bemenu

bemenu is a dynamic menu library and client program inspired by dmenu, aimed at users who want a configurable, keyboard-driven menu and are comfortable building software. Its choice of clients and backends is useful, but Wayland compatibility depends on the compositor and it lacks file search and workflow support.

Overview

The project provides the bemenu and bemenu-run clients, with build targets for curses, X11, and Wayland. That flexibility lets users match the interface to their setup, but bemenu is a build-oriented tool rather than a polished, ready-to-use launcher. Building requires a C compiler; generating the man page also requires scdoc. The provided Nix expression installs only the curses backend, which limits that route to terminal use.

Command launching is supported, while file search and workflow support are not. The project also identifies pinentry-bemenu, a Pinentry implementation based on bemenu, as an integration.

Key features

Backend and client options

Curses, X11, and Wayland targets cover distinct environments, and having both bemenu and bemenu-run gives users two client choices. The Wayland option has a specific constraint: the compositor must implement wlr-layer-shell, as wlroots-based compositors typically do. Anyone on a different Wayland compositor should confirm compatibility before choosing bemenu.

Keyboard controls and configuration

Documented environment variables let users configure options, backend selection, renderer paths, and rendering scale. The README also documents default keyboard bindings and an optional Vim-style normal mode, enabled with --binding vim. That makes the tool a stronger fit for keyboard-oriented users who value control over interaction; it is less compelling for someone looking for a launcher that needs little setup.

Clipboard and release details

Clipboard pasting uses wl-paste first and tries xclip if needed, so clipboard behavior depends on those runtime tools. Releases are published on GitHub and signed with PGP key 29317348D687B86B.

Pricing

bemenu is free: the bemenu plan costs nothing, with no paid plans or usage limits stated. There is no free trial because the project is already free to use. The client and other sources use GNU GPLv3 or later, while the library and bindings use GNU LGPLv3 or later; the different licenses matter to anyone incorporating the library or distributing the client.

Platforms

Linux and macOS are supported. macOS users can build with Homebrew prerequisites GNU Make and pkg-config, or use the documented build-osx.sh flow. Linux users should choose a backend compatible with their setup; Wayland specifically requires wlr-layer-shell support from the compositor.

Who it's for

bemenu is best for Linux users who want a free, configurable menu, prefer keyboard controls, and can handle compiling and checking backend compatibility. It can also suit macOS users willing to follow the documented build process. It is a poor fit for people who need file search, workflow tools, or a launcher that works across Wayland compositors without a protocol check.

Pros and cons

• Pros: Three backend build targets provide options for terminal, X11, and compatible Wayland environments.
• Pros: Configurable environment variables and optional Vim-style bindings give keyboard-focused users control over menu behavior.
• Pros: Free software with separate GPL and LGPL licensing for client and library components.
• Cons: Wayland support requires wlr-layer-shell, excluding compositors that do not implement it.
• Cons: Building requires a C compiler, and man-page generation needs scdoc, adding setup work.
• Cons: It supports command launching but not file search or workflow support.

Alternatives

If you want a launcher with a different platform range or pricing model, consider Launchy, which is free to download with a recommended value of $10 USD and a suggested $3 contribution. Raycast may suit users seeking a freemium option with extensions, Clipboard History, and Notes; its free plan includes three months of Clipboard History and five Notes. For macOS users who want app launching and file searching in a free core, Alfred is an option, with a $34.00 USD one-time Single License for one user on two of their own Macs.

Cerebro is another free, open-source option for Linux, macOS, and Windows. PortableApps.com Platform is free and open source under GPL, with some MIT and CC components, for users considering a platform spanning Linux, macOS, and Windows. Ueli offers a free option across Linux, macOS, and Windows. Appetizer is a free, open-source alternative for Windows-oriented use. If you specifically want the X11 dynamic menu that inspired bemenu, dmenu is free for Linux under the MIT/X Consortium License.

Browse more options in App Launcher Software.

Verdict

Choose bemenu if you want a free, configurable menu with multiple build targets and keyboard controls, and can meet its build requirements. Its main advantage is backend and behavior flexibility; look elsewhere if you need file search or workflow support, or if your Wayland compositor lacks wlr-layer-shell.