17.9
Mac, Windows and iPhone/iPad launcher with keyboard workflows, clipboard history, calendar, notes and file search.
Free planiOSAPIExtension
Best App Launcher Software in 2026
Raycast leads this chart of 40 (7.9/10, free plan). Alfred is next (7.7/10, free plan), and Launchy is the next highest-placed with a free plan (7.7/10). App launcher software helps you find and open apps or run shortcuts from a central launcher. For a Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO device, check whether a tool has an Android app and what it supports before comparing its other platforms. Compare free and paid access, platform support, and features such as file search, command launching, workflows, plugins, cloud sync and shortcut limits. Android availability varies by tool,…
27.7
Alfred is a macOS productivity app for launching applications, finding files and web results, and controlling a Mac with hotkeys, keywords, and custom actions.
Free planiOSAPImacOS
37.7
Launchy is a free cross-platform utility for opening programs, files, folders, and websites with a few keystrokes.
Free planOpen sourceAndroidAPILinux
- 4
Dropzone
Dropzone is a Mac app for drag-and-drop workflows involving files, applications and services.
Free planAPImacOS7.4Free plan - 5
PortableApps.com Platform
Build a custom app collection for a synced cloud location, PC or USB drive; browse and install apps in its store.
Free planOpen sourceLinuxmacOSWindows7.4Free plan - 6
True Launch Bar
Free planWindows7.3$19.90 one-time - 7
dmenu
dmenu is a free Linux dynamic menu for X that helps manage large collections of user-defined items.
Free planOpen sourceLinuxmacOSSelf-hosted7.2Free plan - 8
Executor
Windows workflow tool where a command or hotkey can launch items or trigger multiple actions.
Free planOpen sourceSelf-hostedWindows7.2Free plan - 9
GiMeSpace QuickMenu
GiMeSpace QuickMenu is a Windows task launcher and switcher that opens at the mouse cursor when you press an assigned mouse or keyboard key.
Free planWindows6.7Free plan - 10
Winstep Nexus Dock
Winstep Nexus Dock provides one-click access to frequently used applications, folders, documents, and commands through a customizable dock for Windows.
Free planWindows6.7$12.95 one-time - 11
bemenu
Dynamic menu library and client with curses, X11 and Wayland build options.
Free planLinuxmacOS6.6Free plan - 12
Appetizer
Appetizer is a free, open-source application launcher dock for Windows that organizes shortcuts and folders.
Free planAPISelf-hostedWindows6.5Free plan - 13
Cerebro
Cerebro is an open-source desktop launcher for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
Free planLinuxmacOSWindows6.4Free plan - 14
Ueli
Cross-platform keystroke launcher with searchable items, favorites and extra actions for selected results.
Free planLinuxmacOSWindows6.4Free plan - 15
Ulauncher
Linux launcher that matches app names fuzzily and offers custom themes, shortcuts and community extensions.
Free planLinux6.4Free plan - 16
ADW Launcher
Android home screen app with editable themes, icons, widgets, colors, animations, and gestures.
Free planAndroid6.2Free plan - 17
KISS Launcher
Android app for locating apps and contacts by typing; its search adapts to use over time.
Free planAndroid6.2Free plan - 18
PowerToys Command Palette
Windows utility for app, file, and web search, calculator expressions, and access to system settings.
Free planWindows6.2Free plan - 19
Butler
macOS6.1$20 one-time - 20
Flow Launcher
Flow Launcher is a free, open-source search and app launcher for Windows 10 and later.
Free planWindows6.1Free plan - 216.1Free plan
- 22
Rofi
Rofi is a free utility for switching windows, launching applications, opening an SSH login dialog, and providing menu workflows.
Free planLinuxmacOS6.1Free plan - 23
SlickRun
SlickRun is a free floating command-line utility for Windows that opens programs, websites, and other actions from typed commands.
Free planWindows6.1Free plan - 24
SyMenu
Runs from a local or removable drive and indexes apps installed on the host PC.
Free planWindows6.1Free plan - 25
WinLaunch
Free planWindows6.1Free plan
Choosing well
Does it support Android?
Check for an Android app and confirm what it covers before choosing a launcher for a Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO phone. Android support is listed for some tools, but it is not universal.
A desktop launcher may suit a Windows, Mac or Linux computer instead; check the supported platforms for your intended device.
Which launcher features do I need?
Compare file search, command launching and workflow support based on what you want the launcher to do.
Plugin support, cloud sync and shortcut limits can also affect whether a tool fits your routine.
Can I use it for free?
Check whether a free plan covers your needs, then compare any paid starting price and trial period. Pricing models differ: Raycast has a free plan with paid access from $10 per month, while Launchy and Ueli list free plans.
Which platforms does it run on?
Match the supported platform to the device you want to use.
Do not assume that support for one platform means the launcher works on another; check the platform details for the tool.
Should I look for open-source software?
If access to the code matters to you, check whether a launcher is open source. For example, bemenu is listed as open source.
Questions people ask
What does app launcher software do?
It provides a central way to find and open apps or run shortcuts. Features to compare include file search, command launching, workflows and plugins.
Which app launchers work on Android?
Android is listed as a supported platform for some tools. Check the individual platform details to confirm an Android app is available and covers your needs.
Can I use an app launcher for free?
Several listed tools have a free plan. Check the plan details, since pricing and included access vary by tool.
What should I compare when choosing an app launcher?
Compare supported platforms, free or paid access, file search, command launching, workflows, plugins, cloud sync and shortcut limits.
Are app launchers available for Windows, Mac and Linux?
The listed platforms include Windows, macOS and Linux. Check each tool's platform details before choosing.