In simple English
This program opens a search box on your computer screen with a single key press. You can use it to launch apps, search files, manage your clipboard, and calculate math. It runs fast because it is written in C++ (a programming language used to build high-performance software). You can add extra features using extensions built for Raycast (a popular productivity launcher for macOS). It is free to use and open source.
What it is
Vicinae is a native desktop launcher and command palette for Linux, macOS, and Windows. It provides built-in tools like a calculator, emoji picker, and window switcher, and supports extensions written in TypeScript (a programming language that adds safety checks to JavaScript).
What it is good for
Anyone who wants to control their computer using the keyboard instead of the mouse will find this useful. It is especially good for Linux and Windows users who want an alternative to Raycast.
- Runs fast because it is built with native code.
- Supports existing extensions made for Raycast.
- Includes clipboard history, file search, and text snippets out of the box.
- Requires compiling from source or downloading prebuilt binaries since no simple package manager install command is provided.
- Has many open issues on GitHub because the project is growing fast.
- Relies on community extensions which may break or change over time.
Alfred or standard operating system search bars
Raycast extensions
- raycast/extensions7.8k stars
Raycast is the popular macOS launcher that Vicinae aims to make cross-platform.
- albertlauncher/albert8.0k stars
Albert is another fast, keyboard-driven launcher written in C++ for Linux and other platforms.
Download the latest release for your operating system directly from vicinae.com.