Are you being bogged down with innumerable apps and files on your desktop screen? Get a program launcher for Windows 10 to ease up your life a bit. Wondering how an app launcher better your life of the blues?
Well, people who love to keep their life and things organized and tidy, for them a cluttered desktop is as worse as a messed up room. So, if you get an application launcher for your Windows 10 PC, then the app can sort the desktop icons, along with making many more significant and useful modifications.
So, what is it that the desktop app launchers do for your Windows 10 machine?
- An app launcher can provide quick access to a wide variety of applications stored on your Windows 10 PC.
- You can search and find all your important files conveniently from the sea of files you keep creating everyday.
- It also helps in freeing up desktop space.
- Some Windows app launchers can even facilitate web browsing with the help of a floating browser shortcut.
- Some app launchers also help in creating a task list to keep track of your priorities.
- You can also create keyboard shortcuts and customize commands.
Therefore, to help you avail such an application, we have listed down the best app launcher program for your Windows 10 PC in this blog.
What are the Best App Launchers For Windows?
Get a glance of the 12 best program launchers for Windows 10 and systematically organize your desktop.
1. Launchy
Launching an app is made easy with this best free app launcher and you will never again face any difficulty with your Windows 10 system. The system performs optimally and smoothly with this program launcher and doesn’t need you to set up anything as it’s ready-to-use after installation.
Once you open this tool it opens as a search bar along with a small control panel icon. You can easily launch programs and files with this easy-to-use app. This program is customizable with many skins and plugins.
2. RocketDock
Price: Free
Being on top of the screen, this free app launcher for Windows 10 is quite similar in its design to the macOS X launch toolbar. With readily available shortcuts to launch apps, files, it makes using the computer extremely fast and easy.
Adding shortcuts to the toolbar is easy with a simple drag and drop process. It saves a lot of space on the desktop. It’s undoubtedly the best solution to get rid of multiple icons from your desktop and reduce the clutter.
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3. SlickRun
Price: Free
A floating command line utility for your Windows PC, SlickRun is a promising app launcher that facilitates instant access to all programs, websites, and files.
You can customize commands and run multiple programs with the help of just a few keystrokes. Interact with your computer smoothly with the help of SlickRun, search the web just by entering the URL, and do a lot more unlimited action with this wonderful app.
4. Executor
Price: Free
Another best free app launcher is Executor, you can customize it as per your wish and access all types of apps installed on your Windows 10 computer easily with its help.
You get several features like lock your PC, shutdown shortcut, etc. with the Executor app.
Upon installation it indexes all the installed apps on your system and then all you need to do is open it and type the name of the program you wish to launch.
5. ObjectDock
Price: $4.99
With ObjectDock you can add all your frequently used favourite programs, so that you can access them simply with their shortcuts.
This app launcher comes with a 30 day trial period and offers a premium version with plenty of exciting features.
This app launcher offers several widgets like clock, weather, battery, calendar, etc. to make the dock look interesting and attractive. It also comes with customizable skins and various background changing options.
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6. WinLaunch
Price: Free
This free application launcher for Windows 10 is your way to consolidate all your apps in one place. You no longer need to search for your apps now. It remains minimized in the background and upon activation the launcher bar opens up and shows the list of all applications that have been pinned.
Create groups easily and customize it as you wish. Club the shortcuts in groups by simply dragging and dropping. The Jiggle Mode facilitates moving icons from one to another group.
You also get touchscreen icons with this app to access files and apps with ease.
7. Wox
Price: Free
Wox is a Windows app launcher that encourages you to access programs and web substance as you type. Create a theme that matches your desktop. Customize your themes based on selected colors, fonts, sizes, etc.
Its significant features include fast program launches, quick finding of local files and applications without stopping your keyboard. Additionally it sorts files automatically dependent on the rate of use.
Look through the web with preset keywords like, wiki, and so on. You can likewise include your own web searches through the settings pane of the application to assist you with your everyday life.
Not limited to this alone, you can also create a plugin with Wox. Supported plugins are Golang, CSharp, etc.
