Side by side
PStart vs Ueli
Both stand on app launcher software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Windows
PStart brings portable and local application shortcuts, search, notes and reminders into a Windows tray menu. Its portable mode has no uninstaller, so account for manual file removal when you are done.
Visit PStart
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Ueli offers a keyboard-driven way to search and launch items, with Favorites and configurable extensions across three operating systems. Review the platform-specific signing and hotkey caveats before choosing an installation method.
Visit UeliThe facts
| PStart | Ueli | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | pegtop.net | ueli.app |
| On app launcher software | #22 of 40 | #18 of 40 |
PStart: what it does well
- Runs applications from a USB key or removable disk.
- Relative paths handle changing USB drive letters.
- Includes incremental program search.
- Supports hot keys, mouse sensors and custom folders.
- Freeware with no advertisements or spyware.
What to know first
- Portable installations have no uninstaller.
- Portable-install files must be removed manually.
- The listed platform is Windows only.
Ueli: what it does well
- Available for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Favorites appear first in search results.
- Extensions include file search and a calculator.
- Enabled extensions have configurable settings.
- Privacy statement says it does not collect personal or usage data.
What to know first
- Manually downloaded Windows binaries are unsigned.
- macOS builds are unsigned and not notarized.
- Global hotkeys may fail in Wayland sessions.