Alfred
A classic Mac launcher that is free forever, with an optional Powerpack.
Mac AppFree planmacOS
4.7Visit
Windows App
Microsoft PowerToys
Free, open-source Windows utilities including the Command Palette launcher.
Built with love by Shushant Lakhyani. Building bestproductivityresources.com
What is Microsoft PowerToys?
PowerToys is Microsoft's free, open-source (MIT) set of utilities for Windows power users. Its Command Palette, opened with Win+Alt+Space, launches apps, runs commands, searches files and the web, does maths, switches windows and browses clipboard history, and it supports community extensions. PowerToys also includes window layouts (FancyZones), PowerToys Run and many other tools.
Pros
- Free and open source from Microsoft
- Command Palette covers launching, clipboard and window switching
- Many extra utilities in one install
Cons
- Windows only
- So many tools that setup can feel busy
Who should use Microsoft PowerToys
Windows users who want a Raycast-style launcher and extra utilities for free.
Who may not need it
Mac and Linux users.
Compare Microsoft PowerToys
Side-by-side comparisons and lists that include Microsoft PowerToys.
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