8. Keypirinha
Price: Free
Keypirinha is the best app launcher program for your Windows 10 PC that quickly finds and launches a multitude of items such as, files, bookmarks, applications, registry keys, URLs, sessions, etc.
Significant features include initiating a search on any configured website or online dictionary, language translations, searching the environment variables, initiating a copied URL directly, and much more.
Additionally, this tool also performs actions like searching web queries, evaluating mathematical expressions just with the keyboard.
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9. Winstep Nexus Dock
Price: Free
Winstep Nexus Dock is essentially the most feature packed app launcher with dazzling looks. With regards to ease of use, Nexus Dock is really a very straightforward tool to utilize.
This application launcher is extraordinary compared to other tools in the business as it accompanies a bunch of customization options. One of the customization choices available is to set custom symbols to your dock items.
You can entirely replace the taskbar with Nexus dock. The dock supports live icons, animated ones, background blur, widgets, custom icons, etc. It can work across multiple monitors.
Other than programs, Nexus Dock also supports documents and folders. All you need to do is just drag and drop the apps to pin them. Winstep Nexus Dock is accessible free of cost but the premium version unlocks many more features.
10. Listary
Price: $19.95
Another desktop app launcher for Windows 10 is Listary that does much more than launching an application or program.
With a lightweight interface, this app conveniently blends with heavy tools like WinRAR, Total Commander, Xplorer2, Directory Opus, etc. Browse through folders, search for the correct file names, or glance through the Windows restricted menus with this app.
It additionally applies a smart search technology to continue working without navigating through the Windows route to go to a specific location.
11. Keybreeze
Price: Trail for 60 days then $10
Keybreeze performs keyword based tasks efficiently. It is the best app launcher for Windows 10 that can permit you to set custom keyphrases for the most loved applications or URLs.
Keybreeze is an extraordinary app for emails. You can make sticky notes and do fundamental content extension which permits you to duplicate long chunks of text in a clipboard.
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12. Find and Run Robot
Price: Free
Find and Run Robot is one of the most powerful applications in the class of best app launchers for Windows 10. With adaptive search features you can quickly locate apps.
Customize the app as you wish for simpler and speedier search activity of applications. Taking into account that it is exceptionally fast, has plenty of plugins and several more incredible features and settings.
Summarizing
Thus, you now are fully aware of what each of the 12 app launchers is capable of doing. So, get a Windows 10 app launcher for yourself today and increase the productivity of your system.
If you like being organized, you need to try these Windows app launchers.
Whether you have too many icons, use dual screens, or are a dedicated multi-tasker, the tools below will improve and simplify your workflow.
Find below the best options, but first, let’s clear some things out:
What is the best launcher for PC?
1. RocketDock – Good for favorites management
RocketDock is a program launcher/dock that sits on top of your screen.
When you install RocketDock, it will feature some default shortcuts, but you can easily modify it, and add whatever program or app you want.
The best thing about RocketDock is that it can save a lot of space on the Desktop, so if you have many icons, this can be a lifesaver.
Here are a few of its best features:
- Sits conveniently on top of your screen
- Customize style and appearance
- Keeps your favorite apps in one place
- Easy to install and use
⇒ Get RocketDock
2. Desktop.com – Great for organizing your apps
Desktop.com is the ideal cloud-based tool for organizing and accessing desktop apps rapidly, in a centralized space for all your tasks.
You have all your web apps, documents, files, or links in one place, so you only need to search on the platform to launch them.
It integrates apps like Google Drive, Slack, and YouTube.
Here are some of its key features:
- Cloud-based dashboard
- Extensive organizing features
- App integrations
- Simple to use
⇒ Get Desktop.com
3. Launchy – Most simple launcher
Launchy is ready to use as soon as you install it, as you don’t have to set up a single thing.
When you open the program, it shows just a search bar, along with a small Control Panel icon. So, just type in the name of the program you want to open, and suggestions will appear in no time.
Launchy doesn’t only open regular programs or apps, it also can search for old files stored in multiple folders, which can be more than useful.
