bemenu

bemenu is a dynamic, keyboard-driven menu library and client program for people who prefer assembling a launcher around their own desktop stack. It fits Linux users who can compile software and verify compositor support, while macOS users have a documented build path. It is a strong choice for configurable command launching, but a poor match for anyone expecting integrated file search or workflow automation.

Overview

The project supplies two clients, bemenu and bemenu-run, and lets a build target curses, X11, or Wayland. That breadth makes it adaptable across terminal and graphical environments, although it also makes setup part of the experience rather than an afterthought. Building requires a C compiler, and scdoc is needed to generate the man page. The provided Nix expression installs only the curses backend, an important limitation for users who expect a graphical interface from that route.

Command launching is supported, but file search and workflow support are not. The project also lists pinentry-bemenu, a Pinentry implementation based on bemenu, as a practical integration for users who want the menu in credential-entry workflows.

Key features

Backends and clients

Curses, X11, and Wayland targets let users select an interface appropriate to their environment, while bemenu and bemenu-run cover the available client roles. Wayland support is conditional: the compositor must implement the wlr-layer-shell protocol, as is typical of wlroots-based compositors. Users on a different Wayland compositor should treat that requirement as a compatibility gate, not a minor configuration detail.

Configuration and keyboard control

Documented environment variables expose options, backend selection, renderer paths, and rendering scale. Default keyboard bindings are documented, and --binding vim enables Vim-style normal-mode controls. This is valuable for keyboard-first users who want predictable interaction and rendering adjustments, but it assumes willingness to manage configuration rather than rely on a polished preferences window.

Clipboard and builds

Clipboard pasting invokes wl-paste and xclip at runtime, attempted in that order, so the relevant utility must be present for clipboard behavior to work. macOS users can follow the documented Homebrew prerequisites, GNU Make and pkg-config, together with the build-osx.sh flow. Releases are published on GitHub and signed with key 29317348D687B86B.

Pricing

bemenu is open source and free: the bemenu plan costs free. There are no paid plans, usage quotas, trial period, seat charges, or renewal terms. The client program and other sources, except the library and bindings, use GNU GPLv3 or later; the library and bindings use GNU LGPLv3 or later. That licensing split matters if you plan to embed the library or redistribute a client.

Platforms

bemenu supports Linux and macOS, with cross-platform support expressed through its available builds. Linux users can choose curses, X11, or Wayland where the compositor satisfies wlr-layer-shell. macOS has a documented source-build procedure rather than a turnkey installation experience.

Who it's for

Choose bemenu if you want a free, source-available menu that launches commands and can be shaped around keyboard habits, backend preference, and renderer settings. It is especially appropriate for Linux users running X11, curses, or a wlroots-style Wayland compositor, and for technically confident macOS users comfortable building from source. Look elsewhere if you need built-in file search, workflow extensions, cloud synchronization, or a graphical setup flow.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Three backend targets cover curses, X11, and compatible Wayland desktops.
• Pros: Environment-variable configuration and optional Vim bindings give keyboard-oriented users meaningful control.
• Pros: The software is free and open source, with clearly separated GPLv3 and LGPLv3 licensing.
• Cons: Wayland works only with wlr-layer-shell compositors, excluding other Wayland arrangements.
• Cons: Compilation needs a C compiler and scdoc, and the Nix expression provides only curses.
• Cons: There is no file search or workflow support, limiting it as a general productivity launcher.

Alternatives

See the App Launcher Software list for broader comparisons.

• Raycast is the better pick for a polished macOS or Windows launcher with extensions, a free tier, and a free trial.
• Launchy suits users wanting a free launcher across Android, Linux, macOS, and Windows with a pay-what-you-want model.
• Alfred is preferable on macOS when app launching and file searching matter, with a free core and a $34.00 one-time single license.
• Cerebro offers a free, MIT-licensed open-source alternative for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
• Ueli is a free option for Linux, macOS, and Windows without paid plans or usage limits stated.
• Appetizer is a free, open-source choice focused on Windows and self-hosted use.
• Dropzone is a macOS freemium option with app, folder, and action grids plus a Drop Bar.
• PortableApps.com Platform is a free, open-source launcher platform spanning Linux, macOS, and Windows.

Verdict

bemenu is best for technically capable users who want a lightweight, configurable command menu and control over the backend and keyboard model. Its main reason to choose it is that flexibility at no cost; its main reason to look elsewhere is the build work and strict Wayland compositor requirement, especially when file search or richer workflows are essential.