Created November 12, 2026Updated November 12, 2026
Raycast and Alfred are the two names that come up first when Mac users want more than Spotlight. Raycast is free to start and has grown into a large extension platform. Alfred is the older, one-time-purchase classic, once you add the Powerpack.
This guide starts with Raycast, then compares the best Raycast alternatives for Mac: Alfred, Sol, LaunchBar, Orbs, and TinyFolder.
What is Raycast and how much does it cost?
Raycast is a keyboard launcher for Mac. You press a shortcut, search for an app, file, or command, and run tools such as clipboard history, window management, and community extensions.
Shotbase is a comprehensive tool designed to capture and manage all your screen-based content effortlessly. With features like stunning screenshot capabilities, recording options that include cinematic effects, and an intuitive organizational structure powered by local AI, you can easily keep your multimedia assets organized and accessible. Shotbase not only allows you to capture specific areas, windows, or full screens on your Mac but also enables you to edit and enhance your captures with backgrounds, frames, and annotations. The integrated AI ensures your captures are automatically named and tagged for easy searching, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their productivity and creativity in one seamless workspace.
SoftwareCreativemacOS
DeskMinder
For Easily Distracted Minds
Freemium
DeskMinder is a productivity software application designed for Mac users who struggle with distractions. It provides a straightforward interface for creating desktop pop-up reminders and tasks, helping users manage urgent to-dos, short breaks, and fleeting ideas. With features like full-screen notifications and Apple Reminders integration, DeskMinder aims to enhance focus and time management for i
- With features like easy-to-create desktop pop-ups for reminders and tasks, it simplifies the process of staying on top of urgent to-dos, short breaks, or fleeting ideas.
- Users can benefit from full-screen notifications, Apple Reminders integration, and flexible widget placement, making it ideal for anyone requiring a little extra help to maintain focus.
- The app includes additional shortcuts for quick reminder setups and customizable widget options, along with a history tracking feature to monitor daily progress.
Designed specifically for Mac users, DeskMinder aims to facilitate better time management and productivity for those with attention challenges, providing a seamless user experience without unnecessary complexity.
SoftwareProductivitymacOS
Klack
Satisfying sound with every keystroke
Paid
Klack is a macOS application designed to enhance the typing experience through high-fidelity sound for each keystroke. It provides features such as immersive spatial audio, instant feedback, and customizable sound options, making it suitable for writers, developers, and anyone who values an engaging typing environment. The app is easily accessible from the menubar and offers extensive configuratio
- Provides immersive spatial audio for enhanced typing feedback.
- Allows customization of keystroke sounds, pitch variations, and volume settings.
- Features a menubar interface for quick access to configuration options.
- Supports instant feedback with each keystroke for a more engaging experience.
- Designed for writers and developers seeking auditory feedback while typing.
Klack enhances the typing experience on Mac by providing high-fidelity sound for each keystroke.
SoftwaremacOS
TypoTab
TypoTab, the ultimate AI writing assistant for
Paid
TypoTab is a macOS application that functions as an AI-driven writing assistant. It enhances writing efficiency by providing tools for grammar correction, text rephrasing, and content generation, all accessible from the menu bar without needing to switch applications. This tool is designed for writers, students, and professionals looking to streamline their writing process and improve productivity
- Provides grammar correction and text rephrasing directly from the menu bar.
- Allows text refinement in any application without switching contexts.
- Offers customizable actions to meet individual writing needs.
- Streamlines repetitive writing tasks for improved efficiency.
- Supports a wide range of applications, enhancing workflow across platforms.
TypoTab is a macOS application that enhances writing efficiency by providing grammar correction, text rephrasing, and content generation directly from the menu bar. It allows users to refine text in any application without switching contexts, offering customizable actions to suit individual writing needs.
SoftwareProductivitymacOS
Tapestry
Chronological timeline for all your feeds
Freemium
Tapestry unifies your favorite blogs, social media, and other feeds into a single, chronological timeline. It supports posting and interactions on Bluesky and Mastodon directly from the app.
- Combines Bluesky, Mastodon, Tumblr, RSS feeds, podcasts, YouTube channels, and more into one timeline
- Displays all content in chronological order with no algorithmic curation
- Compose, reply, and read discussions on Bluesky and Mastodon within the app
- Supports custom timelines, rules to mute or muffle content, and advanced search across all feeds
- Syncs reading position across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS using iCloud
- Features accessibility support, customizable app layout, icons, and reading modes
Tapestry is free to download, with paid upgrades for features such as ad removal and custom timelines. It requires iOS 17.4 or later.