You will benefit from the following key features:
- Free app launcher for Windows
- Customize skins and plugins
- Great search functions
- Seamless integration on your desktop
- Great Windows Search alternative
⇒ Get Launchy
4. Executor – Great Taskbar addition
Executor is a very simple program/app launcher for Windows 10 & 11, that allows you to access any installed program on an app on your computer, simply by entering its name.
It is placed in the taskbar, so all you need to do is click on it, type the name of the app you want to open, and it will be opened immediately.
Besides programs and apps, Executor also works well with URLs, so if you need to access a certain website quickly, just enter its address in Executor.
Here are some of its perks:
- Incredibly small size (1MB)
- Cool appearance
- Simple to customize to your needs
- Assign specific keywords to programs
⇒ Get Executor
5. WinLaunch – Most mobile-like launcher
WinLaunch is based on the launcher from Mac OS X Lion. It starts minimized, in the background, and you activate it by pressing the Shift + Tab keyboard shortcut.
You can group shortcuts by groups, similarly to how it’s done in iOS; simply drag and drop one icon into another one to create a group.
You can create as many groups as you want, and make further customizations, like adding the name of the group.
Take a look at its key features:
- Move icons from one group to another
- Save shortcuts like you would have them on your mobile device
- Create as many groups as you need
- Cool design
⇒ Get WinLaunch
6. Winstep Nexus Dock – Great app customization
Even though functionality is probably the most important thing, Winstep Nexus Dock actually wants to charm you with its stunning looks.
It gives you the ability to set custom icons for your dock items. When it comes to usability, Nexus Dock is actually a quite simple tool to use.
It works on the drag and drop principle, so all you need to do to pin your favorite program or app is to simply move it on the dock with your mouse cursor.
Besides regular programs, Nexus Dock also supports files, folders, and other features. Everything has its own icon in the dock, so you won’t have a problem recognizing what’s what.
Let’s see a few of its best features:
- Drag and drop functionality
- Can replace the Windows taskbar completely
- Supports files and folders
- A lot of customization options
⇒ Get Winstep Nexus Dock
7. Keypirinha – Good for bookmark organizing
Keypirinha is an efficient and quick launcher app for Windows that opens any file or website immediately.
You can launch any applications, files, or URLs right from your desktop without any effort. The software can find every item in your system, plus launch a search for configured websites or dictionaries.
It’s also possible to do different mathematical operations or search environment variables, plus launch copied URLs directly from your desktop.
Let’s review some of its key features below:
- Performs different mathematical operations
- Search environment variables
- Launch copied URLs directly from your desktop
- Low memory usage
⇒ Get Keypirinha
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Listary – Quick searching
Listary is a helpful Windows utility created to find and launch any apps or files on your computer extremely fast.
You will find any files among millions of other ones using only a few keystrokes and Enter. The desired files are found and instantly shown on your screen.
Additionally, you can copy and move your files to any folder with context menu commands. Plus, it’s possible to open a file with a specific program.
Take a look at a few of its best features:
- Great search feature
- Copy and move your files to any folder with simple commands
- Open files with specific software
- Consumes very few resources
⇒ Get Listary
Cerebro – Great for advanced users
Cerebro is an open-source tool designed to boost Windows efficiency for searching or launching apps on desktops.
With this searching utility software, you can find and open literally everything from your computer much faster and more efficiently.
You can launch files in default programs or copy essential information on the clipboard for further steps.
Let’s go through some of its key features:
- Find files extremely fast
- Extensive preview functions
- Plugin support
- Copy data onto your clipboard fast
⇒ Get Cerebro
That’s about it for our list of the best app and program launchers for Windows 10. All these launchers have something unique to offer, and each one of them can replace a certain Windows 10 feature.
We advise you to try some or all of them in order to determine which is the most suited for your Windows device.
So, if you’re not satisfied with how Microsoft did its job with some of the features, or you simply want to try some new solutions, the programs from this article are just a perfect fit for that.
We also recommend reading our list of the best shortcut software for Windows 10/11 because they might offer additional help.
If you have tried any of the tools from our list above, share your experience in the comments section below.
Is there a launcher for Windows 10?
by Rachel Jones|2025-01-09 |
4 min read
If you struggle with too many icons on the Desktop and have trouble organizing them, we have a solution for you — Windows 10 launcher.
