Flow Launcher

What Flow Launcher is

Flow Launcher is a free, open-source search and app launcher for Windows 10 and later. A customizable hotkey opens its search window; the default is Alt+Space. From there, it can find and launch apps, search for files and file contents through Everything or Windows Search, and search bookmarks from different browsers. Users can also browse the Internet with their preferred search engine.

Built-in tools include system commands, shell commands, a calculator, and search for Windows and Control Panel settings. Its plugin store adds search capabilities, with listings that include Spotify, Steam, Obsidian, and GitHub notifications. The maker says community plugins can be written in C#, F#, Python, JavaScript, or TypeScript. Users can choose themes, animation, and sound, or create their own theme. Flow Launcher is available as an installer EXE, a portable ZIP, or through winget, Scoop, or Chocolatey. The project is published under the MIT License. The plugin manifest repository says submitted plugins are scanned and regularly rescanned with VirusTotal, and its policy excludes malicious code and other prohibited content.

Who it suits

Flow Launcher suits Windows users who want a keyboard-accessible way to find apps, files, bookmarks, and system tools. It also fits users interested in adding or writing plugins.

Limits

Flow Launcher supports Windows 10 and later. It is free software and has no free trial.

Getting started

1. Download the installer EXE or portable ZIP from the Flow Launcher website.
2. Alternatively, install through winget, Scoop, or Chocolatey.
3. Open the search window with the default Alt+Space hotkey.
4. Use search for apps, files, file contents, bookmarks, or web queries.
5. Choose a theme and adjust animation or sound if desired.

Verdict

Flow Launcher brings app, file, and web search together with built-in system tools and a plugin store. It is free and open source, but its listed platform support is limited to Windows 10 and later.