SoftwareNewsiOS & iPadOS
AVE
Local-first AI video editing for Mac
Freemium
AVE is a local-first agentic video editor for Apple Silicon Macs, integrating AI-assisted editing, screen recording, and motion graphic creation within a non-linear timeline.
- Records screen, window, or area with camera and audio (macOS 15+ required for recording)
- AI-assisted editing with Ask and Plan modes, including transcript and visual clip search
- Custom motion graphics with on-device rendering or external AI provider integration
- Multi-track timeline with real edits—trim, retime, transitions, captions, graphics, color, audio automation
- Exports up to 4K UHD in multiple aspect ratios and file formats (MP4, MOV, WebM, SRT, WebVTT, FCPXML)
- Local-first project storage and analysis; external AI connections are optional
AVE requires an Apple silicon Mac with macOS 14 or later; screen recording needs macOS 15. Manual editing and export remain free after the seven-day Pro trial. Pro adds transcript and AI tools, with subscription or lifetime payment options.
SoftwareCreativemacOS
SkyBreak
Break reminder and focus timer for Mac
Freemium
SkyBreak is a Mac app for users who spend significant time at a screen. It provides a break reminder and focus timer to help establish a sustainable work rhythm with scheduled breaks and focus sessions.
- Menu bar timer that can be detached and pinned anywhere
- Preset durations for focus, short breaks, and long breaks
- Preset number of focus sessions required before a long break
- Gentle prompts before each break with the option to extend the current session
- Support for custom scenery folders to display user photos during breaks
- Daily focus and break statistics visualized with charts
SkyBreak is free on Mac with optional in-app purchases for Pro features, such as custom durations and enhanced automation. It requires macOS 14.0 or later to install and use.
SoftwareHealthmacOS
Monument Valley 2
A story of beauty and illusion
One-time
Monument Valley 2 is a sequel to the original game, guiding a mother and her child through magical architecture filled with illusionary pathways and puzzles. It features a new standalone story and intricately designed levels for iPhone and iPad.
- Features a completely new story set in the Monument Valley universe
- Contains individually crafted, meditative puzzles with new interactions
- Showcases visuals inspired by diverse architectural and artistic influences
- Offers interactive, melodic audio soundscapes tailored to the journey
Monument Valley 2 is a paid app priced at $3.99 with no free tier available. Compatible with devices running iOS 15.0 or later; purchase is required to access the full experience.
SoftwareCreativeiOS & iPadOS
WeMotion
AI-powered Mac app for motion graphics
Free
WeMotion is a Mac app that uses AI to help users create motion graphics, including films, product videos, social clips, and title sequences. The software builds films from user descriptions, allowing both automatic and manual control.
- Generates films from plain language descriptions
- Live playback with pause and instant edits on any film element
- Supports AI-directed and full manual Pro modes for advanced users
- Includes built-in and customizable motion effects
- Supports up to 4K at 60 fps with local hardware encoding
- Stores project files locally; users retain all ownership rights
WeMotion is free to download for Macs with Apple silicon running macOS 13 or later. Requires a free WeMotion account and a paid Anthropic Claude Pro, Max, or API key (no usable free Claude plan).
SoftwareCreativemacOS
Price (checked November 12, 2026, on [raycast.com/pricing](https://raycast.com/pricing)):
Free: built-in extensions such as Clipboard History, Calendar, and Window Management, plus public community extensions. Raycast says the Free and Team plans can be used in an organization.
Pro: $96 a year, and it includes Raycast AI. There is no Pro plan without AI, though you can turn AI off in Settings.
Plus: $192 a year. Max: $480 a year. Team and organization plans are listed separately, per user.
Verified students can apply for 50% off the Pro plan.
Key features:
A fast command palette for apps, files, snippets, and extensions.
Built-in clipboard history, window management, and calendar tools on the free plan.
An extension store, plus paid AI features on Pro and above.
RaycastProductivity tool for quick app accessVisit WebsiteRaycast is a productivity software for macOS designed to streamline access to applications, commands, and tools through an extendable launcher. It enables users to quickly find and execute tasks, enhancing workflow efficiency. Ideal for professionals, Raycast helps automate repetitive actions and manage various tasks, reducing the time spent navigating through menus and improving overall productiv
- Automates repetitive tasks to enhance workflow efficiency.
- Provides quick access to applications and commands through a single launcher.
- Supports integrations with popular tools like Slack, Zoom, and Notion for seamless task management.
- Allows users to manage clipboard history for easy retrieval of copied items.
- Offers customizable extensions to tailor the tool to specific professional needs.
