Cool launchers for android. Choosing the best Android launcher
One of the best things about Android is that you can customize not only how it looks, but also how it behaves. One way to do this is to download a new launcher, an application that will change the interface of your phone and allow you to customize it to your tastes.
Plus, such apps allow you to have the same interface you're used to, even if you bought new phone- simply restore your backup settings from cloud storage. Now this is especially true when almost every manufacturer installs its own shell, which is not always intuitive and fast.
I don't think it's possible to determine the best launcher that will suit everyone. You use your phone differently than I do, and I use my phone differently than my colleagues or friends. Everyone has their ideal launcher, but if you haven't found your favorite yet, here are the best ones that I think will satisfy almost any Android user.
Nova
Nova Launcher has been a well-known application for a long time. It has support for gesture control: if you want to open the application list, just swipe up and double-tap the screen to turn it off. In short, the app works with gestures and folders better than anyone else!
The set includes icon packs and themes, of which there are about a thousand (search in Google Play), application interface settings, unread message counter, additional scrolling effects and much more. Another feature is constant updates with the addition of new functionality and bug fixes.
It is worth noting the possibility backup settings to the cloud with their subsequent restoration on a new phone or when resetting to factory settings.
Apex
Apex Launcher has been around for a long time and remains one of the most popular launchers. Similar to the Action Launcher app, it's designed to be highly customizable with a few extra features, like hiding the Google search form, status bar, and even the dock, which can display up to seven icons instead of four! If you have a child, you will benefit from the desktop lock feature to prevent accidental changes.
You can choose transition animations, change the design, and custom icons for shortcuts and folders. Up to 9 home screens are supported, with flexible settings for each of them. Convenient gesture control, screen lock, optimized for use on smartphones and tablets. It is possible to display unread messages and missed calls on icons. And this is not all the features that Apex Launcher offers.
Microsoft
Microsoft Launcher is an updated version of the Garage Arrow project and we've covered the key changes that came with this update. The app currently supports integration with many Microsoft services, including calendar and email.
If your computer is updated to the latest Windows versions 10, you can link your phone and computer, then you can quickly and easily “Continue to PC”. This means you can take a photo and immediately see it on your computer, or edit a document in Office and then continue editing it on your computer.
There are packages of gestures, icons, and advanced settings. For example, swiping up won't open the app list, but will only show your favorite apps, as well as quick settings like Wi-Fi, airplane mode, Bluetooth, etc.
Daily wallpaper change - Receive new wallpapers automatically from Bing, or specify your own selection of wallpapers to change.
It's important to note that Microsoft doesn't want Android to look the same as Windows 10 Mobile. For example, you won't find square "tiles" here; if you're looking for something like that, check out the following app.
It’s a little strange, but with this launcher you get the impression that you are using an iPhone on an Android smartphone, everything is so convenient and beautiful.
One
An excellent replacement for the standard Android interface will become One Launcher. When creating it, the developer (one BJ) was inspired by the latest iOS versions- mobile operating system from Apple. Thanks to this, the launcher turned out to be aesthetically beautiful and very convenient.
As with Apple devices, application icons are located on the home display rather than hidden in a separate menu. You can combine several applications in folders or leave everything as is. The latter option is ideal for those who use only a small number of programs.
The developers paid special attention to ensuring that their brainchild consumes little RAM when maximum performance. Their work immediately becomes noticeable when you switch from this launcher to another. Or check the amount of free RAM. In addition, One Launcher is completely free and supports all versions of Android starting from 2.3.3.
Smart
Smart Launcher is not just an add-on to the stock launcher, and this is immediately noticeable. The home display is presented as a circle with six icons, providing quick access to the most important important applications. You also have access to the widget area or can go to a unique menu. What makes it so unique? Intelligent sorting system. When you install a new utility, the launcher automatically places it in the correct category, making it much easier to access.
A convenient search bar is always at hand, so you can easily find the applications you need. An important part is the lock screen with support for notifications and a variety of themes. To completely change the device interface, download special themes for Smart Launcher 3 on Google Play. In addition, do not forget about the option to hide any utilities or set a password to launch them.
Hola
The Hola Launcher developers began their project with one single question: “What features do people need most?” After thinking about it carefully, they got to work and created Hola Launcher - an easy and simple alternative for those who want to achieve best result with the least amount of costs.
Take a few minutes to explore what this launcher has to offer and you will be truly amazed. After all, it only takes up 4 MB. And the extremely low RAM consumption makes it very fast and responsive. The application is built around one concept - simplicity. The interface is minimalistic, easy to navigate and allows you to get to the most frequently used functions in a few taps.
