# Default hotkey per platform. Dimmy Help.

> Default hotkey per platform. Step-by-step help for Dimmy, the native voice dictation app for macOS, Windows, and Linux.

Source: https://dimmy.app/help/hotkey-default/

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Hotkey

# Default hotkey per platform

Cmd + Option on macOS, Win + Alt on Windows and Linux. Two-key combos chosen to never clash with system shortcuts.

## The defaults

Cmd + Option macOS

Win + Alt Windows and Linux

Both combos use two modifier keys with no letter or number. That avoids every common system shortcut and most app shortcuts. Holding both starts recording, releasing both stops it.

## Why two modifiers

Single-modifier hotkeys (just Cmd, just Alt) would fire every time you do anything else. Combos with letters (Cmd + Shift + V) clash with paste and similar apps. Two pure modifier keys give a reliable, never-confused trigger.

info

Want to change it? See [Change your hotkey](https://dimmy.app/help/hotkey-change/).

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## In this category

[ HotkeyChange your hotkeySettings → Shortcut. Press the new combo. Dimmy validates it against system shortcuts and saves.](https://dimmy.app/help/hotkey-change/) [ HotkeyToggle vs hold-to-recordHold-to-record: hold the hotkey while talking. Toggle: press once to start, again to stop. Both work, pick what feels right.](https://dimmy.app/help/hotkey-modes/) [ HotkeyDictionary and Command Mode shortcutsTwo optional shortcuts beside the dictation hotkey: add selected text to your dictionary (Ctrl + Shift + D) and run a one-shot AI command.](https://dimmy.app/help/hotkey-dictionary-command/) [ HotkeySwitch style or tone with the scroll wheelScroll on the pill to cycle AI styles. Ctrl + scroll to cycle tones. No need to open Settings.](https://dimmy.app/help/scroll-shortcuts/)

Last updated: 2026-05-22

On this page

1. [01 The defaults](#the-defaults)
2. [02 Why two modifiers](#why-two-modifiers)