Raycast is a productivity tool designed for macOS that streamlines access to applications, commands, and essential tools. Its extendable launcher enhances workflow efficiency, enabling users to automate tasks and manage their activities effectively. Ideal for professionals seeking to optimize their time management.Visit Website
It depends on how you like to pay, and how much you care about extensions versus workflows.
Alfred's core launcher is free. The Alfred Powerpack unlocks clipboard history, snippets, workflows, custom searches, themes, and more. On Alfred's official shop, a single-user Alfred 5 Powerpack license is £34, and Mega Supporter is £59, checked November 12, 2026.
Key features:
Clipboard history, snippets with auto-expansion, and a large workflow system.
File actions, a Mini Player, contacts, and 1Password bookmarks, once you have the Powerpack.
Sync for settings through a service such as Dropbox.
Thousands of community workflows, including the official Alfred Gallery.
Better or worse than Raycast? Better if you want a one-time license and deep workflows, without a yearly Pro plan. Raycast is better if you want a large extension catalog, a more modern palette, and built-in tools on the free plan. Alfred's official shop still sells the Alfred 5 Powerpack, and the site also previews Alfred 6.
AlfredMac launcher with clipboard history and workflowsVisit WebsiteAlfred is a Mac launcher that searches apps and files, runs workflows, and adds a clipboard history with the Powerpack.
- Clipboard History saves text, images, and file paths, and you choose to keep clips for 24 hours, 7 days, 1 month, or 3 months.
- Search your history, merge clips, and save a clip as a snippet.
- Ignores password managers such as 1Password and Keychain Access by default.
- The core launcher is free. The Powerpack (from £34, or £59 with lifetime upgrades) unlocks clipboard history, snippets, and workflows.
Alfred suits people who want a launcher, snippets, and clipboard history in one tool.Visit Website
Sol: best free open source Raycast alternative
Sol is a free, MIT-licensed Mac launcher you can install with Homebrew. Image: Sol
Price: free. The official site, sol.ospfranco.com, describes it as free and focused on simplicity and speed. You can install it with `brew install --cask sol`, or download a release. There is no paid plan.
Sol is an open source launcher with a clipboard manager, a window manager, an emoji picker, a calculator, calendar integration, translation, a process manager, quick notes, and developer commands.
Key features:
One hotkey for apps, files, and built-in tools.
Clipboard history and keyboard window management included, at no cost.
Media key forwarding, a notch hider, and script-style developer actions.
Better or worse than Raycast? Better if you want those extras without paying for Pro, and you are fine with a smaller, open source project. Raycast is more polished, has a much larger extension store, and has a funded team behind it.
SolA free, open source Mac launcher focused on speed and simple tools.Visit WebsiteSol is a free, open source app launcher for macOS. It is made for speed, with little setup, and it is released under the MIT License.
- Launch apps, run calculations, pick emoji, and bind global shortcuts from one palette.
- A clipboard manager, a keyboard-driven window manager, calendar integration, and quick notes.
- Translation, a process manager, media key forwarding, a MacBook notch hider, and developer commands such as cleaning derived data.
- Install with Homebrew using brew install --cask sol, or download a release from the official site.
Sol has no paid plan or subscription. It is a good fit if you want a Raycast-style launcher without paying for a Powerpack or a Pro plan.Visit Website
LaunchBar: best abbreviation-based Raycast alternative
LaunchBar is built around short abbreviations, not only a search box. Image: Objective Development
Price: a Single License is $35, or €35, depending on the region, on Objective Development's official store, checked November 12, 2026. A Family License is €59 and covers up to 5 computers in one household, for personal use. There is a 30-day trial, and LaunchBar can still be used for free after that, with occasional short breaks.
LaunchBar is a keyboard launcher that finds apps, documents, bookmarks, and actions from short abbreviations. It also includes clipboard history, snippets, file browsing, a calculator, web search with live suggestions, and script-based actions.
Key features:
Abbreviation search that learns what you mean.
Indexing rules for tags, emoji, Shortcuts, Reminders, and more.
Custom actions in AppleScript, JavaScript, Python, and other languages.
Better or worse than Raycast? Better if you already think in abbreviations and want a one-time license. Raycast is easier to pick up if you just want a Spotlight-like bar with extensions.
LaunchBarA keyboard launcher for Mac that finds apps, files, and actions from short abbreviations.Visit WebsiteLaunchBar 6 is a long-running Mac launcher from Objective Development. You press a shortcut, type an abbreviation, and use it to open apps, browse files, run actions, and more, without taking your hands off the keyboard.
- Abbreviation search for applications, documents, bookmarks, contacts, and system items.
- Clipboard history, snippets, a calculator, a file manager, web search with live suggestions, and script-based actions.