Using a windows launcher can take your computer experience to a whole new level. Unlike using the traditional time taking process of finding an app, it can let you access your favorite apps or folders within seconds.
Not to forget, having too many icons on your PC can also down your computer. Windows launchers let you keep your desktop quite clean and enhance your overall productivity and experience.
Why do I need a Windows 10 launcher?
Windows 10 is one of the most revolutionary Windows upgrades of all time. Its unprecedented features such as multiple desktops, high customization, and desktop management allow users to have an extraordinary experience. However, the presence of too many icons and the pain of organizing them creates problems for lots of users.
This is precisely where the computer launcher comes into the game and makes the whole environment more productive.
- These launchers free up your desktop space.
- They bring you a whole new user experience.
- They let you find anything in your system with a few clicks.
- Efficiently manage all your files, folders, apps, and links for you
Is there a launcher for Windows 10?
Windows launchers are designed to make your computing environment more effective by making things more accessible to you. It can provide you with a quick link for everything in your system, such as a file, folder, or your favorite app that you open every time you open your systems.
Now to let you choose the best launcher from the market, we have assembled the top 9 windows app launchers for you. Let’s have a look at them all.
- 1. PDNob Shortcuts
- 2. Launchy
- 3. Executor
- 4. KeyBreeze
- 5. WoX
- 6. XWindows Dock
- 7. RocketDock
- 8. ObjectDock
- 9. Circle Dock
1. PDNob Shortcuts
PDNob Shortcuts comes with a plethora of outstanding features that make every operation smoother than before and lets you easily access your favorite apps, software, folders, files, etc.
The best part about PDNob is that it allows you to create shortcuts for any application, a folder, a file, a URL, but also assists you in text sending, keystroke stimulating, and command running. Apart from that, it has some incredible features that you won’t find anywhere else, such as Optical Character Recognition, QR Code Generator/Identifier, Screenshot, Pin, Auto Shutdown, Uninstall Software.
Here is how you can add a shortcut for an application on PDNob Shortcuts Windows 10 launcher.
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Launch PDNob Shortcuts. Press the middle mouse button to open the panel.
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If you want to add a shortcut to another app, simply click on “Add” and you can select “Launch Software”.
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Once you click on your desired application’s icon, its shortcut will be created on the action page, and you can access it without going to your Windows search menu.
For more information, you can click here.
While you can find tons of launcher options on the internet, PDNob offers you several advantages that make it the best and most reliable Windows 10 launcher. Here are some of them.
- One-click perform actions: You don’t need to go to the search menu, type the name of an app, wait for results and open the target. PDNob Windows 10 Launcher allows you access a software, a url, a file, a folder, etc. within just a click.
- Free up your desktop space: You can create any shortcuts over this panel and free up your desktop space. Besides, PDNob Windows Shortcuts will automatically hide in the tray area and when needed, you simply press the middle mouse button or use hotkey to bring up the panel.
- Highly Customisable: You can create your own shortcuts for applications, files, folders, urls. What’s more, it’s able to sending custom texts, stimulating keystrokes and even running commands as required.
Now, we will discuss some other easy-to-use Windows 10 Launchers. We have divided the launchers into two parts according to how they launch things on PC.
So, here are the first ones where you have to find a program or a file on your computer by entering the name of the respective things.
2. Launchy
Launchy is an uncomplicated windows app launcher that allows you to launch programs, websites, or open files and folders on your computer. The best part about Launchy is that it is really easy to open. All you have to do is press the key combination ALt + Space, and the search window will open. Now type the file’s name or the folder you wish to open. Simple!
3. Executor
Executor is another simple launcher that you can place on the Windows taskbar. It works a bit differently than Launchy but lets you start all the installed applications on Windows 10 PC.
Once installed, Executor will index all installed applications on your computer along with the recently used apps and files. Now, open it by pressing Shift+Win+Z, type the name of the program you wish to open, and it will start the app for you.
Apart from opening files and folders, it also lets you access several other critical system functions such as shut down, logging off, etc. Also, if you find the opening key combination a bit inconvenient, you can change it in the settings.