In addition to the usual set of features like custom themes, wallpapers, folders, etc., Hola offers users access to several very useful programs. Hola Shina is special menu, which opens by swiping from the bottom edge of the monitor. In it you will find frequently used applications and settings. Hola Boost is a small, movable circle that frees up your smartphone's RAM immediately after you click on it. There's also Hola Box, which can easily hide any utility on your home display if you don't want to show it to other people.
Launcher 8
Launcher 8 is unique in that it doesn't feel like an Android app. In fact, the only task of this application is to make the interface of your device look like Windows Phone. And he copes with this task perfectly. It copies not only the appearance, but also many actions. As a result, when working with the shell, you get the feeling that you are not working under Android at all.
Supports emulation of “live tiles” and a scroll bar when navigating through the application menu, which appears when you move your finger to the right or left on the screen.
There are custom themes that let you customize the look of the launcher, but most of them are very different from what we're used to seeing on Android. If you don't want your smartphone to look like a Windows Phone 8 phone, then there's not much point in installing this app.
Action
Action Launcher has long been a favorite program of many users. In addition to standard functions, there are also some original ones that make the program unique. For example, Quick Theme allows you to customize the colors of your interface.
The Shutters feature gives you access to widgets without actually installing them on your home screen. There is also a set of elements in the style of Android Oreo. There is an icon setting, fast update small elements and much more.
GO
An excellent choice for those who want to try custom design home screen. In addition, GO Launcher is one of the most downloaded utilities on Google Play. The program combines functionality with excellent user design.
The launcher is created on an innovative 3D engine developed from scratch. It is this that makes the program extremely fast, responsive and versatile. In addition to the engine, you switch between 25 display animation options and get over 10,000 unique themes. With such a staggering number of options for customizing the interface, it would be easy to get confused if it were not for DIY Themer.
GO Launcher also has an excellent tool that allows you to hide or block some a specific program to further protect you from prying eyes. Well, built-in widgets for optimizing your smartphone increase the device’s performance, making multi-window mode faster and more enjoyable to use.
Next 3D Shell
The developers of Next Launcher 3D Shell are the same people who worked on the creation of GO Launcher. 3D animation is supported, there are many transition effects and unique settings. Using the scroll bar, you can quickly change home screens and choose the one you like best. at the moment. According to most users, this is one of the most expensive launchers. True, you can try all the features of the program for free.
ADW 2
The biggest plus of ADW Launcher 2.0 is the customization: you can customize themes, gestures, folder styles, home screens, app list and even create your own custom widgets. I can go on and on, if you are a fan of customization, then you should definitely download this launcher and test it thoroughly. It contains just an insane amount of settings!
You can create an unlimited number of your own widgets and place them anywhere, even on top panel(where the search bar is located) or to the bottom (where you currently have 4 icons).
As always, there is the ability to edit every single icon of any application you have. IN latest update a new set of effects has appeared when switching to another screen, as well as the ability to change the system color palette to any color (black, red, orange, etc.). In general, in this application you can do everything you can imagine.
Evie
Evie Launcher comes with icon and widget packs. It is possible to hide any applications, quickly launch programs, and add unique shortcuts with your own signatures to the home screen. You can create your own wallpaper and change the size of the icons.
The program is fast, easy to use, and has some original features. Uses a Pixel Launcher-style app menu that can be moved from the bottom of the screen. The application is distributed free of charge.
Lightning Launcher is small in size and has very flexible settings. With this tool, you can change almost all elements of the home screen. Perhaps the most unique feature is its scripting support, such as the ability to use JavaScript.
You may be intimidated by the abundance of settings and options, but there is nothing to be afraid of. Yes, there are a lot of settings, but they are easy to understand. But what opportunities! Almost all functions and elements can be customized, be it the way applications are placed, folders, widgets, home screens, icon sets, fonts, alignment, and even renaming standard elements (not all).
If you don’t want to understand, there are dozens (if not hundreds) of more classic skins at your service, which offer a couple of basic settings.
Lawnchair Launcher is an open source project source code, which basically mimics Pixel Launcher. Many of their functions are the same, although there are some original features. It is constantly updated and improved. Notifications and context menu are made in the style of Android Oreo.
You can choose different styles panels and windows, icon sizes and much more. It will not be an exaggeration to say that Lawnchair has absorbed all the best that is in the Pixel and Nova Launcher shells. All this is added high performance and the aesthetics of the Pixel shell and seasoned with customization elements from other launchers well known in the Android world.