- Built-in indexing rules for Finder tags, emoji, Shortcuts, Reminders, Safari lists, and more.
- A 30-day trial. After that, LaunchBar can still be used for free, with occasional short breaks that invite you to buy a license.
- A Single License is $35 or €35, depending on the store region. A Family License is €59 and covers up to 5 computers in one household, for personal use.
LaunchBar suits people who already like typing short abbreviations, and anyone who wants a one-time license instead of a subscription.Visit Website
Orbs: best radial Raycast alternative
Price: $9.99 once for a lifetime license on orbs.studio, checked November 12, 2026. It is a one-time purchase, with 14 built-in tools, and it needs macOS 14 or later.
Orbs is a radial launcher. Instead of a text bar, you open a circle of apps and tools from the keyboard or pointer.
Better or worse than Raycast? Worse as a full command palette, and better if you want a visual, one-time $9.99 launcher with a small set of built-in tools.
OrbsA radial launcher for apps and toolsVisit WebsiteOrbs is a native Mac launcher that puts apps, shortcuts, and small utilities on a radial wheel beneath your cursor. Hold a key, move to an action, and release to run it.
- Launch apps, run shell commands and macOS Shortcuts, or insert text snippets.
- Build nested menus and separate profiles for different workflows.
- Switch profiles automatically based on the frontmost app.
- Use built-in tools including a timer, calculator, clipboard, color picker, and camera mirror.
- Pin tool popovers above other windows when you need them to stay visible.
Requires macOS 14 or later on Apple silicon or Intel. Its one-time lifetime license includes future updates, with local-only operation and no account required.Visit Website
TinyFolder: best Dock-based Raycast alternative
Price: free to start, $9.99 a year, or $29.99 once for Lifetime Pro, on tinyfolder.app, checked November 12, 2026.
TinyFolder is not a Spotlight replacement. It organizes apps into folders in the Dock, so you can launch from there instead of from a command bar.
Better or worse than Raycast? It is a different job. Use it if your problem is a crowded Dock, not if you want a keyboard command palette.
TinyFolderA native app launcher for your DockVisit WebsiteTinyFolder is a macOS application designed for organizing frequently used applications by creating custom folders in the Dock. This software simplifies access to apps, allowing users to group them for quicker launching. It is particularly useful for individuals looking to reduce clutter and enhance productivity by keeping their most-used applications easily accessible.
- Groups frequently used applications into customizable folders for easy access from the Dock.
- Offers various layout options, including icons, lists, and tiles, to suit user preferences.
- Supports global keyboard shortcuts for quick launching of applications.
- Allows for extensive customization of folder appearance, including backgrounds and effects.
- Available as a one-time purchase with a 7-day money-back guarantee.
TinyFolder is a native app launcher designed for macOS 13 and later, compatible with both Apple Silicon and Intel Macs. It allows users to create custom folders in the Dock for frequently used applications, enhancing organization and accessibility. The application is code-signed and notarized by Apple, ensuring a secure installation.Visit Website
Which Raycast alternative should you use?
Stay with Raycast if the free plan is enough, or if you want the extension ecosystem and are fine with Pro at $96 a year. Switch to Alfred if you want a one-time Powerpack and workflows. Use Sol if you want a free, open source launcher, or LaunchBar if you prefer abbreviation search.
Is Raycast free?
Yes, for personal use, including built-in tools such as clipboard history and window management. AI features are part of the paid Pro plans, which start at $96 a year.
Is Alfred still worth it in 2026?
Yes, if you want a one-time license and workflows. The official shop still sells the Alfred 5 Powerpack for £34 (or £59 for Mega Supporter).
What is the best free Raycast alternative?
Sol is the most complete free alternative, because it is open source and includes a clipboard manager and window manager. Alfred's core app is also free, but clipboard history and workflows need the Powerpack. Spotlight remains built into macOS at no extra cost.
Does LaunchBar require a subscription?
No. It is a one-time license, with a trial and an optional free mode that pauses you now and then.
#### Sources
Prices and features were checked on November 12, 2026.
Tapestry unifies your favorite blogs, social media, and other feeds into a single, chronological timeline. It supports posting and interactions on Bluesky and Mastodon directly from the app.
- Combines Bluesky, Mastodon, Tumblr, RSS feeds, podcasts, YouTube channels, and more into one timeline
- Displays all content in chronological order with no algorithmic curation
- Compose, reply, and read discussions on Bluesky and Mastodon within the app
- Supports custom timelines, rules to mute or muffle content, and advanced search across all feeds
- Syncs reading position across iOS, iPadOS, and macOS using iCloud
- Features accessibility support, customizable app layout, icons, and reading modes
Tapestry is free to download, with paid upgrades for features such as ad removal and custom timelines. It requires iOS 17.4 or later.