4. KeyBreeze
KeyBreeze comes with a lot more features than Launchy or Executor and is a highly versatile alternative for such basic launcher freeware. You can bring it up by pressing Shift + Space and can even change this combination later.
5. WoX
Just like the above-mentioned Windows launcher freeware, WoX is an easy-to-install launcher. It lets you quickly launch apps, open files, folders, etc.
The best part about WoX is that it sorts the results based on usage, and just a bit like Google search results, it makes finding things relatively easier than others. It supports various themes and lets you create your own backgrounds by letting you select fonts or colors of your choice.
It also lets you search the web using prefixes such as g or wiki. Plus, you can set up your own prefixes and web searches in the settings. Furthermore, you can extend its functionality by installing plugins written in CSharp or Golang.
These are the launchers that allowed you to open the file or folder by typing the name of the destination. In this next section, we will share with you the launchers where you can start an application, file, folder, and others by adding icon shortcuts in the panel.
6. XWindows Dock
If you want to have a Mac-like launcher for your Windows 10 pc, then XWindows Dock can help you with that.
This app launcher emulates the Mac launcher and allows you to make complete customization of graphics, shadow, blur, etc. You can add your most commonly used applications, software, or programs to it and also add plugins for its custom interface.
7. RocketDock
RocketDock is one of the oldest app launchers for Windows 10. It is designed after the Mac OS X launcher and lets you easily launch the shortcuts of your favorite apps and files. Simply drag and drop the shortcuts and add them to your toolbar.
By default, it appears at the top of the screen as the Windows taskbar is at the bottom. You can obviously change the positions of both the taskbar and the rocket dock.
The only problem with RocketDock, according to us and users, is that the default icons look a bit old-fashioned. However, you can change them by downloading icons from the internet. Likewise, you can change or customize the theme or the dock background according to your preferences.
8. ObjectDock
ObjectDock is another commonly used computer launcher for Windows 10 that helps you quickly open your favorite apps or files. It lets you add the app’s shortcuts or widgets like clock, weather, battery, and calendar to the dock.
Also, you can personalize the experience by changing the skin and background of the dock. Unlike other dock launchers like RocketDock, it allows you to have as many docks all over the desktop as you like. For example, you can add a dock for gaming apps, another for something else, and so on.
The only problem is that it is free for only 30 days, and if you want to continue using it, you need to buy the paid version.
The only problem is that it is free for only 30 days, and if you want to continue using it, you need to buy the paid version.
9. Circle Dock
As the name suggests, Circle Dock is a circular app launcher that lets you pin folders, links, or shortcuts to it.
The most useful part is you can find it next to your cursor, and once it is open, you can see all the programs in a circular arrangement. You can also rotate the dock using the mouse wheel. Plus, it is a highly customizable launcher, and you can easily modify the background, icons, and even the shape of the dock.
Furthermore, it works quite differently than other docks. Unlike other docks that stay on your desktop all the while, Circle Dock immediately disappears when not in use and does not take up any space on your desktop.
Conclusion
From the above-given points, it is evident that using a window launcher can provide you with lots of speed, accessibility, and ease in your operations.
However, among the list of windows launcher tools, PDNob is apparently the one that can absolutely change your speed, upgrade your productivity and support you in your computer operations. Its unparalleled features, ease of usage, and simple navigation will help you immediately access everything on your computer. Hence, we recommend that if you haven’t tried PDNob yet, you should click here and try it today.
PDNob Windows Shortcuts
Discover how PDNob can improve your productivity.
What is a Widget Launcher? What are the best Widget Launchers for Windows 10? How to download a Widget Launcher on Windows 10? In this post, MiniTool Software will introduce the information you want to know. If you want to recover data on Windows 10, you can try MiniTool Power Data Recovery.
The Widgets app is a new feature on Windows 11. Widgets are small cards that can display dynamic content from your favorite apps and services on your Windows 11 desktop.
Image source: Microsoft
Some users will ask: is Widgets available on Windows 10? Currently, the Widgets feature is not added on Windows 10. But you can use a Widget Launcher to add Widgets on your Windows 10 computer. This also works well.