One of the most attractive design styles is the dark theme. It applies to the appearance of the tray, home screen widget, and context menu. The possibilities for changing the design style here are not as deep as, for example, in Substratum, but still not bad.
There is integration with Google Now(when installing an additional free plugin). Even in beta it works better than many older launchers. If you are looking for the most best analogue Google Pixel, consider you've already found it.
EverythingMe
The main highlight of EverythingMe is the so-called Prediction Bar, which is a series of icons located at the bottom of the screen (there are four in total), dynamically changing depending on the user’s location, time of day and the results of analysis of previous application launches.
Based on the results of this analysis, Prediction Bar will first offer the user those applications that he is most likely to need in the near future. For example, in the morning EverythingMe will tell you the latest news and remind you of what you have planned for today. And on a weekday, the launcher will offer applications that you most often deal with at work.
When you first launch the launcher, it will try to automatically organize already installed applications into the appropriate folders, such as “Games,” “Music,” “Social Networks,” and “News.” You can create new Smart Folders at any time, grouping apps as you wish.
Most launchers deal with what you are doing at a given time: what you are viewing, what you are listening to. EverythingMe takes a slightly different approach. Instead of focusing on current actions, it tries to predict what you will do.
There are more than enough free launchers for Android. The many options available in Android present us with a problem of choice, so let us solve this difficult problem for you. After all, it's easier to choose between three best, than between thirty, right?
We've done Android launcher comparisons in the past, but good paid applications are not always provided for equally good free applications. In addition, the functionality of Android applications has changed a lot since then.
Today, if you want to make changes to Android without paying a penny, check out the list below best launchers. All of them are excellent, so you can't go wrong by choosing any of them.
Note: All the following launchers have passed test check on Samsung Galaxy S3 Mini.
– perhaps the most popular launcher to ever grace Play Store. Created and controlled by TeslaCoil Software, this beautiful application is every power user's dream. In almost every web article dedicated to Android review, one can observe the highest assessments of its capabilities, and interest is growing every day.
This is confirmed by our review of Nova Launcher in 2012, when we concluded that it was the best launcher available at the time. Three years later, even with increased competition, we're inclined to think the Nova is a top contender.
What makes Nova Launcher so unique?
The main feature of Nova is its close attention to user settings. It offers various customization options that you can adjust to create your desired screen format, including multiple home screens, different size icon and layout grids, subgrids for more flexibility, icon padding, etc.
Nova is also making changes to the Drawer app. Icon sizes and grid layouts are also adjustable here, and you can go to general appearance list. It doesn't stop there, Nova also gives you more options for drawing widgets, grouping them by app for optimal organization.
And it doesn't matter whether you're dealing with the Home screen or the Drawer app, you have unlimited options for scrolling the page over and over again. You can also change animation settings as you switch between them.
Having folders on the home screen allows you to group icons to save space and streamline organization. Almost any object (labels, folders, tabs, etc.) on the main screen changes its color palette.
Finally, the docks have undergone significant changes. The Dock, located at the bottom of the home screen, has a wide range of different visual options such as background appearance and icon design. Nova's capabilities allow you to scroll through anywhere from 1 to 5 dock pages independently from the main screen.
While the free version of Nova is fine, you may want the upgraded version of Nova Launcher Prime (RUR 220) with a full set of options: screen and icon operations, unread items, custom tabs and folders in the Drawer app. hidden apps, more visual effects.
It is one of the oldest free launchers that has not lost its relevance to this day. It's funny, but Apex Launcher is often compared to Nova Launcher with the claim that they are largely similar in terms of quality, but the latter has received the lion's share of fame and recognition. This doesn't mean that Apex is a Nova clone or anything like that. It has its own characteristics, its own nuances and its own reasons to convince you that the Apex may actually be better than the highly acclaimed Nova. I reviewed Apex in 2013, and my opinion hasn't changed since then: this launcher is a real beast!
What makes Apex Launcher one of the best?
The first thing that piques your interest is the range of sizes available for home screen grids. Many launchers, including Nova, limit you to about six rows and six columns, but Apex allows you to expand the scope to ten rows and ten columns, respectively. For small screen This is a clear limitation, however, it is absolutely amazing for larger phones and tablets.
Apex also has separate customization options for grids with Portrait and Landscape mods, meaning you can optimize your screen layout in terms of how you hold the device. Other home screen features include infinite scrolling, visual effects transitions and a few other stylish tricks.
