2026 Guide

Best Launchpad Replacement for macOS

After Apple changed Launchpad in macOS Tahoe, many users started looking for alternatives. The right choice depends on whether you want visual browsing or keyboard automation.

Best for Launchpad users Visual launcher

1. Launchie

Best for: Users who want the classic Launchpad experience back.

Launchie focuses on fullscreen app browsing, folder organization, mouse-friendly interaction, native macOS design, and customizable layout and appearance.

Unlike keyboard-focused launchers, Launchie recreates the familiar visual experience many Mac users miss.

Pros

Very similar to classic Launchpad
Easy to use
Great for trackpad and mouse users
Clean modern UI

Cons

Less focused on advanced automation

2. Raycast

Best for: Power users and keyboard workflows.

Raycast is extremely powerful and supports commands, clipboard history, extensions, AI features, and automation.

But it is not really a visual Launchpad replacement. It is better for people who want a command center for macOS.

Compare Raycast and Launchie

3. Alfred

Best for: Advanced keyboard productivity.

Alfred has existed for years and is popular among developers and productivity enthusiasts.

Like Raycast, it focuses heavily on keyboard workflows rather than visual browsing.

Which Launchpad Replacement Is Best?

If you want keyboard automation, Raycast or Alfred are strong options. If you want visual app browsing, Launchie is the better fit.

Many users did not realize how much they relied on Launchpad until it changed. For visual Mac users, Launchie is one of the closest modern alternatives available.

Bring Back Launchpad Why Launchpad Still Matters Launchie vs LaunchOS