18.7
Raycast is a productivity toolkit organized around an extendable launcher.
Free planiOSAPIExtension
Best App Launchers in 2026
Raycast leads this chart of 40 (8.7/10, free plan). Launchy is next (8.5/10, free plan), and Alfred is the next highest-placed with a free plan (8.4/10). App launchers help you open programs, files and commands from a focused search or shortcut interface. They can make desktop workflows quicker and provide a central way to start installed apps. Compare the platforms a launcher supports before choosing. Android support matters for Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO phones and tablets; also check Windows, macOS, Linux, API or self-hosted options when they fit your setup.
28.5
Launchy is a free cross-platform utility for opening programs, files, folders, and websites with a few keystrokes.
Free planOpen sourceAndroidAPILinux
38.4
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
- 4
PortableApps.com Platform
PortableApps.com Platform lets users assemble a portable collection of apps for a synced cloud folder, a local PC, or a USB drive.
Free planOpen sourceLinuxmacOSWindows8.2Free plan - 5
Dropzone
Dropzone is a Mac app for drag-and-drop workflows involving files, applications and services.
Free planAPImacOS8.0Free plan - 6
dmenu
dmenu is a free Linux dynamic menu for X that helps manage large collections of user-defined items.
Free planOpen sourceLinuxmacOSSelf-hosted7.7Free plan - 7
Executor
Executor is a free Windows desktop workflow application for launching tasks from commands or hotkeys.
Free planOpen sourceSelf-hostedWindows7.7Free plan - 8
True Launch Bar
Free planWindows7.5$19.90 one-time - 97.3Free plan
- 10
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 planWindows7.2Free plan - 11
Cerebro
Cerebro is an open-source desktop launcher for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
Free planLinuxmacOSWindows7.1Free plan - 12
7.1Free plan - 13
Appetizer
Appetizer is a free, open-source application launcher dock for Windows that organizes shortcuts and folders.
Free planAPISelf-hostedWindows7.1Free plan - 147.0Free plan
- 15
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 planWindows6.9$12.95 one-time - 16
Rofi
Rofi is a free utility for switching windows, launching applications, opening an SSH login dialog, and providing menu workflows.
Free planLinuxmacOS6.8Free plan - 176.8Free plan
- 18
ADW Launcher
ADW Launcher 2 is an Android launcher for changing a device’s home screen.
Free planAndroid6.8Free plan - 19
Flow Launcher
Flow Launcher is a free, open-source search and app launcher for Windows 10 and later.
Free planWindows6.6Free plan - 20
KISS Launcher
KISS Launcher is a free Android launcher for finding apps and contacts through a search box.
Free planAndroid6.6Free plan - 21
Cairo-Dock
Cairo-Dock is a Linux desktop interface built around docks, desklets, and panels.
Free planLinux6.5Free plan - 226.5Free plan
- 23
PowerToys Command Palette
PowerToys Command Palette is a customizable Windows interface for launching apps, running commands, searching files, browsing the web, and opening system tools.
Free planWindows6.5Free plan - 24
Little Snitch
macOS6.5From €59 a month - 25
SlickRun
SlickRun is a free floating command-line utility for Windows that opens programs, websites, and other actions from typed commands.
Free planWindows6.4Free plan
Choosing well
Check Android support
Look for Android availability if you want a launcher on a Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO phone or tablet. Platform coverage varies by tool, so confirm it on the item page.
A launcher may also target Windows, macOS or Linux rather than Android. API and self-hosted options suit software workflows instead of a phone app.
Compare free access and trials
Free plans appear across this category, while freemium launchers can add paid features. Check the pricing note to see whether a paid tier follows the free plan.
A free trial can give you time to assess a paid launcher before subscribing or buying.
Review the code licence
Open-source launchers publish their code, which can help if you need to inspect or change how the tool works. Check the project licence and platform requirements before installing.
Match the launcher to your workflow
Desktop launchers such as Raycast, Launchy, Alfred, Cerebro and Ueli focus on starting apps or commands. Rofi, bemenu and Ulauncher offer other search-driven approaches.
PortableApps.com Platform and Appetizer can suit portable app collections, while Dropzone focuses on desktop actions. Check the feature set and supported platform for your use.
Questions people ask
Do app launchers work on Android?
Android is a supported platform in this category, but support differs by tool. Check the individual listing before installing on a Xiaomi, Redmi or POCO device.
Can I use an app launcher on Linux?
Yes. Linux is among the platforms represented in this category. Confirm Linux support and the required setup on the launcher’s listing.
Are free app launchers available?
Yes. Listings include tools with free plans, free pricing and open-source licensing. Freemium tools may also offer paid tiers.
What does freemium mean for a launcher?
Freemium means a free plan is available alongside paid access. Pricing notes may also show a trial period or the starting price for paid features.
Can I run a launcher myself?
Self-hosted options are represented in this category. Check the item details for setup requirements and whether self-hosting fits your platform.