The Drawer app's settings are great and Portrait and Landscape layouts are also available, but Apex offers something similar in its free version What Nova can only offer commercially: hidden apps. Apex allows us to hide all those applications that we never directly download from the Drawer, thereby reducing clutter.
Is paid option in Nova another Apex freebie? We are talking about home screen gestures. The actions can be characterized by the following five gestures: narrow, move up, move down, double tap, hold. There are a total of 15 different actions available.
And of course, you get themed controls like icon sets, color palettes, folders for organization, different drawing styles, launcher skins, and so on.
All of the above makes Apex a top-notch launcher, but if that's not enough for you, consider upgrading to ($200) for a number of benefits such as drawing folders, unread items, additional gestures, additional transition effects, and even support themes designed for launchers like ADW, Go or LauncherPro.
Due to its popularity on the Play Store, it is a shame that it is often not mentioned in the context of free launchers for Android, but it is really really good. In fact, at the time of writing this, I have to say that this is my favorite launcher for both smartphones and tablets.
The developer has several other applications under the dodol brand, including a keyboard, calendar, phone, file explorer, screenshot manager and several others. But out of them all, the launcher is perhaps the best.
What makes dodol Launcher one of the best?
My personal appeal to dodol was due to its characteristics. Over the past few years, I've tested numerous launchers on my device and while some of them (like Nova and Apex) have performed well, none have been as fast as this one. Still, dodol is not only fast, but also has a lot of characteristics.
Just like Nova and Apex, dodol supports custom home screen grid layouts, and dodol goes further by offering a range of 3x3 to 12x12 screen icons. Icon sizes, labels, color palette, shadows and edges are also customizable. Folders help organize the entire process.
The dock at the bottom of the screen can have up to five pages, each page containing from 1 to 7 icons. Iconic and style indicators can be customized as desired. As with the Home screen, the Drawer app is customizable in a variety of ways, with the ability to hide apps and/or labels from the general list.
As for aesthetic changes, dodol comes with a theme shop that stores tons of submitted and user-created changes. Browse Top as well as Dodol's Pick categories to find a huge number of high quality themes and wallpapers.
Gestures are also available: move up, move down, do it with two fingers, hold, double tap. All of them are tied to one of the possible eight combinations. Unlike the above launchers, dodol also comes with more pure application, which manually frees up RAM. What I really love about dodol is that there are no investments, it is truly free, without an additional commercial version. No ads or annoying screen. This launcher actively competes with Nova and Apex, being initially the winner in this battle.
What do you prefer?
In case the three launchers above didn't live up to your expectations, or you're looking for something less traditional, then check out Aviate, Buzz Launcher, and Action Launcher.
The Aviate launcher shows positive dynamics, changing throughout the day to suit your goals. Buzz Launcher is really great and you can choose from about 60,000 base themes. Action Launcher is characterized by minimalism and speed, as well as an arsenal of tempting options.
What free launchers do you remember? Are there any that have gone unnoticed? Do you think it would be better to shell out a few dollars for a quality paid launcher? Tell us what you think in the comments below!
The Android operating system is fully customizable. You can literally do anything with it! Want to completely change the appearance of the system? Install some original launcher. This will immediately change your smartphone experience. The best launchers will be discussed in this collection.
Until the mid-2000s, change the menu mobile phone was impossible unless you had programming skills. But with the advent of the most popular devices from Siemens, Nokia and Sony Ericsson, the engineers of these companies introduced the ability to download themes. But in this case, only the appearance of the icons and the menu background changed, whereas with the release of the operating system Android systems Full-fledged launchers began to appear.
Nowadays this word means an application that can completely change the system interface. Depending on the installed launcher, the desktop can be in the form of a carousel, an office cabinet, or a kind of shelves where all applications are sorted by their types. But the most important thing is that the best launchers add some functionality that is simply not present in the firmware by default. The most relevant use of such applications is on smartphones with an old Android version. In this case, the device must be equipped with a sufficient amount of RAM, since any launcher for Android is highly dependent on it.
Price: Free
Do you really like to experiment by installing large number apps and games? You've already started to get confused different programs, forgetting what they are intended for? Then Yahoo Aviate Launcher is created just for you. After installing the launcher, all applications in the menu will be divided into categories. And the smartphone will also learn to predict your desires - shortcuts to exactly those programs that are currently required will be displayed on the main screen. To do this, the automation monitors the time and GPS chip readings. For example, before going to bed, “Calendar” and “Alarm Clock” will be located on the main screen. And all weekend long there will be labels of social network clients. At work, you can’t do without the presence of Gmail or some other email client.