In the following part, we will introduce some best Widget Launchers and show you how to download Widget Launchers on Windows 10.
How to add Widgets on Windows 10? You need to use a Widget Launcher. Here are some best Widget Launchers for you to choose.
Tips:
You can also use these Widget Launchers on Windows 11. That is, you can download these Widget Launchers on both Windows 10 and Windows 11.
Widget Launcher
Widget Launcher, which is formerly known as Widgets HD, is the next generation of Gadgets for Windows 10. With Widget launcher, you can set up the entries for world clocks, weather, RSS feeds, calendars, calculators, CPU monitor, and more. It is free to use.
How to Download Widget Launcher on Windows 10/11?
You can download this tool from Microsoft Store. You can also go to this page, click the Get in Store app button, then click the Get button on the pop-up interface to download and install this tool on your Windows 10/11 device.
Win10 Widgets
Win10 Widgets is also a third-party tool that can help you add Widgets on Windows 10. It runs using an open-source program that is named Rainmeter.
How to Download Win10 Widgets on Windows 10/11?
You can go to https://win10widgets.com/ and click the Download button to download this tool on your device. Then, you can install it on your PC and use it to add widgets to your PC.
8GadgetPack
8GadgetPack is a tool that allows you to use gadgets on Windows 11 / 10 / 8 / 7. It is also a free tool.
How to Download 8GadgetPack on Windows 10/11?
You can go to https://8gadgetpack.net/ and click the Download button to download the setup file on your device. The downloaded file is a .msi file. Then, you can run the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install 8GadgetPack on your machine.
These are the best Widget Launchers for Windows 10 and Windows 11. Of course, there are more choices. For example, you can also try Desktop.com, Gadgets Revived, or Gadgetarian. We will not introduce them one by one here. You can search for them online by yourself.
Bottom Line
Are you looking for a Widget launcher to add widgets on your Windows 10 computer? You can find the best Widget Launchers in this post.
If you want to recover your lost and deleted files on Windows 10 or Windows 11, you can try MiniTool Power Data Recovery. This is a free file recovery tool. With it, you can get your missing files back as long as they are not overwritten by new data.
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Should you have other related issues that need to be fixed, you can let us know in the comments.
7 Best App Launchers for Windows in 2023 (Free & Paid)
By Alex • Updated July 8, 2023
Best for: Overall | Windows | Mac
As a Windows user, finding specific applications, files, or documents can be time-consuming. Luckily, there is a solution: Windows App Launchers.
Our guide reviews the top 7 launchers for 2023, highlighting their key features and what sets them apart, so you can access what you need quickly and boost your productivity.
Best App Launchers for Windows
- Curiosity
- Flow Launcher
- Windows Search
- Fluent Search
- Cerebro
- Ulie
- Launchy
What Makes a Great App Launcher?
Before we deep dive into the list, it’s essential to understand what makes a great app launcher. Here are a few critical factors to consider:
- Speed: A good app launcher should be able to search and launch your desired application or document swiftly and efficiently.
- User-Friendly Interface: The launcher should have a clean, intuitive interface that’s easy to navigate, even for beginners.
- Customizability: The ability to customize the launcher to suit your preferences, including keyboard shortcuts, themes, and search parameters, is a significant advantage.
- Versatility: Apart from launching apps, the tool should offer additional features like web search, system commands, and file search.
- Lightweight: The launcher should not consume excessive system resources or interfere with your system’s performance.
- Compatibility: The app launcher should be compatible with your Windows version and other installed software.
1. Curiosity
Curiosity is a multifunctional productivity tool that doubles as a launcher and search tool. It offers a centralized platform to access everything on your computer and in your cloud apps.
Key Features:
- Access to local and cloud-based apps such as Slack and Google Drive
- Ability to launch programs, view your next calendar event, perform calculations, and more
- Searches within the content of files, including images using OCR
- Ensures data safety by keeping your data on your computer
Our Take: While Curiosity is a relatively new entrant into the world of Windows app launchers, it has already distinguished itself with its versatile features. The ability to search within file content sets it apart from many other launchers. However, its limited number of integrations with cloud apps and the time it takes to complete a file content search are areas where it could improve.