SoftwareNewsiOS & iPadOS
Snap Flow Phone Notepad Stand
A magnetic iPhone stand with a paper notepad and a folding pen.
HardwareAccessoriesiOS
AVE
Local-first AI video editing for Mac
Freemium
AVE is a local-first agentic video editor for Apple Silicon Macs, integrating AI-assisted editing, screen recording, and motion graphic creation within a non-linear timeline.
- Records screen, window, or area with camera and audio (macOS 15+ required for recording)
- AI-assisted editing with Ask and Plan modes, including transcript and visual clip search
- Custom motion graphics with on-device rendering or external AI provider integration
- Multi-track timeline with real edits—trim, retime, transitions, captions, graphics, color, audio automation
- Exports up to 4K UHD in multiple aspect ratios and file formats (MP4, MOV, WebM, SRT, WebVTT, FCPXML)
- Local-first project storage and analysis; external AI connections are optional
AVE requires an Apple silicon Mac with macOS 14 or later; screen recording needs macOS 15. Manual editing and export remain free after the seven-day Pro trial. Pro adds transcript and AI tools, with subscription or lifetime payment options.
SoftwareCreativemacOS
SkyBreak
Break reminder and focus timer for Mac
Freemium
SkyBreak is a Mac app for users who spend significant time at a screen. It provides a break reminder and focus timer to help establish a sustainable work rhythm with scheduled breaks and focus sessions.
- Menu bar timer that can be detached and pinned anywhere
- Preset durations for focus, short breaks, and long breaks
- Preset number of focus sessions required before a long break
- Gentle prompts before each break with the option to extend the current session
- Support for custom scenery folders to display user photos during breaks
- Daily focus and break statistics visualized with charts
SkyBreak is free on Mac with optional in-app purchases for Pro features, such as custom durations and enhanced automation. It requires macOS 14.0 or later to install and use.
SoftwareHealthmacOS
Rugged Armor for AirPods Pro 3
A matte black protective shell with a clip for the AirPods Pro 3 charging case.
HardwareAccessoriesiOS
Monument Valley 2
A story of beauty and illusion
One-time
Monument Valley 2 is a sequel to the original game, guiding a mother and her child through magical architecture filled with illusionary pathways and puzzles. It features a new standalone story and intricately designed levels for iPhone and iPad.
- Features a completely new story set in the Monument Valley universe
- Contains individually crafted, meditative puzzles with new interactions
- Showcases visuals inspired by diverse architectural and artistic influences
- Offers interactive, melodic audio soundscapes tailored to the journey
Monument Valley 2 is a paid app priced at $3.99 with no free tier available. Compatible with devices running iOS 15.0 or later; purchase is required to access the full experience.
SoftwareCreativeiOS & iPadOS
WeMotion
AI-powered Mac app for motion graphics
Free
WeMotion is a Mac app that uses AI to help users create motion graphics, including films, product videos, social clips, and title sequences. The software builds films from user descriptions, allowing both automatic and manual control.
- Generates films from plain language descriptions
- Live playback with pause and instant edits on any film element
- Supports AI-directed and full manual Pro modes for advanced users
- Includes built-in and customizable motion effects
- Supports up to 4K at 60 fps with local hardware encoding
- Stores project files locally; users retain all ownership rights
WeMotion is free to download for Macs with Apple silicon running macOS 13 or later. Requires a free WeMotion account and a paid Anthropic Claude Pro, Max, or API key (no usable free Claude plan).
SoftwareCreativemacOS
Stage PowerGrip
A magnetic iPhone camera grip with a Bluetooth shutter and a 9,300 mAh power bank.
HardwarePoweriOS
Afterlight
Camera, film presets, and advanced photo editing
Freemium
Afterlight is a photo and video editing app for iPhone and iPad that features a camera mode with live filters, 300+ film-inspired presets, real overlays, and a suite of advanced editing tools. Its design is tailored by creatives for photographers seeking film emulation and manual adjustment.
- Camera mode with live filters and seamless editing transition
- Offers more than 300 film photography-inspired presets
- Enables custom film emulation effects including double exposure and halation
- Provides over 100 real overlay textures such as dust, light leaks, and VHS effects
- Includes 30+ advanced tools for adjusting brightness, curves, vibrance, sharpening, and more
- Option to add frames, borders, or instant film frames before exporting images
Afterlight is free to download for iPhone and iPad (requires iOS 16.6 or later), with in-app purchases available for additional features and content. No user account or external data storage is required.
