How to Enable Dock Magnification on Mac

There is one thing I love about MacOS is that we can customize it to fit our own needs. One cool trick is the magnification effect for the dock. While it’s not all that new many don’t know about it so let’s see How to Enable Dock Magnification on Mac.

  1. In the top left-hand corner click the Apple Menu ()
  2. From the Apple menu select System Preferences
  3. On the system preferences select Dock & Menu Bar
  4. Tick the Magnification box
  5. Slide the Magnification slider to adjust the amount of Magnification

It is not always easy following along with a how-to with a simple list. So I have the how-to with pictures and, if you look below, even video instructions.

How to Enable Dock Magnification on Mac

The Mac dock magnification is not for everyone. But with that said if you have a lot of apps in the dock it can be a big help. Also if you have any sight disabilities this can be the perfect solution.

Step 1. In the top left-hand corner click the Apple Menu ()

Mac Menu Bar
Mac Menu Bar

Step 2. From the Apple menu select System Preferences

Apple Menu
Apple Menu

Step 3. On the system preferences select Dock & Menu Bar

System Preferences > Dock & Menu Bar
System Preferences > Dock & Menu Bar

Step 4. Tick the Magnification box

Step 5. Slide the Magnification slider to adjust the amount of Magnification

Dock & Menu Bar > Magnification
Dock & Menu Bar > Magnification

The image below will be how your dock will appear when you hover over it with this setting applied.

Mac Dock Magnification Effect
Mac Dock Magnification Effect

Quick Way to Magnify Dock Icons on Mouse Hover

While this is a quicker way to get your Mac dock to Magnify there are limitations. You will not be able to adjust the amount of magnification on the dock. You will need to follow the above method to have control over it.

  1. Right-click on the Mac dock divider line
  2. From the pop-up menu select Turn Magnification On/Off
Quick Way Magnification Effect
Quick Way Magnification Effect

Temporarily Enable Dock Magnification on Mouse Hover

If you like the magnification of the dock but don’t want it on permanently then there is an option for you.

To achieve temporary Mac dock magnification do the following:

Hold down Shift (⇧) + Control (^) and hover the mouse over the dock.

This is perfect if you don’t want it on permanently but you do find the magnifying effect useful.

Enable Magnification Effect for Dock Icons Video

If you prefer video, then I have you covered with this simple-to-follow video on Enabling Classic Magnification Effect for Dock Icons.