Alfred is a macOS productivity app for launching apps, searching files and the web, and controlling a Mac with hotkeys, keywords, and custom actions. Its search adapts to how a person uses their Mac and prioritizes results. The free core app covers app launching and file searching. The paid Powerpack adds Clipboard History for copied text, images, and file paths, plus Snippets that expand short keywords into saved text. Its workflows connect objects to automate tasks and can be launched with a hotkey, keyword, or Alfred Remote button. The maker lists workflows for Dash, Twitter, Spotify, and YouTube, and workflows can connect to app APIs. Powerpack also adds file navigation, previews, actions such as moving or emailing files, and preference syncing between Macs through Dropbox or a similar service. Alfred Remote is an iOS companion app; core actions require the Mac and iOS device to share a network. The maker says preferences, usage, and settings remain on the Mac, though workflows may contact servers or APIs. The Single License is 34.00 USD per once for one user on two of their own Macs for the current version.
Who it is for
Alfred suits Mac users who want to launch apps, find files, and build keyboard-triggered workflows. Powerpack adds clipboard, snippet, file-action, and preference-sync functions.
What is good
- Free core app includes app launching and file searching
- Search prioritizes results based on usage
- Workflows can connect with apps and APIs
- Preferences and usage settings are stored locally
What to know first
- Powerpack features require a paid license
- Alfred Remote core actions require both devices on one network
- Requires macOS 10.14 or later
Verdict
Alfred's free core covers launching and file searches, while Powerpack adds automation and related tools. The Single License covers one user and two of their own Macs for the current version.
Alfred plans and pricing
All plansCompared on app launcher software
- Free plan
- Yes
- Supported platforms
- macos
- File search
- Yes
- Command launching
- Yes
- Workflow support
- Yes
- Plugin support
- Yes
- Cloud sync
- Yes
