Side by side
HoudahSpot vs LocalSearch
Both stand on desktop search software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free trial Mac
HoudahSpot adds detailed criteria, Boolean logic, previews, and reusable searches to Mac file finding. Its trial helps evaluate the workflow, but current macOS users should note the Apple Mail limitation.
Visit HoudahSpot Free plan Linux
LocalSearch provides a focused, free search tool for content stored in configurable Linux locations. Its limitations are clear: searches do not cover email or messages, and no other platform is listed.
Visit LocalSearchThe facts
| HoudahSpot | LocalSearch | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac | Linux |
| Lowest paid plan | See the plans | Not published |
| Plans published | 5 | None |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | houdah.com | gnome.pages.gitlab.gnome.org |
| On desktop search software | #40 of 57 | #44 of 57 |
HoudahSpot: what it does well
- Searches names, content, metadata, tags, and dates
- Boolean groups refine matching conditions
- Results offer list, icon, and thumbnail views
- Saved templates support recurring searches
- AppleScript and launcher integrations enable automation
What to know first
- Requires macOS 10.14 or newer
- Apple Mail search unavailable on Sonoma or newer
- Paid app with no free plan
- Demo mode delays opening result files
LocalSearch: what it does well
- Free Linux software
- Indexes the home directory by default
- Indexed locations are configurable
- Searches content within indexed locations
What to know first
- No email search
- No message search
- Linux-only availability
Alternatives to HoudahSpot Alternatives to LocalSearch The whole list