2. Flow Launcher
Flow Launcher is an open-source launcher known for its speed and simplicity. It is compatible with both Windows 10 and Windows 11, facilitating quick access to installed apps and files.
Key Features:
- Fast and efficient app and file search
- Ability to perform Google searches when the specified search term isn’t found
- Open-source, allowing for customization and improvements
- Offers built-in commands and hidden features
Our Take: Flow Launcher’s speed and simplicity make it a top choice for users who want a no-frills, efficient launcher. The fact that it’s open-source also means that it’s continually evolving, with new features and improvements added regularly.
3. Windows Search
Windows Search, integrated into Windows 11, serves as a native launcher with significant advancements from previous versions. It lets you search documents on your computer, Microsoft accounts, installed apps, and the web.
Key Features:
- Fast and integrated natively into Windows
- Capability to perform web searches and system commands
- Improved Start Menu design, a step-up from earlier Windows versions
Our Take: Windows Search is a reliable option for those who prefer not to install third-party launchers. While it may not offer as many features as other launchers, its native integration into the Windows system ensures smooth operation and consistent updates.
4. Fluent Search
Fluent Search offers a user-friendly interface and a vast range of search capabilities. It allows you to search for apps, files, processes, browser tabs, and even actions within apps.
Key Features:
- Advanced search functions including fuzzy search and regex search
- Ability to execute actions within apps, such as pausing a video
- Offers customizable themes and settings
Our Take: Fluent Search stands out with its extensive search capabilities and customizable features. The ability to perform actions within apps is a unique feature that can significantly boost productivity. However, its user interface may seem a bit complex for beginners.
5. Cerebro
Cerebro is an open-source launcher that emphasizes extensibility. It offers a central place to search everything in your system, including applications, files, and system settings.
Key Features:
- Offers a built-in preview for results, such as maps for locations and thumbnails for images
- Ability to perform calculations, conversions, and translations
- Customizable through a vast range of plugins
Our Take: Cerebro’s extensibility and wide variety of plugins make it a versatile launcher. It’s particularly useful for users who like to customize their tools to meet their specific needs.
6. Ulie
Ueli is a powerful, open-source launcher compatible with both Windows and macOS. It offers a range of features beyond launching applications and files, including a currency converter, dictionary, calculator, and color converter.
Key Features:
- Supports searching in browser bookmarks
- Offers various built-in tools like a currency converter and dictionary
- Compatible with both Windows and macOS
Our Take: Ueli’s cross-platform compatibility and range of built-in tools make it a versatile choice for users of both Windows and macOS. However, not all features work on both platforms, and some are specific to one or the other.
7. Launchy
Launchy is a free, open-source launcher designed to help you forget about your start menu, the icons on your desktop, and even your file manager.
Key Features:
- Launches your documents, project files, folders, and bookmarks with just a few keystrokes
- Skinnable and customizable through a range of plugins
- Consumes minimal system resources
Our Take: Launchy’s minimalist design and lightweight resource consumption make it an excellent choice for users who prefer a simple, straightforward launcher.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an App Launcher?
An app launcher is a tool that allows you to quickly locate and launch applications, files, or documents on your system with just a few keystrokes.
Why do I need a Windows App Launcher?
A Windows app launcher enhances your productivity by reducing the time and effort required to locate and open applications or files. It also helps to declutter your desktop by replacing numerous icons with a single, streamlined interface.
Are App Launchers safe?
Most app launchers are safe to use. However, it’s always advisable to download them from a trusted source and ensure they don’t require excessive permissions.
Can I customize an App Launcher?
Yes, many app launchers allow customization, including changing themes, modifying keyboard shortcuts, and adding plugins.
Are there free App Launchers available?
Yes, many of the best app launchers, including some of those mentioned in this guide, are completely free to use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Best Windows App Launchers offer a great way to enhance your productivity and streamline your workflow. Whether you choose Curiosity, Flow Launcher, Windows Search, Fluent Search, Cerebro, Ulie, or Launchy, you can expect a significant boost in efficiency. Happy launching!