There is also a panel with widgets, which slightly resembles Google Now. With its help, you can configure the above-mentioned modes of your activities, because the launcher is not omniscient; first you need to teach it your daily routine.
It may not be the best launcher, but it is definitely very original. It's so smart that when you visit the post office, a package tracking app appears on the screen! The only regret is that not everything can be customized. Because of this artificial intelligence sometimes makes mistakes, producing results that are not what you expect. This can only be cured with time - gradually Yahoo Aviate Launcher begins to understand your daily routine. Another drawback is that it cannot be used on tablets. This application is distributed free of charge.
Price: Free
This is not the original, but the most customizable launcher. After installing it, you will see a menu familiar to all Android users. But as soon as you gain access to the settings panel, you are literally drawn into the world of customizing desktops, menus, notification panels and other interface elements. Everything can be changed! It also supports import and export functions - this allows you to return to the interface you created when purchasing a new smartphone. All settings in Nova Launcher are described in Russian, so understanding them will not be difficult.
To give you an idea, here is just a short excerpt from the list of features of this launcher:
- Creating and fully customizing a dock bar;
- Setting up folders;
- Selecting the capacity of the desktop (the number of icons it contains);
- Changed the appearance of most icons;
- Choice of design for any screen orientation;
- Change the scrolling speed of the application menu and desktop;
- Assigning commands to different gestures;
- Implementation of a counter for unread notifications.
But there are no miracles in the world. Get access to full functionality You can only buy the Nova Launcher Prime version, which now costs 300 rubles. This is the only drawback of this application.
Price: Free
Many have heard about the smart Google Assistant Now. This is a special option of the Android operating system that regularly provides weather forecasts, sports results, interesting news and other information related to your life and work. The trouble is that Google Now is not implemented in all smartphones. If you are also deprived of this useful function, then we suggest you correct the situation by installing Google Start. This is another free launcher. However, with it you will not change the interface of the operating system; here you will find the familiar Android 5.0 Lollipop shell, which has a traditional flat design.
The main advantage of this launcher is the maximum simplicity of the interface. This is especially true for those smartphones where the menu was previously very overloaded unnecessary elements. And, of course, there is Google Now, which provides various tips, focusing on visits to certain sites, as well as on your search queries. Another advantage of the shell is the low requirements for RAM and battery capacity. As for the disadvantage, it lies in the minimal customization of the interface - you cannot even change the number of icons that fit on the desktop.
CM Locker
Price: Free
This application cannot be called a full-fledged launcher. The fact is that it only changes the lock screen interface. But she customizes it 100%! If you install CM Locker, you can place any application you use most frequently on your lock screen. Also, this creation of the developers can photograph a person trying to unlock a smartphone. This allows you to find out who tried to use the device without your knowledge.
The launcher has several built-in styles that change the location of the clock, date, picture with weather information and background image. But it’s much easier to customize the lock screen yourself - this way you can achieve a completely unique effect. Of course, the application allows you to go to the camera in one click - this is also one of its advantages. CM Locker can also close other applications on its own. On some smartphones this increases the duration battery life on standby for two hours! Well, as for the shortcomings... There are simply none. You can only complain about slowdowns while entering the unlock code. But such problems only appear on budget devices with weak components.
Summing up
Any of the above launchers should delight every smartphone owner. However, you may have already noticed that they are all very different from each other. Cobo Launcher does not introduce unusual properties to the system interface, but it allows you to change the appearance of the desktop and lock screen in just a couple of clicks. Fans of complete customization should please. No Google Now will be completed by a shell that will resemble the interface of smartphones from the Nexus series. CM Locker only modifies the lock screen. Well, it will allow you to deal with the backlog of installed applications by sorting them into categories.
In short, all that remains is to decide what you need the launcher for. And run to Google Play by clicking on one of the links above!
Launcher apps have been an integral part of Android for a long time. If you don't like the way your home screens look, you can simply download an app to change almost everything on your system. There's no doubt that Android launchers have a significantly more diverse set of features than any other genre of apps, and you can really do some amazing things with these apps. Let's take a look at the best!
