Masto pals, I’m looking at Mac launcher app recommendations .

I’ve used Alfred and Raycast. Alfred is good, but feels dated. Raycast doesn’t feel native and I am not interested in its AI features.

I need fast app launching and file search. Are there other launchers I should consider? I prefer open source options but will consider a one time payment purchase.

(Spotlight doesn’t cut it.)

#macOS #alfred #raycast

@krishnadraws I’ve switched to TinyStart as my launcher and I love it. https://tinystart.app
TinyStart, a Tiny Launcher and Emoji Picker for Your Mac

TinyStart, a tiny launcher for your Mac. Launch apps, insert Emoji, open Links and Folders, and more.

@troz thank you! I will take a look at TinyStart.

@krishnadraws @nileane

You should check out TinyStart that Nileane created.

https://tinystart.app/

TinyStart, a Tiny Launcher and Emoji Picker for Your Mac

TinyStart, a tiny launcher for your Mac. Launch apps, insert Emoji, open Links and Folders, and more.

@krishnadraws Just stick to Alfred. What about it feels dated?

You can always build new workflows

@Juankprada workflows are nice, but I feel like it may be too much for my use case. The workflow interface still feels a bit overwhelming for me.

The launcher has some customization options, but feels clunky. It would be nice if it had a more modern aesthetic.

I already have Alfred + PowerPack. Just wanted to see if there were other options.

@krishnadraws I think I get what you mean. But honestly I haven’t found anything better. Having said that I think I’m covered for most of my needs with default Alfred plus a couple of extra workflows. So if you need something a bit fancier that that then yeah, Alfred may not be the best option
@Juankprada which Alfred workflows do you use?

@krishnadraws Oh mostly utilities for conversion and bookmarks from browsers (Firefox)

Some for window management. (Alternatives to AltTab and tiling)

I’m not in my Mac right now so I don’t have the names or links. Sorry

@krishnadraws I've been using Raycast mostly (exclusively?) as an app launcher. I'm sure it has a lot more features that I do not use (including AI features - I don't even know what they are)
I do use its emoji picker/snippet feature a little bit.

Few folks suggested Tinystart below. I'll check it out. (and may be switch from Raycast 🤷‍♂️)