What is Flow Launcher?
Flow Launcher is a free, open-source app that lets you quickly open programs, files, websites, and even system settings without touching your mouse. Just press a hotkey (usually Alt + Space), type what you're looking for, and it pops up right away.
What can it do?
It can launch apps, search for files, find your browser bookmarks, do math, run commands, and you can add even more features through plugins. For example, it finds files way faster than the Start Menu, and when you pair it with Everything, the search is almost instant.
Are there many plugins?
It comes with a bunch of useful built-in plugins: open web links, calculator, task manager, browser bookmarks, dictionary, clipboard history... If you want more, you can check the plugin store or the official website. Installing them is pretty straightforward.
Is it easy to set up?
The settings menu is clear and organized into sections like General, Plugins, Themes, Hotkeys, etc. You can customize your default search engine, like switching from Google to Bing. If you want it to start with Windows, use dark mode, or change the hotkeys, you can adjust all that.
What makes it good?
It's fast, has tons of features, and the interface is clean without being flashy. Best of all, it's open-source and completely free. If you know how to code, you can even add your own features. Whether you're working, coding, or just using your computer, Flow Launcher can save you a lot of time.
Comparison of Similar Alternative Software
| Software / Item | UI & Appearance | Operation & Hotkeys / Search | Pros | Cons | Suitable Users / Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flow Launcher | Clean floating window, customizable themes and transparency | Default Alt + Space to launch, type keywords for instant search and plugin commands | - Rich plugin ecosystem with built-in plugin store - Extremely fast search with Everything integration - Supports commands, bookmarks, process killer, calculator, etc. - Free, open-source, highly customizable | - Slightly higher memory usage (~150 MB idle) - Initial setup can be a bit complex - Some deep system items may not be searchable - Default search engine and triggers need manual adjustment | Keyboard-driven power users seeking efficiency and plugin extensibility on Windows |
| PowerToys Run / Command Palette (Microsoft) | Minimalist, compact, system-integrated style | Usually Win + Alt + Space or custom hotkeys, type to launch / search | - Built into Microsoft PowerToys, no separate install needed - Lightweight, low memory usage - Basic plugin support - High Windows compatibility | - Fewer plugins and ecosystem compared to Flow Launcher - Installing extensions usually requires GitHub manual setup - Limited for complex searches or advanced functionality | Users who prefer lightweight, stable, integrated Windows tools |
| Keypirinha | Ultra-minimal, text-based interface | Hotkey triggers, direct typing of commands or names for instant response | - Extremely fast - Very low resource usage - Highly customizable, supports Python plugins - Portable version available | - High learning curve for beginners - No GUI plugin store - Plugin ecosystem not as user-friendly as Flow Launcher - Interface may feel too plain for users who care about visuals | Advanced users familiar with configuration/scripts seeking ultra-lightweight performance |
| Launchy | Classic, simple interface, slightly outdated style | Alt + Space to launch, type to search programs or files | - Long-standing, stable community - Stable and reliable - Low resource usage - Handles basic launching tasks well | - Plugin ecosystem stagnant - Limited in complex commands and extensions - Slower updates for modern features | Users who only need basic launching/searching functions |
| UELI | Clean and modern UI, visually appealing | Customizable hotkeys, type keywords for search or plugin commands | - Low resource usage (~70 MB idle) - Modern and attractive interface - Supports plugins, web search, system commands - Cross-platform support (Windows / macOS) | - Fewer mature plugins than Flow Launcher - Some complex functions require manual configuration - Deep Windows integration may be weaker than dedicated tools | Users seeking a balance of aesthetics, lightweight performance, and plugin support |
The above data is for reference only.
The above data is for reference only.
Open-source address
https://github.com/Flow-Launcher/Flow.Launcher，According to DownBoot editors' research, this software has released 56 versions to date with frequent updates, clearly demonstrating the developer's significant effort. We welcome everyone to download and use it.