Action Launcher 3
(downloads: 2095)
Action Launcher 3 has long been a favorite of our readers and the app deserves a place on this list. It comes in Android design, but with some interesting features. Some of these include Quicktheme, which uses the resulting background to define theme accents, tailor a unique look, there's Quickpage, a kind of hidden home screen that can take you anywhere, and much more. The application has a long history and is famous for its stability and regular updates. You can also follow the developer's work on his page.
Apex Launcher
(downloads: 731)
Apex Launcher launched in the market for a long time and remains one of the most iconic launchers for Android. Similar to Action Launcher, it retains the look and feel of vanilla Android with some extra features added for additional settings. These include changes to transition animations, scrolling settings, and even a scrolling dock where you can store many icons. Apex Launcher also includes a theme engine with a huge selection of themes available on the Google Play Store, and the launcher also supports icon packs. This is a fairly stable application that can run on almost any device.
Buzz Launcher
(downloads: 524)
Buzz Launcher is a very popular launcher, which is characterized by a variety of themes. Buzz Launcher uses something called Homepacks and allows you to customize not only your home screen theme, but also change your home screen entirely. There are over 800,000 downloadable configurations, which means you can play with the app all day and still have tons of options to check out. Besides the theming, you get a solid launcher, but it can be difficult to set up, so be prepared for that.
CM Launcher
(downloads: 813)
Despite the name, CM Launcher is actually not related to CyanogenMod. Applications developed by one developer with CM Security, which graces the list of the best antivirus programs for Android now. The application tries to create as small a footprint as possible, it boot file weighs only 2 MB and uses a minimum system resources. It is lightweight, fast and stable launcher. Its biggest feature is the direct integration with CM Security, so the launcher has a built-in antivirus. Of course, we understand that not everyone wants it, but it's a pretty good option otherwise. There's also a contextual element that tries to guess what apps you need based on your location and time of day.
GO Launcher FX
(downloads: 724)
GO Launcher is one of the most popular launchers for Android, with over 100 million downloads to date. All this is probably due to the simplicity and wide possibilities of thematization. The app comes with quite basic set functions that allow minor customization, but the most main feature thematic remains. GO Launcher FX launcher app offers tons of themes, you can also use icon packs with this launcher. It's an easy to use app that works great, even if some people think it's a bit overpriced.
Google Now Launcher
(downloads: 372)
Google Now Launcher is a launcher for Google and Android fans. It's essentially a launcher powered by built-in Google Now. It is distinguished by its simplicity, integration with Ok, Google, HOTWORD, translucent theming elements and much more. It's not an overly powerful or customizable launcher, but it is slim and quick solution, and the built-in Google Now will delight fans of this function. This great program, which uses a lot of resources, will be especially appreciated by Nexus owners.
Launcher 8
(downloads: 388)
Launcher 8 is a unique solution because it has nothing to do with Android. In fact, the only purpose of this feature is to make your phone look like Windows Phone. Using the launcher, you can convert your widgets into Windows style Phone (Live Title - Live Tile) and get an experience very similar to Windows Phone, but based on Android. The launcher also comes with a bunch of other features that make it a very good choice.
Lightning Launcher
(downloads: 881)
Lightning Launcher is not the best popular app on the list, but the launcher carries the highest rating. This is an Android application that is quite easy to launch. The application strives to use some of your device's resources, but sparingly. Kit functional features It's fairly sparse, but includes some powerful features, including unlimited home screens, the ability to add icons anywhere and organize them the way you want, while the low consumption hardware capabilities are a nice feature on older devices. This launcher is definitely worth a look if you need something light and fast.
Next Launcher 3D Shell
(downloads: 528)
Next Launcher is one of the most unique Android launchers on this list. The launcher is also developed by the guys from Go Launcher, so they have something in common. Next Launcher 3D Shell uses scrollable home screens, meaning you can see a scrolling ribbon on the right side, it allows you to quickly switch between home screens. There is also a unique set of icons, themes, unique widgets (downloaded separately), and those who pay for the application will receive much more. You can also buy the app cheaper after using the demo version.
Nova Launcher
(downloads: 527)
It's hard to find something significantly better than Nova Launcher. Like Apex Launcher, Nova draws on the good old days and remains not only relevant, but one of the best launcher apps for Android. Nova offers a long list of customizable features that include gesture support, the ability to customize the appearance of apps, support for icon packs, themes, and much, much more. The app is also updated quite quickly, which means that any errors are resolved very quickly. The launcher also comes with the ability to create backup copy and restoring your home screens, in case you decide to upgrade to a new phone.
