or manipulate clipboard contents on the fly
- Stacks: Copy multiple items and paste them sequentially, one after another, useful for repetitive data entry or templated writing tasks
- Smart Pastebins: Rule-based bins that automatically organize clipboard history, similar in concept to smart mailboxes or smart playlists
The app also gains iCloud sync, Shortcuts and CLI support, keyboard shortcuts, and universal clipboard integration. The Quick Paste Menu is accessible via Shift+Command+V from any app.
Pricing and availability
Tapbots is selling Pastebot 3 through two channels:
- Direct purchase: $39 upfront, which includes one year of updates; additional years cost $19 each
- App Store subscription: $2.99 per month or $24.99 per year
- Upgrade discount for Pastebot 2 owners: $12.99 off the direct purchase price
- 14-day free trial available
The direct purchase model includes a key protection that if you stop paying for update years, you keep using the last version covered by your payment. That is a reasonable alternative to subscription-only software.
The App Store version is still awaiting Apple’s approval as of now, so the direct purchase from Tapbots is the only option available. At $39, Pastebot 3 is priced at the higher end for clipboard utilities, but the Stacks and Filters features put it ahead of most competitors in capability. It is designed and developed as a native app for macOS so if you prioritize quality and performance, this is an app worth buying.