Smart Launcher 3
(downloads: 397)
Smart Launcher 3 is another unique launcher for Android. It offers one home screen with a great set of features and buttons arranged in a flower pattern. The idea is to provide access to applications quickly, using as few resources as possible, to save normal work devices. The launcher features home screen notifications, tons of available themes, security features and password-protected apps, and even plugins. The launcher may seem simple for some users, but it is a very powerful and excellent working application.
Solo Launcher
(downloads: 390)
Solo Launcher positions itself as a DIY solution for those who would like to have more control. Launcher uses Material Design 2.0, which means you get the most modern design. Moreover, you get a huge number of settings with which you can make the launcher work exactly as it should. Solo Launcher also comes with theming, gesture controls, clock/weather and many other features. This launcher is definitely worth your attention, it is fast and customizable.
Themer: Launcher
(downloads: 745)
Themer is a launcher in which almost everything can be configured. This app works just like Buzz Launcher where you download a theme and it changes almost everything on your home screens. Each of these is then individually customizable, giving you virtually unlimited combinations of themes to work with. Themer developers offer their application completely free of charge, which attracts many users. This is a powerful solution that supports icon sets and also comes with an integrated Zooper Widget.
Yahoo Aviate Launcher
(downloads: 222)
Aviate Launcher has gained significant popularity. The app started out as a launcher with a handful of developers, long before it was acquired by Yahoo! a few years ago. Like EverythingMe Launcher, Yahoo Aviate has some contextual elements that try to deliver you required applications, when you need them, based on location and time of day. The app also comes in a sleek and simple design, along with a Smart Steam solution that's reminiscent of Google Now. This is a powerful launcher that quickly gains momentum. This is also a completely free solution.
Z Launcher from Nokia
(downloads: 851)
Nokia's Z Launcher is the last solution on our list, and it is also an exceptionally minimalist launcher. It includes one home screen, an app tray, and an area where you can do searches. This is a unique premise that is great for those users who prefer minimalism and functionality, without excess. The launcher is still in beta, but it already works surprisingly stable and decent.
For a long time now, special launcher applications have remained an important part of the process of using an Android smartphone.
If you don't like the way your home screen looks or functions, you can simply download an app to change it.
There's no doubt that Android launchers have a much more diverse set of features than any other genre of app, and that you can do some amazing things with a launcher.
Let's look at the best of these apps!
Action Launcher 3
Action Launcher has been a long-time favorite among our readers, so it deserves a place on this list.
However, there are some additional features that make it unique.
Quicktheme allows you to customize the colors of your interface based on your wallpaper. Tabs allow you to check out an app widget without having it installed on your home screen.
It even has theme and customization elements to make your phone look more like Android Oreo.
There is also support for icon packs, frequent updates and much more.
ADW Launcher 2
We stopped following this launcher after the developers stopped updating the project, but now the launcher is making a triumphant return.
ADW Launcher 2 is a completely modernized version of the legendary launcher.
You'll find modern features like shortcuts from Android 7.1 Nougat. In addition to this, you will also find a range of themes and customization options.
This bundle includes the coolest widget creator we've seen in a long time.
This launcher is a decent option that has features that others don't have. He has regained his rightful place among the “elite” of the launcher world.
Apex Launcher has been around for a long time and is still one of the most famous launchers for Android.
Among them is the ability to change the animation of transitions, the style of scrolling pages, there is even a special scrolling page on which you can place many icons.
Apex Launcher also uses its own themes, the collection of which can be expanded in the Google Play store, and it also supports icon sets. At the same time, the launcher is quite stable on almost any device.
The app has undergone big changes in 2018. Now it looks much more modern.
AIO Launcher
AIO Launcher doesn't work like many others. It replaces the standard home screen with an information-packed list of options.
It shows things like your latest SMS and missed calls, your media player, your system information (RAM, battery, storage, etc.).
And even things like news, Bitcoin price, Twitter and more. Paid version also includes integration for Telegram and your regular widgets from other apps.
Not everything has to look like stock Android launchers.
The app used to be Arrow Launcher. Microsoft rebranded the application in mid-2017.
The app has integration with many Microsoft services, including calendar, email, to-do list app, and direct integration with Microsoft computers.
It also has customization and gesture control features. This is back in beta after rebranding.
So there are probably some bugs that may be occurring at this point. However, it is something different and is especially useful for those who want better PC integration.
Setting up these screens takes a couple of minutes, but anyone who can no longer imagine their life without Microsoft platforms, I just have to try this launcher.
Evie Launcher was released in 2016 and it managed to go unnoticed by us.
The launcher has a fairly typical home screen layout, along with universal search, customizable shortcuts, and plenty of personalization options.
The dock is a little more customizable than most standard launchers on most phones.
You can also change things like icon sizes, app bar, and other things.
The launcher manages to remain simple, easy and useful for people. This is possibly the best free Android launcher on the market.
Hyperion Launcher
Hyperion Launcher is a new player among launchers for Android. It fits nicely between heavier launchers like the Action and Nova, and the standard Lawnchair.
The user interface certainly looks no frills. There is a lot of room for customization though.
These include support for third-party icons, an icon changer, theming elements, and some other useful things.
It supports Google Feed, but requires a separate download like most other launchers.
This is a new product, but it already occupies a favorable position among the best Android dlch launchers.
Lightning Launcher
Lightning Launcher is not the most popular on this list, but it has one of the highest ratings.
This launcher can be described in just a few words: its goal is to use as few resources as possible on your device.
Its feature set is pretty sparse, but some of them are impressive - the ability to create an endless number of home screens, add and move icons wherever you want, and the minimum system requirements make it a great launcher for older and budget devices.
It's worth a look if you need something fast and undemanding.
Lawnchair Launcher
Lawnchair Launcher is one of the new Android apps. It's an open source project that mimics much of the look and feel of Pixel Launcher.
It has many similar features to Pixel Launcher, plus a few others. These features include support for icon packs, Android shortcuts Oreo and notification dots, Google Now integration (with additional and free plugin), adaptive icons and various other settings.
It is still very new and is in beta. However, it already performs better than most launchers. It's also free, with no ads or in-app purchases.
Nova Launcher
You're unlikely to find anything much better than Nova Launcher.
Like Apex Launcher, Nova appeared back in the “good old” days and still remains not just a current launcher, but one of the best among those present on Google Play today.
It has a huge number of customizable features, such as support for gestures, the ability to change the appearance and functionality of the interface, support for icon sets, themes, and much, much more.
This app is also updated at a record frequency, which means bugs are fixed instantly and new features are constantly being added.
This launcher also allows you to backup your desktops in case you suddenly get a new smartphone.
Smart Launcher 5
Smart Launcher 5 is significantly different from Smart Launcher 3. Fortunately, in a positive way.
It has a modern user interface, themed environment features, modern features like responsive icons, and more.
It even has a weather and clock widget, as well as gesture controls. It is not as powerful as Nova Launcher or similar launchers.
However, it has enough features to be quite enjoyable. It feels like it competes directly with Action Launcher and similar apps when it comes to customization and usability.
Solo Launcher
Solo Launcher is positioned as a highly customizable solution for those who prefer to have maximum control over their device.
It uses Material Design version 2.0, which means that in terms of design, your device will meet all modern standards.
The launcher has countless customization options and its appearance can be changed in almost any way.
It also has various themes, gesture controls, weather widget, alarm widget and much more.
It's really worth a look if you need something compact, fast, and customizable.
Lean Launcher is another one of the new Android launchers. It gives you a healthy dose of standard Android minimalism with support for popular, new features.
This includes notification dots, app shortcuts, icon shapes, Google Now, and more.
The application also comes with some easy functions settings, double click to block a feature and more.
Considering how new the app is, it's still very good. It's also completely free, at least as of this writing.
Poco Launcher
Poco Launcher is basic program for the popular (and cheap) Pocophone.
It's actually accessible to most. Android devices, which is surprising considering Google won't even release them.
This is a pretty simple launcher. It has a basic, standard Android layout with icons on the home screen and an app drawer for quick access.
You can customize elements such as the home screen grid and app background. It also has a privacy option that hides icons from the bottom menu if desired.
TSF Launcher
TSF Launcher is one of the unique home screen apps. It has many settings, including full gesture support.
He can do a lot of things that look really cool.
Some of additional functions include 3D animations, unlimited docking bar, batch selection of things like home screen icons, widgets and more.
It is completely free to download and use. It also has an additional plugin that adds application icons.
Rootless Launcher
Rootless Launcher standard program for Android, released in 2018.
You get a standard external Android view with some additional customization elements.
Some features include icon pack support, adaptive icon pack support, icon shape selector, themes based on your wallpaper, and you can change the search bar layout.
You can also set up Google Feed to work with this launcher, but like most others, it requires an additional download and installation of a plugin.
A site with instructions can be found in the description on Google Play.
Which launcher do you think is the best? If there is something missing from our list, please let us know in the comments!